Jelly Roll Cake

For a centerpiece-worthy dessert, bake this jelly roll cake. Thanks to the spongy base, it’s light and airy. The fun part comes when you lather on your ideal jam flavor, such as strawberry, raspberry or passionfruit. Rolling this confection is the most intimidating part of the process, but with the right prep, this step should be a breeze. Serve it with fresh fruit, a dollop of whipped cream or a warm cup of tea. 

Jelly Roll Cake Ingredients

• Eggs: We whip the egg whites and yolks, which aerate the batter and contribute to the fluffy texture of this cake.
• Sugar: Mix sugar into the batter to sweeten this jelly roll cake. 
• Flavor extracts: A few drops of vanilla and lemon extract infuse warm and bright notes into this cake.
• Cake flour: The cake flour has a low protein content, which helps this baked good come out tender.
• Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the jelly roll cake rise and achieve a cloudlike texture.
• Cream of tartar: We rely on cream of tartar as a stabilizer to bond the ingredients together. 
• Confectioners’ sugar: A delicate dusting of powdered sugar enhances the cake’s presentation.
• Jelly: You can use any jam flavor like strawberry, raspberry or currant to spread onto the inside of this cake.

Directions   

Step 1: Prepare the egg whites

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Place the egg whites in a large bowl and let them stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, line a 15x10x1-inch baking pan with wax paper. Then grease the wax paper and set aside.

Step 2: Make the cake batter

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Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks and water on high speed for five minutes—or until thick and lemon-colored. Gradually beat in one cup of sugar. Next, stir in the vanilla and lemon extract. Sift the flour, baking powder and salt together twice. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the yolk mixture and stir well (the batter will be very thick).

Step 3: Whip the egg whites

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In the other bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually beat in the remaining sugar—about one tablespoon at a time—on high until soft, glossy peaks form and the sugar dissolves. Fold a fourth of the egg whites into the egg yolk batter, then fold in the remaining whites.

Step 4: Bake the cake

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Gently spoon the batter into the prepared pan. Bake the cake for 15 to 18 minutes or until it springs back when lightly touched. Cool the cake for five minutes. Then, invert it onto a kitchen towel dusted with confectioners’ sugar. Then, gently peel off the waxed paper.

Roll up the cake in the towel jelly-roll style, starting with a short side and then cool completely on a wire rack. 

Lastly, unroll the cake and spread the jelly evenly onto it. Roll up the cake and dust it with confectioners’ sugar.

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Jelly Roll Cake Variations 

• Add matcha to the batter: For a vibrant and sweet tasting cake, mix matcha powder into the batter. (Psst: Here’s a raspberry matcha cake roll recipe to try.)
• Garnish with berries: To add a pop of color and refreshing fruity bites, sprinkle some strawberries or raspberries onto this cake.
• Make it boozy: Add a teaspoon of rum or bourbon to give this jelly roll cake warmer notes. 

How to Store Jelly Roll Cake

If you have some cake left over, cut it into slices, pack it in an airtight container and keep it at room temperature for three to seven days.

Can you make this jelly roll cake ahead of time? 

This jelly roll cake is ideal to bake ahead of hosting a party because it’s easy to prepare and can be customized. Follow the recipe and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for three to seven days. When you’re ready, sprinkle on your garnishes and serve.

Can you freeze this jelly roll cake?

If you have leftover slices of jelly roll cake, store them in the freezer. First, put them in an airtight container or a freezer-friendly bag. They will last for up to two to three months in the freezer.

How long does jelly roll cake last? 

You can store this delicious jelly roll cake in an airtight container on your counter for three to seven days or freeze it for up to two to three months.

Jelly Roll Cake Tips

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How do I know when my egg whites are whipped enough?

To achieve soft and glossy peaks when whipping your egg whites, look for the formation of droopy, mountain-shaped peaks when you remove your whisk. If the egg whites don’t have any shape at all, beat the batter until you reach the desired consistency.

What does cream of tartar do to a jelly roll cake?

Cream of tartar binds all of the ingredients together. It also increases the volume of the egg whites, imparting a delightfully light and fluffy texture to the cake.

How do I know when the jelly roll cake is finished baking?

Keep an eye on the jelly roll cake’s appearance. You can remove it from the oven once it rises and turns golden brown. You can also insert a toothpick into the cake to check for doneness—if it comes out clean without any batter sticking to it, it’s ready to be removed from the oven.