Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake is a delightful treat that combines a light and fluffy sponge cake with homemade strawberry jam. This recipe is not only simple to make but also perfect for a variety of occasions, from birthday parties to sunny picnics. You’ll love how the bright flavors of strawberries shine through in every slice, making it a standout dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly and quick to whip up.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh strawberries and vanilla creates a delightful taste that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or an elegant dinner party.
- Homemade Touch: Making your own strawberry jam adds a personal touch that elevates the dish.
- Beautiful Presentation: The rolled design makes it visually appealing, sure to impress your guests.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet (25 cm x 35 cm / 9 x 13-inch)
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Spatula
- Saucepan
- Fine sieve
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking Sheet: A proper baking sheet ensures even cooking and makes rolling easier.
- Electric Mixer: This tool saves time and energy while beating eggs and sugar until fluffy.
- Spatula: A spatula helps gently fold ingredients without deflating the batter.
Ingredients
For the Strawberry Jam
- 360 g (12.5 oz) strawberries
- 100 g (1/2 cup) sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 tsp vanilla paste
For the Sponge Cake
- 3 tbsp (30g) butter (plus for greasing)
- 125 g (1 cup) all-purpose flour (plus for dusting)
- 130 g (2/3 cup) sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 tsp vanilla paste
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp water
For Finishing Touches
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
How to Make Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake
Step 1: Make the Strawberry Jam
- Clean the strawberries and cut them into small chunks.
- Add them to a saucepan with sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla paste.
- Cook over medium heat for about 15 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Prepare the Brown Butter
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Cook for 3 – 4 minutes until it turns light brown with a nutty aroma.
- Strain through a fine sieve into a bowl and let cool.
Step 3: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
- Preheat your oven to 180 °C / 350 °F (or 165 °C / 330 °F for fan-assisted).
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper and grease it with butter.
- Dust lightly with flour and remove excess flour.
Step 4: Mix Ingredients
- Sift flour into a bowl.
- Beat together sugar, eggs, vanilla paste, and salt using an electric mixer until tripled in size (about 6 – 8 minutes).
- Gently fold in sifted flour followed by brown butter and water until combined.
Step 5: Bake the Sponge Cake
- Pour batter into the prepared baking sheet; spread evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 15 – 20 minutes until golden brown but soft to touch; do not overbake.
- Place parchment paper over a damp towel sprinkled with powdered sugar.
Step 6: Roll the Cake
- Remove cake from oven; use a pairing knife to scrape around edges gently.
- Invert onto prepared parchment paper; carefully peel off original parchment.
- Make shallow cuts on one short side of the cake; roll tightly while still warm using towels as guides.
- Let cool on wire rack for about 30 minutes.
Step 7: Fill and Serve
- Unroll the sponge cake carefully; spread strawberry filling evenly over it.
- Roll tightly again; let sit at room temperature for another 15 – 30 minutes before slicing.
- Dust with powdered sugar before slicing into thick pieces; serve fresh.
Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake!
How to Serve Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake
Serving a Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few thoughtful touches. Whether it’s for a picnic, birthday party, or casual dessert at home, here are some creative ways to present this charming cake.
With Fresh Berries
- Add a handful of fresh strawberries or mixed berries on the side for a burst of color and flavor.
- Drizzle with a little honey or maple syrup for added sweetness.
Pair with Whipped Cream
- Serve slices of the cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top.
- For an extra touch, consider adding vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cocoa powder to the cream.
Accompanied by Ice Cream
- Pair the cake with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a classic dessert combination.
- A warm sauce, like chocolate or caramel, can elevate the flavors even further.
Garnished with Mint Leaves
- Place fresh mint leaves alongside the cake for an aromatic touch.
- The mint adds freshness and enhances the visual appeal of your serving plate.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Slice the Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake into bite-sized pieces and arrange on a platter.
- Include other desserts like cookies or mini pastries for variety and interest.
