There’s something irresistible about a light, fluffy cake infused with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon. A Lemon Roll Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the tangy freshness of lemons with a soft sponge cake, all rolled together with a creamy, luscious filling. It’s a show-stopping treat that is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic, afternoon tea, or a festive gathering.
Lemon-based desserts have long been a favorite for those who love a balance between sweetness and tartness. Unlike heavier cakes, a Lemon Roll Cake is refreshingly light, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy a dessert that doesn’t feel too rich or overwhelming. The combination of a sponge cake and a velvety lemon cream filling creates an indulgence that melts in your mouth, leaving behind a burst of citrusy goodness.
What is a Lemon Roll Cake?
A Lemon Roll Cake is a variation of the classic Swiss roll, made with a thin, airy sponge cake that is baked flat, spread with a lemon-infused filling, and carefully rolled into a spiral shape. The sponge cake is usually flavored with lemon zest and juice, giving it a natural citrus aroma and taste. The filling can be a combination of lemon curd, whipped cream, or a mascarpone-based cream, adding richness and depth to the flavor.
The magic of a roll cake lies in its presentation. Once sliced, each piece reveals a stunning swirl of cake and cream, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing. The light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of lemon glaze enhances its elegant look, making it a dessert that impresses both in taste and appearance.
For a similar rolled dessert with a spiced twist, check out this 10-Step Carrot Cake Roll Recipe – Moist & Spiced!.
The Popularity of Citrus-Based Desserts
Citrus-flavored desserts have been a staple in baking for centuries, and for good reason. The zesty, tangy notes of lemons, oranges, and limes cut through the sweetness of traditional desserts, creating a well-balanced flavor profile. Lemons, in particular, are widely used in baking because of their versatility—they pair beautifully with vanilla, berries, and even herbs like thyme and lavender.
Lemon Roll Cake is a standout in the world of citrus desserts because of its light texture and creamy filling, making it a refreshing alternative to dense cakes or pastries. It is especially popular in spring and summer when bright, fruity flavors are in high demand. However, thanks to its comforting yet invigorating taste, it remains a favorite year-round.
For another creative take on roll-up treats, try these 5-Step Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups – Easy & Delicious Recipe!.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re a fan of citrusy treats, this Lemon Roll Cake is bound to become one of your favorites. Here’s why:
✔ Light and Fluffy Texture – The sponge cake is soft and airy, making every bite delightful.
✔ Perfectly Balanced Flavor – The tanginess of lemon balances the sweetness, preventing it from being overpowering.
✔ Elegant and Impressive – Its beautiful spiral design makes it a great choice for special occasions.
✔ Customizable – You can switch up the filling, add fresh berries, or experiment with different toppings.
✔ Make-Ahead Friendly – It stores well, making it perfect for preparing in advance.
Ingredients for a Perfect Lemon Roll Cake
To achieve the perfect Lemon Roll Cake, you need the right balance of ingredients for both the sponge cake and the lemon filling. Below is a breakdown of everything you’ll need, including optional garnishes to enhance both taste and presentation.
Essential Ingredients for the Cake
A light and fluffy sponge cake is the foundation of a great roll cake. Unlike traditional cakes, roll cakes require a genoise-style sponge, which means they rely more on whipped eggs than baking powder or soda for their rise. Here’s what you’ll need:
✅ 4 large eggs – The key to a fluffy sponge; they help create structure and volume.
✅ ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar – Provides sweetness and helps stabilize the whipped eggs.
✅ 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
✅ 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – Adds a bright citrus kick to the sponge.
✅ 1 tablespoon lemon zest – Provides a concentrated lemon aroma and taste.
✅ ¾ cup (95g) all-purpose flour – Keeps the cake light and airy.
✅ 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the sponge rise slightly while staying pliable.
✅ ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
✅ ¼ cup (60ml) whole milk – Keeps the cake moist.
✅ 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – Ensures a soft, tender texture.
