If you adore the classic flavors of tiramisu but want a fun and elegant twist, this Tiramisu Swiss Roll Recipe is going to become your new favorite dessert. Imagine a light and spongy chocolate cake rolled up with luscious mascarpone cream, enhanced by a generous brush of coffee syrup that brings that beloved rich, bold kick. Every bite melts in your mouth with layers of flavor and texture, making it a stunning centerpiece for any gathering or a delightful treat to indulge in at home. I can’t wait to walk you through making this irresistible dessert step-by-step!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Tiramisu Swiss Roll Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to create the perfect balance of moist cake, creamy filling, and that unmistakable coffee aroma. From the eggs that give the cake its airy rise to the mascarpone that lends the creamy richness, these ingredients come together to make magic happen in your kitchen.
- 4 large eggs: Provide structure and help create a fluffy, tender sponge.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps stabilize the eggs when beaten.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cake’s flavor.
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour: The base of the sponge, providing the necessary body.
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: Infuses the cake with rich chocolate flavor and a beautiful dark hue.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise just enough for the perfect roll.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the chocolate and balances sweetness.
- Powdered sugar: For dusting the towel, which prevents the cake from sticking during rolling.
- 1/3 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled): Infuses that signature tiramisu coffee taste into the cake.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Sweetens the coffee syrup slightly without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional): Adds an adult-friendly boozy depth, but feel free to skip for a kid-friendly dessert.
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese (softened): The creamy heart of the filling, rich and velvety.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Whipped to add lightness and fluffiness to the filling.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the mascarpone filling perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the filling flavor with subtle warmth.
- Cocoa powder (for dusting): Gives that classic tiramisu finishing touch.
- Chocolate shavings or curls (optional): Adds an elegant and decorative flair at serving.
How to Make Tiramisu Swiss Roll Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Cake
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), and line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whip the eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes thick, pale, and fluffy — this usually takes about five minutes with an electric mixer. Next, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, being careful not to overmix to keep the batter light. Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan and pop it into the oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until a light touch springs the cake back. This perfectly baked sponge will be the base for your roll.
Step 2: Roll the Cake While Warm
As soon as you take the cake out of the oven, dust a clean kitchen towel generously with powdered sugar to keep things from sticking. Turn the warm cake out onto the towel, carefully peel off the parchment paper, then roll it up tightly from the short end of the cake. Wrapping the cake this way while still warm is crucial because it helps the sponge set in the rolled shape and prevents cracking later. Set it aside to cool completely while you prepare the rest.
Step 3: Make the Coffee Syrup and Filling
While the cake is cooling, mix together the cooled strong brewed coffee, sugar, and coffee liqueur (if using) to create your coffee syrup. This syrup will give the cake that classic tiramisu coffee flavor and moist texture. For the filling, beat the mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture becomes smooth and fluffy — it should be light yet thick enough to hold its shape when spread.
Step 4: Assemble the Swiss Roll
Once your cake has cooled fully, gently unroll it from the towel, taking care not to tear the sponge. Brush the inside thoroughly with the coffee syrup; this is where the tiramisu magic really shines. Then spread the mascarpone filling evenly over the surface. Re-roll the cake without the towel, placing the seam side down on your serving plate to keep it neat and tidy. Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully.
How to Serve Tiramisu Swiss Roll Recipe
Garnishes
A dusting of cocoa powder on top immediately gives your Tiramisu Swiss Roll Recipe that signature look and subtle bitterness to balance the sweetness. For an extra touch of elegance and texture, sprinkle chocolate shavings or curls over the top. These details not only look stunning but add a delightful contrast to each creamy bite.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines splendidly on its own, but if you want to serve with a side, consider fresh raspberries or a simple berry compote. Their tartness complements the coffee and mascarpone flavors wonderfully. Alternatively, a small scoop of vanilla gelato alongside can elevate the experience, creating a decadent Italian-inspired treat.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, slice the roll into thick pieces and arrange them on a slate board with berry accents and mint leaves for color. You can also pipe extra whipped mascarpone cream rosettes around the plate for an eye-catching finish. Wrapping individual cake slices in parchment for picnics or parties adds charm and convenience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once assembled, the Tiramisu Swiss Roll Recipe should be stored in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh. It will hold its best quality for up to three days, making it perfect to prepare in advance for any occasion.
