Cake rolls are an indulgent and visually stunning way to present desserts, often combining the comfort of a sponge-like cake with rich fillings and luxurious toppings. This article explores several mouth-watering cake roll recipes, each offering a unique twist on traditional rolled cakes, from rich chocolate and caramel combinations to fresh, fruity shortcakes. Whether you’re a novice baker or an experienced pastry chef, these recipes will inspire you to create visually stunning and delicious desserts that will captivate any audience. Let’s dive into the world of cake rolls, featuring Chocolate Caramel Turtle Cake Roll, Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Dessert Sushi Rolls, and more.
Swiss Roll Meets Black Forest Charm
The Swiss Roll Meets Black Forest Charm is an elegant take on the traditional Swiss roll, incorporating the flavors of a Black Forest cake. The rich chocolate cake is paired with fresh whipped cream and cherries, creating a dessert that’s both decadent and refreshing.
Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ⅓ cup milk
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 cup dark chocolate, melted
- ½ cup cherries, pitted and chopped
- 1 tbsp cherry juice or syrup
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar (for dusting)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a jelly roll pan.
- Whisk together the eggs, sugar, and vanilla. Sift in the dry ingredients and fold in the milk and melted butter.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes and roll the cake in a powdered sugar-dusted towel.
- Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and spread over the unrolled cake. Top with melted chocolate and cherries.
- Reroll the cake and drizzle with more chocolate. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with whole cherries.
Nutrition (Per Serving):
- Calories: 340 kcal (based on 8 servings)
This Swiss Roll Meets Black Forest Charm is a perfect fusion of two beloved desserts and a showstopper for any special occasion.
Chocolate Caramel Turtle Cake Roll
The Chocolate Caramel Turtle Cake Roll is an extravagant dessert that combines the delicious flavors of chocolate, caramel, and pecans into a soft, decadent cake roll. Inspired by the classic turtle candies, this cake brings together all the rich flavors we love in a bite-sized format. The combination of chocolate cake, caramel buttercream, and a luscious ganache topping, along with a crunchy pecan finish, makes this cake roll a treat for the eyes and the taste buds.
Ingredients:
- Cake Roll:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 ¾ cups chocolate cake mix (Devil’s Food, like Betty Crocker SuperMoist)
- ⅓ cup water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for rolling)
- Buttercream:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup caramel sauce
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Ganache:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- Toppings:
- 1 cup chopped toasted pecans
Instructions:
- Preparing the Cake Roll:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a jelly roll pan by lining it with parchment paper. In a large bowl, beat the eggs until fluffy and pale. Add the chocolate cake mix, water, and vegetable oil, then mix until smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly, and bake for 10-12 minutes. Once done, roll the cake with a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar, allowing it to cool completely. - Making the Buttercream and Ganache:
For the buttercream, beat the softened butter, caramel sauce, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. For the ganache, heat the whipping cream in a saucepan until it starts to simmer, then pour it over chocolate chips and whisk until smooth. - Assembling the Cake Roll:
Gently unroll the cooled cake and spread the caramel buttercream evenly across the surface. Re-roll the cake and place it seam-side down. Drizzle with ganache and top with toasted pecans for that signature crunchy finish.
Nutrition (Per Serving):
- Calories: 280 kcal (based on 8 servings)
The Chocolate Caramel Turtle Cake Roll is a perfect dessert for special occasions or any time you want to treat yourself to a luxurious, indulgent dessert. The caramel and chocolate flavors marry beautifully, with the pecans adding a perfect crunch.
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Dessert Sushi Rolls
The Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Dessert Sushi Rolls are a fun and creative twist on the classic strawberry shortcake, presented in a sushi roll format. This dessert is light, refreshing, and perfect for showcasing the flavors of ripe strawberries and creamy cheesecake filling. The combination of the sponge cake, cream cheese, and fresh strawberries results in a flavor-packed treat that looks as impressive as it tastes.
Ingredients:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped
- 1 prepared sponge cake or pound cake (thinly sliced)
- ½ cup whipped topping
- Extra graham cracker crumbs for garnish
- Fresh strawberry slices for garnish
Directions:
- In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Lay the thin slices of sponge cake or pound cake flat on a surface and spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each slice.
- Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs over the cream cheese layer and add a line of chopped strawberries along one edge of each cake slice.
- Carefully roll each slice into a tight sushi-style roll and slice into bite-sized pieces.