Ingredients for the Lemon Cream Filling
A Lemon Roll Cake wouldn’t be complete without a creamy, tangy filling. Here’s what you’ll need to make a silky-smooth lemon filling that complements the sponge cake perfectly:
✅ ½ cup (120ml) heavy whipping cream – Creates a light, fluffy texture.
✅ 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese or mascarpone – Adds richness and a slight tang.
✅ ½ cup (120g) lemon curd – Intensifies the lemon flavor and adds a creamy consistency.
✅ ¼ cup (30g) powdered sugar – Sweetens the filling without making it too heavy.
✅ 1 teaspoon lemon zest – Enhances the citrus flavor.
✅ ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth to the filling.
Additional Ingredients for Garnishing
To make your Lemon Roll Cake look as good as it tastes, consider adding these optional garnishes:
✅ Powdered sugar – A light dusting gives the cake a classic, elegant look.
✅ Lemon glaze – Made with powdered sugar and lemon juice, this enhances the lemony taste.
✅ Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries) – Adds color and a sweet contrast.
✅ Whipped cream – A dollop of whipped cream can elevate the texture and presentation.
✅ Mint leaves – A fresh, green contrast that makes the cake look more inviting.
Why These Ingredients Work
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in ensuring that the Lemon Roll Cake turns out light, flavorful, and visually appealing:
✔ Eggs and sugar – When whipped together, they create the airy structure of the sponge cake.
✔ Lemon zest and juice – These provide the cake with a natural citrus aroma and flavor.
✔ Flour and baking powder – The right combination ensures the cake remains soft and flexible for rolling.
✔ Heavy cream and cream cheese – These create a silky-smooth filling that complements the light sponge.
✔ Lemon curd – Intensifies the lemon flavor and prevents the filling from being too sweet.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Lemon Roll Cake
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s go through the step-by-step process to make a light, fluffy, and crack-free Lemon Roll Cake. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure perfect results!
Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter
A good roll cake starts with a soft and flexible sponge. To achieve this, follow these steps:
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch (25×38 cm) jelly roll pan with parchment paper. Lightly grease the paper to prevent sticking.
2️⃣ Whip the eggs and sugar. In a large mixing bowl, beat 4 large eggs and ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar on high speed using an electric mixer for 4-5 minutes. The mixture should become thick, pale, and triple in volume. This step is crucial, as it incorporates air into the batter, making the sponge light and fluffy.
3️⃣ Add the flavoring. Gently mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon lemon zest. Stir until just combined.
4️⃣ Sift the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together ¾ cup (95g) all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Gradually fold this mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula. Be gentle to avoid deflating the batter.
5️⃣ Incorporate the liquids. Warm ¼ cup (60ml) whole milk and 2 tablespoons vegetable oil slightly (do not boil). Stir them into the batter carefully to maintain the cake’s light texture.
Step 2: Baking the Perfect Sponge Cake
1️⃣ Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Spread it evenly using a spatula to ensure uniform thickness.
2️⃣ Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cake is lightly golden and springs back when touched. Avoid overbaking, as this can make the cake dry and prone to cracking.
3️⃣ Check for doneness. Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
4️⃣ Remove from the oven and loosen the edges with a knife to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Rolling the Cake Without Cracking
To achieve the perfect spiral shape without cracks, follow this technique:
1️⃣ Prepare a clean kitchen towel by dusting it with powdered sugar. This prevents the cake from sticking while rolling.
2️⃣ Flip the cake onto the towel. Carefully peel off the parchment paper.
3️⃣ Roll the cake while warm. Starting from the short side, gently roll the cake with the towel inside. This helps it form its shape without breaking.
4️⃣ Let it cool completely in the rolled-up shape for at least 1 hour. Cooling in this position helps prevent cracks when unrolling.
Step 4: Making the Creamy Lemon Filling
While the cake cools, prepare the rich and tangy lemon filling:
1️⃣ In a bowl, beat ½ cup (120ml) heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. Set aside.
2️⃣ In another bowl, mix 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese or mascarpone with ½ cup (120g) lemon curd, ¼ cup (30g) powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon lemon zest. Beat until smooth.
