There's a certain joy that comes with transforming simple ingredients into a show-stopping dessert. As I whisked together eggs and sugar this morning, the sweet scent wafted through my kitchen, igniting a sense of nostalgia for the chocolate cake rolls of my childhood. Each slice of this Chocolate Cake Roll, bursting with a creamy filling and richly decadent ganache, feels like a cozy hug—perfect for both celebrations and quiet evenings at home.
While fast food may offer convenience, nothing beats the warmth of a homemade treat. This delightful recipe is surprisingly easy to whip up, making it ideal for anyone looking to impress without the fuss. Imagine surprising your loved ones with a dessert that not only looks fancy but also tastefully delivers that sweet, chocolatey indulgence we all crave. So grab your apron, and let’s create a memorable masterpiece that’s bound to become a favorite in your home!
Why You'll Love This Chocolate Cake Roll
- This Chocolate Cake Roll is incredibly easy to prepare, allowing anyone to create a stunning dessert without the stress.
- The rich flavors of chocolate combined with the creamy filling make each bite an indulgent experience that you won't soon forget.
- Its versatility means you can serve it at any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant celebrations.
- Plus, the visual appeal of this rolled cake is sure to impress your guests and leave them in awe of your baking skills.
Chocolate Cake Roll Ingredients
Gather the essentials to create this delightful chocolate cake roll that will become a cherished recipe in your home!
For the Cake
- 4 eggs – use room temperature eggs for better volume and texture.
- 0.75 cup granulated sugar – this sweetener adds the perfect balance to the cocoa flavor.
- 0.25 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – ensures that rich chocolate taste shines through in the cake.
- 0.5 cup all-purpose flour – provides structure to the cake roll so it holds its shape nicely.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – helps the cake rise, creating that lovely light and fluffy texture.
- 0.25 teaspoon salt – enhances the flavors, making the chocolate even more pronounced.
- 2 tablespoon vegetable oil – keeps the cake moist and tender.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – adds a comforting sweetness that complements the chocolate flavor beautifully.
For the Filling
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream – whipped to perfection for a light and airy filling.
- 0.5 cup powdered sugar – sweetens the creamy filling without adding grit.
For the Ganache
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – creates a luscious and rich topping that everyone will love.
- 0.5 cup heavy cream (for ganache) – brings a silky texture to the ganache, making it irresistible!
Dive into your kitchen with these ingredients and experience the joy of crafting a Chocolate Cake Roll that will leave your friends and family smiling!
How to Make Chocolate Cake Roll
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Preheat oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper. This will ensure your cake rolls out smoothly later!
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Whisk dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This step helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents, ensuring a fluffy cake.
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Beat eggs and sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until thick and pale—around 5 minutes should do the trick. You'll want a nice, fluffy mixture with a pale yellow hue.
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Fold in oils and dry ingredients: Gently fold in the vanilla extract, vegetable oil, and your dry ingredients. Use a spatula to combine until just incorporated, taking care not to overmix.
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Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until it springs back when touched lightly. Look for a soft, cake-like texture that is fluffy and full of promise.
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Cool the cake: As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, invert it onto a clean kitchen towel sprinkled with powdered sugar. Roll the warm cake up tightly with the towel and let it cool completely. This sets the shape for your roll!
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Prepare the filling: Whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract together until soft peaks form. This creamy filling should be light and airy—perfect for your cake roll!
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Assemble the roll: Unroll the cooled cake gently, then spread the whipped cream filling evenly over the surface. Reroll the cake carefully, ensuring it’s nice and tight, then place it seam-side down on a serving platter.
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Make the ganache: For the ganache, heat the heavy cream until just simmering, and then pour it over the chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth and glossy.
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Top with ganache: Drizzle the chocolate ganache over the rolled cake, allowing it to cascade down the sides. You can use a spatula to spread it evenly if you like.
Optional: Garnish with sprinkles or fresh berries for a pop of color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chocolate Cake Roll?
Create the perfect sweet spread to accompany this delightful treat!
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the cake.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream complements the chocolate flavor and the creamy filling, adding a delightful cold contrast.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream enhances the cake’s smooth filling, offering a light and airy touch that’s completely irresistible.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling extra chocolate sauce on top elevates the dessert experience, intensifying that rich, chocolatey indulgence.
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Espresso or Coffee: A warm cup of espresso balances the sweetness of the cake, making each bite even more satisfying.
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Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves as a garnish not only brighten up presentation but also provide a refreshing note that beautifully complements the chocolate.
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Lemon Tart: The tangy flavor of a lemon tart contrasts delightfully with the richness of the chocolate, offering a refreshing end to your meal.
