Decadent chocolate roll filled with cream and topped with luscious ganache.

Chocolate Roll with Cream and Ganache

Chocolate Roll with Cream and Ganache is a decadent dessert that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also steal your heart. Imagine sinking your fork into a soft, fluffy chocolate cake that envelops a creamy vanilla filling, topped with glossy ganache that drips like chocolate velvet. This delightful treat is perfect for any occasion, be it a birthday celebration, family gathering, or simply an indulgent evening at home. What’s even better? This step-by-step recipe makes it incredibly easy to whip up this sublime dessert right in your kitchen, so there’s no need to feel intimidated!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chocolate Roll with Cream and Ganache is not just about satisfying your sweet cravings; it comes with numerous benefits that make it a must-try. First, the preparation is straightforward, making it accessible for even the most novice bakers. It’s a family-friendly dessert that encourages togetherness as you can involve the kids in the fun of rolling up the cake! Additionally, it mirrors traditional flavors with a modern twist while using minimal ingredients. Perfect for a quick dessert or as an impressive centerpiece, this recipe is bound to be a hit.

Ingredients for Chocolate Roll with Cream and Ganache

All-Purpose Flour (3/4 cup): The base of the cake, providing structure and lightness.
Cocoa Powder (1/4 cup): Enriches the flavor, lending a rich chocolatey essence.
Baking Powder (1 tsp): Helps the cake rise to achieve the perfect fluffy texture.
Salt (1/4 tsp): Enhances sweetness and provides flavor balance.
Eggs (4 large): Act as a binding agent and contribute to the airy structure.
Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens and helps the cake remain moist.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Adds depth with its lovely aromatic flavor.
Heavy Cream (1 cup): Whipped into a luscious filling that complements the chocolate.
Powdered Sugar (3 tbsp): Sweetens the whipped cream filling, ensuring it’s perfectly sweet.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp for the filling): A consistent flavor that ties the filling together.
Heavy Cream (1/2 cup for ganache): Creates a silky sauce that glazes the cake.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate (6 oz, chopped): The star of the ganache, melted into a luxurious topping.

Step-by-Step Directions

Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, get a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan ready by lining it with parchment paper and lightly greasing it.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that your cake is light and fluffy with an even chocolate flavor.
Prepare Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar on high speed until the mixture turns pale and fluffy—about 5 minutes should do it. Add in the vanilla extract and mix until fully combined.
Combine Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture using a spatula, being careful not to deflate the fluffy eggs.
Spread the Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly.
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back lightly when pressed.
Cool Cake: Once baked, immediately invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel that you’ve generously sprinkled with powdered sugar. Remove the parchment paper, and roll the cake up with the towel inside. Let it cool completely.
Make the Whipped Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form. This delightful filling will be the heart of your chocolate roll.
Create the Ganache: In a small saucepan, heat the 1/2 cup of heavy cream until it begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chopped semi-sweet chocolate and let it sit for a minute. Stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Assemble the Cake: When the cake has cooled, carefully unroll it and remove the towel. Spread the whipped cream filling evenly over the cake.
Roll It Up Again: Gently roll the cake back up, without the towel this time, placing it seam-side down on a serving plate.
Pour Ganache: Drizzle the ganache over the rolled cake, letting some flow down the sides.
Slice and Enjoy: Slice your cake into rounds and indulge in the creamy, chocolatey goodness!

Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Chocolate Roll with Cream and Ganache turns out perfectly, here are a few chef’s secrets:

Sift Your Ingredients: Always sift the cocoa powder and flour together to prevent any lumps for a smooth cake texture.
Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature before whipping them, as this helps them incorporate air better.
Overmixing Alert: Avoid overmixing the batter once you combine the dry and wet ingredients to maintain that light, airy structure.
Experiment with Flavors: You can infuse your whipped cream with different flavors, such as coffee or orange zest, to add a unique twist to the filling.
Ganache Variation: For a lighter ganache, consider using milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a sweeter touch.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Present your Chocolate Roll with Cream and Ganache on a pretty platter and dust it lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Pair it with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a vibrant color contrast and refreshing flavor. You could also enjoy it with a dollop of clotted cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful balance of textures. For a touch of indulgence, serve alongside a strong cup of coffee or hot chocolate for an exceptionally rich experience.

Nutritional Information

This delightful dessert indulgence is best enjoyed in moderation, particularly if you’re savoring its fluffy, buttery goodness. While exact nutritional values may vary, a single slice (based on 12 servings) typically contains around 250 calories, alongside carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Remember, treats like these are for special occasions, and it’s perfectly fine to enjoy every bite of this Chocolate Roll!

Storing Tips & Variations for Chocolate Roll with Cream and Ganache

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely but worth mentioning!), you can store your cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To freeze, wrap the rolled cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and top with fresh ganache before serving. For healthier swaps, consider using coconut cream for the filling or adding pureed fruit into your whipped cream for a fruity twist. You can also substitute the semi-sweet chocolate for dark chocolate for a deeper flavor profile!

Conclusion for Chocolate Roll with Cream and Ganache

Don’t wait to experience the sheer bliss of this Chocolate Roll with Cream and Ganache! Its combination of textures and flavors is simply divine, and preparing it can be a fun-filled adventure in your kitchen. Trust us, every slice is a heavenly experience that you and your loved ones will savor. Try making it today, and watch as this delightful dessert unfolds its magic!

FAQs

1. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! This cake can be made a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I replace the heavy cream in the filling and ganache?
For the filling, you can use coconut cream or whipped topping as a lighter alternative. As for the ganache, stick to cream for the best texture.

3. How do I know when my cake is done baking?
The cake is ready when it springs back lightly upon touching and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

4. Can I use a different cake flavor?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different flavor extracts and cake bases, like vanilla or even a sponge cake for a lighter roll.

5. What’s the best way to serve this dessert?
Slice it into rounds and serve with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a scoop of ice cream for a delightful pairing.