Embrace the vibrant hues of a Rainbow Swiss Roll, a visually striking dessert that combines the lightness of a sponge roll with a burst of color. Perfect for parties or as a special treat, this dessert features colorful layers of sponge, complemented by the tartness of raspberry jam and the richness of whipped cream. It’s not just a feast for the eyes but a delightful experience for the palate as well.
Ingredients
For the Colored Batter:
- 1/3 cup icing sugar, sieved
- 1/4 cup butter, room temperature
- 2 egg whites
- 1/3 cup plain flour
- Food coloring gels: red, pink, green, purple, orange, blue
For the Swiss Roll:
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons plain flour, sieved with 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 egg whites
- 4 egg yolks
- 1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon caster sugar
- Yellow food coloring gel
For the Filling:
- Raspberry jam, to taste
- 1 1/4 cups double cream, whipped
Directions
- Prepare the Colored Batter:
- Using an electric whisk, cream together the icing sugar and butter until smooth.
- Add 2 egg whites and whip until fluffy, then gradually beat in the flour until smooth.
- Divide the mixture among six small bowls, and color each with a different food coloring gel to create vibrant hues.
- Transfer each colored mixture into a separate piping bag without a nozzle.
- Bake the Swiss Roll:
- Pipe the colored batter into desired patterns on a lined baking tray.
- Prepare the main Swiss roll batter by whipping egg whites to soft peaks, gradually adding sugar, then folding in the yolks mixed with yellow food coloring.
- Gently fold in the sieved flour and salt.
- Spread the batter over the piped colors and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes.
- Filling and Rolling:
- Once baked and cooled, spread a thin layer of raspberry jam over the sponge.
- Top with a layer of whipped cream.
- Carefully roll the sponge to form the Swiss roll, starting from the short end.
Tips
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for more consistent mixing.
- When folding the flour into the egg mixture, use a large metal spoon and fold gently to keep the mixture airy.
- Cool the sponge wrapped in a damp tea towel to make rolling easier and prevent cracking.
FAQs
- How do I prevent the Swiss roll from cracking?
- Roll the sponge while it is still warm and flexible, and use a damp tea towel to help it keep moist.
- Can I prepare this dessert in advance?
- The sponge can be baked a day ahead and kept wrapped at room temperature. Fill and roll the day of serving for best results.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 5
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: European
Diet: Vegetarian
Conclusion
This Rainbow Swiss Roll is the perfect combination of beauty and taste, making it an ideal choice for any celebration or as a stunning centerpiece to your dessert table. With its colorful swirls and delicious fillings, it promises to be as enjoyable to make as it is to serve and savor.