Chocolate Cake Roll: 5 Steps to Pure Deliciousness

Name: Chocolate Cake Roll: 5 Steps to Pure Deliciousness
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for filling

By:

Christina R. Jones

June 18, 2025

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There’s something incredibly joyful about making a Chocolate Cake Roll. It’s one of those desserts that looks fancy but is surprisingly simple to whip up in your own kitchen. Imagine a soft, moist chocolate cake rolled up tight with a luscious cream filling, just waiting to be sliced and served. Each bite is a delightful combination of rich chocolate and airy sweetness that makes your taste buds dance with happiness. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a sweet treat, this Chocolate Cake Roll never disappoints.

What’s even better? It’s a showstopper that impresses everyone at the table, yet it comes together in no time! I love how versatile it is too; you can serve it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or even topped with fresh berries for that extra flair. Trust me, once you master this recipe, you’ll find yourself making it again and again. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the delicious world of Chocolate Cake Rolls!

Chocolate Cake Roll - detail 1

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your perfect Chocolate Cake Roll. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup all-purpose flour – make sure it’s sifted for a lighter texture.
1 cup granulated sugar – this will sweeten the cake beautifully.
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – choose a good quality one for that deep chocolate flavor.
1 teaspoon baking powder – this helps the cake rise and stay fluffy.
1/2 teaspoon salt – it enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
3 large eggs – bring them to room temperature for better mixing.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – because every dessert needs a touch of warmth.
1 cup heavy cream – for that rich and creamy filling.
1/2 cup powdered sugar – it sweetens the whipped cream to perfection.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract for filling – yes, it’s worth adding a little extra flavor!

These simple ingredients come together to create a chocolatey delight that you won’t be able to resist!

How to Prepare Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to bring this Chocolate Cake Roll to life! Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll end up with a stunning dessert that’s sure to impress.

Preparing the Cake Batter

First, let’s mix our dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial because it ensures that everything is evenly distributed for a perfect bake. Set this bowl aside for now.

In another large bowl, crack those eggs and add the vanilla extract. Beat them together using a hand mixer or a whisk until the mixture becomes thick and pale, resembling a lovely lemon color. This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. Once you’ve achieved this, gradually add your dry mixture to the egg mixture, mixing gently until it’s just combined. You don’t want to overmix here, as it can make the cake dense!

Now, it’s time to spread the batter evenly in your prepared jelly roll pan. Use a spatula to smooth it out, making sure it reaches all corners. This will help your cake roll up beautifully later!

Baking the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you haven’t done so already. Place your filled pan in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If you wait too long, your cake could dry out.

Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, gently invert it onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. This helps prevent sticking! Carefully peel off the parchment paper, then roll the cake up with the towel, starting from one of the shorter sides. This step is essential as it helps the cake retain its shape while cooling completely. Allow it to cool completely in this rolled position, which usually takes about 30 minutes.

Making the Filling

While your cake cools, let’s whip up the filling! In a medium bowl, pour in the heavy cream and add powdered sugar along with the extra vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer, whip the mixture on medium speed until stiff peaks form. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes. You want it fluffy and light but still stable enough to hold its shape when spread.

Assembling the Chocolate Cake Roll

Once your cake is completely cool, gently unroll it from the towel. Take your whipped cream filling and spread it evenly over the cake, leaving a small border at the edges to avoid spilling out when you roll it back up. Carefully roll the cake back up, starting from the same side as before. Don’t worry if it cracks a little – that’s part of the charm!

After rolling, place the Chocolate Cake Roll seam-side down on a serving platter. For the best results, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before slicing. This helps everything set nicely and makes it easier to cut clean slices. Enjoy the process and get ready for some deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chocolate Cake Roll is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a delight to make! Here are a few reasons why this recipe is sure to become a favorite:

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this stunning dessert in under an hour!
Impressive Presentation: The rolled design makes it look like it came straight from a bakery, perfect for impressing guests.
Crowd-Pleaser: Rich chocolate and creamy filling appeal to everyone, making it a hit at parties or family gatherings.
Versatile: Customize it with different fillings or toppings to suit your taste or occasion!
Make Ahead: It chills beautifully, meaning you can prepare it in advance and serve it later.

Trust me, once you serve this Chocolate Cake Roll, everyone will be asking for the recipe!

Tips for Success

To make your Chocolate Cake Roll turn out perfectly every time, here are some tried-and-true tips that I swear by:

Don’t skip the parchment paper! Lining your jelly roll pan with parchment paper not only helps with easy removal but also prevents the cake from sticking, which can lead to cracks.
Watch your baking time! Ovens can vary, so check your cake a minute or two before the recommended time. You want it just set, with a toothpick coming out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Roll it while it’s warm! Rolling the cake with the towel while it’s still warm prevents it from cracking. The heat helps it hold its shape better as it cools.
Let it chill! Chilling your assembled Chocolate Cake Roll for at least an hour after rolling allows the filling to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
Store leftovers properly! If you have any left (which is rare!), keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays delicious for a few days, and the flavors continue to meld together beautifully.

With these tips in hand, you’ll be a Chocolate Cake Roll pro in no time!

Variations

The beauty of the Chocolate Cake Roll lies in its versatility! While the classic version is delightful, you can easily switch things up to suit your taste or occasion. Here are some fun variations to consider:

Mint Chocolate: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to your whipped cream filling for a refreshing twist that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
Peanut Butter Swirl: Mix in some creamy peanut butter to your filling for a rich, nutty flavor that chocolate lovers will adore.
Fruit Infusion: Fold in some fresh raspberries or strawberries into the whipped cream for a fruity surprise in each slice.
Mocha Delight: For coffee lovers, add a tablespoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the batter and filling for a delicious mocha flavor.
Spice It Up: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon into the batter for a warm and spicy kick that complements the chocolate.

These variations will keep your Chocolate Cake Roll exciting and fresh for every gathering!

Nutritional Information

When indulging in a slice of this delightful Chocolate Cake Roll, it’s helpful to know what’s in it. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving (1 slice):

Calories: 250
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 18g
Protein: 4g

Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. Enjoy your Chocolate Cake Roll guilt-free!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making your Chocolate Cake Roll? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that pop up, along with my answers to help you out:

Can I use a different type of filling for my Chocolate Cake Roll?

Absolutely! While the whipped cream filling is classic, you can get creative. Try using a cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or even a fruit preserve for a delicious twist. The options are endless!

How do I prevent my cake from cracking when rolling?

To prevent cracks, make sure to roll the cake while it’s still warm. This helps it keep its shape as it cools. Also, be gentle when unrolling and rolling it back up. If it does crack a bit, don’t worry; it adds character!

Can I make the Chocolate Cake Roll ahead of time?

Yes! This cake rolls beautifully in advance. You can prepare it a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and it will be just as delicious when you serve it. Just remember to chill it for at least an hour before slicing!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftover Chocolate Cake Roll in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for a few days, and the flavors will meld together even more, making it taste even better!

Can I freeze the Chocolate Cake Roll?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just wrap the rolled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. It’ll be just as delightful as when you made it!