Freezing
You can freeze the roll by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Note that freezing may slightly change the texture of the mascarpone filling, making it denser but still delicious.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating isn’t recommended. Allow it to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving if it feels too firm from refrigeration or thawing, ensuring the filling regains its creamy softness.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without coffee liqueur?
Absolutely! The coffee liqueur is optional and can be skipped or replaced with more brewed coffee to make the dessert kid-friendly or alcohol-free without losing the authentic tiramisu flavor.
What if my cake cracks when rolling?
If the sponge cracks, it usually means it was rolled when too cool or slightly dry. To avoid that, immediately roll the cake while warm and use a powdered sugar-dusted towel to prevent sticking. If cracks happen, don’t worry—the filling and syrup will help mask imperfections!
Can I use a different filling instead of mascarpone?
Mascarpone is traditional for tiramisu because of its creamy texture and subtle tang, but you could substitute with cream cheese mixed with heavy cream for a similar effect. Keep in mind the flavor and texture might shift slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! The Tiramisu Swiss Roll Recipe contains no meat products and uses vegetarian-friendly ingredients, making it a perfect choice for vegetarian dessert lovers.
How far in advance can I make this dessert?
This dessert can be made up to a day ahead, which actually enhances the flavor as the coffee and mascarpone meld together beautifully when chilled overnight. Just store it well covered in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
This Tiramisu Swiss Roll Recipe is a total delight that brings together classic tiramisu flavors in a gorgeous rolled cake form that’s both fun to make and impressive to serve. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a decadent treat for yourself, this dessert will not disappoint. Grab your ingredients, gather your enthusiasm, and give this recipe a try — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Tiramisu Swiss Roll Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Tiramisu Swiss Roll is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert. Featuring a light cocoa sponge cake rolled with a creamy mascarpone filling and infused with coffee syrup, this dessert offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s elegantly dusted with cocoa powder and optionally garnished with chocolate shavings, making it an impressive yet approachable treat ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar (for dusting towel)
For the Coffee Syrup:
- 1/3 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional)
For the Filling:
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- Cocoa powder (for dusting)
- Chocolate shavings or curls (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together using an electric mixer until the mixture is thick, pale, and fluffy, about 5 minutes. This aeration is key to a soft and tender cake.
- Combine Dry Ingredients and Fold: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients gently into the beaten egg mixture, being careful not to overmix to keep the batter light and airy.
- Bake the Cake: Pour and spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Roll the Cake While Warm: Immediately after baking, dust a clean kitchen towel liberally with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Turn the warm cake out onto the towel, carefully peel off the parchment paper, and roll the cake up in the towel starting from the short end. This shapes the cake and prevents cracking. Allow the rolled cake to cool completely.
- Make the Coffee Syrup: While the cake cools, stir together the brewed coffee, sugar, and coffee liqueur (if using) in a small bowl until the sugar dissolves completely. Set aside.
- Prepare the Mascarpone Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened mascarpone cheese with heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This creamy filling adds richness and indulgence to the dessert.
- Assemble the Swiss Roll: Once the cake has fully cooled, gently unroll it from the towel. Brush the inside of the cake with the prepared coffee syrup to infuse coffee flavor and moisture. Spread the mascarpone filling evenly over the entire surface of the cake.
- Re-roll and Chill: Carefully roll the cake back up without the towel, ensuring the filling stays intact. Place the roll seam-side down on a serving plate. Chill the roll in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set.
- Finish and Serve: Before serving, dust the Tiramisu Swiss Roll generously with cocoa powder and optionally decorate with chocolate shavings or curls for an elegant presentation. Slice and enjoy this exquisite coffee-infused dessert.
Notes
- Ensure the cake is fully cooled before spreading the filling to prevent melting or slipping.
- Skip the coffee liqueur if preparing the dessert for children or for a non-alcoholic version.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
