There’s something undeniably special about the moment you slice into a Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake. With its soft, fluffy chocolate sponge and a creamy strawberry filling oozing from the center, this dessert isn’t just a treat for the taste buds—it’s a feast for the eyes as well. As I prepared to surprise my friends with this delightful creation, the air filled with the rich aroma of cocoa mingling with the sweet scent of strawberries, instantly lifting my spirits.
Perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a special event like Valentine’s Day or simply looking to indulge in a little self-care, this cake meets all your sweet cravings. The velvety ganache draped over the rolled cake adds an elegant touch, transforming a simple dessert into a luxurious masterpiece. And don’t worry—this cake is as easy to make as it is beautiful! Let’s dive into this recipe and create a moment that will bring joy to your table.
Why is Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake a Must-Try?
Heavenly Layers: This delightful dessert features luscious layers of fluffy chocolate sponge wrapped around a creamy, strawberry filling that delivers a burst of flavor.
Impressive Presentation: The smooth chocolate ganache adds a touch of elegance, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.
Simple Preparation: You don’t need culinary expertise—a few easy steps will have this showstopper ready in no time.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for celebrations like Valentine’s Day, but delicious enough for any day, it’s sure to impress friends and family.
Versatile Indulgence: Customize it with different fruits or toppings for a personal twist, and be ready to enjoy smiles all around!
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• Cooking Spray – Prevents the cake from sticking to the pan for easy removal.
• All-Purpose Flour (60 g) – Provides structure and stability to the sponge.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (20 g) – Adds a rich chocolate flavor that enhances the dessert.
• Baking Powder (1/2 tsp) – Acts as a leavening agent, ensuring the cake is light and fluffy.
• Kosher Salt (1/2 tsp) – Enhances the overall flavor and balances sweetness.
• Large Eggs (4) – Binds ingredients together and contributes moisture to the cake.
• Granulated Sugar (133 g) – Sweetens the cake while promoting browning for a beautiful finish.
• Vegetable Oil (1/4 cup) – Keeps the cake moist and tender throughout.
• Pure Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Provides depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
For the Strawberry Filling
• Freeze-Dried Strawberries (1 oz.) – Offers intense strawberry flavor and a delightful texture.
• Cream Cheese (4 oz.) – Serves as a creamy base for the filling, making it decadent.
• Confectioners’ Sugar (60 g) – Sweetens the filling while maintaining a smooth consistency.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Adds richness and a luscious mouthfeel to the filling.
For the Ganache
• Semisweet Chocolate Chips (1 cup) – The star ingredient for the velvety chocolate ganache that coats the cake.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Melts beautifully with the chocolate for a smooth, shiny finish.
For Decoration
• Confectioners’ Sugar (for dusting) – Lends a gorgeous, snowy touch before serving.
• Chocolate-Covered Strawberries (optional) – Elevate presentation and indulge your sweet tooth as a serving suggestion!
Get ready to savor every bite of this Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake that brings together flavor, style, and a hint of nostalgia all in one delightful roll!
How to Make Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake
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Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly spray the parchment with cooking spray to ensure your cake comes out perfectly without sticking.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and kosher salt until well combined. This will create a harmonious blend to flavor your cake.
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Whip Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk the large eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This process usually takes about 5 minutes with an electric mixer—trust me, the fluffiness is key to a light cake!
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the whipped egg mixture, being careful not to overmix. Once combined, drizzle in the vegetable oil and pure vanilla extract, and mix just until everything is blended together.
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Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the cake springs back when lightly touched. Your kitchen will start smelling divine!
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Roll Cake: Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately roll it up with the parchment paper into a tight cylinder. Let it cool completely in this shape to maintain its structure.
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Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Carefully fold in the whipped heavy cream and freeze-dried strawberries for a deliciously fluffy filling ready for spreading.
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Assemble Cake: Unroll the cooled cake gently and spread the strawberry filling evenly over the surface. Roll the cake back up tightly, ensuring that the filling stays inside.
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Make Ganache: In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it’s just simmering. Pour it over the semisweet chocolate chips in a bowl and stir until the chocolate melts into a silky ganache—your cake will thank you!
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Finish Cake: Drizzle the chocolate ganache evenly over the rolled cake, allowing it to cascade down the sides. Let it sit at room temperature until the ganache is set before slicing.
Optional: Dust with confectioners’ sugar for an elegant finish before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the sponge cake and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the instructions to bake the cake, let it cool, and then roll it tightly with the parchment paper. For the filling, mix the cream cheese and sugars, then fold in the heavy cream and freeze-dried strawberries, and store it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply re-roll the cake, pour the prepared ganache over it, and let it set. This ensures you’ll have a beautiful, indulgent dessert ready with minimal last-minute effort, just as delicious as when freshly made!
