Chocolate Swiss Roll

A chocolate Swiss roll, also known as a chocolate roulade, is a delightful dessert made from a light and fluffy chocolate sponge cake that is rolled up with a sweet filling. Here's a recipe to make a delicious chocolate Swiss roll:

Ingredients:

For the chocolate sponge:

• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the filling:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the chocolate ganache:

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 4 ounces dark chocolate, finely chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 10x15-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until pale and fluffy.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, gently folding them in until just combined.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the sponge is set and springs back when lightly touched.
8. While the sponge is baking, prepare the filling. In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
9. Once the sponge is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes.
10. Lay a clean kitchen towel on a flat surface and dust it lightly with powdered sugar.
11. Carefully invert the warm sponge onto the towel and gently peel off the parchment paper.
12. Starting at one short end, roll up the sponge along with the towel. This will help shape the Swiss roll.
13. Let the rolled sponge cool completely on a wire rack.
14. While the sponge is cooling, prepare the chocolate ganache. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for a minute, then whisk until smooth and shiny.
15. Carefully unroll the cooled sponge and spread the whipped cream filling evenly over the surface.
16. Roll the sponge back up, this time without the towel, using the filling as the glue to hold the roll together.
17. Transfer the rolled Swiss roll onto a serving platter or plate.
18. Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the roll, allowing it to drip down the sides.
19. Refrigerate the chocolate Swiss roll for at least 1 hour to set the ganache.
20. Slice and serve the chocolate Swiss roll, and enjoy!

The chocolate Swiss roll can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days. It's a delightful dessert for any occasion and sure to impress your guests or family.