Lemon Cream Swiss Roll

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Jelly roll pan or baking sheet (10×15 inches)
• Parchment paper
• Clean kitchen towel
• Sifter or fine-mesh sieve
• Offset spatula or regular spatula

Directions for Lemon Cream Swiss Roll

Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan or baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together on high speed for 5-6 minutes, until thick and pale yellow. This helps create a light and airy sponge.
3. Add the vanilla extract and gently fold in the sifted flour, baking powder, and salt using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; you want to retain as much air as possible in the batter.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the top of the cake springs back when touched.

Step 2: Roll the Cake

1. While the cake is baking, lay a clean kitchen towel on a flat surface and dust it with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
2. Once the cake is done, carefully turn it out onto the towel. Peel off the parchment paper, then gently roll the cake up with the towel from one short end to the other. Let it cool completely while rolled, about 1 hour.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Cream Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice together until smooth and creamy.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until soft peaks form.
3. Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon-cream cheese mixture, creating a light and airy filling. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 4: Assemble the Swiss Roll

1. Once the cake has cooled, carefully unroll it. Spread the lemon cream filling evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.
2. Gently re-roll the cake (without the towel) and place it seam-side down on a serving platter. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a classic look, or drizzle with lemon glaze if desired.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the Lemon Cream Swiss Roll and serve chilled or at room temperature. It’s perfect with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful dessert or snack!

Tips and Variations

• Make It Extra Lemony: For a stronger lemon flavor, add an extra tablespoon of lemon juice or a few drops of lemon extract to the filling.
• Add Fresh Berries: Add a layer of fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries to the filling for extra color and flavor.
• Decorate with Lemon Zest: Garnish the top of the roll with extra lemon zest or a few lemon slices for a decorative touch.

How to Store Leftovers

Wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This roll can also be frozen for up to 1 month; wrap it well, and thaw in the fridge before serving.