Decadent Chocolate Cake Roll

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 23×33 cm (9×13-inch) jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat egg yolks with half of the sugar until thick and pale. Mix in milk and vanilla extract. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just combined.
4. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the chocolate batter to keep it light and airy.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cake springs back lightly when touched.
6. While the cake is baking, lay a clean kitchen towel on a flat surface and dust generously with powdered sugar. Immediately after removing the cake from the oven, invert it onto the towel, peel off the parchment paper, and roll the cake gently with the towel from the short edge. Let it cool completely in the rolled shape.
7. For the filling, heat the heavy cream until steaming and pour over the chopped chocolate. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Stir in butter if using. Allow the filling to cool slightly until spreadable.
8. Carefully unroll the cooled cake and spread the filling evenly over the surface. Re-roll the cake tightly without the towel.
9. Dust the top with powdered sugar or cocoa powder, and garnish with chocolate shavings or curls if desired. Slice and serve.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cooling/Assembly Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: About 55 minutes
Servings: 10
Difficulty: Medium

Variations & Substitutions

• Add a layer of raspberry or cherry jam under the filling for a fruity twist.
• Use white chocolate or caramel filling instead of chocolate for variety.
• Sprinkle crushed nuts over the filling before rolling for added texture.
• For a mocha flavor, add 1 tsp instant coffee to the cake batter.

Serving Suggestions