How to Perfect Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake
To achieve the perfect Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure that your cake is light, fluffy, and full of flavor.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a better emulsion and results in a lighter cake.
- Don’t Overmix: When folding in the flour, do so gently to maintain air in the batter. Overmixing can lead to dense sponge.
- Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm your oven’s accuracy. Baking at the right temperature is crucial for achieving that spongy texture.
- Cool Properly: Allow the rolled cake to cool completely before unrolling it. This prevents cracking when you spread the filling.
- Careful Rolling Technique: Use parchment paper as a guide while rolling. It helps keep the shape consistent and reduces tearing.
- Slice with Care: Use a serrated knife to cut through without squishing the delicate layers.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options that complement its sweet flavors wonderfully.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the richness of the cake.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese pairs well with sweet desserts and adds depth to your meal.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce over each slice creates an indulgent twist on this classic dessert.
- Panna Cotta: This creamy Italian dessert can provide a smooth contrast to your cake’s texture.
- Lemon Sorbet: The citrus notes from lemon sorbet offer a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of sweet cake.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage can enhance flavors and provide comfort while enjoying this delightful treat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake can be delightful, but avoiding common pitfalls will ensure your cake turns out perfectly.
- Not Preparing Your Ingredients – Always measure and prepare all ingredients before starting. This helps prevent any last-minute scrambling and ensures the process flows smoothly.
- Overmixing the Batter – Mixing too much can make the cake dense. Gently fold in the ingredients until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Incorrect Oven Temperature – Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if necessary for accuracy.
- Skipping the Cooling Process – Allowing the cake to cool before rolling is crucial. If you roll it while hot, it may crack; let it cool sufficiently to avoid this.
- Using Stale Strawberries – Fresh strawberries are essential for a vibrant flavor. Always choose ripe berries for the best taste and texture in your jam.
- Not Dusting with Powdered Sugar – Failing to dust with powdered sugar can result in a sticky roll. Always sprinkle some on before serving to add a beautiful finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 180 °C / 350 °F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place in a covered pan over low heat, warming gently for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake.
Can I use frozen strawberries for the jam?
You can use frozen strawberries, but they may yield more liquid. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
How do I know when my sponge cake is baked?
The sponge should be golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
What if my cake cracks while rolling?
If your cake cracks, don’t worry! Simply cover it with frosting or whipped cream; no one will notice!
Can I customize my Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake?
Absolutely! You can add other fruits or flavors like lemon zest or chocolate ganache for variety.
How do I serve Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake?
Slice into thick pieces and serve chilled or at room temperature, optionally topped with whipped cream or fresh berries.
Final Thoughts
The Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake is not only visually stunning but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for picnics or celebrations, this delightful dessert allows for easy customization with different fillings or toppings. Try making it today and impress your friends and family!
Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake
Indulge in the delightful experience of making a Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake, a perfect combination of light sponge cake and luscious homemade strawberry jam. This elegant dessert is not only visually stunning but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for various occasions, from birthday parties to casual picnics. Each slice bursts with the fresh flavor of strawberries, enhanced by a delicate vanilla undertone. Impress your guests with this charming treat that brings joy to any gathering.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 360 g strawberries
- 100 g sugar (for jam)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 3 tbsp butter (plus for greasing)
- 125 g all-purpose flour
- 130 g sugar (for sponge)
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 tsp vanilla paste
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Make the Strawberry Jam: Cook strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla in a saucepan over medium heat until thickened (about 15 minutes). Let cool.
- Prepare the Sponge Cake: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Line and grease a baking sheet with parchment paper. Beat eggs and sugar until fluffy, then gently fold in sifted flour and melted butter. Pour into the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.
- Roll the Cake: Invert the baked sponge onto a powdered sugar-dusted towel, roll tightly while warm, and let cool on a wire rack.
- Fill and Serve: Unroll the cooled sponge, spread the strawberry jam evenly, then re-roll tightly. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (70g)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
