A strawberry shortcake roll is a light sponge cake rolled with fresh whipped cream and sweetened strawberries. It combines the flavors of classic strawberry shortcake with the elegant presentation of a jelly roll.
Serves: 8–10
Prep time: 25 minutes
Bake time: 12–15 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour
Ingredients
For the sponge cake:
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4 large eggs, room temperature
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3/4 cup granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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3/4 cup all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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2 tablespoons milk
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Powdered sugar (for rolling)
For the filling:
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1 cup heavy whipping cream
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1/4 cup powdered sugar
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, finely chopped
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1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for strawberries)
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy removal.
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Lightly grease the parchment paper.
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Lay a clean kitchen towel on the counter and dust it generously with powdered sugar.
Step 2: Make the Sponge Cake
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In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs on high speed for 3–4 minutes until thick and pale.
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Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat until the mixture becomes fluffy.
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Mix in the vanilla extract.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
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Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture in batches, being careful not to deflate the batter.
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Warm the milk slightly and fold it into the batter until just combined.
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Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Step 3: Bake
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Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cake springs back lightly when touched.
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Do not overbake, as this can cause cracking.
Step 4: Roll the Cake
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Immediately loosen the edges of the cake with a knife.
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Turn the cake out onto the prepared powdered sugar–dusted towel.
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Carefully peel off the parchment paper.
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Starting from the short end, roll the cake up gently with the towel inside.
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Place seam-side down and allow it to cool completely (about 45–60 minutes).
Step 5: Prepare the Filling
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In a small bowl, combine chopped strawberries and 1 tablespoon sugar.
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Let them sit for 10–15 minutes to release juices.
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In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
Step 6: Fill and Roll
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Carefully unroll the cooled cake.
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Spread the whipped cream evenly over the surface, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
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Spoon the strawberries evenly over the whipped cream.
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Gently re-roll the cake without the towel, keeping it tight but not squeezing out the filling.
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Place seam-side down on a serving plate.
Step 7: Chill and Serve
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Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
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Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
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Slice with a sharp serrated knife, wiping clean between cuts for neat slices.
Tips for Success
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Roll the cake while warm to prevent cracking.
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Do not overfill, or the roll may split.
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For extra stability, add 1 tablespoon instant vanilla pudding mix to the whipped cream while whipping.
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Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.