Forget the traditional shortcake; prepare yourself for a delightful twist! This Strawberry Shortcake Roll is a show-stopping dessert that's surprisingly easy to make. It combines the juicy sweetness of fresh strawberries with a light and fluffy sponge cake, all rolled up into a beautiful and delicious treat. This recipe is perfect for picnics, parties, or a simple yet impressive dessert for any occasion. It's a healthy-ish alternative to other rich desserts, making it a great option for those looking for delicious dishes without sacrificing health too much. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all levels!
Ingredients:
For the Sponge Cake:
- 4 large eggs, separated
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For the Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy cream, cold
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Making the Sponge Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 15x10 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the long sides to help with rolling.
- In a large bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add half of the sugar, beating until glossy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, remaining sugar, and vanilla extract until pale and thick.
- Gently fold the egg yolk mixture into the egg white mixture.
- In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the egg mixture, folding gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Immediately dust the warm cake with powdered sugar. Carefully invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment paper.
- Starting from the short side, gently roll the cake up with the towel. Let it cool completely while still rolled.
Making the Strawberry Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to form a slurry.
- Add the cornstarch slurry to the simmering strawberries and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Making the Whipped Cream:
- In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
Assembling the Strawberry Shortcake Roll:
- Unroll the cooled sponge cake.
- Spread the cooled strawberry filling evenly over the cake.
- Dollop or pipe the whipped cream over the filling.
- Carefully roll the cake back up, using the towel to assist if needed.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the roll to set.
- Slice and serve. Garnish with fresh strawberries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use almond extract instead of vanilla extract in the sponge cake.
- You can substitute raspberries or blueberries for the strawberries.
- Add a layer of chocolate shavings or chopped nuts to the filling for extra texture and flavor.
- For a quicker version, use store-bought angel food cake instead of making the sponge cake from scratch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the exact ingredients and serving size. It's best to use a nutritional calculator for precise figures after inputting your specific ingredient measurements. However, expect a dessert that is relatively lower in fat compared to other rich cakes, due to the light sponge cake base.
This Strawberry Shortcake Roll is a quick dinner idea that's sure to impress. It's a delightful blend of textures and flavors, making it the perfect ending to any meal. Enjoy this easy recipe and the deliciousness of homemade cooking!