Classic Vanilla Cream Roll Cake
This Classic Vanilla Cream Roll Cake is a light, airy, and elegant dessert that combines a soft choux pastry with a smooth, creamy vanilla filling. The golden brown exterior gives way to a silky, custard-like cream, making each bite delightfully sweet and indulgent. Perfect for afternoon tea, celebrations, or a special homemade treat, this delicate roll cake is sure to impress!
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Chilling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Ingredients
For the Dough:
100 grams water
100 grams milk
A pinch of salt
A pinch of sugar
80 grams butter
130 grams flour
3 eggs
For the Cream Filling:
150 grams sugar
30 grams cornstarch
400 grams milk
Vanilla extract (to taste)
50 grams butter
For Decoration:
Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Directions
Make the Dough:
In a saucepan, combine the water, milk, salt, sugar, and butter.
Heat over medium heat until the butter melts completely.
Gradually add the flour, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes until it forms a smooth dough and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
Remove from heat and transfer the dough to a bowl to cool slightly.
Incorporate the Eggs:
Once the dough has cooled slightly, add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition.
The dough should become smooth, elastic, and slightly sticky, pulling away cleanly from a spatula.
Bake the Cake Base:
Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).
Grease and line a baking form with parchment paper.
Spread the prepared dough evenly onto the lined baking form using a spatula.
Bake for about 30 minutes or until the cake is golden brown and fully cooked.
Remove from the oven and let the cake cool completely.
Prepare the Cream Filling:
In a saucepan, beat the eggs, sugar, and cornstarch until well combined.
Gradually add the milk and vanilla extract, stirring constantly.
Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens into a custard-like consistency.
Remove from heat and stir in the butter until fully melted and incorporated.
Let the cream cool completely before using.
Assemble the Roll Cake:
Once the cake has cooled, carefully roll it up with the parchment paper to create a log shape.
Unroll it, spread the cooled vanilla cream filling evenly over the surface, then roll it back up tightly.
Place the rolled cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set.
Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, remove the parchment paper and dust the roll cake with powdered sugar.
Slice and serve this delicate, creamy, and beautifully rolled cake.
Enjoy!
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 280 kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 180mg
The Origins and Popularity of Roll Cakes
The roll cake, also known as Swiss roll or roulade, is a classic European dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Central Europe, particularly in Austria and Switzerland, where delicate sponge cakes were rolled with jam, cream, or custard fillings.
Over time, different variations of roll cakes have emerged, from Japan’s fluffy chiffon-style rolls to France’s elegant Bûche de Noël (Yule log cake). This version, with its choux pastry base and creamy vanilla custard, offers a unique twist that blends light, airy textures with rich, creamy flavors.
Today, roll cakes are popular worldwide and are served in pastry shops, bakeries, and home kitchens alike. Whether for a casual treat, festive occasion, or afternoon tea, this classic dessert remains a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Classic Vanilla Cream Roll Cake is soft, creamy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Perfectly balanced flavors – Light, airy pastry with rich vanilla cream.
Visually stunning – The beautiful swirl of cream inside the cake makes it an elegant dessert.
Great for special occasions – Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or afternoon tea.
Customizable – Add different flavors, fillings, or toppings to suit your taste.
Health Benefits
Despite being a sweet indulgence, this roll cake has some nutritional benefits.
Eggs provide high-quality protein – Supports muscle growth and repair.
Milk and butter add calcium – Essential for strong bones and teeth.
Cornstarch makes the custard light – A healthier alternative to heavy creams.
Serving Suggestions
This roll cake pairs perfectly with various drinks and side treats.
With a cup of coffee or tea – A classic pairing for an afternoon treat.
With fresh berries – Adds a sweet-tart contrast to the creamy filling.
With whipped cream – For an extra layer of indulgence.
Drizzled with chocolate or caramel sauce – Elevates the flavors.
Tips
For a perfect roll cake, follow these pro tips.
Let the cake cool before rolling – Prevents cracks and breakage.
Use a clean kitchen towel – Helps in rolling without sticking.
Spread the cream evenly – Ensures a smooth and uniform filling.
Refrigerate before serving – Helps the cake hold its shape better.
Variations to Try
This classic roll cake can be adapted in many delicious ways.
Chocolate Roll Cake: Add cocoa powder to the dough and chocolate ganache filling.
Berry Jam Roll: Spread strawberry or raspberry jam instead of custard.
Nutty Delight: Add crushed almonds, pistachios, or hazelnuts for crunch.
Tropical Version: Use coconut milk and mango puree in the filling.
Conclusion
This Classic Vanilla Cream Roll Cake is an elegant, light, and creamy dessert that’s easy to make yet impressively delicious. Whether you serve it as a sweet treat for guests or a personal indulgence, its fluffy texture and rich vanilla cream filling make it a must-try.