Delight in Every Slice: Strawberries & Cream Cake Roll – A Sweet Symphony of Flavors

Introduction

Indulging in the perfect dessert is an art, and the Strawberries & Cream Cake Roll is a masterpiece that brings a symphony of flavors to your palate. This delightful dessert combines the freshness of strawberries with the richness of cream, all wrapped in a light and airy cake. Ideal for any occasion, from family gatherings to special celebrations, this cake roll is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes. Its spiral of creamy filling and bright strawberries encased in a soft, golden sponge is a testament to the joy of baking. Follow this simple recipe to create a dessert that’s sure to be the centerpiece of your table and the highlight of your meal.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Powdered sugar (for rolling)

For the Filling:

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries

Directions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
  2. Beat Eggs and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the eggs until frothy (about 5 minutes). Gradually add granulated sugar and vanilla extract, beating until thick and pale.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a separate bowl.
  4. Combine Mixtures: Fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture gently, ensuring not to deflate the eggs.
  5. Bake the Cake: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the cake springs back when touched.

How to Prepare

  1. Roll the Cake: Dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar. Turn the baked cake onto the towel, remove parchment paper, and roll it starting from the short end. Let it cool completely.
  2. Make the Filling: Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
  3. Unroll and Fill: Carefully unroll the cooled cake. Spread whipped cream, leaving a border, and top with sliced strawberries.
  4. Re-roll the Cake: Gently re-roll the cake, now without the towel.

Preparation Time

  • Preparing and Baking: Approximately 20 minutes.
  • Cooling and Filling: 1 hour.
  • Total Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Servings

This recipe yields one cake roll, serving approximately 10 slices.

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, but thaw and drain them first to remove excess moisture.
  2. How long can I store the cake roll? It’s best consumed within 2-3 days when stored in the refrigerator.
  3. Can I make this cake gluten-free? Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
  4. Can I prepare this cake roll in advance? Yes, you can make it a day ahead and keep it refrigerated.
  5. How do I get the cake to roll without cracking? Rolling the cake while it’s still warm and using a dusted towel helps prevent cracking.

Conclusion

The Strawberries & Cream Cake Roll is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that come together in a beautiful harmony. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced baker, this recipe is designed to guide you through each step, ensuring a stunning and delicious outcome. The combination of light sponge, creamy filling, and the fresh tang of strawberries makes this cake roll a delightful end to any meal. As you slice through this beautiful roll, each piece reveals a spiral of joy, making every bite a blissful experience. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a sweet journey that promises to end in a delectable delight.