Caramel Cream Swiss Roll Recipe

If you’re looking to wow your friends and family with a dessert that looks as stunning as it tastes, the Caramel Cream Swiss Roll is your dream come true. This delightful cake roll is a harmonious blend of a light, fluffy sponge cake wrapped around a luscious, creamy filling, all kissed by the rich, buttery sweetness of caramel. It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors, making every bite an irresistible treat that’s as fun to make as it is to enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Caramel Cream Swiss Roll lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in bringing the cake’s delicate texture, creamy filling, and luscious caramel finish to life.

• 4 large eggs, room temperature: These provide structure and a fluffy lift to the sponge cake.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps it brown beautifully.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warm, aromatic depth to both cake and cream.
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation for the light sponge texture.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Gives the cake an extra gentle rise without heaviness.
• 1/4 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• 2 tbsp milk: Keeps the batter moist for a tender crumb.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold: Creates the rich, fluffy cream filling.
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened: Adds tang and creaminess to the filling.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the cream filling.
• 1/2–3/4 cup caramel sauce: The star topping that brings irresistible sweetness and richness.
• Optional: extra whipped cream for decoration: For a playful, elegant finish.
• Optional: sprinkles or crushed nuts: Adds color and texture to your presentation.

How to Make Caramel Cream Swiss Roll

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Lightly grease the parchment to prevent sticking. This prep stage ensures your sponge cake will bake evenly and release effortlessly.

Step 2: Make the Sponge Cake

Using an electric mixer, beat the eggs and sugar together for about 5 minutes until the mixture is pale, thick, and delightfully foamy. This aeration is key for that light and tender sponge. Stir in the vanilla extract and milk for added moisture and flavor. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to keep the dry ingredients evenly combined, then gently fold this mixture into the egg batter. Remember, beating too much at this stage will deflate your air bubbles, so fold carefully until just combined. Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the top springs back when you press it lightly. Your sponge is now ready for the next step!

Step 3: Roll the Warm Cake

This step is where practice pays off. Once out of the oven, immediately loosen the cake edges and invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel sprinkled generously with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Peel off the parchment carefully, then roll the warm cake up in the towel, starting from a short side. Rolling it warm prevents cracks and sets the shape to make filling easier later. Let the roll cool completely on a wire rack to hold its form as you prepare your filling.

Step 4: Make the Cream Filling

While the cake cools, whip up the filling. Beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the texture is velvety and sweetly flavored. In a separate chilled bowl, whip the cold heavy cream to stiff peaks — this adds lightness and volume. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to maintain the fluffy texture. Now your delicious cream filling is ready to bring that luscious, dreamy layer inside the roll.

Step 5: Fill and Roll

Carefully unroll your cooled sponge cake and spread an even layer of the cream filling all over, leaving a small border around the edges so it won’t leak out when rolled back. Drizzle a few tablespoons of caramel sauce over the cream for that distinctive caramel surprise in every bite. Then, roll the cake back up tightly but gently, this time without the towel. Wrap the roll snugly in plastic wrap and chill it for at least one hour to let everything set firmly.

Step 6: Decorate and Serve

Once well chilled, unwrap your roll and transfer it to a serving platter. For extra indulgence, pipe or spread some whipped cream over the top and drizzle generous ribbons of caramel sauce over the surface. Sprinkle with crushed nuts or colorful sprinkles for a festive touch. Slice into even pieces and serve chilled for the perfect, melt-in-your-mouth dessert experience.

How to Serve Caramel Cream Swiss Roll

Garnishes

Garnishes elevate the Caramel Cream Swiss Roll from lovely to unforgettable. Fresh whipped cream piped along the top or a few delicate swirls of caramel sauce enhance the luxurious feel. Adding a scattering of crushed toasted nuts, like pecans or almonds, introduces a satisfying crunch and nutty aroma, perfectly complementing the sweetness.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs beautifully with simple accompaniments. A cup of rich coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can balance the caramel’s sweetness, while fresh berries bring a tangy brightness. If you want to keep it light, a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of cocoa powder on the plate adds that little extra flair.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, slice your Caramel Cream Swiss Roll into smaller bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter with alternating dollops of whipped cream and nuts. Use elegant dessert plates and drizzle caramel artfully around each slice. You can also serve the roll layered with alternating decorations of sprinkles and finely chopped chocolate to amaze guests with both visual and flavorful drama!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftover Caramel Cream Swiss Roll tightly in plastic to keep it moist and fresh in the refrigerator. It should stay delicious for up to 3 days, making it a great make-ahead treat for gatherings or just to have on hand for a sweet craving.

Freezing

If you want to prepare this cake well in advance, freezing is a fantastic option. Wrap the roll carefully in plastic wrap and then foil to protect from freezer burn. Freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it slowly in the refrigerator overnight to maintain its creamy texture and tender sponge.

Reheating

Reheating is usually not necessary and not recommended for this creamy dessert since it’s best served chilled. However, if you want to enjoy the caramel a bit softer, allow the roll to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before slicing and serving.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought caramel sauce works wonderfully and saves time. Just choose a high-quality one for the best flavor. Homemade caramel sauce is great too if you want that personal touch.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in the filling?

If you don’t have cream cheese, mascarpone is an excellent substitute as it offers similar richness and tang. Alternatively, you could use Greek yogurt, but this will change the texture and tanginess slightly.

How do I prevent the sponge cake from cracking when rolling?

Rolling the cake while it’s still warm and using a powdered sugar-dusted towel to roll the cake helps prevent cracks. Be gentle and don’t rush the process — that warmth makes the sponge flexible and easier to roll.

Can I make the sponge cake a day ahead?

You can bake the sponge cake a day in advance and keep it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature. Just wait to add the filling and roll until you’re ready to assemble to keep it fresh and moist.

Is it possible to make a chocolate version of this Caramel Cream Swiss Roll?

Definitely! Substitute a couple of tablespoons of flour with cocoa powder in the sponge batter to create a chocolate sponge cake roll. The caramel and cream filling will pair beautifully with that chocolate twist.

Final Thoughts

The Caramel Cream Swiss Roll is truly one of those magical desserts that turns any ordinary day into a celebration. Its tender sponge and luscious caramel cream filling are crowd-pleasers that everyone will ask for again and again. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite cake to bake and share with loved ones!