strawberry cream roll

Introduction:

Indulge your sweet cravings with the delightful combination of fluffy sponge cake, creamy filling, and fresh strawberries in a Strawberry Cream Roll. This classic dessert is not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. In this article, we’ll take you through a simple yet satisfying recipe for crafting your own Strawberry Cream Roll at home. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this irresistible dessert!

Ingredients:

For the cake:

• 4 large eggs
• 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 dusting)

For the filling:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the long sides.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer until pale and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and springs back when lightly touched.
6. While the cake is baking, prepare a clean kitchen towel by sprinkling it generously with powdered sugar.
7. Once the cake is done, immediately invert it onto the prepared kitchen towel. Carefully peel off the parchment paper.
8. Starting from one of the short ends, gently roll the cake and towel together into a tight spiral. Place the rolled cake seam-side down on a wire rack to cool completely.
9. While the cake is cooling, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form.
10. Once the cake has cooled completely, carefully unroll it and spread the whipped cream evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.
11. Sprinkle the diced strawberries over the whipped cream.
12. Carefully re-roll the cake, using the towel to help guide the roll and keep it tight.
13. Transfer the rolled cake to a serving platter and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the filling to set.
14. Just before serving, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
15. Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Cream Roll!

Serving Tips:

1. Chill Before Serving: For the best taste and texture, refrigerate the Strawberry Cream Roll for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the filling to set and makes it easier to slice into neat portions.
2. Slice Carefully: Use a sharp knife to slice the roll into portions, wiping the knife clean between cuts for clean edges. Serve each slice on a dessert plate or platter for a beautiful presentation.
3. Garnish Creatively: Enhance the presentation of the Strawberry Cream Roll by garnishing each slice with a fresh strawberry or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. You can also drizzle a little melted chocolate or strawberry sauce on top for an extra touch of elegance.
4. Serve with Fresh Berries: Accompany each slice of the Strawberry Cream Roll with a few extra fresh strawberries on the side for added color and flavor contrast.
5. Pair with a Beverage: Serve the Strawberry Cream Roll with a cup of hot tea, coffee, or a glass of cold milk for a delightful dessert experience that balances the sweetness of the cake.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any leftover Strawberry Cream Roll in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. Proper storage helps maintain freshness and prevents the cake from drying out.
2. Consume Within a Few Days: Enjoy leftover Strawberry Cream Roll within 2-3 days for optimal taste and quality. As time passes, the cake may lose its moisture and become less enjoyable.
3. Avoid Freezing: Due to the delicate texture of the cake and the fresh fruit filling, it’s not recommended to freeze the Strawberry Cream Roll. Freezing can alter the texture and result in a soggy or mushy cake upon thawing.
4. Cover to Prevent Absorption: When storing the Strawberry Cream Roll in the refrigerator, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to protect it from absorbing any odors or flavors from other foods.
5. Serve at Room Temperature: If you prefer to serve the Strawberry Cream Roll at room temperature, allow it to sit out for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the cake to soften slightly without becoming too warm.

FAQs:

1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones for the Strawberry Cream Roll? While fresh strawberries are preferred for their flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries that have been thawed and drained. However, be aware that frozen strawberries may release more moisture, which could affect the texture of the roll.
2. Can I make the Strawberry Cream Roll in advance? Yes, you can prepare the Strawberry Cream Roll in advance and refrigerate it until ready to serve. It’s best to assemble the roll and refrigerate it for at least an hour before serving to allow the filling to set. However, for optimal freshness, it’s recommended to consume the roll within 2-3 days of preparation.
3. Can I substitute the cake flour with all-purpose flour? Yes, you can substitute cake flour with all-purpose flour in this recipe. However, keep in mind that cake flour has a lower protein content, resulting in a lighter texture. If using all-purpose flour, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch for every cup of flour to achieve a similar texture.
4. How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling it? To prevent the cake from cracking when rolling, be sure to roll it while it’s still warm and flexible. Use a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar to help roll the cake tightly but gently. If the cake does crack, don’t worry— the filling will help hide any imperfections.
5. Can I use whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream for the filling? While homemade whipped cream provides the best flavor and texture, you can use store-bought whipped topping as a convenient alternative. Just be aware that whipped topping may have a different taste and consistency compared to homemade whipped cream.

Conclusion:

The Strawberry Cream Roll is a timeless dessert that combines simplicity with elegance, making it a favorite among dessert enthusiasts of all ages. With its light and airy sponge cake, luscious whipped cream filling, and vibrant strawberries, this dessert is as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat. Follow this basic recipe to create your own Strawberry Cream Roll masterpiece and delight your taste buds with its irresistible flavors. Whether enjoyed as a sweet ending to a meal or as a delightful indulgence on its own, this dessert is sure to leave you craving for more.