Cocoa cream roll

Chocolate Cream Roll: a quick and elegant dessert

Who doesn't love a dessert that impresses with its appearance and taste, yet can be prepared quickly? The chocolate cream roll is that recipe you will fall in love with, especially when you enjoy each slice. This recipe combines a light and airy sponge with a velvety chocolate cream, and the final result is a delight that will please any palate.

The history of this roll takes us through the kitchens of the most talented housewives who knew how to transform simple ingredients into true sweet masterpieces. With a little patience and some tricks, you too can become a master of desserts.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients for the sponge:
- 4 eggs
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 4 tablespoons oil
- 4 tablespoons milk
- 7 tablespoons flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt

Ingredients for the chocolate cream:
- 1 liter milk
- 5 tablespoons cocoa
- 200 g sugar
- 4 tablespoons flour or cornstarch (cornstarch gives a finer texture)
- 1 chocolate (of any kind) for decoration
- 1 vial rum essence
- 1 teaspoon butter

Preparation steps:

Step 1: Preparing the sponge
1. Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. This step is essential for achieving an even and well-baked sponge.
2. Separate the egg whites from the yolks. In a bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form stiff peaks. This will add air to the mixture, making the sponge fluffier.
3. In another bowl, beat the yolks with the sugar until they become a light-colored cream. Then, add the oil and milk, mixing well.
4. Sift the flour together with the baking powder and incorporate them into the yolk mixture. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition.
5. With a spatula, gently fold in the beaten egg whites, mixing lightly to avoid losing the air in the mixture.
6. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and pour in the sponge mixture, leveling it evenly with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the sponge is firm to the touch.

Step 2: Cooling the sponge
1. Before removing the tray, prepare a clean towel. Lightly dampen it with water and wring it out well.
2. Once the sponge is ready, take it out of the oven and place the damp towel on top. Carefully turn the sponge onto the towel. Gently remove the parchment paper.
3. Let the sponge cool slightly while you prepare the cream.

Step 3: Preparing the chocolate cream
1. In a bowl, mix the cornstarch (or flour) with the sugar and cocoa. Use a whisk to prevent lumps from forming.
2. While mixing, gradually pour in the cold milk, continuing to whisk to obtain a homogeneous composition.
3. Place the mixture over medium heat, constantly stirring with a whisk. As it heats, the cream will start to thicken.
4. When the first bubbles appear on the surface of the cream, leave it on the heat for another 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously.
5. Add the butter and rum essence, mixing well. Once the cream has cooled slightly, spread it evenly over the cooled sponge.

Step 4: Rolling and decorating
1. Using the towel, roll the sponge with the chocolate cream, making sure to form a tight roll.
2. For decoration, melt the chosen chocolate. You can do this either in the microwave using the defrost option or in a bain-marie.
3. Once the chocolate has melted, use a teaspoon to create a zig-zag effect on the roll.
4. Place the roll in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours to set and combine the flavors.

Step 5: Serving
1. After the cooling time has passed, cut the roll into slices and serve it with a glass of cold milk or a cup of aromatic coffee.

Practical tips:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before you start cooking. This helps achieve a better texture.
- If you want a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the cream or use dark chocolate.
- You can add chopped nuts to the cream for a crunchy texture.

Frequently asked questions:
1. How can I keep the roll fresh?
The roll keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
2. Can I use other flavors for the cream?
Of course! You can experiment with vanilla, coffee, or even fruit essences.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
Each serving of chocolate cream roll contains approximately 250-300 calories. This dessert provides an intake of carbohydrates and fats from sugar and chocolate, but it is advisable to consume it in moderation.

This chocolate cream roll is not just a dessert, but also a perfect opportunity to connect with loved ones, to create beautiful memories around the table. Don't forget to experiment and put your personal touch on the recipe. Enjoy!