Save to Pinterest A light and airy matcha sponge cake rolled with a tangy cranberry-studded whipped cream, perfect for tea time or a festive dessert.
I first created this Matcha Swiss Roll for a holiday gathering and it became the centerpiece of our dessert table—the combination of vibrant green cake and crimson cranberry cream wowed everyone.
Ingredients
- Sponge Cake: 4 large eggs (separated), 100 g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar (divided), 2 tbsp vegetable oil, 2 tbsp whole milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 70 g (2/3 cup) cake flour (sifted), 2 tbsp matcha powder (sifted), 1/4 tsp salt
- Cranberry Cream: 200 ml (3/4 cup + 2 tbsp) heavy whipping cream (chilled), 2 tbsp powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 80 g (2/3 cup) fresh or frozen cranberries, 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for cranberries), 2 tbsp water
- Finishing: Powdered sugar (for dusting), Additional cranberries or mint (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Pan:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 23x33 cm (9x13-inch) jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- Make Cranberry Compote:
- In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, 2 tbsp sugar, and 2 tbsp water. Simmer over medium heat until cranberries pop and mixture thickens (5-7 minutes). Cool completely, then roughly chop.
- Prepare Egg Yolk Mixture:
- Beat egg yolks with 50 g sugar until pale and thick. Stir in oil, milk, and vanilla.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- Sift cake flour, matcha powder, and salt together. Fold into yolk mixture until just combined.
- Beat Egg Whites:
- In a clean bowl, whisk egg whites until foamy. Gradually add remaining 50 g sugar and beat to stiff peaks.
- Fold and Bake:
- Gently fold egg whites into the matcha batter in three additions. Pour batter into prepared pan, smoothing the top. Bake 11-13 minutes, or until sponge springs back when touched.
- Roll the Cake:
- Let cool 2 minutes, then turn cake onto a clean tea towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off parchment. While warm, roll cake up in the towel (short end), and cool completely.
- Prepare Cranberry Cream:
- Whip cream with powdered sugar and vanilla to soft peaks. Fold in chopped cranberries.
- Fill and Assemble:
- Unroll cooled cake. Spread cranberry cream evenly, leaving a 2 cm (3/4-inch) border. Gently re-roll the cake.
- Finish and Serve:
- Trim edges for a neat appearance. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish as desired. Chill at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Save to Pinterest This Swiss roll recipe is now requested at every family get-together around the holidays because it is both beautiful and delicious.
Required Tools
Electric mixer, jelly roll pan (23x33 cm / 9x13-inch), parchment paper, saucepan, flexible spatula, clean tea towel
Allergen Information
Contains eggs, dairy (cream, milk), and gluten (wheat flour). Always check ingredient labels for cross-contamination if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 195, Total Fat: 10 g, Carbohydrates: 22 g, Protein: 4 g
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this festive treat with a cup of green tea—each slice is a celebration of sweet and tangy flavors.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I keep the sponge cake light and airy?
Use properly whipped egg whites, folding them gently into the batter. Avoid over-mixing to preserve airiness.
- → Can I use raspberries instead of cranberries for the filling?
Yes, raspberries can easily replace cranberries for a similar tart flavor. Adjust sugar if needed for sweetness.
- → What is the best way to roll the cake without cracking?
Roll the sponge in a towel while still warm, then let it cool completely before filling and re-rolling.
- → Is this dessert suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it uses eggs and dairy but contains no meat or gelatin, making it suitable for vegetarian diets.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare and chill the roll in advance. It's best enjoyed within a day for maximum freshness.
- → How do I achieve neat slices?
Chill the rolled dessert before slicing and use a sharp, thin knife cleaned between cuts for tidy presentation.
- → What beverage pairs well with this?
Enjoy with green tea or a light sparkling wine to complement the flavors and cleanse the palate.