Name: Strawberry Cake Roll
Prep time: 120 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 720 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened); 2.5 tablespoons granulated sugar; ⅓ cup cake flour (sifted); 1 large egg white; food coloring; 3 large egg yolks; 6 tablespoons granulated sugar (divided); 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1.5 tablespoons whole milk; 0.5 teaspoon almond extract; 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt; ⅔ cup cake flour (sifted); food coloring; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 0.25 teaspoon unflavored powdered gelatin; 0.5 ounce freeze-dried strawberries; 3 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon powdered sugar

Introduction to Strawberry Cake Roll

When spring blooms in full force, there's no better way to celebrate than with a strawberry cake roll. This delightful dessert combines the lightness of cake with the fresh flavor of strawberries, creating a treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. But what makes this dessert truly special is its unique rolling technique, which not only looks impressive but also ensures every bite is filled with creamy, fruity goodness.

Why a Strawberry Cake Roll?
The beauty of a strawberry cake roll lies in its versatility. It works wonderfully for gatherings, from picnics to birthday parties. Plus, it’s a breeze to slice and serve, making it an ideal dessert for entertaining. Imagine providing your friends and family with individual servings of this gorgeous cake, complete with a hollow circle of fluffy whipped cream and vibrant strawberry patterns—it's sure to impress!

Incorporating such a lovely dessert into your spring celebrations not only adds a pop of color to your table but also showcases your baking skills. For beginners and baking enthusiasts alike, the process is rewarding, subtly elevating your dessert game without requiring professional training.

To get started, dive into the full recipe below, and let the baking begin!

Ingredients for Strawberry Cake Roll

Creating a delightful strawberry cake roll requires some key ingredients that come together for a mouthwatering treat. Each element plays a vital role in the texture and flavor of this beautiful dessert. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Design Paste:

2 tablespoons / 30 g unsalted butter, softened
2 ½ tablespoons / 30 g granulated sugar
⅓ cup / 40 g cake flour, sifted
1 large / 30 g egg white
Food coloring (your choice for vibrant shades)

For the Cake:

3 large eggs, separated
6 tablespoons / 75 g granulated sugar, divided
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 ½ tablespoons / 23 g whole milk
½ teaspoon almond extract
½ teaspoon kosher salt
⅔ cup / 67 g cake flour, sifted
Food coloring (for your preferred color)

For the Filling:

1 cup / 240 g heavy whipping cream
¼ teaspoon unflavored powdered gelatin
½ ounce / 14 g freeze-dried strawberries
3 tablespoons / 38 g granulated sugar
1 tablespoon / 8 g powdered sugar

Gather these ingredients, and soon you’ll be on your way to crafting a stunning strawberry cake roll that’s perfect for any spring gathering! If you're looking for more ideas, check out Shutterstock for food styling inspiration.

Step-by-Step Preparation of Strawberry Cake Roll

Creating a delightful strawberry cake roll is not only an exciting baking project but also a way to impress your friends and family. Let's walk through the process together!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start, it’s essential to have all your ingredients ready. This makes the baking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

For Paste:
Unsalted butter, granulated sugar, cake flour, egg white, and food coloring.
For Cake:
Large eggs, vegetable oil, whole milk, almond extract, kosher salt, cake flour, and food coloring.
For Filling:
Heavy whipping cream, unflavored powdered gelatin, freeze-dried strawberries, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar.

By having everything laid out, you're setting yourself up for success! If you're unsure whether to use cake flour or all-purpose flour, remember that cake flour is key for achieving that light and fluffy texture perfect for a strawberry cake roll.

Make the Design Paste

This step adds a personalized touch to your cake. Start by mixing together softened butter and sugar until smooth. Gradually add in sifted cake flour, followed by the egg white. Your paste should resemble a thick, buttery consistency. Don’t forget the food coloring to create your desired designs! You can take a peek at professional techniques for piping designs to get inspired here.

Prepare the Cake Batter

In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks with sugar until they're a pale yellow and fluffy. Add in your vegetable oil, milk, and almond extract. Mixing the dry ingredients—sifted flour and a bit of food coloring—into the wet mixture is crucial for achieving the right texture. Once you have everything mixed just right, fluff up your egg whites in another bowl until you reach medium-stiff peaks and gently fold them into your batter.

Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (about 180°C) and pour your batter evenly over the design paste you piped earlier. Give the pan a gentle tap on the countertop to level the batter and release air bubbles. Bake for around 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top springs back slightly when touched.

Create the Filling

While the cake cools, let’s whip up that dreamy strawberry filling! Start by softening the gelatin and melting it gently in the microwave. Meanwhile, pulse the freeze-dried strawberries with sugar in a food processor until finely ground. Whip the heavy cream until fluffy, then carefully combine it with the gelatin and strawberry mixture.

Assemble the Cake Roll

Now to the fun part! Carefully unroll your cooled cake, spread the filling over it, and roll it back up tightly. Ensure that you wrap it snugly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This helps the filling set beautifully, making it easier to slice.

