Chocolate Swiss Roll Cake Recipe

This Chocolate Swiss Roll Cake is the ultimate show-stopping dessert that combines a tender, moist chocolate sponge with an ultra-creamy cocoa filling, all wrapped up in luscious chocolate ganache. If you’ve ever wanted a bakery-worthy creation that wows your family and friends, this Swiss roll will absolutely steal the spotlight at any gathering. Best of all, it’s surprisingly simple to make at home, so you can indulge your chocolate cravings any time!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Sometimes, the most magical desserts come from the simplest ingredients. Each component in this recipe plays a starring role—whether it’s the fluffy eggs bringing lift to the sponge, or the rich cream cheese filling adding a silky-smooth contrast. Here’s what you’ll need to craft a flawless Chocolate Swiss Roll Cake:

• Eggs (4 large, room temperature): Beating eggs until fluffy gives your cake lift and softness, so don’t rush this step!
• Granulated sugar (100 g / 1/2 cup): Sweetens the sponge and helps it whip up light and airy.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Just a splash for that cozy, bakery-style aroma.
• Cocoa powder (40 g / 1/3 cup, unsweetened): The secret to a deep, chocolatey flavor and beautiful color.
• All-purpose flour (60 g / 1/2 cup): Provides structure to the roll, keeping it tender yet sturdy.
• Baking powder (1 tsp): Ensures that delightful rise—don’t skip it!
• Salt (pinch): Balances and deepens all the chocolatey notes.
• Heavy whipping cream (200 ml / 3/4 cup + 1 tbsp, cold): Whips up light and fluffy for a decadent filling.
• Cream cheese (150 g / 3/4 cup, softened): Adds tanginess and silky texture to the filling.
• Powdered sugar (50 g / 1/4 cup): Blends smoothly into the filling, giving sweetness without grittiness.
• Cocoa powder (2 tbsp, for filling): Infuses the filling with more chocolate richness!
• Semi-sweet chocolate (150 g / 1 cup, chopped): Melts down into the shiny, decadent ganache topping.
• Heavy cream (100 ml / 1/2 cup, for ganache): Ensures the ganache is luxuriously glossy and smooth.
• Chocolate chunks or bars (for garnish): The final flourish! Use your favorite chocolate for maximum style points.

How to Make Chocolate Swiss Roll Cake

Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Sponge

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) and lining a 10×15 inch (25×38 cm) jelly roll pan with parchment paper. Next, beat your eggs and sugar together in a large bowl using an electric mixer for about 5 to 6 minutes, until the mixture has turned pale and tripled in volume—the air you whip in here is what keeps your cake light! Mix in vanilla extract, then gently fold in the sifted dry ingredients (cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, salt) just until combined. Spread your batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.

Step 2: Roll the Cake While Warm

Lay a clean kitchen towel on your counter and dust it generously with cocoa powder. As soon as the cake comes from the oven, carefully invert it onto the towel and peel off the parchment paper. While it’s still warm and flexible, roll the cake up with the towel from the short end. This trick prevents cracks and helps the sponge keep that classic Swiss roll curve. Let it cool completely, rolled up in the towel.

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Filling

For that luscious swirl inside, beat the cold heavy cream until soft peaks form. In a separate bowl, blend the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder until smooth and creamy. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cocoa-cream cheese mixture, making sure you don’t knock out too much air. The result: a dreamy, fluffy filling that’s almost irresistible by the spoonful!

Step 4: Assemble the Chocolate Swiss Roll Cake

Once your cake has cooled, gently unroll it. If there are a few small cracks, don’t worry—they’ll be hidden by all that creamy filling! Spread the filling evenly over the surface, then carefully roll the cake back up without the towel. Place the filled roll seam side down on a serving tray to help it hold its shape. Pop it in the fridge to chill while you make the ganache.

Step 5: Make the Chocolate Ganache

For the grand finale, bring the heavy cream just to a boil, then pour it over your chopped semi-sweet chocolate. Wait for 2 minutes, then stir until silky-smooth and deeply glossy. This shiny blanket of ganache turns your Chocolate Swiss Roll Cake into a true showpiece! Spread it generously over the roll and let a little drip down the sides for pure chocolate drama.

Step 6: Decorate and Chill

Garnish the finished cake with chocolate chunks, bars, or even chocolate curls to add that final wow factor. Chill the Swiss roll for at least an hour before slicing—this makes it easier to cut perfect rounds, revealing the beautiful swirl within. Slice, serve, and watch everyone’s faces light up!

How to Serve Chocolate Swiss Roll Cake

Garnishes

Dress your Chocolate Swiss Roll Cake to impress with a generous scatter of high-quality chocolate chunks, bars with fun toppings, or even delicate chocolate curls. A dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh berries can also take the presentation to the next level and add a pop of color that contrasts gorgeously with the rich chocolate.

Side Dishes

For an indulgent dessert spread, pair your Swiss roll with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of softly whipped cream. If you want to cut the richness, a little bowl of fresh raspberries or strawberries on the side does wonders—those fruity, tart notes balance out the creamy chocolate beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing your Chocolate Swiss Roll Cake into extra-thick rounds and plating each on a swirl of berry coulis, or stack slices with extra filling piped between for a dramatic layered effect. If you’re serving for a party, arrange the slices in a spiral or ring shape, letting guests admire the stunning swirl until it’s time to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply cover the Chocolate Swiss Roll Cake tightly with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it’ll stay perfectly moist and fresh for up to 3 days—if you can resist eating it all before then!

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Chocolate Swiss Roll Cake for longer storage! Wrap the fully chilled roll (ungarnished, preferably) tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving, then add your ganache and garnishes fresh for the best texture and shine.

Reheating

No reheating necessary—this cake is meant to be enjoyed chilled for the best flavor and swirl definition. If you like an extra-soft texture, let slices sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving, but avoid microwaving to keep the cream filling from melting.

FAQs

How do I keep my Chocolate Swiss Roll Cake from cracking when rolling?

The key is to roll the sponge cake while it’s warm and flexible, straight out of the oven. Using a cocoa-dusted kitchen towel as a guide prevents sticking and keeps the roll neat.

Can I use a different filling in my Chocolate Swiss Roll Cake?

Absolutely! While the cocoa-cream cheese filling is a wonderful classic, you can try whipped ganache, peanut butter cream, or even a fruity jam to change things up.

Why does my sponge turn out dense or flat?

This usually happens if the eggs and sugar aren’t beaten long enough, or if the flour is overmixed. Whip the eggs until pale and thick, and fold in the dry ingredients gently for maximum fluffiness.

Is it possible to make the Chocolate Swiss Roll Cake gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour and make sure your baking powder is gluten-free. The method remains exactly the same.

How far in advance can I assemble the cake?

You can assemble the filled Swiss roll one day ahead and keep it chilled. For freshest ganache and best appearance, add the topping just before serving.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something impressive yet totally doable, you’re going to fall in love with this Chocolate Swiss Roll Cake. The texture, the flavors, and the wow factor of that swirl—every bite is a little celebration. I hope you give this recipe a try soon and experience just how magical homemade dessert can be!