Chocolate roll

Chocolate and hazelnut roll - a delicacy that will delight your senses! This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it's an anniversary, a party, or simply a relaxing evening at home. Let’s venture together into the sweet world of quick and delicious desserts, where each step is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 2 hours and 35 minutes (including cooling)
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients

*For the roll:*
- 5 fresh eggs
- 5 tablespoons of sugar
- 3 tablespoons of flour
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar

*For the cream:*
- 200 ml of liquid cream (ideally fresh for an intense taste)
- 200 g of chocolate (choose a quality chocolate with a high cocoa content for a richer taste)
- 100 g of ground hazelnuts
- Rum essence (optional, but recommended for an extra flavor)

Preparation

1. Preparing the roll mixture
Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. It is essential that the bowls you work with are well cleaned, free of any grease, to achieve perfectly beaten egg whites. Use a mixer to beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks; be careful that when you turn the bowl upside down, the foam does not fall. This is the secret to a fluffy and airy roll!

In another bowl, mix the yolks with the 5 tablespoons of sugar and the vanilla sugar until you obtain a smooth cream of an intense yellow. Add the sifted flour and cocoa, mixing gently to avoid lumps. Then, with a spatula, fold in the beaten egg whites using a gentle up-and-down motion. This will keep the air in the mixture, essential for a successful roll.

2. Baking
Line a baking tray with parchment paper (this will prevent the roll from sticking). Pour the mixture into the tray and level it evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at medium heat (about 180°C) for 20 minutes. Do not open the oven door in the first 15 minutes, to avoid affecting the baking process.

3. Cooling
After the base is baked, remove it from the oven and place it on a damp towel. Carefully remove the parchment paper and roll the base as tightly as possible, using the towel to assist you. Let the roll cool completely in this form, to maintain its shape.

4. Preparing the cream
To prepare the delicious cream, place the chocolate in a double boiler (or in a heat-resistant bowl over a pot of hot water) and stir until it becomes a smooth cream. Let it cool slightly. In another bowl, whip the liquid cream until it becomes firm and add the melted chocolate in a thin stream, mixing constantly. Then, add 4-5 tablespoons of ground hazelnuts and the rum essence, gently folding with a spatula to obtain a homogeneous mixture.

5. Assembling the roll
Unroll the cooled roll, fill it with the chocolate and hazelnut cream, then roll it up again, being careful not to break it. Use the remaining cream to decorate the roll and sprinkle the remaining ground hazelnuts on top. Cover the roll with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours to set and combine the flavors.

Practical tips

- Ingredient choices: Choose a high-quality chocolate, as its taste will reflect in the final product. You can also experiment with white chocolate or milk chocolate, depending on your preferences.
- Variations: Instead of hazelnuts, you can use ground walnuts or almonds. You can also add some dried fruits or pieces of fresh fruits for a touch of freshness.
- Serving: The roll is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with vanilla ice cream or a caramel sauce for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Calories and nutritional benefits

Each serving of the roll contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Hazelnuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and vitamins. Additionally, chocolate, especially with a high cocoa content, is known for its antioxidant properties.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour, but the result will be different in terms of texture.

2. How can I make the roll less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the cream or opt for chocolate with a higher cocoa content, which is less sweet.

3. Can I freeze the roll?
Yes, the roll can be frozen, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to enjoy the delicate texture.

This chocolate and hazelnut roll recipe is not just a dessert, but a culinary experience that brings joy and satisfaction. I invite you to try it and share this delicacy with your loved ones! Each slice will bring a smile to the faces of those who taste it, and you will be proud of your creation. Enjoy!