Jam roll, also known as Swiss roll or jelly roll, is a classic dessert that is popular in many parts of the world. This sweet treat consists of a thin sheet of sponge cake that is filled with jam or jelly, then rolled up into a spiral shape. The result is a delicious and visually appealing dessert that is perfect for special occasions or for a sweet treat anytime.
The sponge cake used in jam roll is typically light and airy, with a delicate crumb that is perfect for rolling. This is achieved by whipping egg whites and sugar together until they are light and fluffy, then folding in the rest of the ingredients. Flour, baking powder, and sometimes cornstarch are added to the mixture to create a batter that can be spread evenly in a baking sheet.
Once the sponge cake is baked, it is removed from the oven and immediately turned out onto a clean kitchen towel that has been dusted with powdered sugar. The cake is then rolled up tightly in the towel, which helps to shape it and prevent it from cracking as it cools.
After the cake has cooled, it is unrolled and spread with a generous layer of jam or jelly. Common flavors of jam used in jam roll include raspberry, strawberry, and apricot, but you can use any flavor that you prefer. Once the jam has been spread, the cake is rolled up again, this time without the towel, into a tight spiral shape.
Jam roll can be served as is, dusted with powdered sugar or decorated with whipped cream and fresh fruit. It is a popular dessert for special occasions such as birthdays, weddings, and holidays, but it can also be enjoyed as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Advantages Of Jam Roll
One of the advantages of jam roll is that it is a relatively simple dessert to make, with just a few basic ingredients required. The sponge cake can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to use, which can make it a convenient dessert option for those who are short on time.
Jam roll is also a versatile dessert that can be customized in many ways. You can experiment with different flavors of jam or jelly, or even try using other fillings such as whipped cream or custard. You can also add additional flavorings to the sponge cake batter, such as vanilla extract or lemon zest, to give it a unique taste.
Here's a simple recipe for jam roll that you can try at home:
Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup jam or jelly of your choice
- Powdered sugar for dusting