And there you have it—follow these steps and your homemade strawberry cake roll will be a showstopper at your next gathering! Best served chilled, enjoy your creation!

Variations on Strawberry Cake Roll

Chocolate-Strawberry Cake Roll

For a delightful twist, try a chocolate-strawberry cake roll. Substitute some of the cake flour with cocoa powder to infuse a rich chocolate flavor while still maintaining that fluffy texture. Pair it with a luscious chocolate whipped cream filling blended with fresh strawberries for the ultimate combination. This variation is perfect for chocolate lovers who still want a fruity touch!

Gluten-Free Strawberry Cake Roll

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, fear not! You can replace the cake flour in your strawberry cake roll with a gluten-free blend—just ensure it includes xanthan gum. This variation allows everyone, including those with gluten sensitivities, to enjoy this delicious dessert. Just as fluffy and flavorful, it’s sure to impress at any gathering! For more tips on gluten-free baking, check out Gluten Free Baking.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Strawberry Cake Roll

When making your strawberry cake roll, a few tips can really enhance your baking experience:

Use cake flour: It's crucial for that light and airy texture. All-purpose flour simply won’t give you the same fluffy result. For more information on flour types, you can check out Serious Eats.
Keep the cake warm: Rolling the cake while warm helps retain its shape, preventing cracks when you add the filling later.
Experiment with colors: Feel free to play with food coloring to customize your design. Get creative! Bright colors can make your cake look even more inviting.

Don’t be afraid to share your personalized version online; your friends will love it!

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Cake Roll

When it comes to enjoying your delightful strawberry cake roll, the serving possibilities are as delightful as the cake itself! Here are some fun suggestions:

Fresh Fruits: Serve with a side of sliced strawberries or seasonal berries for an extra burst of flavor.
Whipped Cream: A light dollop of whipped cream on top enhances the cake's sweetness. If you like, add a sprinkle of powdered sugar for that professional touch.
Herbs and Spices: Consider fresh mint leaves or a dusting of cinnamon to add a unique twist.
Beverage Pairing: Complement your cake with a refreshing herbal tea or an iced latte.

With these options, your strawberry cake roll will dazzle at any gathering! For more inspiration, check out Serious Eats for dessert pairing ideas.

Time Breakdown for Strawberry Cake Roll

Preparation time
Get ready for fun in the kitchen! The preparation time for this delightful strawberry cake roll is about 2 hours. This includes crafting your intricate design and whipping up the cake batter.

Baking time
Baking is quick and sweet! The cake takes only 10 minutes to bake to perfection, filling your home with a delicious aroma.

Total time
When you add it all together, the total time needed for this creation is approximately 12 hours, allowing for cooling and chilling. This is well worth the effort for such a gorgeous and tasty treat!

For more tips on mastering this cake roll, consider checking out resources on baking fundamentals, or dive into the science of cake rolls on King Arthur Baking. Happy baking!

Nutritional Facts for Strawberry Cake Roll

When enjoying a delightful strawberry cake roll, it’s essential to know what you’re indulging in. Here’s a quick look at its nutritional profile:

Calories

Each serving of this strawberry cake roll contains approximately 200 calories, making it a sweet yet reasonable treat.

Protein

You can expect around 3 grams of protein per slice, thanks to the eggs and cream incorporated in the recipe. It’s not a protein powerhouse, but every bit helps in balancing out your dessert!

Sodium

With about 80 mg of sodium per serving, this cake roll remains heart-friendly, allowing you to enjoy your dessert without any guilt.

For a deeper dive into the nutrition in cake recipes, check out Healthline for more insights!

FAQs about Strawberry Cake Roll

How can I ensure my cake rolls easily?

To ensure your strawberry cake roll rolls easily, follow a few simple tips. First, remember to invert the cake onto a clean tea towel dusted with powdered sugar while it's still warm. This prevents sticking and gives the cake a 'muscle memory' for rolling later. Also, avoid excessive pressure when rolling to help maintain its structure. Lastly, allow the cake to cool completely before unrolling for filling, as it will be more pliable and less prone to cracking.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you're looking for a lighter alternative to heavy cream in your strawberry cake roll filling, consider using coconut cream or a blended mixture of Greek yogurt and milk to reach your desired consistency. While these swaps may slightly alter the taste and texture, they can still produce a delicious and creamy filling.

How do I store leftover strawberry cake roll?

To keep your strawberry cake roll fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It can last up to three days this way. If you prefer, place it inside an airtight container to further prolong its freshness. Just remember to enjoy it while it's still fluffy and flavorful!

Conclusion on Strawberry Cake Roll

Your strawberry cake roll is not just a dessert; it's a delightful experience that encapsulates the essence of spring! Its light, fluffy texture combined with the rich strawberry filling makes it a perfect treat for gatherings or quiet evenings. Share this delicious creation with loved ones and savor every bite!

For more tips on perfecting your baking techniques, check out King Arthur Baking for their comprehensive guide to cake baking.