Hello, fellow dessert enthusiasts and kitchen adventurers! Today, we're embarking on a delightful journey into the world of cake rolls, where fluffy sponge cake meets luscious strawberry filling. I'm here to guide you through creating the perfect Strawberry Cake Roll, step by step. So, let's preheat those ovens and get ready to roll in delight!
Ingredients You'll Need:
For the Cake:
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup whole milk
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for added zing)
For the Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the long sides. This will make it easier to lift and roll the cake later.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set it aside; we'll come back to it shortly.
Step 3: Beat Eggs and Sugar
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This might take a few minutes, but it's worth it for a light and airy cake.
Step 4: Add Vanilla Extract
- Stir in the vanilla extract, infusing the batter with that wonderful vanilla aroma.
Step 5: Fold in the Dry Ingredients
- Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the egg and sugar mixture. Take your time and do this gently to keep the batter light and airy.
Step 6: Add Milk
- Pour in the whole milk and fold it into the batter until it's well combined.
Step 7: Spread and Bake
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared jelly roll pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly to the edges.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the cake is lightly golden and springs back when touched.
Step 9: Create the Strawberry Filling
- While the cake is baking, let's prepare the strawberry filling. In a saucepan, combine the diced strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the strawberries break down. Add lemon juice for a zesty kick if you like.
Step 10: Roll It Up
- Once the cake is done baking, immediately lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place it on a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Carefully roll the cake, towel and all, starting at one of the shorter ends. Let it cool completely while rolled up.
Step 11: Whip the Cream
- While the cake cools, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until you have soft peaks.
Step 12: Assemble and Serve
- Carefully unroll the cooled cake and remove the kitchen towel. Spread the strawberry filling evenly over the cake, leaving a small border at the edges.
- Dollop the whipped cream on top of the strawberry filling and gently spread it out.
Step 13: Roll and Chill
- Roll the cake back up, using the parchment paper to help. Place it seam-side down on a serving platter.
- Cover the Strawberry Cake Roll and refrigerate it for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the cake to set.
Step 14: Slice and Savor
- When you're ready to serve, slice your Strawberry Cake Roll into delightful rounds and enjoy each bite of strawberry-filled, cream-topped goodness.
There you have it, folks! A Strawberry Cake Roll that's not only visually stunning but also a delightful symphony of flavors and textures. It's perfect for any occasion or simply for indulging in a slice of sweet, fruity happiness.
Give this recipe a try, and share the delight with your loved ones. It's a roll worth savoring! Happy baking! 🍓🍰🎉