Introduction
Welcome to the joyful world of holiday baking! This Raspberry Swirl Christmas Roll is not only a feast for the senses but also a delightful centerpiece for any festive gathering. With a light, airy sponge cake swirled with luscious whipped cream and fresh raspberries, it’s the perfect blend of sweet and tart. Imagine slicing into this beautiful roll and revealing a gorgeous pink swirl—everyone will be reaching for a second piece! Let’s dive into the recipe that will make your holidays a little sweeter.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 cups fresh raspberries
- ¼ cup raspberry jam
- Green and red sprinkles (for decoration)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt; set this mixture aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes thick and pale—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually fold in the flour mixture with a gentle hand until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain that light texture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly across the surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and springs back when gently touched.
- While the cake bakes, prepare a clean kitchen towel by generously dusting it with powdered sugar.
- Once the cake is baked, immediately invert it onto the prepared towel and carefully peel away the parchment paper.
- Starting from one end, roll the cake up in the towel, creating a lovely spiral. Allow it to cool completely in the towel.
- While the cake cools, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form—this will create a rich, fluffy filling.
- Once the cake is cool, gently unroll it and spread the whipped cream evenly over the top. Drizzle the raspberry jam in a beautiful swirl and sprinkle the fresh raspberries on top.
- Carefully roll the cake back up, this time without the towel, and place it seam-side down on a serving platter.
- Dust the top with powdered sugar and get creative with your green and red sprinkles for a festive touch.
- Slice and serve chilled, and watch your guests delight in this seasonal treat!
Notes or Tips
- For an added flavor twist, consider mixing a splash of almond extract into the whipped cream.
- Be sure to roll the cake while it is still warm; this helps maintain its shape and prevents cracking.
- If you have extra raspberry jam, feel free to serve it on the side for more deliciousness!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe highlights the technique of rolling a sponge cake, which adds a festive flare to the presentation. As you roll the cake, ensure you keep the roll tight but not overly so, allowing for a nice spiral formation. Also, whipping the cream to the right consistency is crucial; it should be light and airy to balance the denser cake.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen raspberries? Yes, frozen raspberries can be used. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the roll.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Can I prepare this ahead of time? Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it tightly wrapped in the fridge before filling and rolling it the next day.
Conclusion
This Raspberry Swirl Christmas Roll is sure to bring joy and sweetness to your holiday table. With its beautiful colors and delightful flavors, it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some holiday magic together. Happy baking!