Lemon Cream Swiss Roll

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sponge Cake:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, ensuring it fits snugly. Grease the paper lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
• In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set it aside.
• In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs with an electric mixer on medium speed until they become pale and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Gradually add the granulated sugar, a little at a time, while continuing to beat the mixture. Once the sugar is incorporated, increase the speed and continue beating until the mixture is light and thick, about 2-3 more minutes.
• Add the vanilla extract and lemon zest to the egg mixture, and gently fold in the dry ingredients using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the mixture.
• Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and immediately turn it out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment paper and gently roll the cake up with the towel, starting from one of the shorter ends. Allow the cake to cool completely, about 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Lemon Cream Filling:

• While the cake cools, make the lemon cream filling. In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.
• Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to whip until stiff peaks form.
• Gently fold in the lemon curd and lemon juice until smooth and well-combined. The lemon curd adds a deliciously tangy flavor and creamy texture to the filling.

3. Assemble the Swiss Roll:

• Once the cake has cooled, carefully unroll it from the towel. Spread an even layer of the lemon cream filling over the entire surface of the cake, leaving about an inch around the edges.
• Starting from one end, gently roll the cake back up, this time without the towel. Be careful not to press too hard so that the cake doesn’t crack.
• Place the rolled cake seam-side down on a serving platter. If desired, dust the top with powdered sugar for a light finish.

4. Chill and Serve:

• Refrigerate the Swiss roll for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the cake set.
• Slice the Swiss roll into 1-inch slices and serve. You can garnish with extra lemon zest or a few fresh berries for an added touch of freshness.

Tips for the Perfect Lemon Cream Swiss Roll:

• Room Temperature Eggs: Be sure your eggs are at room temperature before you begin. This helps them whip up more easily and creates a fluffier cake batter.
• Sift the Dry Ingredients: Sifting the flour, baking powder, and salt helps prevent lumps and ensures an even texture in the cake.
• Lemon Curd: If you can, use homemade lemon curd for a richer, more intense lemon flavor. If you prefer convenience, store-bought lemon curd works just as well.
• Prevent Cracking: Rolling the cake while it’s still warm and with the towel is key to preventing cracks. If the cake does crack slightly, don’t worry – the filling will cover any imperfections.
• Chill the Cake: Allowing the Swiss roll to chill before slicing helps the filling set and makes for cleaner, neater slices.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Light and Refreshing: The combination of the soft sponge cake and the tangy, creamy filling offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s not overly heavy, making it an ideal dessert after a rich meal.
• Elegant Yet Easy: While it may look like an impressive showstopper, this Swiss roll is surprisingly simple to make. The steps are easy to follow, and you can prepare it in advance for any event or gathering.
• Versatile: This Lemon Cream Swiss Roll can be customized to suit your tastes. You could swap the lemon filling for other fruit curds, like raspberry or strawberry, or add fresh berries to the filling for an extra burst of flavor.

Final Thoughts:

The Lemon Cream Swiss Roll is a delightful dessert that combines simplicity with elegance. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or craving a refreshing treat, this cake is sure to impress. Its delicate lemon flavor and creamy filling make it the perfect sweet ending to any meal. Enjoy it with family and friends, and let its light, zesty sweetness brighten your day!