Soft, flexible sponge with a creamy, stable filling and a smooth chocolate coating.
These homemade Swiss Roll copycats bring back the nostalgic taste of the iconic snack with a rich chocolate sponge and creamy filling.
Why you'll want it now, Indulge in a nostalgic treat with a rich chocolate coating and a fluffy cream center.
Why this recipe works
The secret to these rolls is a thin, flexible chocolate sponge cake that rolls easily without cracking and a fluffy cream filling that stays put.
Equipment
Baking sheet (10 x 15 in / 25 x 38 cm)
Parchment paper
Mixing bowls
Hand mixer or stand mixer with whisk attachment
Spatula
Microwave-safe bowl
Cooling rack
How to make it
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10 x 15 in (25 x 38 cm) baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar on high speed until pale and thick, about 5 minutes. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined, being careful not to deflate it.
Spread the batter evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
While the cake is baking, prepare a clean kitchen towel and dust it lightly with powdered sugar.
Once baked, immediately turn the cake onto the towel, peel off the parchment, and roll the cake up with the towel from a short side. Let it cool completely.
For the filling, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Unroll the cooled cake, spread the cream evenly over the surface, and roll it back up without the towel. Chill for 30 minutes.
Melt the chocolate chips and butter together in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
Coat each roll with the melted chocolate and let set on a cooling rack. Chill for another 30 minutes to firm up the chocolate.
Enjoy these homemade Swiss rolls with a glass of milk for the ultimate nostalgic treat.
How you'll know it's ready
The cake is ready when it springs back lightly when touched and begins to pull away from the edges of the pan.
Convection oven? (and if you don't have one)
For standard ovens, the temperature is perfect as written. If using a convection oven, lower the temperature to 325°F (160°C) and start checking a few minutes early, as the fan may bake faster.
Frosting, filling & glaze notes
The chocolate coating should be smooth and fluid, falling in a slow ribbon from the spoon.
That soft, gooey texture up close.
Troubleshooting
If the cake cracks when rolling, ensure it is rolled immediately after coming out of the oven to maintain flexibility.
If the cream filling is too runny, make sure the cream is whipped to stiff peaks before spreading.
If the chocolate coating is too thick, gently reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds until smooth.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Best enjoyed chilled.
Make ahead
You can prepare the cake and fill it a day ahead, then coat with chocolate the next day.
Variations
Add a tablespoon of espresso powder to the chocolate cake for a mocha twist.
Use white chocolate chips for the coating for a different flavor profile.
Add a layer of raspberry jam under the cream filling for a fruity surprise.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet for the coating?
Yes, milk chocolate can be used, but it will result in a sweeter coating.
What if I don't have a jelly roll pan?
You can use a standard baking sheet, but watch the baking time closely as the cake may be thinner.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the towel?
Dust the towel generously with powdered sugar before rolling the cake onto it.
Can I freeze the Swiss rolls?
Yes, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
This homemade recipe is inspired by nostalgic snack-style desserts and is not affiliated with any brand.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: 1 roll (80 g)
Calories320
Total Fat20 g
Saturated Fat12 g
Cholesterol70 mg
Sodium60 mg
Total Carbohydrate34 g
Dietary Fiber2 g
Total Sugars22 g
Protein4 g
Nutrition information is estimated based on the ingredients used and may vary depending on brands and exact measurements.
Recipe from softsweetdough.com · Soft, sweet desserts worth every bite.