Name: Tiramisu Swiss Roll
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 4 large eggs; 100 g granulated sugar (1/2 cup); 90 g all-purpose flour (3/4 cup); 10 g cornstarch (1 tbsp); 1 tbsp instant coffee powder; 250 g mascarpone cheese (1 cup); 200 ml heavy cream (3/4 cup); 80 g powdered sugar (2/3 cup); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)

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There’s something magical about rolling up flavors that usually rest in delicate layers. This Tiramisu Swiss Roll is like a playful twist on the Italian classic, bringing together a pillowy sponge cake, mascarpone cream, and that unmistakable dusting of cocoa. Each slice reveals a beautiful swirl of coffee-kissed goodness wrapped inside a tender sponge, making it both elegant and comforting. Trust me, you’re going to love this one, because it’s worth every bite.

Behind the Recipe

Tiramisu has always been a dessert that carries a sense of celebration. I remember the first time I tried rolling it into a cake instead of layering—it felt like turning tradition into something new yet familiar. The joy of slicing into the roll and seeing that perfect swirl instantly makes it a centerpiece dessert. It’s nostalgic yet playful, just like sharing coffee and cake with friends on a cozy afternoon.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Tiramisu itself hails from Italy, believed to have originated in the Veneto region in the 1960s. The word “tiramisu” translates to “pick me up,” referring to its energizing blend of coffee and cocoa. The Swiss Roll, however, has European roots, often found across bakeries in Switzerland, Austria, and beyond. Combining the two is a delightful fusion—Italian elegance meets Swiss practicality, wrapped up in a roll that feels both global and homey.

Why You’ll Love Tiramisu Swiss Roll

This dessert is more than just a pretty spiral. It brings together textures, flavors, and convenience in one irresistible package.

Versatile: Perfect for afternoon tea, birthdays, or holiday gatherings, this roll adapts beautifully to different occasions.

Budget-Friendly: With simple pantry staples like eggs, sugar, and cocoa, it doesn’t take much to create something extraordinary.

Quick and Easy: Unlike traditional tiramisu, which requires chilling in layers, this roll comes together faster with less waiting time.

Customizable: You can play with flavor variations like mocha, hazelnut, or even matcha.

Crowd-Pleasing: The swirl presentation never fails to impress, and everyone loves a slice.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the roll a day ahead and keep it chilled, making it a stress-free dessert option.

Great for Leftovers: If you have slices left, they stay moist and flavorful in the fridge for a few days.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Rolling a cake can be tricky, but with a few insider tricks, you’ll master it like a pro:

Roll the sponge while it’s warm, using parchment paper to guide the shape, so it doesn’t crack later.
Whip your mascarpone cream until just firm, not overbeaten, to keep it silky.
Dust with cocoa right before serving for the freshest look and flavor.
Let the roll rest in the fridge for at least an hour before slicing, so the flavors meld beautifully.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Before we dive into baking, gather your tools so the process flows smoothly:

Mixing Bowls: Essential for whisking eggs, sugar, and cream.
Electric Mixer: Saves time and effort when whipping egg whites and mascarpone cream.
Baking Tray: A Swiss roll tray or jelly roll pan gives you the perfect thin sponge.
Parchment Paper: Helps in rolling the sponge without sticking.
Fine Mesh Sieve: For dusting cocoa evenly on top.
Offset Spatula: Spreads the cream filling smoothly across the sponge.

Ingredients in Tiramisu Swiss Roll

The harmony of flavors in this roll comes from light sponge, creamy filling, and just the right balance of coffee and cocoa.

Eggs: 4 large provide structure and richness to the sponge.
Granulated Sugar: 100 g (1/2 cup) sweetens and helps stabilize the whipped eggs.
All-Purpose Flour: 90 g (3/4 cup) keeps the sponge tender and airy.
Cornstarch: 10 g (1 tbsp) lightens the texture of the cake.
Instant Coffee Powder: 1 tbsp adds that classic tiramisu flavor to the sponge.
Mascarpone Cheese: 250 g (1 cup) creates the creamy filling.
Heavy Cream: 200 ml (3/4 cup) whipped together with mascarpone for a fluffy texture.
Powdered Sugar: 80 g (2/3 cup) sweetens the filling without grittiness.
Vanilla Extract: 1 tsp rounds out the flavor of the cream.
Cocoa Powder: 2 tbsp for dusting, giving the roll its tiramisu finish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Sometimes you need to adapt, and that’s perfectly fine.

Mascarpone Cheese: Cream cheese blended with a little heavy cream works as a backup.
Instant Coffee Powder: Brewed espresso can be brushed lightly onto the sponge.
Heavy Cream: Whipping cream or double cream can be used instead.
All-Purpose Flour: Cake flour gives an even lighter sponge.