3️⃣ Fold in the whipped cream gently to maintain a light texture.
Step 5: Assembling and Chilling the Roll Cake
1️⃣ Carefully unroll the cooled sponge cake and remove the towel.
2️⃣ Spread the lemon filling evenly over the surface, leaving a ½-inch (1 cm) border to prevent overflow.
3️⃣ Re-roll the cake tightly without squeezing too hard.
4️⃣ Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set the filling.
Final Touches Before Serving
Before serving, garnish your Lemon Roll Cake with:
✔ A dusting of powdered sugar
✔ A drizzle of lemon glaze (optional)
✔ Fresh berries or mint leaves for decoration
Your Lemon Roll Cake is now ready to impress! 🎂🍋
Tips and Tricks for a Flawless Lemon Roll Cake
Making a Lemon Roll Cake can seem tricky, especially when it comes to rolling the sponge without cracking or achieving the perfect balance of flavors. Follow these expert tips to ensure your cake turns out light, fluffy, and beautifully rolled every time.
How to Prevent the Cake from Cracking
One of the most common challenges with roll cakes is cracking when rolling or unrolling. Here’s how to avoid that:
✔ Roll the cake while it’s warm – The sponge cake is most flexible when fresh from the oven. Rolling it immediately with a towel helps it “remember” its shape.
✔ Use a clean kitchen towel and powdered sugar – This prevents the cake from sticking and tearing.
✔ Don’t overbake – A dry sponge is more likely to crack. Remove the cake from the oven as soon as it springs back when touched.
✔ Cool completely in the rolled shape – Letting it rest in the towel helps maintain flexibility.
✔ Handle with care when unrolling – Go slowly and use gentle hands to prevent breakage.
Achieving the Perfect Lemon Flavor Balance
A Lemon Roll Cake should be zesty and refreshing without being overwhelmingly sour. Here’s how to get the best flavor:
✔ Use fresh lemon juice and zest – Bottled lemon juice lacks the fresh citrusy aroma that makes this cake special.
✔ Combine lemon with vanilla – A little vanilla extract softens the tartness and enhances the overall flavor.
✔ Sweeten the filling appropriately – Lemon curd is naturally tangy, so adjust the powdered sugar in the filling to taste.
✔ Let the flavors develop – Chilling the cake for at least 2 hours (or overnight) allows the lemony taste to blend beautifully.
Best Ways to Store and Serve
To keep your Lemon Roll Cake fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
✔ Refrigerate for up to 3 days – Keep it wrapped in plastic wrap or an airtight container to prevent drying out.
✔ Freeze for long-term storage – Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
✔ Best served chilled – The cake tastes best when slightly cold, as the filling firms up and the flavors intensify.
Pro Presentation Tips
Want your Lemon Roll Cake to look as good as it tastes? Try these ideas:
✔ Dust with powdered sugar – This creates a classic, elegant look.
✔ Drizzle with lemon glaze – A simple mixture of powdered sugar and lemon juice adds extra flavor and shine.
✔ Garnish with fresh berries and mint leaves – Adds color contrast and a refreshing touch.
✔ Slice with a sharp knife – Clean cuts reveal the beautiful spiral pattern inside.
By following these tips, your Lemon Roll Cake will not only taste amazing but will also look bakery-worthy! 🍋🎂
Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about a Lemon Roll Cake is its versatility. Whether you want to add new flavors, make it allergy-friendly, or experiment with different fillings, there are plenty of ways to customize this dessert to suit your taste. Here are some creative ideas!
Adding a Berry Twist
Lemon and berries are a match made in dessert heaven! If you want to add a fruity twist to your roll cake, try these options:
✔ Berry Filling – Mix mashed raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries into the lemon filling for an extra layer of flavor.
✔ Berry Jam Swirl – Spread a thin layer of strawberry or blueberry jam before adding the cream filling.
