Chocolate Swiss Roll Recipe

The Best Chocolate Swiss Roll Recipe for Sweet Indulgence

Sweet aromas of chocolate swiss roll dance through kitchens, promising pure dessert delight.

Bakers adore this classic pastry that combines soft sponge with creamy filling.

The chocolate swiss roll delivers decadent layers of rich flavor in every single slice.

Elegant yet simple, this dessert works magic for special occasions and casual gatherings.

Light chocolate sponge rolled with velvety cream creates a treat that melts hearts instantly.

Smooth, delicate, and irresistibly indulgent, this recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dessert.

Prepare to seduce taste buds with this stunning chocolate confection.

Why Classic Rolled Dessert Has Lasting Charm

  • Unlock Baking Magic: Discover a delightful dessert that transforms simple ingredients into a showstopping treat with professional-level results.
  • Master Impressive Technique: Learn a classic rolling method that looks complicated but becomes surprisingly simple once you try it, boosting your baking confidence.
  • Quick Kitchen Adventure: Whip up a stunning dessert that requires minimal ingredients and delivers maximum wow factor for family gatherings or special celebrations.
  • Customize with Creativity: Easily swap fillings and toppings to match seasonal flavors or personal preferences, making this recipe endlessly adaptable and exciting.

Classic Rolled Dessert – What You’ll Need

Main Ingredients:
  • Eggs: The key binding agent that provides structure and richness to the cake.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a light, tender texture.
  • All-Purpose Flour: The primary dry ingredient that forms the base of the cake.
  • Vanilla: Provides a classic, warm flavor to enhance the dessert.
Liquid Ingredients:
  • Milk, Butter: Create a rich, moist base that adds depth and smoothness to the cake batter.
Filling and Topping Ingredients:
  • Cream, Powdered Sugar: Create a soft, sweet filling that complements the cake's texture.
  • Chocolate, Heavy Cream: Form a luxurious ganache topping that adds richness and shine.
Additional Ingredients:
  • Vanilla Extract, Salt: Enhance and balance the overall flavor profile of the dessert.
  • Parchment Paper: Essential for rolling and handling the delicate cake.

Rolling Up a Classic Dessert – Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Baking Workspace

Grab a jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper.

Warm up the oven to 350F, ensuring it’s ready for baking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the following dry ingredients:
  • Flour
  • Baking powder
  • Salt

Step 3: Whip Fluffy Base

Beat eggs, sugar, and vanilla in a stand mixer or with an electric hand mixer.

Whip the mixture until it becomes light, airy, and triples in volume, about 4 minutes.

Step 4: Gently Incorporate Dry Mixture

Carefully fold the dry ingredient mixture into the whipped egg base.

Use a spatula and make gentle sweeping motions to maintain the airiness.

Step 5: Add Warm Liquid

Pour in the hot milk and melted butter mixture.

Stir until completely combined and smooth.

Step 6: Spread And Bake

Transfer the batter into the prepared pan.

Use an offset spatula to spread it evenly across the surface.

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the cake springs back when touched.

Step 7: Initial Rolling

Immediately after removing from the oven, carefully roll the hot cake with the parchment paper.

This helps prevent cracking and sets the shape.

Step 8: Cooling Technique

Allow the cake to cool while periodically unrolling and re-rolling.

This prevents the cake from sticking and maintains flexibility.

Step 9: Prepare Creamy Filling

Whip the filling ingredients until they reach a stiff, spreadable consistency:
  • Cream cheese
  • Powdered sugar
  • Vanilla extract

Step 10: Fill And Roll

Unroll the cooled cake carefully.

Spread the prepared filling evenly across the surface.

Gently roll the cake back up, removing parchment as you go.

Step 11: Chill And Set

Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour to help it hold its shape and allow flavors to meld.

Step 12: Create Ganache Topping

Prepare a smooth ganache by combining chocolate and cream.

Heat gently and stir until glossy and pourable.

Step 13: Final Touch And Serve

Pour the ganache over the chilled cake.

Let it set for a few minutes.

Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Top Tips for a Perfect Rolled Dessert

  • Roll the cake while it's still warm to avoid splitting and ensure a smooth, flexible texture.
  • Use parchment paper during rolling to prevent sticking and maintain the cake's delicate structure.
  • Brush a simple syrup on the cake before filling to add extra moisture and depth of taste.
  • Whip eggs and sugar until they form thick, pale ribbons for maximum volume and lightness.
  • Chill the filling before spreading to create cleaner, more defined layers in the rolled dessert.

Rolled Dessert Variations to Try at Home

  • Gluten-Free Rollout: Replace wheat flour with almond or coconut flour for a celiac-friendly version that maintains the classic roll texture.
  • Vegan Cake Roll: Swap eggs with flax eggs, use plant-based milk, and create a dairy-free filling using coconut cream and vegan butter alternatives.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Substitute sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, and use sugar-free chocolate for the ganache to reduce overall carbohydrate content.
  • Fruit-Filled Variation: Replace traditional cream filling with fresh berry compote or lemon curd for a lighter, more refreshing dessert experience.

