Chocolate Cake Roll Recipe

Fluffy Chocolate Cake Roll Recipe: A Dreamy Dessert Delight

Sweet memories dance through my chocolate cake roll, a dessert that whispers comfort and excitement in every delicate slice.

Soft layers of rich cocoa promise an indulgent experience waiting to unfold.

Delicate textures and smooth cream invite you into a world of pure culinary delight.

Baking this treat connects generations, bridging childhood nostalgia with contemporary kitchen creativity.

Careful techniques merge with simple ingredients to create something truly magical.

Whisk, roll, and savor each moment as you craft this elegant dessert.

Let passion guide your baking adventure and transform ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary chocolate masterpiece.

Ingredients for Chocolate Cake Roll Recipe

Base Ingredients:
  • Flour: Provides structure and texture to the chocolate cake roll.
  • Cocoa Powder: Delivers rich chocolate flavor and dark color.
  • Eggs: Adds moisture and helps bind the cake together.
  • Sugar: Sweetens and helps create a tender cake texture.
Liquid and Fat Ingredients:
  • Milk: Adds moisture and helps create a smooth batter.
  • Oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
  • Vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cake.
Leavening and Seasoning Ingredients:
  • Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Salt: Balances and enhances the sweet flavors in the cake.
Filling and Topping Ingredients:
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a rich and creamy filling.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the cream filling and provides a light dusting on top.

How to Bake a Perfect Chocolate Cake Roll

Step 1: Prepare Baking Surface

Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper, creating a smooth surface for your chocolate cake roll.

Ensure the paper covers the entire pan perfectly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl.

Whisk the ingredients together until they are evenly blended and free of lumps.

Step 3: Create Egg Base

In a separate large bowl, whip eggs and sugar together until the mixture becomes thick and pale.

Add vanilla extract and oil, mixing until the ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Cake Batter

Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the egg base.

Gradually add milk, stirring carefully to create a smooth, consistent batter.

Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Bake Cake Layer

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until the cake is just set and springs back when touched.

Step 6: Shape Cake Roll

While the cake is still warm, carefully roll it up with the parchment paper still attached.

This helps create the signature roll shape and prevents cracking.

Allow the cake to cool completely in this rolled position.

Step 7: Prepare Cream Filling

Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

The filling should be light, fluffy, and hold its shape when spread.

Step 8: Fill and Re-Roll Cake

Gently unroll the cooled cake, spread the cream filling evenly across the surface, and carefully roll the cake back up.

Use the parchment paper to help guide the rolling process and keep the cake intact.

Step 9: Finish and Serve

Dust the exterior of the chocolate cake roll with powdered sugar.

Slice and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor experience.

Tips to Roll Chocolate Cake Without Cracking

  • Roll the cake while still warm with parchment paper to help prevent splitting and maintain a smooth, flexible texture.
  • Chill the bowl and beaters before whipping cream to help it reach stiff peaks faster and maintain better structure.
  • Use a light-colored jelly roll pan to ensure even heat distribution and prevent burning the delicate cake.
  • Add a touch more oil if the cake seems dry, which helps keep the roll soft and prevents cracking during rolling.
  • Sprinkle powdered sugar through a fine-mesh sieve for an elegant, even dusting that looks professional and delicate.

Flavor Twists for Chocolate Cake Roll Fans

  • Gluten-Free Chocolate Roll: Replace wheat flour with almond flour or gluten-free blend for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals.
  • Vegan Chocolate Cake Roll: Substitute eggs with flax eggs, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and swap dairy milk with almond milk.
  • Low-Sugar Chocolate Roll: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar, and replace filling with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
  • Dairy-Free Chocolate Cake Roll: Use coconut cream for filling, replace heavy cream with whipped coconut cream, and select plant-based milk alternatives.

Ways to Serve Chocolate Cake Roll Elegantly

  • Elegant Dessert Plating: Slice the cake roll on a white ceramic plate, creating a beautiful contrast. Dust with extra powdered sugar for a delicate, snow-like finish.
  • Sweet Pairing Delight: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or fresh raspberries to enhance the chocolate flavor and add a refreshing touch.
  • Coffee Companion: Enjoy with a hot espresso or cappuccino, allowing the rich chocolate and creamy filling to complement the coffee's robust notes.
  • Afternoon Tea Treat: Present as a stunning centerpiece during a casual gathering, cutting into elegant diagonal slices that showcase the swirled interior.

