Berry Roll

Delicate Berry Roll – A Quick and Delicious Dessert

The berry roll is a dessert that brings joy and sophistication to any table. This light cake, with a fluffy base and a delicious fruit cream, can become the star of gatherings with friends or family celebrations. Over the years, the roll has evolved, being reinterpreted in various ways, but its essence remains the same: a dessert that combines a soft base with delightful fillings.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes (plus cooling time)
Servings: 8-10

Ingredients:

For the base (baking tray approximately 40 x 30 cm):
- 4 eggs
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 2 tablespoons boiling water
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon homemade vanilla extract

For the cream:
- 200 g berries (fresh or thawed, drained)
- 300 ml heavy cream
- 50 g powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon gelatin

For decoration:
- 50 g heavy cream
- 80 g dark chocolate
- whipped cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven and prepare the tray: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Line the 40 x 30 cm tray with parchment paper, ensuring it fits perfectly. This step is crucial to prevent the base from sticking.

2. Mixing the dry ingredients: In a bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. This mixture will help achieve a fluffy base, so make sure the ingredients are well integrated.

3. Beating the egg whites: In another bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. This technique will add air and volume to your base, so don't skip this step!

4. Mixing the yolks: In a separate bowl, mix the egg yolks with the sugar until the mixture turns light in color and fluffy. Add the oil, boiling water, and vanilla extract, mixing continuously. These ingredients will add flavor to your bases.

5. Incorporating the ingredients: Gradually fold the flour mixture into the yolk mixture using a spatula. Then, carefully add the beaten egg whites, using a gentle folding motion from top to bottom to avoid losing air.

6. Baking the base: Pour the mixture into the prepared tray and smooth it out with a spatula. Bake for 15 minutes or until the base turns golden and springs back when touched. It’s important not to overbake the base, as it can dry out.

7. Cooling the bases: Once you remove the tray from the oven, invert the base onto a sheet of parchment dusted with powdered sugar, carefully removing the baking paper. Roll the base tightly using the parchment paper, allowing it to cool in this shape. This step will help maintain the roll's form.

8. Preparing the cream: In a small bowl, mix the gelatin with 2 tablespoons of water and let it hydrate. Heat the cream with the sugar, stirring until it completely dissolves. Remove the cream from heat and add the hydrated gelatin, mixing well.

9. Adding the berries: Incorporating the berries into the cream is a magical moment. Gently fold them into the mixture, reserving a few for decoration. This will add a fresh taste and a pop of color.

10. Filling the roll: Unroll the cooled base from the parchment paper and spread the cream evenly over the entire surface. Roll it up again as tightly as possible and wrap it in the parchment paper. Place the roll in the refrigerator for a few hours, ideally overnight, to set.

11. Preparing the glaze: Heat the cream and add the chopped chocolate. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Let the glaze cool slightly before pouring it over the roll.

12. Decorating and serving: Once the glaze has set, decorate the roll with whipped cream and berries. This will add both an attractive look and a delicious taste. The roll is now ready to serve!

My tip: Serve the roll with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fragrant tea for a complete culinary experience.

Nutritional benefits: This recipe is rich in antioxidants thanks to the berries, which are excellent for the immune system. Additionally, the cream provides calcium and healthy fats.

Calories: One serving has approximately 250-300 calories, depending on portioning and the ingredients used.

Possible variations: You can experiment with other fruits, such as strawberries or kiwi, or add a bit of coconut to the cream for an exotic flavor.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can try whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but the texture will be different.

2. How do I store the roll for longer?
You can keep the roll in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 3-4 days.

3. Can I make the roll without eggs?
There are vegan roll recipes that use banana or apple puree instead of eggs.

This quick and easy-to-make dessert brings a touch of happiness to every day. I encourage you to try this recipe at home and impress your guests with a delightful dessert!