Chocolate Caramel Cream Roll

This Chocolate Caramel Cream Roll is a decadent dessert that combines rich chocolate sponge cake with a creamy caramel filling, creating a delightful and elegant treat perfect for any special occasion. The swirl of chocolate and caramel will impress your guests while satisfying their sweet cravings!

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Sponge Cake:

• 3 large eggs, separated
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Caramel Cream Filling:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional for added richness)

For the Chocolate Ganache (for topping):

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheet:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, greasing the sides lightly to ensure easy removal.
2. Make the Chocolate Sponge Cake:
   • In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks and sugar together until pale and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
   • Sift the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt together in a separate bowl. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg yolk mixture.
   • Add the milk and vanilla extract, and gently fold until combined.
   • In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
   • Carefully fold the beaten egg whites into the batter, being gentle to preserve the airiness.
3. Bake the Sponge Cake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly.
   • Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cake is firm to the touch and springs back when pressed lightly.
   • While the cake is baking, prepare a clean kitchen towel by sprinkling it lightly with powdered sugar.
   • As soon as the cake is done, remove it from the oven and immediately turn it out onto the prepared towel. Peel off the parchment paper and gently roll the cake up with the towel. Let it cool completely.
4. Make the Caramel Cream Filling:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, caramel sauce, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until soft peaks form.
   • For extra richness, add the brown sugar and mix until fully incorporated.
   • Set the filling aside in the refrigerator to chill.
5. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
   • In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it begins to simmer.
   • Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
   • Stir in the butter until fully melted and combined, then allow the ganache to cool slightly.
6. Assemble the Cake Roll:
   • Once the chocolate sponge cake has cooled, carefully unroll it from the towel.
   • Spread the caramel cream filling evenly over the cake, leaving about 1/2 inch around the edges.
   • Gently re-roll the cake, starting from the short side, and transfer it to a serving platter.
7. Finish with Ganache:
   • Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the rolled cake, letting it drip down the sides.
   • Use a spatula to smooth the ganache, ensuring it covers the entire top of the cake.
   • Allow the ganache to set for about 15 minutes before slicing.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Slice the cake into 1-inch wide pieces and serve immediately. You can garnish with a little extra caramel sauce or powdered sugar, if desired.

Tips for Success:

• Chill the Filling: Make sure the caramel cream filling is cold before spreading it on the cake so that it holds its shape better.
• Rolling the Cake: When rolling the cake, do so gently, as it can crack if handled too roughly. If cracks occur, it will still taste delicious!
• Decorative Touches: For added flair, you can garnish the top of the cake with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or even crushed nuts.

This Chocolate Caramel Cream Roll is a showstopper dessert that blends the rich flavors of chocolate and caramel in every bite. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any special celebration, it’s a treat that will leave everyone asking for the recipe!