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As the holiday season approaches, I love to bake festive treats that bring warmth and joy to my family gatherings. One of my favorite recipes is the Christmas Cake Roll, a delightful and visually stunning dessert that’s perfect for celebrations. In this article, I’ll share my step-by-step guide to making this delicious cake, along with tips to ensure your creation is nothing short of spectacular.
A Christmas Cake Roll is a light and fluffy cake filled with whipped cream and rolled into a beautiful cylindrical shape, often adorned with festive colors like red and green. This treat not only tastes amazing but also makes for an impressive holiday centerpiece.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Before diving into the cake preparation, gathering all ingredients is crucial for a smooth baking experience. I always begin by sifting the cake flour twice. This aeration process is essential for achieving a light texture. Next, I measure out 6g of red yeast rice powder and mix it with 20g of hot water, covering it with plastic wrap to let it steep. I do the same for matcha powder, resulting in vibrant green and red colorants that will add festive flair to my cake.
Step 2: Make the Egg Yolk Batter
With my ingredients prepped, I move on to making the egg yolk batter. In a mixing bowl, I combine 50g of corn oil and 50g of milk, whisking until well blended. Gradually, I add 52g of sifted cake flour to the mixture, ensuring there are no dry spots. Once that’s smooth, I stir in 80g of egg yolks until I create a lump-free batter. I then divide this batter into two equal parts: one gets mixed with the prepared red yeast rice, while the other blends with the vibrant matcha mixture.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg White Meringue
Next up is the egg white meringue. I use a clean bowl to beat 160g of egg whites until foamy. Gradually, I add 60g of powdered sugar, which helps stabilize the meringue. I continue beating until the volume doubles. After that, I carefully incorporate the remaining sugar in two additions, ensuring I whip it to a glossy, semi-stiff peak. This step is critical as it creates the structure for my cake.
Step 4: Combine the Mixtures
With both mixtures ready, I preheat my oven to 180°C (356°F). I take one-third of the egg white meringue and gently fold it into the red yeast egg yolk batter, being careful not to deflate it. Once combined, I fold this mixture back into the remaining egg white meringue. This gentle folding process is key to maintaining the airy texture of the batter.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
To create the gorgeous marbled effect, I transfer the matcha batter into a piping bag. On a silicone baking mat, I pipe alternating lines of the red and green batter. After I finish piping, I carefully bake my creation in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Once baked, it’s crucial to let the cake cool on a wire rack before peeling away the silicone mat—this prevents it from sticking.
Step 6: Prepare the Filling
While the cake cools, I prepare the whipped cream filling. In a clean bowl, I combine 350g of heavy cream with 20g of powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer, I whip the cream until it reaches soft peaks. This creamy filling is what makes the cake roll so delicious and adds a wonderful richness.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake Roll
After the cake has cooled, I flip it upside down and trim the edges at a 45-degree angle for easier rolling. I generously spread the whipped cream over the cake, focusing on a thicker layer in the center. Using the silicone mat as a guide, I roll the cake tightly, sealing the edges as I go. Finally, I wrap the rolled cake in the mat and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight. This chilling time helps the cake hold its shape.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
After a long wait, the moment has arrived! I slice the Christmas Cake Rolls into beautiful pieces, and each cut reveals the stunning marbled pattern. This lovely dessert is perfect for sharing during Christmas gatherings. My family always appreciates the delicious flavors and the festive presentation.
FAQ
How do I know when the cake is baked?
The cake is done when it springs back lightly to the touch and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Can I customize the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to add fruit purées or flavored extracts to the whipped cream for a personalized touch.
How long can I store the cake roll?
The cake roll can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep it tightly wrapped.
Conclusion
Making a Christmas Cake Roll is a delightful holiday tradition that anyone can enjoy. It’s perfect for impressing guests or brightening your dessert table. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the joy of sharing homemade treats during the festive season! If you’re looking for more holiday recipes, check out my other festive baking ideas. Happy baking!