Ingredient Spotlight

Mascarpone Cheese: This soft Italian cheese is the heart of tiramisu. Its silky, buttery texture makes the cream filling luscious and rich without being too heavy.

Instant Coffee Powder: A tiny spoonful packs a punch, infusing the sponge with that deep, aromatic coffee note that defines tiramisu.

Instructions for Making Tiramisu Swiss Roll

Now comes the fun part—bringing everything together into a beautiful swirl of flavor.

Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a Swiss roll tin with parchment paper.
Combine Ingredients: Whisk the eggs and sugar together until pale and fluffy. Gently fold in sifted flour, cornstarch, and instant coffee powder.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Spread the batter evenly into the lined baking tray, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
Assemble the Dish: Bake for 10–12 minutes until the sponge springs back when lightly touched. Immediately turn it out onto parchment, roll it up gently, and let it cool.
Cook to Perfection: While the sponge cools, whip mascarpone, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and spreadable.
Finishing Touches: Unroll the sponge, spread the cream filling evenly, and re-roll carefully. Trim the edges for a clean look.
Serve and Enjoy: Dust generously with cocoa powder before slicing and serving chilled.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The beauty of this roll lies in contrasts—the airy sponge cake against the creamy mascarpone, the subtle bitterness of cocoa balancing the sweet filling, and the gentle coffee notes tying everything together. Every bite is a harmony of lightness and richness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

A few simple habits can make your roll a guaranteed success:

Always whisk eggs until ribbon stage for maximum sponge volume.
Chill the mixing bowl before whipping cream for faster results.
Use a serrated knife for clean, even slices without squashing the roll.

What to Avoid

Don’t let small mistakes ruin your masterpiece—here’s what to watch out for:

Rolling the sponge cold, which makes it crack. Roll it warm instead.
Overbeating mascarpone cream, which can turn it grainy.
Using too much filling, which can cause the roll to split open.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 285

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 37 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dessert is ideal for planning ahead. You can bake the sponge a day before, wrap it in parchment, and keep it at room temperature. The filled roll stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic and freeze for up to 1 month. Simply thaw in the fridge before enjoying.

How to Serve Tiramisu Swiss Roll

Serve chilled with a dusting of fresh cocoa powder. Pair with a shot of espresso for a traditional Italian vibe, or with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. For festive occasions, garnish with chocolate curls or coffee beans for a stunning centerpiece.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to give them a second life:

Slice into cubes and layer in parfait glasses with fruit for a mini trifle.
Freeze slices and dip them in melted chocolate for a tiramisu-inspired ice cream treat.
Crumble leftover sponge into cups, add cream, and enjoy a deconstructed tiramisu.

Additional Tips

If you want even more flavor, brush the sponge lightly with coffee syrup before spreading the filling. For a holiday twist, add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream. Keeping your knife clean between slices will give your roll picture-perfect spirals.

Make It a Showstopper

Presentation matters, and this roll is already halfway there. Place it on a sleek platter, dust it right before serving, and garnish with chocolate shavings or edible flowers. Slice it at the table for a little drama that makes everyone’s eyes widen in delight.

Variations to Try

Mocha Roll: Add a teaspoon of cocoa powder into the sponge batter for a deeper coffee-chocolate flavor.
Hazelnut Cream Roll: Fold ground hazelnuts into the filling for a nutty twist.
Matcha Tiramisu Roll: Swap coffee powder for matcha for a green tea version.
Berry Tiramisu Roll: Add a layer of fresh raspberries or strawberries inside the roll for a fruity lift.
Chocolate Swirl Roll: Mix melted chocolate into half the filling and swirl it before rolling.

FAQ’s

1. Can I make this without mascarpone?

Yes, cream cheese mixed with a little whipped cream works well as a substitute.

2. How do I prevent my roll from cracking?

Roll it while it’s warm with parchment paper to guide the shape.

3. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

4. How long does the roll stay fresh?

Up to 3 days in the refrigerator when covered properly.

5. Can I freeze the Tiramisu Swiss Roll?

Absolutely, wrap it tightly in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to 1 month.

6. What coffee is best to use?

Instant espresso powder gives the deepest flavor without excess liquid.

7. Do I need to soak the sponge with coffee?

Not necessary, but brushing with light coffee syrup adds extra intensity.

8. Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cream and a vegan mascarpone substitute.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking tray and adjust baking time slightly.

10. What’s the best way to slice the roll?

Use a serrated knife, wiping clean between slices for neat spirals.

Conclusion

This Tiramisu Swiss Roll is where elegance meets simplicity. It carries the familiar comfort of tiramisu, but with the playful surprise of a rolled presentation that feels both festive and inviting. Slice it, share it, and watch smiles appear with every bite. Trust me, this one’s a total game-changer—you’ll want to make it again and again.