Japanese Cotton Candy Swiss Cake Roll Recipe

Japanese Cotton Candy Swiss Cake Roll Recipe

Discover the art of crafting a delicate Japanese cotton candy Swiss cake roll, a dreamy dessert that melts in your mouth. This recipe combines the fluffiness of Japanese sponge cake with the whimsical sweetness of cotton candy for a treat that delights both the eyes and the taste buds.

Ingredients

For the Sponge Cake:

4 large eggs, separated

80g (1/3 cup) granulated sugar, divided

50g (1/3 cup) cake flour, sifted

20g (2 tbsp) cornstarch

30ml (2 tbsp) milk

20ml (1 tbsp) vegetable oil

1/4 tsp vanilla extract

For the Filling:

200ml (1 cup) heavy cream, chilled

20g (2 tbsp) powdered sugar

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

A handful of colorful cotton candy

Instructions

Preparing the Sponge Cake

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Line a 30x40cm (12×16-inch) jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. Whip Egg Whites: In a clean, grease-free bowl, beat the egg whites using a hand or stand mixer until frothy. Gradually add 50g of granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while beating until stiff peaks form.
3. Prepare Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the remaining 30g of sugar until pale and thick. Add milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift the cake flour and cornstarch into the egg yolk mixture, folding gently to avoid deflating the batter.
5. Incorporate Egg Whites: Fold one-third of the whipped egg whites into the egg yolk mixture to lighten it. Then gently fold in the remaining egg whites in two additions, ensuring a uniform batter.
6. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to release air bubbles. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the top springs back when touched lightly.
7. Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and immediately transfer it (with the parchment paper) to a cooling rack. Cover with a clean kitchen towel to retain moisture.

Making the Whipped Cream Filling

1. Whip the Cream: In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
2. Add Cotton Candy: Gently tear small pieces of cotton candy and fold them into the whipped cream. This adds a light, sweet, and whimsical flavor to the filling.

Assembling the Cake Roll

1. Prepare the Cake for Rolling: Once the sponge cake has cooled, gently peel off the parchment paper. Place the cake on a fresh sheet of parchment paper. Trim the edges for a clean finish.
2. Apply the Filling: Spread the cotton candy whipped cream evenly over the cake, leaving a 2cm (1-inch) border on one short side to prevent spillage.
3. Roll the Cake: Starting from the short side with the filling, carefully roll the cake into a tight spiral using the parchment paper to guide you. Wrap the rolled cake in parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.

Decorating the Cake

1. Add Cotton Candy: Before serving, decorate the top of the Swiss roll with additional cotton candy for a whimsical touch.
2. Optional Decorations: Dust with powdered sugar or add edible glitter for a festive flair.

Tips for Success

Handle the Sponge Gently: The key to a fluffy roll is to avoid deflating the batter when folding the ingredients. Use a light hand and gentle motions.

Prevent Cracking: Roll the cake while it’s slightly warm to prevent cracks. Refrigerating the roll helps it maintain its shape.

Cotton Candy Care: Add the cotton candy just before serving to prevent it from melting into the cream or absorbing moisture.

Pairing Suggestions

This Japanese cotton candy Swiss cake roll pairs perfectly with a cup of matcha tea or a light fruit punch. Its airy texture and sweetness balance well with mildly bitter or fruity beverages.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Japanese cotton candy Swiss cake roll is more than a dessert—it’s an experience. Its ethereal lightness and whimsical appearance make it a showstopper for parties, birthdays, or any special occasion. Plus, the combination of soft sponge, creamy filling, and sweet cotton candy ensures every bite is pure bliss.

Conclusion

With its dreamy texture and captivating presentation, the Japanese cotton candy Swiss cake roll is a recipe that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at something new, this dessert brings a touch of magic to your table.

Ready to bring a taste of Japan to your kitchen? Try this recipe today and create a dessert that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.