Prep Time: ~25 minutes
Bake Time: ~12–15 minutes
Chill Time: ~1–2 hours
Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: ~8–10 servings
Introduction
Sweetheart Strawberry Roll Cake is a light, fluffy dessert that features a tender sponge cake rolled around creamy sweet filling and fresh strawberries. With its pretty swirls and bright berry flavor, this roll cake is perfect for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, brunch dessert tables, or anytime you want a delightful show-stopping dessert.
Why This Cake Is So Loved
This dessert combines airy cake, smooth sweet cream, and juicy strawberries for a perfect balance of texture and flavor. The rolled format creates elegant swirls that look beautiful when sliced, and the fresh fruit adds brightness and sweetness. It’s lighter than traditional layer cakes but equally impressive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Sponge Cake
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs (room temperature)
- Vanilla extract
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Optional: a touch of strawberry puree or pink gel food coloring for color
For the Filling
- Heavy cream or whipping cream
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
- Optional: strawberry jam or preserves
For Finishing
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Extra strawberries for garnish
The Art of a Perfect Roll Cake
The key to a beautiful roll cake is baking a thin, flexible sponge that doesn’t crack when rolled. Rolling the warm cake in a towel while it cools trains it to hold shape and prevents breaks. Light, sweet cream filling keeps the bite tender and creamy, while fresh strawberries lend color and juicy freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a jelly roll pan or baking sheet with parchment and lightly grease it.
2. Make the Sponge Batter
In a bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- A pinch of salt
In a separate bowl, beat:
- Eggs
- Sugar
- Vanilla extract
until the mixture is pale and fluffy.
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined.
Optional: fold in a bit of strawberry puree or a few drops of pink food coloring for festive color.
3. Bake the Sponge
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
Bake 12–15 minutes, until the cake springs back when touched and edges are lightly golden.
4. Roll the Cake
While the cake bakes, lay a clean kitchen towel on the counter and dust it lightly with powdered sugar.
As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, invert it onto the prepared towel.
Peel off the parchment, then gently roll the cake with the towel from one short end — this helps shape the roll and prevents cracking.
Let cool completely.
5. Prepare the Filling
In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
Fold in sliced strawberries or swirl in strawberry jam if using.
6. Unroll & Fill
Once the cake is cool, carefully unroll it.
Spread an even layer of whipped cream and strawberry filling over the cake surface.
7. Re-Roll & Chill
Roll the cake back up (without the towel) into a tight spiral.
Wrap lightly and chill in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours to set.
8. Garnish & Serve
Dust the top with powdered sugar before slicing.
Serve with extra fresh strawberries on the side for a pretty presentation.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t overbake the sponge — it should be pliable and soft.
- Roll while warm to prevent cracks.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- Add a thin layer of strawberry jam under the whipped cream for extra berry intensity.
- Chill well — this makes slicing cleaner and the cake easier to serve.
Creative Variations
- Chocolate Strawberry Roll: add a bit of cocoa to the sponge and use chocolate shavings in the filling.
- Lemon Berry Twist: add lemon zest to the cream filling for brightness.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: use a sweetened cream cheese layer instead of whipped cream.
- Mixed Berries: include raspberries or blueberries with the strawberries.
- Nut Crunch: add finely chopped toasted almonds or pistachios to the filling for texture.
Storage & Freshness
Store the roll cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days.
Add fresh strawberries just before serving to keep them bright and juicy.
Conclusion
Sweetheart Strawberry Roll Cake is a beautiful, light, and flavorful dessert that’s perfect for celebrations or anytime you want a pretty treat. With its tender sponge, creamy filling, and fresh berry goodness, it’s sure to be a favorite!
