Chocolate Swiss Roll

Chocolate Swiss Roll is a classic and elegant dessert featuring a soft, airy chocolate sponge cake filled with whipped cream or chocolate frosting and rolled into a beautiful spiral. Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar or a silky chocolate glaze, this dessert is as eye-catching as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Swiss roll combines lightness and richness in perfect harmony. The sponge cake is tender and moist, and the filling offers a creamy contrast that makes every bite melt in your mouth. It’s a great make-ahead dessert that looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to prepare with the right technique.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Eggs
• Granulated sugar
• All-purpose flour
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Vanilla extract
• Whole milk
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• Whipping cream or chocolate frosting (for filling)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting) or chocolate ganache (for topping)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy. Add vanilla extract.
3. Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold into the egg mixture.
4. Stir in melted butter and milk until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly pressed.
6. While warm, invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off parchment paper and roll the cake up in the towel. Let cool completely.
7. Whip cream or prepare frosting. Unroll the cake, spread the filling evenly, and re-roll without the towel.
8. Chill for 30–60 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar or top with ganache before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 10
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Bake Time: 12 minutes
Assembly Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 30–60 minutes
Total Time: 1.5–2 hours

Variations

• Chocolate Ganache Topping: Pour over a rich ganache for a glossy, professional finish.
• Strawberry Cream Filling: Add chopped strawberries to the cream for a fruity surprise.
• Nutella Roll: Use Nutella as the filling for a quick and easy twist.
• Mint Chocolate: Add peppermint extract to the cream for a refreshing version.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix.

storage/reheating

Store the roll in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, wrapped tightly. For best texture, allow it to sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving. This dessert is not suitable for reheating. Freeze for up to 1 month wrapped tightly; thaw in the fridge overnight.

FAQs

Why did my cake crack?

It may have cooled too much before rolling. Always roll the sponge while still warm and pliable.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, the cake can be made and filled a day in advance and kept refrigerated.

What kind of filling works best?

Whipped cream, buttercream, or chocolate ganache all work well depending on your preference.

Do I need a special pan?

A jelly roll pan (10×15 inch) ensures the right thickness for rolling.

How do I slice cleanly?

Use a serrated knife and clean it between cuts for smooth slices.

Can I flavor the sponge?

Yes, add espresso powder or orange zest for depth.

What’s the best way to keep it moist?

Do not overbake and wrap the roll tightly when storing.

Can I skip the filling and serve plain?

It’s not recommended, as the filling contributes to flavor and texture.

What’s the difference between a Swiss roll and a roulade?

They’re essentially the same, though “roulade” is a broader term used across cuisines.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but bake in two pans to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

Chocolate Swiss Roll is a stunning and flavorful dessert that’s ideal for any occasion. With its tender sponge and creamy filling, it offers a satisfying and elegant alternative to layer cakes. Easy to adapt and simple to serve, this dessert is a timeless favorite for chocolate lovers everywhere.

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