Raspberry Cream Roll Cake Recipe

This Raspberry Cream Roll Cake Recipe is an absolute treasure for anyone who loves delicate, fruity desserts with a creamy touch. Imagine a light, fluffy sponge cake rolled around a luxuriously smooth mascarpone whipped cream filling studded with juicy fresh raspberries. It’s not only a feast for your eyes but also a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and creamy flavors that come together like a melody in your mouth. Whether for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this delightful roll cake promises to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Raspberry Cream Roll Cake Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role—from the airy eggs that give the cake its perfect sponge texture to the rich mascarpone that lends the creamy filling its melt-in-your-mouth quality. Fresh raspberries add bursts of natural sweetness and vibrant color, making the final dessert as delicious as it is beautiful.

• 4 large eggs, separated: The foundation of the sponge cake, whipping the whites and yolks separately creates that light, airy base.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and structure to both the cake and the meringue.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Provides a warm, fragrant note that enhances all other flavors.
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: The essential dry component that gives the sponge its body.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: A touch of leavening to help the cake rise just right.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and deepens flavor complexity.
• 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened: The star of the filling, lending it richness and a silky texture.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Whipped to soft peaks, it makes the filling extra fluffy and airy.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Gently sweetens the filling without graininess.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth to the cream’s flavor.
• 2 cups fresh raspberries: Bursting with natural tartness and freshness inside the roll.
• Whipped cream: For decorating the finished cake with a luscious, creamy touch.
• Fresh raspberries: To garnish and make each slice pop with color and freshness.
• Chocolate ganache (optional): Adds a decadent flair if you want to make it extra special.
• Powdered sugar for dusting: A simple final touch to give the cake an elegant finish.

How to Make Raspberry Cream Roll Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and give it a light grease so the cake won’t stick. This setup ensures your sponge cake will bake evenly and be easy to roll later.

Step 2: Whipping the Egg Yolks

In a mixing bowl, beat the separated egg yolks with half of the granulated sugar until the mixture becomes thick and pale. This step incorporates air into the yolks, creating a light texture that’s crucial for the sponge’s tenderness. Add the vanilla extract here for that subtle, aromatic sweetness.

Step 3: Beating the Egg Whites

In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites until they form soft peaks. Gradually add the remaining sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. This meringue is key to achieving the sponge cake’s signature fluffiness and spring.

Step 4: Combining Batter Components

Carefully fold the whipped egg whites into the yolk mixture, taking care not to deflate the batter. Sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt, then fold until everything is just combined. The gentle folding preserves the air you worked so hard to create.

Step 5: Baking the Sponge Cake

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared jelly roll pan and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. The cake is done when it springs back to the touch—avoid overbaking to keep the sponge soft and pliable enough for rolling.

Step 6: Rolling the Cake While Warm

Once out of the oven, immediately invert the cake onto a kitchen towel lightly dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment paper, and then roll the cake up in the towel while still warm. This technique helps the cake form its classic roll shape without cracking. Let it cool completely rolled up.

Step 7: Preparing the Creamy Filling

For the luscious filling, beat the softened mascarpone cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to soft peaks and gently fold it into the mascarpone mixture. This creates a light yet rich filling that perfectly balances the slight tartness of the raspberries.

Step 8: Assembling the Roll Cake

Carefully unroll the cooled sponge cake, spread the mascarpone cream evenly over the surface, and scatter fresh raspberries on top. Then, gently reroll the cake, making sure the filling stays inside the roll.

Step 9: Decorating Your Raspberry Cream Roll Cake Recipe

Finish off your masterpiece by decorating with dollops of whipped cream, fresh raspberries, and an optional drizzle of chocolate ganache for an indulgent touch. A light dusting of powdered sugar gives the cake a charming, bakery-worthy finish.

How to Serve Raspberry Cream Roll Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance each slice with a generous swirl of whipped cream and a few fresh raspberries on top. You can also add a drizzle of chocolate ganache for a glossy, decadent look that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling and tangy berries.

Side Dishes

This roll cake shines on its own but can be complemented with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a refreshing glass of sparkling rosé. For a brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit salad to balance out the richness of the cake.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing your Raspberry Cream Roll Cake Recipe into individual portions and serving them on pretty dessert plates with a raspberry coulis drizzle or a few mint leaves for color contrast. For a party, arrange mini slices on a tiered cake stand to wow your guests with both flavor and presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This cake keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually mingle nicely after a day, making leftovers especially delicious.

Freezing

You can freeze the roll cake, but do so before decorating for best results. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before adding fresh garnishes and serving.

Reheating

Because this is a delicate sponge with a creamy filling, it’s best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. Avoid reheating to preserve the texture and flavor integrity of the Raspberry Cream Roll Cake Recipe.

FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?

Fresh raspberries work best for both texture and flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, well-drained frozen raspberries can be used. Gently thaw and pat dry to avoid excess moisture that could sog the cake.

How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?

Rolling the cake while it is still warm and pliable is key. Using a powdered sugar-dusted towel to roll it up immediately after baking helps the cake “train” into its shape, minimizing cracks.

Is mascarpone cheese the same as cream cheese?

While both are creamy cheeses, mascarpone is much richer, softer, and has a sweeter, milder flavor compared to cream cheese. It lends a luxurious texture that’s perfect for this recipe.

Can I make this Raspberry Cream Roll Cake Recipe dairy-free?

Substituting mascarpone and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and vegan cream cheese can work, but expect a slight change in texture and flavor. Be sure to choose unsweetened, high-fat versions for best results.

How far in advance can I assemble the cake?

You can assemble the cake a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. This actually helps the flavors meld beautifully and makes slicing easier since the filling firms up slightly after chilling.

Final Thoughts

This Raspberry Cream Roll Cake Recipe truly deserves a spot in your dessert rotation. Its combination of light sponge, rich mascarpone filling, and fresh raspberries creates a dessert that’s as elegant as it is irresistible. Whether you’re sharing it with close friends or treating yourself to a little slice of heaven, you’ll be glad you made this show-stopping roll cake.

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