Introduction
The Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll, or a festive twist on the classic Bûche de Noël, is the perfect centerpiece for your holiday dessert table. Unlike heavy, traditional fruitcakes, this elegant cake roll features a light, airy vanilla sponge wrapped around a luscious filling of tangy raspberry preserves and smooth, lightly sweetened whipped cream. The vibrant red and white swirl is instantly festive, making it a beautiful, sophisticated alternative to a standard layer cake. It’s a spectacular showstopper that requires surprisingly simple ingredients, perfect for dazzling guests during the holiday season.
Ingredients
- For the Sponge Cake:
- 4 large Eggs (room temperature)
- 100g (½ cup) Granulated Sugar
- 100g (¾ cup + 2 tbsp) All-Purpose Flour
- 1 tsp Baking Powder
- Pinch of Salt
- 2 tbsp Powdered Sugar (for dusting the towel)
- For the Raspberry Filling:
- 240ml (1 cup) Heavy Whipping Cream (cold)
- 60g (½ cup) Powdered Sugar (Confectioner’s Sugar)
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 180g (¾ cup) Raspberry Preserves or Jam
- 120g (1 cup) Fresh Raspberries (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-step Preparation
- Prepare the Batter and Oven: Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Line a 10×15 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper hangs over the edges for easy lifting. In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar on high speed for 5-7 minutes until the mixture is pale, thick, and tripled in volume. This step is crucial for an airy sponge.
- Fold and Bake: Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture using a spatula, being careful not to deflate the air. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cake springs back lightly when touched.
- The Critical Roll: While the cake is baking, lay out a clean kitchen towel and generously dust it with powdered sugar. Immediately upon removing the cake from the oven, invert it onto the prepared towel. Carefully peel off the parchment paper. Starting from the short end, tightly roll the cake (along with the towel) and place it seam-side down on a cooling rack. Allow it to cool completely for at least 45 minutes. *Tip: Rolling it while hot trains the cake structure and prevents cracking.*
- Prepare the Filling: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
- Assemble the Roll: Gently unroll the cooled cake. Spread the raspberry preserves evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges. Next, spread the whipped cream over the jam layer. Starting from the short end again, carefully and tightly re-roll the cake without the towel.
- Chill and Finish: Wrap the finished cake roll tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight) to set the shape and filling. Before serving, dust generously with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh raspberries or a sprig of holly.
Nutritional Information
As a holiday dessert, this cake roll is high in carbohydrates and refined sugars. Based on 10 servings, the estimated calorie count is approximately 320-350 calories per slice. While it is an indulgence, the fresh raspberries provide a good source of antioxidants and dietary fiber. This recipe is naturally vegetarian but contains dairy and gluten.
Storage
Due to the whipped cream filling, the Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll must be stored in the refrigerator. Store covered or in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days. If you plan to make it ahead of time, the un-filled sponge can be frozen for up to one month; thaw it overnight before proceeding with Step 3. Once filled, the cake does not freeze well, as the cream texture may become grainy upon thawing.
Conclusion
This festive roll offers a beautiful balance of tart raspberry and rich cream, encased in a delicate sponge. Serve slices alongside a piping hot cup of coffee or a rich hot chocolate for the ultimate holiday treat. For variation, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the whipped cream for an extra bright flavor, or swap the raspberry preserves for strawberry or cherry for a slightly different color profile. Enjoy the applause when you unveil this stunning, homemade masterpiece!