Cranberry Jelly Roll

For many households in the United Kingdom, Christmas baking traditions hold a special place in the heart of the holiday season. Festive treats like the Cranberry Jelly Roll bring warmth and cheer to homes, filling them with the delightful aroma of seasonal spices and flavors. This delightful recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of jelly for a perfect blend that captures the essence of Christmas in every bite.

Title: Cranberry Jelly Roll

Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 4 large eggs, separated
– 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
– 1 cup cranberry sauce
– Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the long sides.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks and 3/4 cup of sugar until pale and fluffy. Add the water, vanilla extract, and orange zest, and mix until well combined.

4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the egg yolk mixture, and fold gently until no lumps remain.

5. In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar, and continue beating until stiff peaks form.

6. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter until well combined.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake is lightly golden and springs back when touched.

8. While the cake is baking, place a clean kitchen towel on the counter and sprinkle it generously with powdered sugar.

9. Once the cake is done, immediately invert it onto the prepared towel. Carefully peel off the parchment paper.

10. Starting from the short edge, gently roll the cake with the towel inside. Let it cool completely on a wire rack while rolled.

11. Unroll the cake and spread an even layer of cranberry sauce over the surface, leaving a small border. Carefully roll the cake back up without the towel, starting from the short end.

12. Trim the edges of the roll for a clean finish, if desired. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a festive look.

Enjoy your Cranberry Jelly Roll as a delightful Christmas treat perfect for sharing with loved ones or gifting to friends and neighbors. The vibrant colors and flavors of this dessert will surely add a touch of holiday magic to your celebrations. Happy baking!