✔ Fresh Berries on Top – Garnish with sliced strawberries, whole raspberries, or blueberries for a colorful, fresh finish.
➡ Best Pairings: Lemon pairs especially well with raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries.
Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Alternatives
Want to make this cake gluten-free or dairy-free? No problem! Here’s how:
✔ Gluten-Free Option
- Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend (one that includes xanthan gum for elasticity).
- Bake 2-3 minutes longer, as gluten-free cakes tend to need slightly more time.
✔ Dairy-Free Option
- Replace milk with almond milk or coconut milk.
- Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for the filling.
- Swap cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative (such as cashew-based or tofu-based cream cheese).
Using Different Citrus Fruits
Lemon is a classic choice, but if you love citrus, why not experiment with other fruits?
✔ Orange Roll Cake – Use orange juice and zest instead of lemon for a sweeter, milder citrus flavor.
✔ Lime Roll Cake – Swap in lime juice and zest for a tropical-inspired twist.
✔ Grapefruit Roll Cake – If you enjoy a slightly bitter yet refreshing taste, try pink grapefruit zest and juice.
➡ Pro Tip: Combine different citrus fruits for a citrus medley roll cake! Example: Lemon-lime filling or orange-lemon sponge.
Chocolate and Lemon – An Unexpected Combo
If you love chocolate and citrus, try incorporating white chocolate into your Lemon Roll Cake:
✔ White Chocolate Lemon Filling – Melt ¼ cup (50g) white chocolate chips and mix them into the cream filling.
✔ Drizzle with White Chocolate – A white chocolate glaze adds a touch of elegance and sweetness.
✔ Lemon & Dark Chocolate Duo – Serve slices with a side of dark chocolate sauce for contrast.
Infusing Herbs for a Sophisticated Twist
For a unique and gourmet take on the Lemon Roll Cake, try adding herbs:
✔ Lavender Lemon Roll Cake – Add ½ teaspoon dried lavender to the cake batter for a floral touch.
✔ Lemon-Thyme Cake – Mix ¼ teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme into the filling for an earthy, citrusy balance.
✔ Basil-Lemon Combo – Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a refreshing, aromatic finish.
➡ Perfect for special occasions and elegant afternoon teas!
Mini Lemon Roll Cakes for Individual Servings
Want a fun, bite-sized version? Try making mini roll cakes:
✔ Cut the cake into small sections and roll them individually.
✔ Use cupcake liners to serve each mini roll neatly.
✔ Great for parties, buffets, and afternoon tea!
🔹 Berry Twist – Add raspberries or blueberries to the filling.
🔹 Gluten-Free Option – Swap all-purpose flour for gluten-free blend.
🔹 Chocolate & Lemon Combo – Drizzle with white chocolate for a gourmet touch.
For a different type of rolled meal, try the Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito – 5 Easy Steps!.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
A Lemon Roll Cake is already a stunning dessert on its own, but pairing it with the right drinks, toppings, and accompaniments can elevate the experience. Whether you’re serving it for a casual afternoon tea or a special celebration, here are the best ways to complement this citrusy delight.
Best Drinks to Serve with a Lemon Roll Cake
Pairing your Lemon Roll Cake with the right beverage enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness. Here are some excellent choices:
✔ Tea Pairings
- Earl Grey Tea – The bergamot citrus notes in Earl Grey beautifully complement the lemon flavor.
- Chamomile Tea – A mild, floral tea that balances the tangy lemon.
- Green Tea – The fresh, slightly bitter notes cleanse the palate between bites.
- Lavender Tea – Perfect if you’ve infused your cake with lavender for a floral touch.
✔ Coffee Pairings
- Espresso – The strong, bold flavors contrast with the lightness of the cake.
- Cappuccino or Latte – The creaminess of frothed milk complements the lemon filling.
- Iced Coffee – A chilled option that pairs well with a cold lemon roll cake.
✔ Refreshing Cold Drinks
- Lemonade – A double-lemon pairing for true citrus lovers.
