Embark on a celestial journey with the Galaxy Roll Cake, a dessert that marries elegance and decadence in every slice. This visually striking cake features a tender, colorful sponge filled with a light, fluffy cream cheese filling and is topped with a rich chocolate ganache that ties it all together. Perfect for stargazers and sweet-toothed epicureans alike, this cake is sure to dazzle at any gathering.
Ingredients:
- Cake:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 eggs, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup natural sweetener
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tsp vinegar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Food coloring in purple, blue, teal, and black
- Filling:
- 4 oz Neufchâtel cream cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar substitute
- 2 cups sugar-free Cool Whip
- Chocolate Ganache:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Black food coloring
Directions:
- Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy release of the cake.
- Mix the Cake Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate larger bowl or stand mixer, whip the eggs until they turn pale yellow. Gradually add both the sweetener and sugar, followed by the vegetable oil, almond milk, vinegar, and vanilla extract. Gently fold in the dry ingredients until just combined. Separate the batter into different bowls and color each with your choice of food colorings. Pour onto the prepared baking sheet and use a skewer to create a marbled effect.
- Bake and Cool:
- Bake the cake for about 15 minutes. Immediately upon removing it from the oven, dust a clean tea towel with powdered sugar, turn the cake out onto the towel, and carefully roll it up. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Filling:
- While the cake is cooling, beat the Neufchâtel cream cheese with the powdered sugar substitute until smooth. Fold in the Cool Whip gently to keep the mixture light.
- Fill and Roll the Cake:
- Carefully unroll the cooled cake, spread the filling evenly, leaving a small border around the edges, and re-roll the cake without the towel. Place in the refrigerator to chill and set.
- Make the Ganache:
- Heat the cream in a saucepan over medium heat until hot but not boiling. Pour over the chocolate chips and let sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth. Mix in black food coloring to achieve a deep, galaxy-like color. Allow the ganache to cool to room temperature.
- Decorate the Cake:
- Once the cake is chilled and firm, remove it from the fridge, trim the ends for a clean presentation, and pour the ganache over the cake. Use an offset spatula to smooth it out for an even finish.
- Final Touches:
- Decorate with edible glitter or more sprinkles to enhance the cosmic effect. Chill the cake until the ganache is set.
Total Preparation and Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Additional Chilling: Several hours for setting
- Total Time: About 40 minutes active, several hours passive
Serving Size: 10 slices
Calories: Approx. 310 per slice
Pro Tips:
- Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smooth, even mix.
- Cool the rolled cake thoroughly before filling to prevent the filling from seeping out.
- Allow the ganache to cool slightly before applying to prevent it from melting the filling.
Summary:
This Galaxy Roll Cake is not only a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of flavors. Its cosmic appearance and delicious taste make it the perfect centerpiece for your next party or a special treat to dazzle your family and friends. Enjoy the process and the praise you’ll surely receive!