- Garnish each sushi roll with a dollop of whipped topping, additional graham cracker crumbs, and a fresh strawberry slice.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition (Per Serving):
- Calories: 220 kcal (based on 10 rolls)
These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Dessert Sushi Rolls offer a playful yet sophisticated twist on a beloved dessert. They’re perfect for a summer gathering or as a fun addition to any celebratory event.
Chocolate Caramel Cream Roll
For those who love a rich combination of chocolate and caramel, the Chocolate Caramel Cream Roll is a must-try. This recipe features a decadent chocolate cake filled with a smooth caramel cream filling and topped with melted chocolate for extra indulgence. The cake itself is light and fluffy, while the caramel filling adds a luxurious richness, making each bite a delight.
Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup caramel sauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped cream for filling
- ¼ cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
- ¼ cup melted chocolate (for drizzle)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- Beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy, then sift in the dry ingredients and fold them into the mixture.
- Spread the batter evenly on the pan and bake for 10-12 minutes. Roll the cake while it’s still warm in a towel dusted with powdered sugar, allowing it to cool.
- Whip the heavy cream with caramel sauce and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Unroll the cooled cake, spread the caramel whipped cream inside, and reroll the cake.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the top and dust with powdered sugar.
Nutrition (Per Serving):
- Calories: 340 kcal (based on 8 servings)
This Chocolate Caramel Cream Roll is perfect for those who crave the rich, buttery flavor of caramel paired with deep chocolate. It’s sure to be a showstopper at any dessert table.
Strawberry Birthday Cake Roll
The Strawberry Birthday Cake Roll is a festive dessert that brings together the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake and cake rolls. The bright, sweet strawberries complement the light, fluffy cake and whipped cream filling, making it the perfect birthday treat or a light, refreshing summer dessert.
Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, diced
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Strawberry jam for filling
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- Beat the eggs and sugar together until thick, then fold in the sifted dry ingredients.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes and roll the cake in a towel while it cools.
- Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla, then fold in the diced strawberries.
- Unroll the cooled cake, spread strawberry jam, and top with the whipped cream mixture. Reroll and refrigerate before serving. Dust with powdered sugar.
Nutrition (Per Serving):
- Calories: 280 kcal (based on 10 slices)
This Strawberry Birthday Cake Roll is a wonderful way to celebrate special occasions with a light and fruity dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
Swiss Roll Meets Black Forest Charm
The Swiss Roll Meets Black Forest Charm is an elegant take on the traditional Swiss roll, incorporating the flavors of a Black Forest cake. The rich chocolate cake is paired with fresh whipped cream and cherries, creating a dessert that’s both decadent and refreshing.
Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ⅓ cup milk
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 cup dark chocolate, melted
- ½ cup cherries, pitted and chopped
- 1 tbsp cherry juice or syrup
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar (for dusting)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a jelly roll pan.
- Whisk together the eggs, sugar, and vanilla. Sift in the dry ingredients and fold in the milk and melted butter.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes and roll the cake in a powdered sugar-dusted towel.
- Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and spread over the unrolled cake. Top with melted chocolate and cherries.
- Reroll the cake and drizzle with more chocolate. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with whole cherries.
Nutrition (Per Serving):
- Calories: 340 kcal (based on 8 servings)
This Swiss Roll Meets Black Forest Charm is a perfect fusion of two beloved desserts and a showstopper for any special occasion.
Blackberry Lemon Roll Cake: A Tangy and Sweet Delight
The Blackberry Lemon Roll Cake is a refreshing treat, perfect for spring and summer. It combines the tartness of fresh blackberries with the zesty brightness of lemon, making for a dessert that is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Ingredients and Method
- For the cake: The sponge is made using cake flour, which gives it a light texture, and a combination of egg yolks and egg whites, allowing the batter to rise and become airy. The inclusion of lemon zest and extract enhances the fresh, citrusy flavor, while the lightness of the sponge balances the richness of the blackberry compote and whipped cream filling.
- For the blackberry compote: Fresh blackberries are cooked with sugar to release their juices, creating a rich, jam-like consistency. This compote is then combined with the whipped cream, creating a decadent filling.
- For the whipped cream: Made with heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and a hint of lemon extract, the whipped cream is fluffy and light, creating the perfect base for the blackberry filling.
Assembly
Once the cake is baked and cooled, it is carefully rolled with a towel to ensure it holds its shape. The cake is unrolled, filled with the blackberry whipped cream, and then re-rolled for a smooth, perfect finish. Refrigeration for at least 30 minutes ensures the flavors meld together, resulting in a refreshing, tangy, and creamy cake.