Storing Chocolate Cake Roll for Freshness

  • Wrap the chocolate cake roll tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep away from strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor absorption.
  • Slice the cake roll into portions, wrap each individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
  • Transfer frozen cake roll to the refrigerator overnight. Allow it to slowly defrost, which helps maintain its texture and prevents sogginess.
  • Let the cake roll sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to soften the cream filling and restore its original texture.

FAQs

  • What ingredients make the cake soft and moist?

The combination of oil and milk helps create a tender and soft texture, while eggs provide structure and richness to the cake roll.

  • How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?

Rolling the cake while it’s still warm and using parchment paper helps the cake stay flexible and reduces the chances of cracking during the rolling process.

  • Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cake roll a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, which can actually help the flavors meld together and make slicing easier.

  • What can I do if my cake filling looks runny?

Ensure your heavy cream is cold and whip it at medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, which will help create a stable and thick filling for the cake roll.

Why Chocolate Cake Roll Is A Classic Treat

  • Master Baking Skills: Beginner-friendly recipe that teaches essential techniques like rolling cake, creating whipped cream filling, and achieving a professional-looking dessert without advanced pastry training.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Versatile treat that works wonderfully for family gatherings, potlucks, or casual celebrations, guaranteed to impress guests with its elegant presentation and rich chocolate flavor.
  • Customize with Ease: Adaptable recipe allows for creative variations like adding different extracts, sprinkling nuts, or incorporating fruit fillings to match personal taste preferences.
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Chocolate Cake Roll Recipe

Chocolate Cake Roll Recipe


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4.6 from 39 reviews

  • Total Time: 37 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Sweet chocolate cake roll delivers a delightful swirl of rich cocoa and creamy filling that melts perfectly on your palate. Delicate spirals promise a sophisticated dessert experience you’ll savor with pure chocolate bliss.


Ingredients

Scale

Cake Base:

  • 4 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup (90 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup (25 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Liquid Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1/3 cup (80 milliliters) milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Filling and Topping:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 350°F and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage.
  2. Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl to eliminate any lumps.
  3. Whip eggs and sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture becomes pale, thick, and forms ribbons when lifted.
  4. Incorporate vanilla extract and vegetable oil into the egg mixture, blending thoroughly.
  5. Gently fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with milk, mixing until just combined to maintain a light texture.
  6. Pour batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly with a spatula to create a smooth surface.
  7. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the cake springs back when lightly touched and edges start to pull away from the pan.
  8. Immediately after removing from the oven, carefully roll the cake with the parchment paper while still warm to prevent cracking.
  9. Allow the rolled cake to cool completely at room temperature, maintaining its cylindrical shape.
  10. Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff, stable peaks form.
  11. Gently unroll the cooled cake and spread the cream filling evenly across the surface.
  12. Carefully re-roll the cake, ensuring the filling is distributed smoothly.
  13. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set the filling and stabilize the shape.
  14. Dust generously with powdered sugar just before serving for an elegant finish.

Notes

  • Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
  • Whip eggs and sugar thoroughly to create a light, airy sponge that rolls easily without cracking.
  • Use a clean kitchen towel dusted with cocoa powder instead of parchment to prevent sticking when rolling the warm cake.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend, adding xanthan gum for structure.
  • Experiment with filling variations like chocolate ganache, fruit preserves, or cream cheese frosting to customize the cake roll.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Lucas Bennett

Lucas Bennett

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Developing single-serving recipes with a rustic, seasonal twist.
  • Crafting engaging food insights that connect with readers.
  • Developing content that educates readers on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Integrating local ingredients into accessible home cooking.​

Education

Blue Ridge Community College – Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on seasonal cooking, sustainable kitchen practices, and farm-to-table techniques.

Appalachian State University – B.A. in English
Built critical thinking and analysis through diverse texts. Guided by faculty, it prepares graduates for publishing and more.


Growing up in the rolling hills of North Carolina, Lucas learned early that some of life’s best memories start around a kitchen table. After studying English at Appalachian State University and honing his culinary skills at Blue Ridge Community College, he dreamed of blending storytelling with rustic, seasonal cooking, and The Scrumptious Pumpkin was born.
Lucas focuses on easy, single-serving recipes that turn fresh, local ingredients into something special. His style is simple, heartfelt, and rooted in the beauty of the seasons. When he’s not testing a new dish, you’ll probably find him hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, browsing farmers’ markets, or scribbling food stories in a notebook.

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