Easy Strawberry Cake Roll

by

Introduction:
Indulge your taste buds with a delightful treat that combines the freshness of strawberries with the fluffy texture of cake. This Easy Strawberry Cake Roll recipe is a surefire way to impress your family and friends with its beautiful presentation and irresistible flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, this dessert is bound to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Follow along as we guide you through the steps to create this delectable confection.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting
  • 1 cup whipped cream
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
  2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Using a stand mixer or electric hand mixer, beat the eggs on high speed for about 5 minutes, or until thick and lemon-colored.
  4. Gradually add the granulated sugar to the beaten eggs, beating until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  5. Stir in the water and vanilla extract until well combined.
  6. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined, being careful not to deflate the batter.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake is lightly golden and springs back when lightly touched.
  9. While the cake is baking, lay a clean kitchen towel on a flat surface and dust it generously with powdered sugar.
  10. Once the cake is done baking, immediately invert it onto the powdered sugar-coated towel. Carefully peel off the parchment paper.
  11. Starting from one of the short ends, gently roll the cake and towel together into a tight spiral. Let it cool completely on a wire rack, seam side down.
  12. Once the cake has cooled, carefully unroll it and spread the whipped cream evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.
  13. Arrange the sliced strawberries over the whipped cream in an even layer.
  14. Carefully roll the cake back up, using the towel to help guide it if necessary. Place it seam side down on a serving platter.
  15. Dust the top of the cake roll with powdered sugar for a decorative finish.
  16. Slice and serve your Easy Strawberry Cake Roll immediately, or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Conclusion:
With its light, airy cake and luscious strawberry filling, this Easy Strawberry Cake Roll is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, you’ll appreciate how simple and satisfying this recipe is to make. So go ahead, whip up this sweet treat and share the joy of homemade goodness with your loved ones.

Serving and Storage Tips:

  1. Serve Fresh: For the best taste and texture, serve the Easy Strawberry Cake Roll fresh on the day it’s made. The combination of fluffy cake and fresh strawberries is irresistible when enjoyed immediately after assembly.
  2. Chilled Delight: If you prefer a slightly firmer texture, chill the cake roll in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. Chilled, it holds its shape beautifully and offers a refreshing contrast to the sweet filling.
  3. Garnish with Fresh Strawberries: Before serving, garnish the cake roll with additional fresh strawberry slices for an extra pop of color and flavor. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds an extra burst of fruity goodness.
  4. Slice with Care: When slicing the cake roll, use a sharp knife and a gentle sawing motion to ensure clean, even slices. Wiping the knife clean between cuts will help maintain neat edges and prevent the filling from smearing.
  5. Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store the cake roll in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2-3 days, though it’s best enjoyed within the first day or two to preserve the freshness of the strawberries.
  6. Freezing Option: If you want to extend the shelf life of your cake roll, you can freeze it for later enjoyment. Wrap the whole roll tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving, and enjoy within 1-2 months for the best quality.
  7. Bring to Room Temperature: Before serving slices from a chilled or frozen cake roll, allow them to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to fully develop and the cake to soften slightly for a more enjoyable eating experience.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Easy Strawberry Cake Roll remains a delectable treat from the first slice to the last, whether served fresh or enjoyed as a delightful leftover.

  1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
    While fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can certainly use frozen strawberries as a substitute. Just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before slicing and using in the cake roll. Keep in mind that frozen strawberries may release more moisture, so you may need to adjust the amount of whipped cream to prevent the cake from becoming too soggy.
  2. Can I make this cake roll in advance for a special occasion?
    Yes, you can prepare the cake roll in advance for special occasions. However, it’s best to assemble the cake roll no more than a day ahead of time to ensure optimal freshness. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve, and if possible, garnish with fresh strawberry slices just before serving for a vibrant presentation.
  3. I don’t have a jelly roll pan. Can I use a different baking pan?
    While a jelly roll pan is ideal for making a thin, even cake layer, you can use a similar-sized rimmed baking sheet as an alternative. Make sure to line the baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the cake batter evenly to achieve the desired thickness. Keep in mind that using a different pan may affect the baking time, so keep a close eye on the cake as it bakes to prevent overcooking.
  4. Can I substitute the whipped cream with a different filling?
    Absolutely! While whipped cream pairs beautifully with strawberries in this recipe, you can get creative with the filling to suit your taste preferences. Consider using cream cheese frosting, mascarpone cheese mixed with powdered sugar, or even a layer of lemon curd for a tangy twist. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness and consistency of the filling as needed to complement the flavors of the cake and strawberries.

Leave a Comment