- Iced Herbal Teas – Hibiscus or mint tea pairs well with the bright lemon flavor.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon Slices – A simple, elegant way to refresh your palate.
✔ Alcoholic Pairings
- Prosecco or Champagne – The bubbles and slight sweetness complement the citrusy cake.
- Limoncello Spritz – A delicious Italian-inspired pairing.
- White Wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling) – Crisp and slightly sweet, balancing the tangy lemon notes.
Toppings and Garnishes to Elevate the Look
A beautifully decorated Lemon Roll Cake makes an impression at any event. Try these finishing touches:
✔ Powdered Sugar Dusting – The easiest way to give your cake an elegant look.
✔ Lemon Glaze Drizzle – A simple glaze made with lemon juice and powdered sugar adds shine and extra citrus flavor.
✔ Fresh Berries – Blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries add a pop of color.
✔ Edible Flowers – Delicate flowers like pansies or chamomile give a sophisticated touch.
✔ Thin Lemon Slices or Zest Twists – Enhances the visual appeal and reminds guests of the flavor inside.
✔ Whipped Cream Swirls – Pipe small dollops along the top for an elegant presentation.
Ideal Occasions for Serving Lemon Roll Cake
This light, zesty dessert is perfect for many occasions. Here are some of the best times to serve it:
🎉 Birthday Parties – A refreshing alternative to traditional heavy cakes.
☀ Summer Picnics – The bright citrus flavors make it a great warm-weather treat.
🌿 Afternoon Tea – A sophisticated dessert for tea lovers.
🎄 Holiday Gatherings – Perfect for Easter, Mother’s Day, or Christmas brunch.
💍 Bridal Showers & Weddings – Beautiful and elegant, especially with floral garnishes.
🎶 Dinner Parties – Impress your guests with a stunning homemade dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a lemon roll?
A lemon roll is a light and airy sponge cake flavored with lemon juice and zest, rolled with a creamy lemon filling. It is a variation of a Swiss roll, featuring a soft cake layer spread with a lemon curd, whipped cream, or mascarpone filling, then carefully rolled into a spiral. The result is a beautiful, citrusy dessert that is both refreshing and visually appealing. It is often dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with lemon glaze for extra flavor and decoration.
What are the 4 ingredients in lemon cake?
A basic lemon cake can be made with just four essential ingredients:
1️⃣ Flour – The base ingredient that provides structure to the cake.
2️⃣ Sugar – Sweetens the cake and helps with moisture retention.
3️⃣ Eggs – Provide stability, texture, and lift to the cake batter.
4️⃣ Lemon (juice & zest) – Adds the signature citrus flavor and aroma.
Some variations may also include baking powder, butter, or milk to enhance texture and richness.
What’s the difference between a Swiss roll and a Yule log?
While both are rolled cakes, there are key differences between a Swiss roll and a Yule log (Bûche de Noël):
✔ Swiss Roll
A light sponge cake rolled with jam, cream, or custard filling.
Simple decoration, often just a dusting of powdered sugar or a glaze.
Can be made with various flavors, including vanilla, chocolate, lemon, and fruit fillings.
✔ Yule Log (Bûche de Noël)
A traditional Christmas dessert, made to resemble a log.
Typically a chocolate sponge cake filled with buttercream or ganache.
Decorated with chocolate frosting and textured to look like tree bark.
Often garnished with mushroom-shaped meringues, powdered sugar (to mimic snow), or holly leaves.
In short, a Swiss roll is a lighter, everyday dessert, while a Yule log is a festive, heavily decorated version usually served during the holidays.
What happens when you add lemon juice to cake batter?
Adding lemon juice to cake batter has several effects:
✔ Enhances Flavor – It gives the cake a bright, fresh citrus taste.
✔ Affects Texture – The acidity in lemon juice can make the cake lighter and more tender by breaking down gluten in the flour.
✔ Reacts with Baking Soda/Powder – If your recipe contains baking soda, the acid from lemon juice activates it, helping the cake rise better.
