Chocolate Cake Roll with Creamy Filling & Rich Ganache – Elegant, Decadent, and Timeless
There’s something undeniably magical about a chocolate cake roll. From the moment you slice into it and reveal those perfect swirls of soft cake and creamy filling, it feels like a dessert meant for special occasions—even though it’s surprisingly approachable to make at home. This chocolate cake roll with creamy filling and rich ganache is indulgent without being heavy, elegant without being fussy, and absolutely irresistible.
The secret to a perfect cake roll lies in balance. The sponge cake is light, flexible, and deeply chocolatey without being dry. The creamy filling adds sweetness and softness, while the ganache brings a glossy, rich finish that makes every slice feel bakery-worthy. Together, they create a dessert that melts in your mouth and leaves you reaching for just one more slice.
This recipe is ideal for holidays, dinner parties, or anytime you want a showstopping dessert that doesn’t require layers or complicated decorating. Once you master the rolling technique, you’ll find this cake surprisingly forgiving—and endlessly customizable.
Ingredients:
- Large eggs
- Granulated sugar
- Vanilla extract
- All-purpose flour
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Heavy whipping cream
- Powdered sugar
- Cream cheese, softened
- Semi-sweet chocolate
- Butter
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.
- In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar until pale and thick.
- Mix in vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Gently fold dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined.
- Spread batter evenly into prepared pan.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until the cake springs back lightly.
- While warm, turn cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar.
- Carefully peel off parchment and roll cake up with the towel inside. Let cool completely.
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Whip heavy cream to soft peaks and fold into cream cheese mixture.
- Carefully unroll cooled cake and spread filling evenly.
- Re-roll cake tightly and place seam-side down.
- Heat cream and butter until just simmering. Pour over chopped chocolate and stir until smooth.
- Pour ganache over cake roll, letting it drip down the sides.
- Chill briefly before slicing and serving.
Chocolate Cake Roll with Creamy Filling & Rich Ganache
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bake chocolate sponge cake in a lined jelly roll pan.
- Roll warm cake in a towel and cool completely.
- Prepare creamy filling and spread over cake.
- Re-roll cake and coat with chocolate ganache.
Notes
Tips & Tricks
- Roll the cake while warm to prevent cracking.
- Don’t overbake—the cake should stay flexible.
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for smooth filling.
- Chill slightly before slicing for clean cuts.
Variations
- Add espresso powder to enhance chocolate flavor.
- Use mascarpone instead of cream cheese.
- Add raspberry jam under the cream filling.
- Top ganache with chopped nuts or berries.
- Make it festive with holiday sprinkles or cocoa dusting.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chocolate cake roll slightly chilled or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with coffee, espresso, or a glass of milk. For extra elegance, add fresh berries or a drizzle of raspberry sauce on the plate.
Storage Information
Store the cake roll covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving. The cake can also be frozen (without ganache) for up to 2 months.
FAQ
Why did my cake crack?
Overbaking or rolling when too cool can cause cracks.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for making a day in advance.
Can I skip the cream cheese?
Yes, use a stabilized whipped cream instead.
History / Fun Facts
Cake rolls, also known as Swiss rolls, date back to the 19th century and became popular for their elegant appearance and simple structure. Chocolate versions remain among the most beloved thanks to their rich yet light texture.
