Chocolate Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll has been my go-to showstopper for years, and it never fails to impress. I remember the first time I attempted one, a little intimidated by the swirl, but the combination of rich chocolate cake, sweet strawberry filling, and smooth ganache was absolutely heavenly. The aroma of cocoa and fresh berries filling my kitchen instantly transported me to a happy place. This isn’t just any dessert; it’s a delightful journey in every bite. If you’re looking for a stunning yet approachable chocolate swiss roll with strawberries that tastes as amazing as it looks, you’ve found it. Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll
This dessert is a dream come true for so many reasons! It looks incredibly fancy, but I promise it’s more achievable than you think. Here’s why this treat will become a favorite:
- It’s a showstopper that will wow your guests.
- The combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries is divine.
- It’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners.
- This easy chocolate strawberry swiss cake is perfect for any celebration.
- The soft cake, creamy filling, and smooth ganache create amazing textures.
- It’s a delightful twist on a classic dessert.
- You’ll feel like a gourmet baker after making this easy chocolate strawberry swiss cake.
- It’s a truly memorable dessert experience.
Ingredients for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating your stunning dessert. I’ve found that using fresh, good-quality components makes all the difference in the final flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful chocolate swiss roll strawberry filling:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – the base of our tender cake
- 1 cup granulated sugar – for sweetness and moisture
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – essential for that deep chocolate flavor
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness
- 2 large eggs – at room temperature for best incorporation
- 1/2 cup milk – adds tenderness to the cake
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil – keeps the cake moist
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances all the flavors
- 1/2 cup boiling water – this is key for a light, airy cake batter
- 1 cup heavy cream – for the luscious whipped cream layer
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar – to sweeten the whipped cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – for the whipped cream
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped – the star of our filling!
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – for a smooth, rich ganache
- 1/4 cup heavy cream – to make the chocolate ganache
How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll
Let’s get this beautiful dessert assembled! Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll have a stunning creation that tastes even better than it looks. This strawberry chocolate swiss roll recipe is designed to be straightforward, so don’t be intimidated by the swirl!
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 10×15 inch jelly roll pan, grease it well, and dust it with flour. Line it with parchment paper, making sure to leave a little overhang on the sides – this helps with removal later.
- Step 2: In a big bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Give it a good mix until everything is well combined and there are no lumps.
- Step 3: In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. You want this mixture to be smooth and fully blended.
- Step 4: Now, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix them together until *just* combined. It’s important not to overmix here; a few small lumps are okay.
- Step 5: Carefully stir in the 1/2 cup of boiling water. The batter will become quite thin, and that’s exactly what you want for a light cake. Stir until it’s smooth and glossy.
- Step 6: Pour this thin batter into your prepared jelly roll pan. Spread it out evenly so it covers the entire surface.
- Step 7: Bake for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should spring back lightly when touched.
- Step 8: While the cake is baking, let’s get the strawberry filling ready. In a bowl, combine the 1 cup of chopped fresh strawberries with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes to macerate, releasing its lovely juices.
- Step 9: Next, prepare the chocolate ganache. Place your 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Heat the 1/4 cup of heavy cream until it just starts to simmer (don’t let it boil!), then pour it over the chocolate chips. Let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes, then stir gently until it’s completely smooth and glossy.
- Step 10: As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, carefully invert it onto a clean kitchen towel that you’ve generously dusted with powdered sugar. Gently peel off the parchment paper from the back of the cake.
- Step 11: Starting from one of the shorter ends, carefully roll up the warm cake *with* the towel inside. This is a crucial step in the strawberry chocolate swiss roll recipe to help set the shape. Let it cool completely this way.
- Step 12: Once the cake roll is completely cool, gently unroll it. You’ll see the beautiful spiral. Spread the sweetened whipped cream evenly over the entire surface of the cake.
- Step 13: Spoon the prepared strawberry filling over the whipped cream layer. Try to distribute it evenly.
- Step 14: Now, carefully re-roll the cake, but this time without the towel! Roll it up snugly from the same starting end.
- Step 15: Frost the outside of your rolled cake with the smooth chocolate ganache. Make sure to cover the top and sides for that decadent finish. This completes the strawberry chocolate swiss roll recipe!
- Step 16: Chill the finished Chocolate Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the ganache to set and the flavors to meld beautifully before slicing and serving.
Chocolate Swiss Roll Technique
The key to a beautiful chocolate covered strawberry swiss roll is the rolling technique. Rolling the warm cake helps create the signature spiral and prevents it from cracking when you re-roll it later. Letting it cool completely rolled up sets the shape perfectly. For more baking tips, check out this guide on dessert techniques.
Preparing the Strawberry Filling
Making the fresh strawberry filling is simple but impactful. Chopping the strawberries and letting them sit with sugar draws out their natural juices, creating a sweet, slightly syrupy filling that complements the rich chocolate cake and creamy frosting beautifully. If you love berries, you might also enjoy this vegan berry crisp.
Making the Chocolate Ganache
Ganache is your secret weapon for a truly decadent finish on this chocolate swiss roll dessert recipe. The simple combination of warm cream and chocolate melts into a velvety smooth frosting that adds a luxurious chocolate flavor and a beautiful sheen to the entire dessert.
Pro Tips for the Best Chocolate Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll
Elevating your dessert game is all about a few smart tricks. I’ve learned these through trial and error, and they guarantee a show-stopping result every time you make this beautiful chocolate strawberry swiss cake. Pay attention to these details, and your roll will be flawless!
- Always use room temperature eggs and milk for the cake batter; they incorporate much better, leading to a lighter texture.
- Don’t overbake the cake! It needs to be slightly pliable so it rolls without cracking. Watch it closely after 12 minutes.