Banana Caramel Roulade: Sweet and Decadent
The Banana Caramel Roulade is a perfect combination of two beloved flavors: ripe bananas and rich caramel. The soft sponge pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the caramel and the creaminess of whipped cream. This cake is a crowd-pleaser for its comforting and indulgent flavor profile.
Ingredients and Method
- For the sponge: The sponge batter includes mashed bananas, which lend moisture and flavor, creating a soft and tender cake. The egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks, ensuring a light texture.
- For the filling: A whipped cream filling, made with heavy cream and powdered sugar, is flavored with vanilla and topped with sliced bananas, creating a luscious, creamy interior.
- For the caramel sauce: The caramel sauce is prepared by simmering brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream together. This creates a silky sauce that is drizzled over the roulade, adding a rich depth of flavor.
Assembly
Once the sponge is cooled and unrolled, it is filled with whipped cream and banana slices, then re-rolled. The cake is topped with a generous amount of caramel sauce, crushed graham crackers, and banana slices for an added touch of sweetness and crunch. The result is a beautifully rich dessert that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Goey Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cake Roll: A Nutty Chocolate Lover’s Dream
For chocolate and caramel lovers, the Goey Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cake Roll is an indulgent dessert that combines the deep flavors of chocolate and caramel with the satisfying crunch of pecans. This cake roll is rich, gooey, and absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients and Method
- For the cake: The cake batter is made using cocoa powder, creating a rich chocolate flavor. The addition of boiling water ensures the batter is smooth and moist, while the eggs and oil help create a fluffy texture.
- For the filling: The filling features a decadent mixture of cream cheese, powdered sugar, and caramel sauce. Chopped pecans are folded in, adding texture and a nutty flavor that complements the richness of the caramel.
- For the topping: Whipped topping and chocolate chips make for a delightful finish, with extra caramel sauce drizzled over the top for added sweetness.
Assembly
After the cake is baked and cooled, it is carefully unrolled and spread with the cream cheese filling. Once re-rolled, the cake is topped with whipped cream and chocolate chips, then drizzled with caramel sauce. This cake roll is a true indulgence, perfect for anyone who loves a good balance of sweet and salty flavors.
Elegant Raspberry White Chocolate Cake Roll: A Sophisticated Dessert
For a more refined and visually striking cake roll, the Elegant Raspberry White Chocolate Cake Roll is a standout. The combination of sweet raspberries, creamy white chocolate, and light sponge creates a sophisticated dessert that is both beautiful and delicious.
Ingredients and Method
- For the cake: The sponge is made using a classic combination of eggs, sugar, and flour. The key to its success is in beating the egg yolks and whites separately, ensuring a light and airy texture that complements the rich filling.
- For the filling: White chocolate chips are melted with heavy cream to create a smooth, rich filling. Raspberry jam is spread on the cake first, followed by the white chocolate mixture, and fresh raspberries are added for a burst of tartness.
- For the topping: The cake is drizzled with melted white chocolate and garnished with fresh raspberries and chocolate shavings, making for a show-stopping presentation.
Assembly
After the sponge is baked and cooled, it is filled with the white chocolate and raspberry layers, then re-rolled. The cake is topped with the melted white chocolate and garnished elegantly, creating a dessert that is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds.
Mint Chocolate Chip Cake Roll: A Refreshing Twist
The Mint Chocolate Chip Cake Roll is a playful and refreshing dessert that combines the rich flavor of chocolate with the coolness of mint. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a minty dessert with a chocolatey twist.
Ingredients and Method
- For the cake: The chocolate sponge is made using cocoa powder and whipped egg whites, ensuring the cake is light and fluffy with a deep chocolate flavor.
- For the filling: The mint-flavored whipped cream is made with heavy cream, powdered sugar, and mint extract. Mini chocolate chips are folded into the filling, adding texture and a bit of extra chocolatey goodness.
- For the topping: The cake is drizzled with chocolate ganache or melted chocolate, then garnished with extra chocolate chips for a decadent finish.
Assembly
After the sponge is baked and cooled, it is unrolled and filled with the mint chocolate chip whipped cream. The cake is re-rolled, chilled, and topped with chocolate ganache for a rich and minty dessert that is sure to delight.
Conclusion
Cake rolls are an incredibly versatile and delightful dessert format that allows you to combine various flavors, textures, and fillings to create a stunning end product. Whether you choose the rich, indulgent Chocolate Caramel Turtle Cake Roll, the light and fresh Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Dessert Sushi Rolls, or the decadent Swiss Roll Meets Black Forest Charm, you are sure to impress your guests with these stunning cakes. These recipes are perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to holiday gatherings, offering something for every taste preference. Happy baking!