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Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: For an extra chocolate fix, these elegant bites pair seamlessly with the cake, heightening the dessert experience.
Chocolate Cake Roll Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and adjust the flavors and textures of your chocolate cake roll!
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Gluten-Free:
Swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for an equally delicious option. -
Nutty Twist:
Add ½ cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. This adds not just flavor, but also texture – a bite filled with little surprises! -
Lighter Option:
Use egg whites only for the cake and Greek yogurt instead of cream in the filling. Lighten up your dessert without sacrificing taste! -
Fruit-Infused:
Incorporate crushed raspberries or cherries into the filling for a fruity burst of flavor that complements the chocolate perfectly. It’s a lovely surprise with every slice! -
Mint Chocolate:
Add ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the filling for a refreshing minty flavor. This twist brings a sophisticated elegance, making your chocolate roll even more delightful! -
Spicy Kick:
Introduce ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cocoa mixture for a surprising spicy depth. The heat balances beautifully with the sweetness, creating an exciting flavor explosion! -
Coffee Blend:
Infuse the whipped cream with 1 tablespoon of instant coffee powder for a mocha-flavored filling. Coffee and chocolate are a classic pair that ups the richness of your treat! -
Coconut Delight:
Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a tropical alternative, and sprinkle shredded coconut on top for added texture. This variation will transport you to paradise with each bite!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Cake Roll
Fridge: Keep any leftover chocolate cake roll wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the chocolate cake roll. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and it will last for up to 2 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer the frozen cake roll to the fridge to thaw overnight. This way, it retains its beautiful texture and taste.
Reheating: If you prefer it warm, slice the thawed cake roll and gently heat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, just until slightly warm.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing the Chocolate Cake Roll ahead of time is a wonderful way to save time on busy weeknights! You can bake the cake and roll it up up to 24 hours in advance, allowing it to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator wrapped in plastic wrap. If you're also looking to prep the creamy filling, whip the heavy cream and sugar mixture, then refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For the ganache, prepare and store it in the fridge, then gently reheat before drizzling over the cake. When you're ready to serve, simply unroll the cake, fill it, reroll, and add the ganache for a beautiful dessert that tastes just as delightful as if it were freshly made!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Chocolate Cake Roll, always make sure your eggs are at room temperature to achieve maximum volume when whipped.
- A common mistake is overmixing the batter, so gently fold in your dry ingredients until just combined for a fluffy texture.
- When whipping your cream for the filling, ensure that both your bowl and beaters are chilled for the best results.
- Lastly, allow the cake to cool completely before adding the filling to prevent it from melting and losing its shape.
Chocolate Cake Roll Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right eggs for the Chocolate Cake Roll?
Absolutely! For the best results, use room temperature eggs. They whip up better, creating a fluffier batter. If you forget to take them out in advance, just place them in a bowl of warm water for about 10 minutes to bring them to temperature quickly.
How should I store leftovers?
Very! To keep your Chocolate Cake Roll fresh, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it's sealed well to prevent it from drying out!
Can I freeze the Chocolate Cake Roll?
Of course! Freezing is a great way to preserve your Chocolate Cake Roll. First, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil. This will keep freezer burn at bay. You can freeze it for up to 2 months.
What’s the best way to thaw a frozen Chocolate Cake Roll?
To thaw, simply move the frozen cake roll to the refrigerator and let it sit overnight. This gentle method retains its moisture and texture beautifully! If you’re in a hurry, you can leave it out at room temperature for about an hour.
Why did my cake crack while rolling?
Commonly, this happens if the cake is overbaked or not rolled while warm. Remember, as soon as it comes out of the oven, roll it in a towel while it’s still warm to prevent cracking. If you notice dark spots on the surface, it may indicate overbaking, so keep a close eye on it next time.
Are there any dietary considerations for making this cake?
Absolutely! If you're accommodating allergies, you can use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour. For dairy sensitivity, consider substituting with non-dairy cream options in both the filling and ganache. Always check labels for potential allergens to ensure a safe treat for everyone!
Chocolate Cake Roll
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until thick and pale (about 5 minutes).
- Gently fold in the vanilla extract, vegetable oil, and the dry ingredients.
- Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan and spread evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Upon removing from the oven, invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel sprinkled with powdered sugar and roll tightly.
- Whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract together until soft peaks form.
- Unroll the cooled cake and spread the whipped cream filling evenly. Reroll the cake and place seam-side down.
- For the ganache, heat the heavy cream and pour it over the chocolate chips. Stir until smooth.
- Drizzle the chocolate ganache over the cake, letting it cascade down the sides.
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