Ycaroh's Kitchen blog

Traditional Roll Cake: The Pernambucan Delight

bolo de rolo bem nordestino

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time

10 minutes per layer (about 40 minutes total)

Total Time

1 hour

Servings

10

Yield

1 roll cake

Calories

Approximately 280 calories
Step into a world of exquisite flavor with the Traditional Roll Cake, a culinary masterpiece from Pernambuco, Brazil. This delicate dessert is crafted with the utmost care, featuring thin layers of soft, airy sponge cake rolled with a sweet and tangy guava paste filling. Each slice unveils a mesmerizing spiral, showcasing the artistry behind this beloved treat. The contrast between the light cake and the rich guava filling creates a harmonious blend of flavors, making it a sophisticated choice for any occasion. Perfect as a refined dessert or a luxurious afternoon snack, this roll cake is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Pernambuco.

Ingredients

  • 4 large eggs, separated
  • 1 cup of granulated sugar
  • 1 cup of all-purpose flour, sifted
  • 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 cup of guava paste, thinly sliced or melted for easier spreading

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the paper.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with half the sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the melted butter and vanilla.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
  4. Gently fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture. Sift the flour over the mixture and fold in gently until just combined.
  5. Spread the batter evenly onto the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
  6. Immediately turn the cake onto a clean kitchen towel sprinkled with sugar. Peel off the parchment paper.
  7. While the cake is still hot, roll it up with the towel from the short end. Let it cool completely.
  8. Unroll the cake gently. Spread a thin layer of guava paste over the cake. Roll the cake up again, without the towel.
  9. Chill before serving. Slice with a serrated knife for clean cuts.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a smoother filling, melt the guava paste with a little water over low heat until spreadable.
  • The key to a perfect roll is rolling the cake while it’s still warm. This prevents cracking.
  • Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.

Mise en Place

Ingredients

Utensils

  • Large eggs
  • Granulated sugar
  • All-purpose flour
  • Unsalted butter
  • Vanilla extract
  • Salt
  • Guava paste
  • 15×10-inch jelly roll pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Large bowls
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Sifter
  • Kitchen towel
  • Serrated knife

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