If you’re looking to impress your guests with a delightful dessert that is not only delicious but also visually stunning, then a Jelly Roll is the perfect treat for you to master in your kitchen. This classic dessert consists of a light and fluffy sponge cake rolled up with a sweet and tangy jelly or jam filling. The combination of soft cake and flavorful jelly creates a delightful contrast of textures and tastes that will have everyone coming back for more. Follow this simple recipe to create your own Jelly Roll masterpiece that will surely become a family favorite.
Jelly Roll
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar, for dusting
– 1 cup jelly or jam (your choice of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper. Grease the parchment paper lightly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs on high speed with an electric mixer until they are light and foamy, about 2 minutes. Gradually add in the granulated sugar and continue to beat until the mixture is thick and pale, about 5 minutes. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined. Be gentle to avoid deflating the batter.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula to ensure it reaches all corners.
5. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. While the cake is baking, spread a clean kitchen towel on the counter and dust it generously with powdered sugar.
7. Once the cake is baked, immediately run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the cake. Invert the warm cake onto the prepared kitchen towel. Gently peel off the parchment paper.
8. Starting at one short end, carefully roll up the cake and towel together into a log. Let the cake cool completely while wrapped in the towel.
9. Carefully unroll the cake and spread the jelly or jam evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.
10. Roll the cake back up, this time without the towel, starting at the same end as before. Place the seam side down on a serving platter.
11. Dust the Jelly Roll with a sprinkling of powdered sugar for a decorative finish.
Your delicious Jelly Roll is now ready to be sliced and served. Enjoy this delightful dessert with a cup of tea or coffee, or serve it as a sweet ending to a special meal. The lightness of the sponge cake combined with the fruity sweetness of the jelly filling makes this treat a perfect choice for any occasion. Mastering this classic recipe will not only impress your friends and family but will also bring a touch of elegance to your homemade dessert repertoire.