The best Jelly Roll Cake

Picture a light, airy sponge cake, flawlessly baked to a golden perfection, resembling a delicate canvas ready to be decorated. This cake, often likened to a Swiss roll, delivers a delightful blend of flavors and textures with every bite.

When sliced, the Jelly Roll reveals its stunning spiral pattern, where the vibrant filling contrasts beautifully against the pale sponge. Its spiral shape and soft exterior make it an elegant treat, perfect for both casual gatherings and festive occasions.

Ingredients for Roll Cake:

The quality of your ingredients determines that of the final product. Pastry is not just an art, it is also based on scientific principles! Like a researcher, a pastry chef must have the right ingredients and precise proportions to achieve the desired result :

• 4 eggs
• 125g granulated sugar
•  3 teapson oil
• 3 teapson milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

• 100 g flour
•  1 teaspoon baking powder
•  1/4 teaspoon salt
• Powdered sugar

• About 2/3 cup jelly or jam
• Strawberry jam

Perfect for any occasion, these cake bring a touch of innovation to your baking repertoire.

How to make a Jelly Rolls cake

Whisk the eggs. Beat the eggs on medium-high speed for 3 minutes in the bowl of an electric stand mixer with the whisk attachment, or in a large mixing bowl if using an electric hand mixer, until they become frothy and pale.

Add the sugar. Gradually incorporate the sugar, continuing to beat for 4-5 minutes until the mixture nearly triples in volume.

Add the wet ingredients. Mix together the milk, oil, and vanilla, then gently fold it into the whipped eggs without over-mixing.

Prepare the surface. Place a sheet of parchment paper on the table.

Spread the batter evenly. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it into a thin layer. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until it springs back when gently pressed. Transfer the pan to a wire rack and let it cool for 3 minutes to make it easier to handle.

Dust the cake. Lightly dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar, then invert it onto a clean kitchen towel or another large sheet of parchment paper. Carefully peel off the parchment paper.

Roll the cake. While the cake is still warm, gently roll it into a log from the short side, using the kitchen towel or parchment paper to assist in the rolling. Let the cake cool completely in its rolled shape.

Fill the cake. Once cooled, unroll the cake, spread a layer of strawberry jam over the surface, leaving a ½-inch border, then carefully roll the cake up again. Transfer it to a baking tray and refrigerate for 2 hours before serving.

For a unique twist, consider flavoring the cake itself. For instance, adding hints of citrus zest or a dash of almond extract can elevate the flavor profile. 

You could even swap out traditional fillings for a decadent cream cheese or a flavored buttercream.