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delightful dessert with these fun and flavorful twists!
- Berry Bliss: Substitute strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a vibrant flavor explosion that brightens your dessert.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake accessible for those with dietary restrictions, without sacrificing yield.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or almonds to the filling for a satisfying crunch and an elegant touch.
- Zesty Twist: Fold in the zest of one lemon or orange into the filling for a refreshing citrus edge that beautifully contrasts the chocolate.
- Caramel Infusion: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the chocolate ganache for an extra layer of sweetness that elevates every bite.
- Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of peppermint extract into the filling to create a refreshing mint chocolate experience, perfect for holiday spirits!
- Decadent Layers: Create two thin rolls, one with chocolate and one with vanilla cake, for a stunning layered effect that dazzles guests.
- Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of chili powder to the ganache to give your dessert a surprising kick, making it even more memorable.
Expert Tips for the Best Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake
• Roll Warm: Rolling the cake while it’s still warm prevents cracks and preserves its shape, making it easier to handle.
• Don’t Overmix: Be gentle when combining the ingredient mixtures—overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so mix just until everything is combined.
• Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips in your Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake.
• Cool Completely: Allow the rolled cake to cool completely before unrolling; this step is crucial to avoid a messy filling.
• Whipped Cream Tip: For a lighter strawberry filling, ensure your heavy cream is whipped until soft peaks form before folding in.
• Presentation Matters: Before serving, dust the cake with confectioners’ sugar for a beautiful presentation and added sweetness.
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake
Fridge: The Swiss roll keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when covered loosely with plastic wrap, preserving its softness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the rolled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: If desired, slice and gently warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to enjoy a freshly made taste.
Serving Freshly: Enjoy your Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake chilled or at room temperature for the best taste experience!
What to Serve with Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake?
Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that enhance the sweetness and elegance of your cake.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool texture complements the rich chocolate and strawberry flavors, creating a sensational contrast in every bite.
- Fresh Berries: A medley of raspberries and blueberries adds a fresh, tart element, lightening the indulgence of the cake while enhancing its fruity notes.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream provides a sweet, creamy touch that perfectly balances the ganache.
- Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves introduce a refreshing zing, cutting through the richness of the chocolate and elevating the overall flavor profile.
- Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly sparkling wine pairs beautifully, adding a celebratory touch to your dessert experience with its crispness and effervescence.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: For a stunning presentation, serve with additional chocolate-covered strawberries, inviting guests to indulge even more in these classic flavors!
- Espresso or Coffee: The robust notes of espresso or a well-brewed coffee contrast delightfully with the sweetness of the roll, creating a perfect after-dinner pairing.
- Chocolate Ganache Dip: For true chocolate lovers, offer a warm chocolate ganache dip on the side, allowing guests to add their desired amount of chocolaty goodness.
- Chilled Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad with a splash of citrus dressing will refresh the palate and add another layer of sweetness to your dessert table.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling a warm caramel sauce over the cake brings in a luscious sweetness that beautifully contrasts with the dark chocolate.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right strawberries for the filling?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are fully ripe, which means they should have a vibrant red color without any dark spots or bruises. Firm, shiny berries are ideal for a flavorful filling, bringing the perfect balance to your Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake.
How should I store the Swiss roll cake?
Very! You can store the Swiss roll in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just cover it loosely with plastic wrap to maintain its moisture while preventing it from absorbing odors from the fridge. This will keep the cake soft and delicious for each delightful slice!
Can I freeze the Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake?
Definitely! To freeze, tightly wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving for the best texture.
What should I do if my cake cracks while rolling?
No fret! If you experience any cracking, use a light touch when rolling your cake while it’s still warm, which helps keep it flexible. If it does crack, you can cover it up with chocolate ganache or confectioners’ sugar. Remember, it’s all about presentation—your guests will still appreciate the delicious flavors!
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals?
Of course! You can easily swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative, like a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check the labels to ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free if necessary. This way, everyone can enjoy this indulgent Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake!
Indulge in Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, lightly spraying the parchment with cooking spray.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and kosher salt.
- Whisk the large eggs and granulated sugar together until pale and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, then drizzle in the vegetable oil and vanilla extract.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly, and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and immediately roll the cake up with the parchment paper into a tight cylinder and let cool.
- In a bowl, beat together the cream cheese and confectioners' sugar until smooth, then fold in the whipped cream and strawberries.
- Unroll the cooled cake, spread the strawberry filling evenly, and roll back tightly.
- For the ganache, heat the heavy cream until simmering, pour over the chocolate chips, and stir until smooth.
- Drizzle the ganache over the rolled cake and let it set at room temperature.
- Dust with confectioners' sugar before serving.