Chocolate Raspberry Cake Roll Recipe

If you adore the irresistible combination of rich chocolate and vibrant raspberries, then you are in for an absolute treat with this Chocolate Raspberry Cake Roll. This show-stopping dessert features a tender, cocoa-infused sponge rolled around a luscious, tangy raspberry cream filling. Every bite offers a perfect balance of softness, sweetness, and a touch of tartness that feels like a warm hug from a close friend. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something delightful, the Chocolate Raspberry Cake Roll brings joy and elegance to your table effortlessly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating magic with this dessert. Each item plays a key role in building the flavor, texture, and appearance of the Chocolate Raspberry Cake Roll, and you’ll be amazed at how a few simple staples come together to impress.

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation of your cake that ensures a light, spongy texture perfect for rolling.
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds a rich, deep chocolate flavor without overpowering the delicate layers.
• 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise just enough to keep it airy and soft.
• 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances the sweetness and chocolate notes for a well-rounded taste.
• 4 large eggs: The secret to the cake’s structure and fluffiness; beating them well is essential.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while contributing to its tender crumb.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the chocolate flavor beautifully.
• 1/4 cup water: Keeps the batter moist for an easy-to-roll sponge.
• 1 cup fresh raspberries: Bursting with natural tartness, these brighten the filling and balance the chocolate.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Whipped to perfection, it creates the creamy texture for the filling.
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream softly without any grittiness.
• Optional garnish – powdered sugar and fresh raspberries: For a picture-perfect, elegant finish that invites irresistible temptation.

How to Make Chocolate Raspberry Cake Roll

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking right from the get-go. Grease a 15×10-inch baking pan thoroughly, then line it with parchment paper so the cake won’t stick. This small prep step will save you from any sticky situations later and help you get that flawless cake roll.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This blend of dry ingredients forms the chocolate base of your cake, where the baking powder and salt quietly work their magic to create balance and lift.

Step 3: Beat the Eggs and Sugar

In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture is thick and fluffy, almost tripling in volume. This step is crucial—it’s what will give your cake that airy quilted texture that makes rolling possible without cracks. Then, add the vanilla extract for that heavenly aroma.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into your egg mixture, stirring gently but thoroughly to avoid deflating the batter. Once it’s almost blended, stir in the water to add moisture, making the batter smooth and shiny. This step ensures your cake roll will be supple and tender.

Step 5: Bake Until Perfect

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly to the edges. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, keeping a close eye so you don’t overbake. You want the cake just set and springy. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. Once baked, let it cool slightly before moving on.

Step 6: Whip Up the Raspberry Filling

While the cake cools, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until you see stiff peaks—this means the cream is perfectly fluffy. Now gently fold in the fresh raspberries, trying not to smash them, so you get delightful little bursts of tartness inside every creamy bite.

Step 7: Roll the Cake to Prevent Cracking

Carefully lift the warm cake from the pan using the parchment paper. Roll it up right away, parchment and all, into a loose spiral. This technique trains the cake to hold its roll shape, reducing the chances of cracking when filled. Let it cool completely in this rolled form—patience here pays delicious dividends.

Step 8: Assemble Your Chocolate Raspberry Cake Roll

Once cool, unroll the cake gently and spread the creamy raspberry filling evenly across the surface. Then roll it back up tightly but carefully. For that final touch of elegance, dust with powdered sugar and scatter fresh raspberries on top—this not only looks stunning but adds a fresh zing on the first bite.

How to Serve Chocolate Raspberry Cake Roll

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation and flavor, dust the top generously with powdered sugar to create a delicate snowy finish. Fresh raspberries placed along the roll add a burst of color and tartness that complements the rich chocolate beautifully. A few mint leaves can add an unexpected bright pop and make your dessert truly Instagram-worthy.

Side Dishes

Keep your serving simple to let the star of the show shine. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of extra whipped cream can add a creamy cool contrast. For adults, a small glass of raspberry or chocolate liqueur enhances the flavor profile. Fresh fruit salad with berries can also be a refreshing partner to your cake roll.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the Chocolate Raspberry Cake Roll into thick rounds to showcase the beautiful swirl of cake and filling inside. For parties, arrange the slices on a platter with a drizzle of melted chocolate and raspberry coulis for an upscale dessert look. You can also turn the slices into mini sandwich-like treats by adding an extra layer of whipped cream on top for a delightful twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Chocolate Raspberry Cake Roll tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated to maintain the filling’s freshness and the cake’s moist texture. It should stay delicious for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy weeks.

Freezing

If you want to keep your cake roll longer, you can freeze it. Wrap it well with plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. Frozen, your dessert will maintain excellent flavor and texture for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.

Reheating

Because this is a delicate cake roll with cream filling, reheating isn’t recommended. Instead, let it come to room temperature before serving. This will bring out the flavors and soften the cake just enough to enjoy its full melt-in-the-mouth glory without the cream losing its texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh ones?

Fresh raspberries are ideal for the filling because they hold their shape and offer the best texture. However, if using frozen raspberries, thaw them completely and drain any excess juice to avoid making the filling too watery.

What if I don’t have a 15×10-inch pan?

A pan of similar dimensions will work fine. Just make sure to adjust the batter thickness accordingly. If your pan is smaller, the cake will be thicker and might need a longer bake time, so watch it closely.

How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?

Rolling the cake while it is still slightly warm with parchment paper helps it set in the rolled shape and significantly reduces cracks. If cracks do appear, don’t worry—the filling and frosting will hide them nicely.

Can I substitute the heavy cream in the filling?

Heavy cream is best to get those stiff, stable peaks needed for the structure of the filling. Whipped coconut cream is a good dairy-free alternative, but the texture and flavor will differ slightly.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! The Chocolate Raspberry Cake Roll is surprisingly straightforward, with clear steps and simple ingredients. Just take your time with the egg beating and rolling process, and you’ll be rewarded with a stunning dessert.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Raspberry Cake Roll is a dessert that combines simplicity with elegance, perfect for impressing loved ones or indulging your own sweet tooth. Its light, airy sponge paired with tangy, creamy raspberry filling is a match made in heaven. Give it a try—you’ll discover a new favorite that feels as special as it tastes, every single time.