Swiss Roll Recipe (Jelly Roll)

Swiss rolls are a classic dessert that combines simplicity with elegance, making them the perfect treat to celebrate the New Year. Their light, fluffy texture and endless filling options make them a hit at any party. Imagine cutting through the soft sponge to reveal a swirl of creamy filling or luscious jam—there’s just something about the Swiss Roll that feels festive. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe will help you master the art of making the perfect Swiss Roll. Paired with a cup of coffee or tea, this treat will surely impress your guests and add a touch of sophistication to your New Year’s celebration.

Swiss Rolls are also known for their versatility, as they can be customized in many ways. From fruity fillings to decadent chocolate ganache, the possibilities are endless. This dessert is ideal for anyone who loves a soft, sweet cake that’s easy to prepare and even easier to devour. So, let’s dive into making the perfect Swiss Roll—your guests will rave about it!

Swiss Roll Recipe (Jelly Roll)

Recipe by SoukaynaCuisine: EuroppeanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

220

kcal

The Swiss Roll is a classic, light, and fluffy dessert perfect for New Year’s celebrations. Filled with whipped cream, jam, or chocolate ganache, this roll will have everyone asking for more. It’s an ideal addition to your New Year’s dessert table, offering a twist on traditional cakes with its spongy texture and sweet fillings.

Ingredients

4 large eggs
100g granulated sugar
90g all-purpose flour
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
150ml heavy cream (for filling)
2 tbsp powdered sugar (for filling)
1/4 cup fruit jam (or chocolate ganache)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking tray with parchment paper.
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture is pale and thick.
Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together and gently fold them into the egg mixture. Add vanilla extract.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking tray and spread it evenly. Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly golden.
Once baked, remove the sponge cake from the oven and place a clean kitchen towel over it. Dust the towel with powdered sugar.
Turn the cake onto the towel and peel off the parchment paper. Roll the cake tightly with the towel and allow it to cool.
Whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Once the cake has cooled, unroll it and spread a layer of whipped cream (or chocolate ganache) and jam.
Carefully roll the cake back up, ensuring it stays intact.
Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

If you want a richer flavor, you can substitute whipped cream with mascarpone or use flavored jams like raspberry or strawberry.
Make sure the sponge cake is completely cool before unrolling it, as it’s more likely to crack if it’s still warm.
Swiss rolls can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Tips for Perfect Swiss Roll

To make your Swiss Roll come out perfectly every time, follow these tips for a flawless result:

Be Gentle with the Batter: When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, make sure to fold the flour into the egg mixture gently. Overmixing can deflate the batter, resulting in a denser cake.
Use Parchment Paper: Lining the baking tray with parchment paper ensures the Swiss Roll comes out of the pan easily without sticking.
Rolling Technique: After baking, while the cake is still warm, use a kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar to roll it up. This helps prevent the cake from cracking.
Let the Cake Cool: It’s important to allow the cake to cool completely before unrolling it. This ensures that it will hold its shape and maintain its soft texture.
Chill the Filling: If you’re using whipped cream or ganache as a filling, chilling it beforehand helps it firm up, making it easier to spread and preventing it from becoming too runny.

Recipe Variants

Chocolate Swiss Roll
Add cocoa powder to the batter for a rich chocolate flavor. For the filling, use a decadent chocolate ganache or chocolate mousse. This variant is perfect for chocolate lovers and makes a great New Year’s dessert option.
Berry Swiss Roll
Fresh berries and whipped cream make for a refreshing and light filling. Consider using strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, and complement them with a hint of lemon zest. This variant adds a vibrant touch to the Swiss Roll and balances the sweetness with tartness.
Caramel Swiss Roll
For a rich, indulgent version, you can use caramel sauce as the filling or make a caramel whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel on top can elevate the look and flavor.
Vegan Swiss Roll
If you’re following a plant-based diet, try substituting eggs with flaxseed meal or aquafaba, and use non-dairy whipped cream or fruit preserves as the filling. This allows you to enjoy a vegan-friendly Swiss Roll without compromising on taste.

FAQs about Swiss Roll Recipe

Can I make the Swiss Roll in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the Swiss Roll up to a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. The cake will maintain its freshness, and you’ll save time on the big day.

What’s the best way to serve Swiss Roll?

You can serve the Swiss Roll on its own or pair it with fresh fruit, ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra special treat. For a festive touch, top with edible glitter or seasonal berries.

Can I freeze Swiss Roll?

Yes! Swiss Roll can be frozen for up to one month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and let it thaw in the refrigerator before serving. This is a great way to prepare in advance for parties or holidays.

How can I make the Swiss Roll lighter?

To make the Swiss Roll lighter, ensure you’re not overmixing the batter, and fold in the flour gently. The key is to preserve the air bubbles for a fluffy, light cake.

Recipe Suggestion

If you love this Swiss Roll recipe, be sure to check out Chess Squares Recipe recipe for another showstopping dessert that will impress your guests. This rich chess cake provides a decadent contrast to the lightness of the Swiss Roll, making it the perfect addition to your New Year’s dessert table.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 220 kcal
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 17g
Sodium: 50mg

The Swiss Roll is a delightful treat that’s not overly indulgent when enjoyed in moderation. The light sponge cake combined with a creamy filling offers a balance of sweetness and richness. You can customize the filling to fit your dietary preferences, making this dessert flexible while keeping it delicious!

Health Benefits of Swiss Roll

While Swiss Rolls are a dessert that should be consumed in moderation, they do offer a few benefits when made with wholesome ingredients:

Protein from Eggs: The eggs in the Swiss Roll provide protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues.
Vitamins from Fruit Fillings: If you opt for fruit preserves or fresh berries as a filling, the Swiss Roll will provide beneficial vitamins like vitamin C, which supports immune health.
Energy Boost: The carbohydrates in the Swiss Roll give a quick source of energy, making it a great post-meal treat.
Customization for Dietary Needs: By making adjustments like using plant-based cream and substituting eggs, the Swiss Roll can fit into various dietary lifestyles, such as vegan or gluten-free.

However, keep in mind that Swiss Rolls contain sugar and fats, so it’s best to enjoy them as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your diet.

The Swiss Roll is an elegant yet simple dessert that’s perfect for New Year’s celebrations or any festive occasion. Its light, airy texture, and versatile filling options make it a crowd-pleaser at any party. Whether you stick to the classic cream filling or get creative with chocolate, fruit, or even caramel, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this classic dessert. Plus, it’s a dessert that’s easy to prepare, which means you can focus on enjoying your celebration rather than stressing over complicated recipes.

So, next time you’re planning your New Year’s dessert table, give this Swiss Roll recipe a try. With a few tips and tricks, you’ll have a beautiful, delectable dessert that’s sure to wow your guests. Remember, whether you go traditional or mix it up with new flavor combinations, the Swiss Roll will always remain a timeless treat.