Jelly Roll Recipe

A delightful fruity jelly roll that melts in your mouth!

The Jelly Roll is a classic American dessert that has been a beloved treat for generations. With its light, airy sponge cake wrapped around a layer of sweet jelly, it combines a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you are preparing it for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this dessert is sure to impress and delight your taste buds. Creating a jelly roll at home might seem daunting, but with the right technique and a little practice, you can achieve a beautifully rolled cake that looks and tastes amazing. This recipe provides detailed steps and tips to help you master the art of making a perfect jelly roll every time.

Ingredients

• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
• 1/2 cup fruit jelly or jam of your choice

Nutrition

Calories: ~220 calories

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10x15 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
2. Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with an electric mixer on high speed until thick and pale, about 5 minutes. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue beating until fully incorporated. Reduce speed and mix in the vanilla extract.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until well combined, taking care not to deflate the batter.
4. Bake the Cake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched and the edges start to pull away from the sides of the pan.
5. Prepare for Rolling: While the cake is baking, lay a clean kitchen towel on a flat surface and generously dust with powdered sugar.
6. Roll the Cake: As soon as the cake is done, run a knife around the edges to loosen it, then invert the cake onto the prepared towel. Carefully peel away the parchment paper. Starting from a short end, roll the cake up with the towel inside. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.
7. Fill with Jelly: Once the cake has cooled, carefully unroll it and spread an even layer of fruit jelly or jam over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.
8. Reroll the Cake: Slowly roll the cake back up, this time without the towel, making sure it's tight but gentle so it doesn't crack. Transfer to a serving platter.
9. Dust with Sugar: Lightly dust the top of the rolled cake with additional powdered sugar just before serving.

Enjoy your delightful homemade jelly roll, a treat that's perfect with a cup of tea or coffee. For an extra touch, you can customize the filling with different types of jams or even a layer of whipped cream. If you find the cake cracking when you roll it, try rolling it while it's still warm, or wrap it in a slightly damp towel to maintain its moisture. Happy baking!