Dessert

Japanese Swiss Roll Recipe

Name: Japanese Swiss Roll Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 4 large eggs; 100g granulated sugar; 80g all-purpose flour; 20g cornstarch; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 30g unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 200ml heavy cream; 30g powdered sugar; Fresh fruits (optional, for filling)

ByMatteo Rossi March 31, 2026March 31, 2026

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Introduction

The Japanese Swiss Roll is a light and fluffy cake rolled with creamy filling, perfect for any occasion. Its soft texture and subtle sweetness make it a delightful treat to enjoy with fresh fruits or on its own.

The image shows a yellow Swiss roll cake on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. The cake has one visible spiral layer with a thick smooth white cream filling inside. On top of the roll are small white cream dollops spaced evenly, each topped with a bright red strawberry and a small green mint leaf. The cake’s outer layer looks soft and spongy, dusted lightly with white powdered sugar. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 large eggs
100g granulated sugar
80g all-purpose flour
20g cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
30g unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
200ml heavy cream
30g powdered sugar (for whipped cream)
Fresh fruits (for filling, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture is thick and pale.
Step 3: Sift the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking powder together. Gently fold this dry mixture into the egg and sugar blend.
Step 4: Add the melted unsalted butter and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined.
Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
Step 6: Bake for 10-12 minutes until the cake is lightly golden and springs back when touched.
Step 7: Turn the cake out onto a kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar and carefully remove the parchment paper.
Step 8: Roll the cake up in the towel while it cools completely.
Step 9: Whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
Step 10: Unroll the cooled cake and spread the whipped cream evenly on top. Add fresh fruits if desired.
Step 11: Roll the cake back up without the towel, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about an hour to set.
Step 12: Slice and serve your delicious Japanese Swiss Roll!

Tips & Variations

For a different flavor, try adding matcha powder to the batter or using flavored whipped cream.
If fresh fruits are not available, jam or fruit preserves work well as an alternative filling.
Make sure to roll the cake while warm to prevent cracking.

Storage

Store the Japanese Swiss Roll wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best texture, consume within this time. Reheat slightly in the fridge before serving; avoid microwaving as it may change the texture of the cream and sponge.

How to Serve

A soft yellow Swiss roll cake with a smooth, light texture is shown on a white plate. The cake is rolled with a thick layer of white cream inside, forming a spiral shape. The outside of the roll is dusted lightly with powdered sugar. On top, several spots of whipped cream sit evenly spaced, each topped with a fresh red strawberry and a small green mint leaf. The background features a white marbled surface with a blurred view of a gold fork and spoon nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?

All-purpose flour works best to achieve the light texture, but you can substitute with cake flour for an even softer cake.

How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?

Rolling the cake while it’s still warm, using a lightly dusted kitchen towel, helps prevent cracks. Be gentle and avoid overfilling with cream or fruits.