Vanilla Swiss Roll Cake

The Vanilla Swiss Roll Cake is a classic dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends. This cake is a masterclass in texture and flavor, with a delicate and moist sponge cake wrapped around a rich and creamy buttercream filling. In this recipe, we will guide you through the process of making this stunning cake, from preparing the ingredients to assembling the final product.

You will love this recipe because it is easy to follow and requires minimal special equipment. The cake is also highly customizable, so you can experiment with different flavors and fillings to create a unique dessert that suits your taste.

History of the Vanilla Swiss Roll

The Vanilla Swiss Roll is a classic dessert that has been a staple in many bakeries and homes for generations. This iconic dessert consists of a delicate and moist sponge cake wrapped around a rich and creamy buttercream filling, typically flavored with vanilla. The origins of the Swiss roll are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in Central Europe, possibly in Switzerland or Austria, in the 19th century. The dessert quickly gained popularity throughout Europe and eventually spread to other parts of the world.

Characteristics of a Traditional Vanilla Swiss Roll

1. Sponge Cake: The cake is made from a genoise or sponge cake batter, which is light and airy, with a delicate texture.
2. Buttercream Filling: The filling is typically made from a rich and creamy buttercream, flavored with vanilla and sometimes other ingredients like cream or milk.
3. Rolling: The cake is rolled into a tight log shape, with the filling inside, to create the distinctive Swiss roll shape.

Taste and Texture

The Vanilla Swiss Roll has a unique taste and texture that is both delicate and rich:

• Delicate Cake: The sponge cake is light and airy, with a delicate texture that melts in the mouth.
• Rich Filling: The buttercream filling is rich and creamy, with a sweet and vanilla flavor that complements the cake perfectly.

Variations

While the traditional Vanilla Swiss Roll is a classic, there are many variations of this dessert that can be found:

• Flavor Variations: The filling can be flavored with different ingredients, such as chocolate, fruit, or nuts, to create unique and delicious variations.
• Cake Variations: The cake can be made with different ingredients, such as whole wheat flour or alternative sugars, to create a healthier or more unique version of the dessert.

Vanilla Swiss Roll Cake Recipe

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 4 medium eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) whole milk, at room temperature
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Buttercream Filling:

• 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons whole milk

Method of Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C. Line a 10 x 14-inch rectangle baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and springs back when touched.

Step 2: Preparing the Buttercream Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
3. Beat in the salt and vanilla extract.
4. Add the milk, starting with 1 tablespoon and adding more as needed, until the buttercream reaches the desired consistency.

Step 3: Assembling the Cake

1. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
2. Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar.
3. Place a clean tea towel over the cake and invert onto a wire rack.
4. Peel off the parchment paper and let the cake cool completely.
5. Once the cake is cool, spread the buttercream filling over the top of the cake, leaving a 1-inch (2.5cm) border around the edges.
6. Roll the cake into a tight log, starting from one of the long edges.
7. Place the cake on a serving plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the filling.

Tips for a Perfect Swiss Roll

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the cake bake evenly and the buttercream come together smoothly.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing will result in a dense and tough cake.
• Use high-quality ingredients: Pure vanilla extract and real butter enhance the flavor and texture.
• Experiment with flavors: Try different fillings like chocolate, fruit curds, or coffee for unique variations.
• Practice makes perfect: Your first Swiss roll might not be perfect, but keep trying, and you’ll master it in no time!

The Vanilla Swiss Roll is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed by people around the world. With its delicate and moist sponge cake wrapped around a rich and creamy buttercream filling, this cake is a true showstopper. By following this recipe, you can create a beautiful and delicious cake that is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful treat with your loved ones!