- Let the cake cool completely while rolled in the towel. This is crucial for setting the shape and preventing cracks when you unroll and re-roll it.
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of strawberry extract to the whipped cream.
What’s the secret to perfect Chocolate Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll?
The secret lies in the delicate balance of moisture and gentle handling. While I haven’t personally used Swiss meringue for chocolate swiss rolls, I find that the thin, hot water batter combined with careful rolling prevents cracks. It’s all about technique! Understanding the science behind baking can help, for example, learning about how leaveners work.
Can I make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cake and ganache a day in advance. Once cooled, store the cake roll wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature. Frost it just before serving or up to a few hours ahead and refrigerate. For other make-ahead desserts, consider these pumpkin cinnamon rolls.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Chocolate Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll?
The most common mistake is overbaking, which leads to cracking. Ensure your cake is just baked through. Another pitfall is unrolling the cake too soon; let it cool completely in its rolled shape to set the structure.
Best Ways to Serve Chocolate Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll
Presenting this gorgeous dessert is almost as fun as eating it! I love serving this chocolate covered strawberry swiss roll as the star of any gathering. A simple dusting of powdered sugar can add an elegant touch, or you can serve it with a dollop of extra whipped cream on the side. For a truly special treat, consider pairing a slice with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a few fresh berries. This combination makes for a delightful Swiss chocolate strawberry dessert that guests will rave about. It’s also wonderful alongside a warm cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine.
Nutrition Facts for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll
Understanding the nutritional breakdown of this decadent dessert can help you enjoy it mindfully. This estimate is based on the recipe as written, which yields about 10-12 servings. Remember that variations in ingredient brands and exact portion sizes can affect these numbers.
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 150mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Chocolate Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll
Storing this beautiful homemade chocolate strawberry swiss roll properly ensures it stays delicious for your next craving! Once completely cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap. I like to then place it in an airtight container or a resealable bag. This keeps it fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you need to store it longer, freezing is a fantastic option. Wrap it very well in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and it can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen slice, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. For a slightly chilled, firmer texture, you can serve it directly from the fridge. If you prefer it a bit softer, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll
What is a chocolate covered strawberry swiss roll?
A chocolate covered strawberry swiss roll is a type of rolled cake that features a delicate, airy chocolate sponge cake filled typically with a creamy strawberry component and often finished with a chocolate ganache or frosting. It’s a visually stunning dessert known for its spiral pattern, combining rich chocolate flavors with the bright, fresh taste of strawberries.
Can I use a different type of berry for the filling?
Absolutely! While strawberries are classic, you can certainly get creative with other berries. Raspberries, blueberries, or even a mixed berry blend work beautifully in the filling. Just chop them similarly and adjust the sugar if needed based on their sweetness. This adaptability makes the chocolate swiss roll with strawberries very versatile. For other berry delights, check out these dessert recipes.
Why is my chocolate swiss roll cracking?
Cracking often happens if the cake is overbaked, making it dry and brittle. It can also occur if you try to unroll it while it’s too hot or too cold. Ensure you bake it just until a toothpick comes out clean, let it cool slightly before inverting, and then roll it while warm but not scalding. Patience is key for a beautiful chocolate covered strawberry swiss roll.
How do I get my ganache to be smooth and shiny?
For a perfect ganache, the ratio of chocolate to cream is important. Gently heating the cream until it just simmers, then pouring it over high-quality chocolate chips and letting it sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes before stirring allows the chocolate to melt evenly. Stirring slowly from the center outwards ensures a smooth, glossy finish for your chocolate swiss roll dessert recipe.
Variations of Chocolate Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll You Can Try
While this classic chocolate covered strawberry swiss roll is incredible, don’t be afraid to experiment! I love tweaking recipes to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next bake:
- Dairy-Free Delight: Swap the milk for almond or soy milk, use a dairy-free butter alternative for greasing the pan, and opt for a dairy-free chocolate for the ganache. This makes for a wonderful chocolate strawberry swiss cake that everyone can enjoy.
- White Chocolate Berry Bliss: Instead of semi-sweet chocolate ganache, try a white chocolate ganache! It offers a sweeter, creamier contrast to the rich chocolate cake and bright strawberry filling.
- Decadent Dark Chocolate Twist: For serious chocolate lovers, use dark chocolate chips for the ganache and perhaps even a richer cocoa powder in the cake batter. This variation offers a more intense chocolate experience.
- Lemon Zest Kick: Add the zest of one lemon to the cake batter or the whipped cream filling. The bright citrus notes beautifully complement the chocolate and strawberry flavors in this chocolate strawberry swiss cake.
Decadent Chocolate Covered Strawberry Swiss Delicious
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Chocolate Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll Cake is an indulgent dessert with rich chocolate cake, fluffy strawberry filling, and a velvety ganache. Its stunning spiral design makes it perfect for special occasions, and it’s surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup boiling water
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10×15 inch jelly roll pan. Line with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Carefully stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin.
- Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the strawberry filling. In a bowl, combine the chopped strawberries with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the chocolate ganache. Place chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Heat 1/4 cup heavy cream until simmering, then pour over the chocolate chips. Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Once the cake is baked, immediately invert it onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment paper.
- Starting from one of the shorter ends, carefully roll up the warm cake and the towel together. Let it cool completely.
- Once cooled, gently unroll the cake. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the cake.
- Spoon the strawberry filling over the whipped cream.
- Carefully re-roll the cake, without the towel this time.
- Frost the outside of the rolled cake with the chocolate ganache.
- Chill the Chocolate Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a stronger strawberry flavor, you can add a teaspoon of strawberry extract to the filling.
- Ensure your cake is completely cool before unrolling to prevent cracking.
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best ganache flavor.
- This Chocolate Covered Strawberry Swiss Roll is best served fresh.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking and Rolling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg