Strawberry Swiss Roll

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There is something simply magical about a homemade Strawberry Swiss Roll. The moment you slice into that soft sponge cake and reveal the swirl of whipped cream and strawberry jam, it becomes more than just dessert—it’s a showstopper. I made this for a summer gathering, and not only did it disappear in minutes, but everyone also insisted I make another one on the spot. That, to me, is the highest compliment a dessert can receive.

What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly elegant it looks. Rolling the cake may seem intimidating, but with the right technique and a gentle hand, it becomes a fun little baking adventure. The aroma of the baking sponge alone brings back memories of warm kitchens and joyful anticipation. It’s a dessert that’s nostalgic and modern all at once.

Incorporating strawberries into the mix elevates the classic Swiss Roll into something more vibrant and seasonal. Whether you’re using fresh strawberries or a good quality jam, that fruity tang against the sweet, airy cream is truly a match made in heaven. If you’re a fan of fruity desserts, you might also fall in love with my flaky strawberry cream cheese heart puffs or the rich layers in my cherry chocolate cheesecake.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Swiss Roll

This Strawberry Swiss Roll is more than just a beautiful dessert—it’s incredibly delicious. The sponge is tender and flexible, perfect for rolling without cracking. The filling is light yet rich, and the strawberries bring a refreshing brightness that balances the sweetness. It’s an ideal choice for brunches, tea parties, or any occasion that calls for a bit of flair. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, this recipe delivers impressive results with approachable steps.

Ingredients

Eggs: Provide the structure and volume for the sponge cake. Beating them well gives the roll its airy texture.

Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps stabilize the whipped eggs.

All-purpose Flour: The foundation of the cake. Use a light hand when folding it in to maintain fluffiness.

Baking Powder: Gives the sponge a subtle lift for a softer crumb.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.

Vanilla Extract: Adds a lovely depth to the sponge base.

Strawberry Jam or Preserves: This brings the signature fruity swirl to the roll. Opt for high-quality or homemade for the best flavor.

Heavy Whipping Cream: Whipped into soft peaks, it becomes the pillowy filling that pairs perfectly with strawberries.

Powdered Sugar (optional): For dusting the top, giving the finished roll a delicate and polished look.

How to Make Strawberry Swiss Roll

Step 1: Prepare the Sponge

Preheat your oven and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper. Beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy, then gently fold in the flour, baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract. Pour the batter into the pan and spread evenly. Bake until the cake springs back to the touch.

Step 2: Roll While Warm

Turn the warm cake out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment and carefully roll the cake with the towel. Let it cool completely in this rolled shape to avoid cracks.

Step 3: Fill and Roll Again

Unroll the cooled cake and spread a layer of strawberry jam, followed by whipped cream. Gently re-roll the cake without the towel, then transfer it to a serving dish.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Let the roll chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour to set. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for that classic finish.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

You can easily tweak this Strawberry Swiss Roll to match your taste or ingredient availability. For the filling, swap out strawberry jam with raspberry or apricot preserves for a fun twist. If you’re not a fan of whipped cream, try mascarpone or cream cheese blended with a little sugar and vanilla for a richer filling. The sponge itself can be flavored too; add a bit of lemon zest or almond extract to give it a new character.

To make it dairy-free, use coconut cream in place of the heavy cream, and ensure your jam and sponge ingredients are dairy-free. Gluten-free flour blends work well in this recipe too, just make sure they are suited for cake baking to maintain the sponge’s lightness.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This Strawberry Swiss Roll is ideal for showcasing at spring and summer events, or anytime you need a crowd-pleaser. Slice it into neat rolls and serve on a pretty platter garnished with fresh strawberries and a mint sprig for an elegant presentation. For drinks, pair it with a cup of earl grey tea or a glass of chilled rosé. It also goes wonderfully with coffee or sparkling lemonade, making it flexible for both casual and special occasions.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover Strawberry Swiss Roll in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or inside an airtight container. It keeps well for up to three days. Since it contains fresh cream, avoid leaving it out at room temperature for long periods. This dessert doesn’t require reheating, but letting it sit out for 10 minutes before serving will soften the sponge slightly and enhance the flavor.

Freezing is possible, but the texture of the whipped cream might change slightly. If you plan to freeze it, wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

FAQs

How do I keep my Strawberry Swiss Roll from cracking?

The key is to roll the sponge while it’s still warm, using a towel to guide the shape. Cooling it in the rolled position helps it “remember” the shape, making it easier to re-roll after filling.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of jam in a Strawberry Swiss Roll?

Yes, you can slice fresh strawberries and layer them over a thin spread of jam or cream. Just be mindful not to overload, or the roll might not hold together well.

What kind of cream works best for the Strawberry Swiss Roll?

Heavy whipping cream is ideal as it holds its shape well and adds lightness. For a thicker option, try stabilized whipped cream or mascarpone.

Can I make the Strawberry Swiss Roll in advance?

Absolutely! It’s actually better when chilled for a few hours or overnight. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to slice cleanly.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you’re smitten with this Strawberry Swiss Roll, there’s more to explore! Give your sweet tooth something extra special with my flaky strawberry cream cheese heart puffs or dive into layers of decadence with the cherry chocolate cheesecake. These desserts strike that perfect balance between fruity and indulgent—a must-try if you’re planning a dessert spread.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t let this delicious Strawberry Swiss Roll be a one-time treat! Pin it now to your favorite Pinterest dessert board so it’s ready for your next gathering. Sharing is caring—send the link to your fellow bakers, post a pic of your creation on Instagram, or include it in your next newsletter. Every slice of this roll is a moment to remember, and your friends will thank you for it.

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