✔ Can Cause Curdling – If added directly to dairy-based ingredients like milk or cream, lemon juice may cause slight curdling. To prevent this, mix it with dry ingredients or add it last.
If balanced properly, lemon juice enhances the cake’s taste and texture, making it more flavorful and moist.
Conclusion
A Lemon Roll Cake is the perfect dessert for those who love a balance of sweetness and tangy citrus flavor. With its light and fluffy sponge, creamy lemon filling, and elegant spiral shape, it is a show-stopping treat that is both delicious and visually appealing. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a casual afternoon tea, this cake is guaranteed to impress.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
✔ Easy to make with simple ingredients.
✔ Refreshing and light, perfect for any season.
✔ Customizable with berries, different citrus fruits, or even a chocolate twist.
✔ Great for make-ahead since it tastes even better after chilling.
By following the step-by-step guide, expert tips, and creative variations, you’ll be able to bake a flawless Lemon Roll Cake that looks as amazing as it tastes!
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to a homemade Lemon Roll Cake—a dessert that’s as bright and joyful as a sunny day. 🍋
By following these tips and techniques, you’ll create a Lemon Roll Cake that’s both stunning and delicious. Try this recipe today, and for another rolled delight, check out the 10-Step Carrot Cake Roll Recipe – Moist & Spiced!.
Happy Baking! 🎂🍋
Lemon Roll Cake – A Soft & Zesty Dessert
Equipment
- ✔ 10×15-inch (25×38 cm) jelly roll pan
- ✔ Mixing bowls
- ✔ Hand or stand mixer
- ✔ Whisk
- ✔️ Rubber spatula
- ✔ Parchment paper
- ✔ Fine mesh sieve (for dusting powdered sugar)
- ✔ Clean kitchen towel
- ✔ Knife (for trimming edges and slicing cake)
Ingredients
- For the Lemon Sponge Cake:
- 4 large eggs room temperature
- ¾ cup 150g granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- ¾ cup 95g all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup 60ml whole milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- For the Lemon Cream Filling:
- ½ cup 120ml heavy whipping cream
- 4 ounces 113g cream cheese or mascarpone (softened)
- ½ cup 120g lemon curd
- ¼ cup 30g powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- For Garnishing:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Lemon slices or zest for decoration
- Fresh berries optional
- Whipped cream optional
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake Batter
- 1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- 2️⃣ In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar using an electric mixer on high speed for 4-5 minutes, until thick and pale.
- 3️⃣ Mix in vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- 4️⃣ In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold this into the wet mixture.
- 5️⃣ Warm the milk and oil slightly, then stir into the batter.
- Step 2: Bake the Sponge Cake
- 6️⃣ Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- 7️⃣ Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake is lightly golden and springs back when touched.
- 8️⃣ Remove from the oven and immediately loosen the edges with a knife.
- Step 3: Roll the Cake Without Cracking
- 9️⃣ Dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar and carefully flip the warm cake onto it.
- 🔟 Gently peel off the parchment paper, then roll the cake tightly with the towel inside. Let it cool completely.
- Step 4: Make the Lemon Cream Filling
- 1️⃣1️⃣ In a bowl, beat heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form.
- 1️⃣2️⃣ In a separate bowl, mix cream cheese, lemon curd, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- 1️⃣3️⃣ Fold the whipped cream into the mixture for a light and fluffy texture.
- Step 5: Assemble the Cake
- 1️⃣4️⃣ Carefully unroll the cooled cake and spread the lemon filling evenly, leaving a small border.
- 1️⃣5️⃣ Re-roll the cake gently (without the towel) and wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill for at least 2 hours to set.
- Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- 1️⃣6️⃣ Before serving, dust the cake with powdered sugar, and garnish with lemon slices, zest, or fresh berries.
- 1️⃣7️⃣ Slice and enjoy your soft, creamy, and zesty Lemon Roll Cake!
Notes
For extra tangy flavor, add an extra tablespoon of lemon curd to the filling.
Chill for best results – refrigerating for a few hours enhances the flavors.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.