Chocolate cream roll

Chocolate Cream Roll - A Dreamy Dessert

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Cooling time: 2 hours
Total time: 3 hours and 5 minutes
Servings: 8

In the sweet world of desserts, the chocolate cream roll shines like a star. This simple yet captivating recipe combines a fluffy sponge cake with a decadent chocolate cream, resulting in a dessert that will bring a smile to anyone's face. Additionally, the roll can be an excellent choice for special occasions as well as for indulgent moments on ordinary days.

The history of the roll is fascinating, with deep roots in the pastry traditions of many cultures. Its origins are lost in the mists of time, but it has certainly evolved into delicious variations that delight our taste buds today.

Ingredients for the sponge:
- 4 eggs
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 2 tablespoons of water
- 4 tablespoons of flour
- 1 pinch of salt

Ingredients for the cream:
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon of cocoa
- 200 g butter
- 200 g milk chocolate
- 250 g sugar

Step 1: Preparing the sponge

Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, take a baking tray (approximately 30x40 cm) and line it with oil and flour to prevent sticking.

Separate the egg whites from the yolks. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a glossy meringue. It is essential to add the sugar slowly to allow the egg whites to absorb each grain well.

Once you have achieved perfect egg white foam, add the two tablespoons of water and the yolks, mixing gently until incorporated. Then, sift the flour and fold it in with a spatula, mixing from top to bottom carefully to avoid losing air in the mixture.

Step 2: Baking the sponge

Pour the mixture into the prepared tray and level the surface with a spatula. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes. The sponge is ready when it turns golden and passes the toothpick test - poke the sponge, and if the toothpick comes out clean, it is perfectly baked!

Step 3: Cooling and rolling the sponge

After the sponge is baked, carefully remove it from the oven and turn it over onto a damp towel sprinkled with sugar. This will help prevent the sponge from sticking and will add a sweet taste. Roll the sponge in the towel, forming a roll, and let it cool completely.

Step 4: Preparing the chocolate cream

In a saucepan, combine the eggs, sugar, and cocoa. Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes creamy. It is important not to let the cream boil to avoid curdling the eggs. Once the cream has thickened, remove it from the heat and add the milk chocolate, stirring until melted and perfectly integrated.

Let the cream cool to room temperature. Once cooled, fold in the whipped butter, mixing carefully until you obtain a smooth, homogenous, and velvety cream.

Step 5: Assembling the roll

Once the sponge has completely cooled, carefully unroll it from the towel and spread the chocolate cream evenly over the surface. Roll it up gently, being careful not to tear the sponge. After rolling, place the roll in a container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.

Step 6: Glazing

After the roll has been in the fridge, you can start glazing. Whether you choose melted chocolate or a simple glaze of powdered sugar and water, it’s time to give the roll an elegant look. Sprinkle finely chopped nuts on top for added texture and a crunchy taste.

Serving suggestions

The chocolate cream roll is a versatile dessert and can be served with a scoop of ice cream or alongside a cup of coffee. You can also pair it with a berry sauce for a sweet-tart contrast.

Practical tips

- Use room temperature ingredients, such as eggs and butter, to achieve a more homogenous cream.
- You can replace milk chocolate with dark chocolate for a more intense flavor, or with white chocolate for a sweeter dessert.
- If you want to add a hint of flavor, you can include vanilla essence in the chocolate cream.

Nutritional information

The chocolate cream roll contains approximately 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. It is rich in healthy fats from butter and chocolate, providing an energizing source of sweets.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but you will need to adjust the quantities and check the texture of the mixture.

2. How can I store leftover roll?
I recommend storing it covered in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for a few days.

3. Can I freeze the roll?
Yes, the roll can be frozen. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag. Defrosting should be done in the fridge for a few hours.

This chocolate cream roll is not just a delicious dessert but also a wonderful way to bring a touch of joy and warmth into your days. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or to treat yourself, it will surely become a favorite for everyone!