Roll with vanilla cream, poppy seeds, and candied cherries

Vanilla Cream, Poppy Seed, and Candied Cherry Roll

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 2 hours and 40 minutes (including cooling)
Servings: 8-10

If you're looking for an elegant and delicious dessert, this vanilla cream, poppy seed, and candied cherry roll is the perfect choice. Combining the fluffy texture of the roll with the smooth vanilla cream and the intense flavors of candied cherries, this dessert is sure to impress any guest. Let's embark on this culinary adventure!

A Brief History

Rolls are a type of dessert that has been appreciated for centuries, becoming popular due to their versatility. This recipe blends tradition with innovation, bringing together simple ingredients to create a sophisticated delight. Poppy seeds, used in various cultures to add flavor and texture, pair perfectly with candied cherries, providing a sweet-tart contrast.

Ingredients

For the roll:
- 4 fresh eggs
- 8 tablespoons of flour
- 8 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or canola)
- 8 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder mixed with a little lemon juice or vinegar
- A pinch of salt

For the vanilla cream:
- 2 egg yolks (preferably organic)
- 400 ml milk
- 75 g sugar
- 1 vial or packet of vanilla
- 50 g butter (preferably high-fat)
- 1 tablespoon of high-quality all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons of poppy seeds
- 100 g candied cherries
- Juice of one lemon

Step by Step

Preparing the roll

1. Separating the eggs: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Use a large bowl for the egg whites as we will be whipping them.

2. Whipping the egg whites: Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy. Gradually add the sugar and continue mixing until the mixture becomes firm and glossy – this process should take about 5-7 minutes.

3. Preparing the egg yolks: In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with the oil and vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth mixture.

4. Adding the dry ingredients: Sift the flour and gradually add it to the yolk mixture. Also, add the baking powder mixed with lemon juice or vinegar, mixing well to avoid lumps.

5. Combining the mixtures: Carefully fold in the whipped egg whites using a spatula, to maintain the airiness of the batter.

6. Baking: Pour the batter into a baking tray lined with parchment paper and spread it evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 10 minutes, or until lightly golden and elastic to the touch.

7. Cooling the roll: Once baked, turn the roll onto a damp towel, carefully remove the parchment paper, and roll the sheet with the towel, allowing it to cool.

Preparing the vanilla cream

1. Boiling the milk: In a saucepan, bring the milk along with the vial or packet of vanilla to a boil.

2. Mixing the egg yolks: In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with the sugar until they become pale. Add a ladle of hot milk and mix well.

3. Incorporating the flour and cornstarch: Sift the flour and cornstarch over the egg yolk mixture and mix well to avoid lumps.

4. Finishing the cream: Add the remaining milk and, stirring constantly, place the mixture over low heat. Continue stirring until the cream begins to thicken. Once thickened, remove from heat and add the poppy seeds and butter, stirring until the butter is completely melted.

Assembling the roll

1. Preparing the cherries: Cut the candied cherries in half and sprinkle them with lemon juice to maintain their freshness and add a hint of tartness.

2. Filling the roll: Once the cream has cooled, spread it evenly over the unrolled sheet. Sprinkle the candied cherries on top.

3. Rolling: Carefully roll the sheet using the damp towel to assist you. Ensure it is tight but not too tight to avoid cracking.

4. Final cooling: Place the roll on a serving platter and cover it with a damp towel. Refrigerate the roll for at least 2 hours to firm up and allow the flavors to meld.

5. Serving: Before serving, dust a little powdered sugar over the roll for an elegant touch.

Helpful Tip

If you want to enhance the flavor of your roll, you can substitute the candied cherries with other candied fruits, such as peaches or apricots. You can also add a splash of vanilla liqueur to the cream for an extra flavor boost.

Nutritional Information

A serving (1/10 of the roll) contains approximately 250 calories, making it a relatively light choice for a dessert. The poppy seeds provide nutritional benefits, being rich in essential fatty acids, while the candied cherries add antioxidants and vitamins.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use organic chicken eggs? Yes, organic eggs are excellent for this recipe, providing a richer flavor.
- How can I store the roll for longer? The roll stores well in the refrigerator, covered, for 3-4 days, but it is best enjoyed fresh.
- Can I freeze the roll? While the roll can be frozen, the texture of the sheet may change. It is better to consume it fresh.

Serving Suggestions

This roll pairs perfectly with a fruit tea or a flavored coffee. It can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side to create a delicious contrast between warm and cold.

Enjoy! This vanilla cream, poppy seed, and candied cherry roll will surely become a favorite of yours, bringing joy and flavor to any meal. I encourage you to try it and share the results with your loved ones. Cooking is an art, and you are the artist!