Serving Classic Rolled Dessert with Flair

  • Sweet Slice Symphony: Top companions for this delightful rolled dessert include fresh berries that add vibrant color and tangy contrast.
  • Berry Burst Companion: Scatter fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries alongside cake slices to enhance visual appeal.
  • Cream Dream Accent: Dollop lightly whipped cream with a sprinkle of powdered sugar next to each slice for elegant richness.
  • Coffee Connection: Serve with strong espresso or smooth cappuccino to complement the dessert's sweet profile and provide a sophisticated pairing.
  • Chocolate Drizzle Magic: Add extra chocolate ganache or melted dark chocolate in artistic zigzag patterns for heightened indulgence.

Best Practices for Classic Rolled Dessert Storage

  • Store the rolled dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring it remains fresh and moist.
  • Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months for longer preservation.
  • Remove from freezer and let the cake gradually thaw in the refrigerator overnight to maintain its delicate texture and prevent condensation.
  • Keep the cake covered with plastic wrap or in a sealed container to prevent it from drying out and losing its soft, delicate consistency.

FAQs

  • Why do I need to whip eggs, sugar, and vanilla for 4 minutes?

Whipping for 4 minutes creates air bubbles that make the cake light, fluffy, and helps it rise properly, ensuring a soft and delicate texture.

  • What happens if I don't fold dry ingredients gently?

Rough folding can deflate the air bubbles created during whipping, resulting in a dense and heavy cake instead of a light, airy roll.

  • Why do I need to re-roll the cake several times while cooling?

Repeated rolling prevents cracking and helps the cake maintain flexibility, making it easier to fill and roll without breaking when you add the final filling.

  • How do I know if I've folded ingredients correctly?

The batter should look smooth and uniform with no streaks of dry ingredients, and it should maintain its volume without deflating completely.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Chocolate Swiss Roll Recipe

Chocolate Swiss Roll Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 32 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Indulgent Chocolate Swiss Roll brings sweet nostalgia from Swiss pastry kitchens, rolling tender chocolate sponge with silky cream into a mesmerizing dessert. Sweet chocolate layers and delicate filling promise pure deliciousness you cannot resist.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup Dutch process cocoa

Leavening and Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon espresso powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Liquid and Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 5 tablespoons (75 milliliters) milk
  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 1/2 cups (360 milliliters) heavy cream, cold
  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream
  • 4 ounces (113 grams) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon corn syrup (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 350°F and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper for even baking and easy removal.
  2. Combine all dry ingredients thoroughly, ensuring no lumps remain for a smooth texture.
  3. Vigorously whip eggs, sugar, and vanilla for precisely 4 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
  4. Gently fold dry ingredients into the whipped mixture, maintaining the airy consistency.
  5. Incorporate the hot milk-butter mixture, stirring carefully to integrate without deflating the batter.
  6. Distribute the batter evenly across the prepared pan, creating a uniform layer for consistent baking, and bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.
  7. Immediately transfer the hot cake from the oven and roll tightly within parchment paper to set its shape.
  8. Allow the cake to cool, periodically unrolling and re-rolling to prevent cracking and maintain flexibility.
  9. Prepare the filling by whipping ingredients until they reach a stiff, spreadable consistency.
  10. Carefully unroll the cooled cake, spread the filling evenly, then delicately roll the cake back up.
  11. Refrigerate the rolled dessert for 1 hour to set and enhance flavor melding.
  12. Create a smooth ganache and drizzle over the chilled cake for a luxurious finish.
  13. Slice and serve chilled, or allow to sit at room temperature for a softer texture.

Notes

  • Roll carefully while the cake is still hot to prevent cracking, using a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar helps prevent sticking.
  • Whipping eggs and sugar thoroughly creates a light, airy texture essential for a delicate rolled dessert.
  • Fold dry ingredients gently to maintain the airiness and prevent deflating the whipped egg mixture.
  • For gluten-free adaptation, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and add a pinch of xanthan gum for better structure.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Swiss

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 24 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg
Nathaniel Brooks

Nathaniel Brooks

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Farm-to-table cuisine, Seasonal recipe development, Culinary storytelling

Education

Ivy Tech Community College – Indianapolis, IN
Culinary Arts / Hospitality Administration & Events
Focused on hands-on training in classical and modern culinary techniques. ​


Nathaniel’s story starts in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, where farm stands, backyard gardens, and old family recipes shaped his love for real food. After graduating from Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis, he spent years working in farm-to-table kitchens, learning how to turn local, seasonal ingredients into something memorable.
Today, Nathaniel pours that same spirit into every single recipe on Aspiring Culinarian – recipes that feel real, comforting, and connected to the land. When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll find him foraging wild herbs, chasing sunsets with his camera, or writing about the flavors that shaped his roots.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star