Lykkers, here’s a dessert that’s not just pretty to look at but also easy to make and wonderfully tasty. The apricot Swiss Roll is a light, rolled cake with a soft sponge and a fruity filling that brings a smile to everyone’s face.
This rolled dessert is enjoyed in many parts of the world and has earned its place as a classic due to its fluffy texture, lovely flavor, and simple process. Let’s explore its charm and learn how to make it perfectly at home.
What Is an Apricot Swiss Roll?
A soft roll with a fruity heart
The apricot Swiss Roll, also known simply as “Swiss Roll,” is a rolled sponge cake with a thin layer of apricot jam or fruit spread inside.
Although the exact story behind its name is unclear, the recipe has appeared in various cookbooks since the 19th century and has been adapted in many different ways.
This dessert is praised for being easy to prepare, light in texture, and wonderfully moist when made well. It's also flexible—you can choose different fillings like fruit jams, honey, or light chocolate spreads, depending on your taste.
Ideal for all occasions
Whether served at tea time, shared during a gathering, or enjoyed as a light dessert after meals, the apricot Swiss Roll always brings a delightful touch to the table. Plus, it doesn’t require expensive ingredients or complicated techniques.
Let’s Get Baking: Ingredients and Instructions
What you’ll need (for 6–10 servings)
- Eggs: 5
- Granulated sugar: 120 g
- All-purpose flour (type 00 or similar): 95 g
- Baking powder: 3 g
- Sunflower seed oil: 45 g
- Milk: 55 g
- Vanilla extract: 1 tablespoon
- Apricot jam (or honey): as needed
Tools
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Oven and rectangular baking tray
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step preparation
1. Preheat and prepare
Heat the oven to 170°C (static) or 160°C (fan). Line a rectangular tray with parchment paper.
2. Separate and whip the eggs
Split the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites until they start to firm up, then gradually add 60 g of sugar (in three portions) while continuing to mix until they form a stiff, glossy texture.
3. Beat the yolks
In a separate bowl, beat the yolks with the remaining 60 g of sugar until the mixture becomes pale and triples in volume.
4. Combine the mixtures
Gently fold the whipped yolks into the meringue (the beaten whites), adding the vanilla extract. Use a spatula and mix from the bottom up to keep the batter airy.
5. Incorporate dry ingredients
Sift together the flour and baking powder. Slowly add them into the mixture, folding carefully.
6. Blend in liquids
In a cup, mix the oil and milk. Take two tablespoons of the batter and stir into this mix to lighten it. Then gently fold it back into the main batter.
7. Bake
Pour the batter into the lined tray, spread evenly, and tap lightly to remove air bubbles. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden.
8. Cool and roll
Once baked, turn the sponge out onto another sheet of parchment paper. Carefully peel off the bottom layer of parchment. While still warm, trim the edges and make a shallow diagonal cut at one short end (to help with rolling). Make light cuts across the surface to guide the roll, being careful not to slice through.
9. Fill and roll up
Spread a layer of apricot jam across the surface. Using the parchment paper to help, roll the sponge tightly from the cut end.
10. Chill and serve
Wrap the roll in parchment and secure with tape. Place in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. After resting, slice into rounds and serve.
A Sweet and Satisfying Ending
The apricot Swiss Roll is a soft, light dessert that’s simple enough for everyday enjoyment but elegant enough to share at special gatherings. Its gentle flavor, moist texture, and beautiful spiral appearance make it a favorite that appeals to all ages. Try making it with different fruit spreads, or decorate it with a dusting of sugar for extra charm.
Thanks for baking along, Lykkers! Keep this recipe on hand for sweet moments, and stay tuned for more cheerful creations that are easy, fun, and full of flavor.
