Strawberry Shortcake Cake Roll

Have you ever wondered how a simple dessert can bring joy to gatherings, celebrations, and even quiet moments at home? Enter the Strawberry Shortcake Cake Roll. This delightful treat combines the refreshing taste of strawberries with a light, airy cake that rolls up to create a beautiful presentation. Many think producing such a cake is complicated, but this recipe will prove otherwise by showing you how easy it is to make this showstopper right in your own kitchen. In the following sections, we will explore everything from the necessary ingredients to tips for perfecting your cake roll.

Ingredients Needed

• 4 egg whites: Room temperature for easy whipping.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Divided; enhances sweetness while stabilizing the egg whites.
• 5 egg yolks: Room temperature to integrate well with the other wet ingredients.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Adds moisture and fluffiness to the cake.
• 3 tablespoons whole milk: Keeps the batter moist and tender.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Imparts a warm, sweet flavor.
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Offers a bright, refreshing zest that balances sweetness.
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the cake’s structure.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Contributes to a light, airy texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully.
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt: Elevates the overall flavor.
• 1 pound strawberries: Fresh, washed, hulled, and sliced for a juicy filling.
• 1 tablespoon sugar: Sweetens the strawberries, enhancing their natural flavor.
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Added to the strawberries for extra zing.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Essential for creating the whipped filling.
• 1 tablespoon sour cream: Adds richness and a slight tang.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Complementing the heavy cream with additional flavor.
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream mixture, helping to stabilize it.
• More powdered sugar for dusting: For a lovely presentation.

All these ingredients blend harmoniously to make a delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cake Roll that is not just pleasing to the palate but also visually stunning.

Timing

• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 15 minutes
• Cooling time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  This total time is relatively quick, especially for a dessert that impresses guests with its looks and taste.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cake Roll

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This step is crucial, as starting with a hot oven ensures that your cake rises properly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Spray a 12×17 inch rimmed baking sheet with nonstick baking spray and then line it with parchment paper. For best results, grease the parchment paper with butter as well.

Step 3: Whip Egg Whites

In a medium bowl, beat the egg whites on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. This should take about 1 to 2 minutes. Gradually add one-third cup of the granulated sugar and continue to beat until you achieve stiff peaks, which will take another 1 to 2 minutes. Set it aside carefully to maintain volume.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, vegetable oil, whole milk, vanilla extract, two-thirds cup of sugar, and lemon zest until well combined, creating a rich, vibrant mixture.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and fine sea salt. Then, gently stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Step 6: Fold in Egg Whites

Carefully fold the whipped egg whites into the batter, being cautious not to deflate the mixture. This is what gives your cake its light texture.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the cake turns light brown and springs back when touched.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Once baked, let the cake cool completely in the pan. Keeping it in the pan helps avoid breakage when you roll it.

Step 9: Prepare the Strawberry Filling

While the cake is cooling, combine the strawberries, one tablespoon of sugar, and lemon zest in a small bowl. This step macerates the strawberries and brings out their juices.

Step 10: Whip the Cream

In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream on high until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar. Continue to beat until stiff peaks form.

Step 11: Assemble the Cake Roll

Spread the whipped cream evenly on top of the cooled cake, leaving a one-inch border around the edges. Scatter the prepared strawberries over the cream layer.

Step 12: Roll the Cake

Starting from the short end, carefully roll the cake away from you while letting the parchment paper fall away as you roll. Be gentle to prevent cracking.

Step 13: Chill and Dust

Place the cake seam side down on a serving platter. If desired, dust the top with powdered sugar for a lovely finish.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1/12 of cake)
Calories: 250
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 120mg
Total Carbohydrate: 32g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 20g
Protein: 4g

This information helps you understand the nutritional impact of each slice of your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cake Roll while enjoying every bite.

Healthier Alternatives For Strawberry Shortcake Cake Roll

If you’re looking to make your Strawberry Shortcake Cake Roll a bit lighter or suitable for specific dietary needs, consider these alternatives:

• Egg Replacement: Use aquafaba (the water from canned chickpeas) instead of egg whites for a vegan option.
• Sugar Substitutes: Opt for stevia or monk fruit sweetener to significantly reduce sugar content without sacrificing sweetness.
• Whole Wheat Flour: Swap half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Greek Yogurt: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt to add protein and reduce fat.
• Non-Dairy Cream: Utilize coconut cream or a plant-based whipping cream to keep it dairy-free.

These options can help you craft a version of the Strawberry Shortcake Cake Roll that fits your health goals without compromising on flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Get creative with how you serve your Strawberry Shortcake Cake Roll. Here are a few ideas:

• With Fresh Berries: Serve slices alongside extra fresh strawberries or a mix of berries for added texture and flavor.
• Drizzle Sauce: Top with a homemade berry coulis or chocolate sauce for an elegant touch.
• Ice Cream Pairing: A scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream pairs beautifully to enhance the dessert experience.

Feel free to experiment with your presentation, making it look as delightful as it tastes.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

To ensure your Strawberry Shortcake Cake Roll turns out perfectly, here are some common errors and how to avoid them:

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much after adding dry ingredients can lead to a dense cake. Stop mixing once just combined.
• Underbaking: Ensure the cake is fully cooked before removing it; a toothpick inserted should come out clean.
• Not Cooling Completely: Rolling a warm cake can cause it to crack. Always let the cake cool fully before rolling.
• Skipping the Dusting: Dusting with powdered sugar not only adds sweetness but also an elegant finish.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll avoid pitfalls and create a stunning cake roll that wows everyone at your table.

Storing Tips For Strawberry Shortcake Cake Roll

To keep your Strawberry Shortcake Cake Roll fresh, follow these storage techniques:

• Refrigerate: Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to freeze for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Prepping Ahead: You can prepare the cake and filling separately and assemble them on the day you plan to serve.

These tips help maintain the cake’s deliciousness, ensuring that each bite remains delightful.

Conclusion

Creating a Strawberry Shortcake Cake Roll is not just about baking; it’s about crafting a delightful experience that you can share with loved ones. With this straightforward recipe, you can impress your guests and indulge in a treat that is as beautiful as it is delicious. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe out yourself. Share your experiences, variations, or ask questions; I would love to hear from you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in your filling.

What is the best way to roll the cake without cracking?

Ensure the cake is completely cooled before rolling. Also, a gentle touch will help maintain its shape.

Can I make this cake roll gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of the standard flour.

How should I decorate the cake roll for special occasions?

Consider adding fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for beautiful decoration, or drizzle chocolate syrup for an elegant touch.

What should I do if my whipped cream doesn’t hold its shape?

Be sure to chill your mixing bowl and beaters beforehand. If it still doesn’t hold up, add a bit of cornstarch for stability.

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