Name: Tiramisu Cake Roll Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: PT-492929H15M9S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 large eggs; 100g (½ cup) granulated sugar; 28g (2 tablespoons) neutral vegetable oil; ½ teaspoon vanilla paste or extract; ⅛ teaspoon salt; 90g (¾ cup) cake flour; 170g (6oz) mascarpone cheese; 3 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract; 1/8 teaspoon salt; 240g (1 cup) heavy cream; 80g (1/3 cup) brewed strong coffee, cooled; 15g (1 Tbsp) amaretto, dark rum or coffee liqueur (optional); Cocoa powder for dusting

Print Recipe· 4.2 from 12 reviews

If you adore the creamy, coffee-kissed flavors of classic tiramisu but are looking for a fun twist, this Tiramisu Cake Roll Recipe is going to become your new dessert obsession. Imagine a light, airy sponge cake rolled up with luscious mascarpone cream, infused with just the right amount of coffee and a subtle splash of your favorite liqueur. This cake roll not only looks stunning but tastes like a dreamy slice of heaven — perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a decadent afternoon pick-me-up.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various baking ingredients placed neatly on a white marbled surface. Starting from the top left, there is a clear measuring jug filled with water, next to a small white bowl with dark brown espresso powder, and another small white bowl containing dark chocolate pieces. Below that, a small white bowl holds white powdered sugar, and a larger white bowl with light beige caster sugar is placed near the center. Next to it is a white mug with some milk. A small white bowl contains white baking powder on the upper right side, while a bit lower, a small white bowl of salt is placed beside a white plate with two split vanilla bean pods and a small knife with a wooden handle. Towards the bottom, a small white bowl is filled with light yellow cubed butter, and next to it on the left is a white bowl with white all-purpose flour. Centrally positioned is a larger white bowl sharing creamy white mascarpone cheese, adjacent to an orange-brown bowl holding four whole brown eggs. Near the bottom left is a small white bowl holding dark brown cocoa powder. Everything is arranged in an organized manner with clear labeled text identifying each ingredient photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays an essential role in crafting that perfect balance of texture and taste in the Tiramisu Cake Roll Recipe. From the airy eggs creating the light sponge to the mascarpone and cream that give it the signature richness, every component counts.

4 large eggs: Eggs provide the structure and fluffiness crucial for the sponge cake base.
100g (½ cup) granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps stabilize the whipped egg whites for volume.
28g (2 tablespoons) neutral vegetable oil: Keeps the sponge moist without altering flavor.
½ teaspoon vanilla paste or extract: Brings warm, inviting notes to both cake and cream.
⅛ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
90g (¾ cup) cake flour: A lighter flour perfect for tender sponge texture.
170g (6oz) mascarpone cheese: The creamy base for the luscious filling.
3 tablespoons powdered sugar: Sweetens the mascarpone cream to perfection.
1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract: Seeds the mascarpone cream with fragrant vanilla flavor.
1/8 teaspoon salt: Small pinch to balance the mascarpone mixture.
240g (1 cup) heavy cream: Whipped to fluffy peaks to lighten and enrich the filling.
80g (1/3 cup) brewed strong coffee, cooled: Infuses the cake with that iconic tiramisu kick.
15g (1 Tbsp) amaretto, dark rum or coffee liqueur (optional): Adds a boozy warmth and depth of flavor.
Cocoa powder: For dusting and that final elegant, bittersweet touch.

How to Make Tiramisu Cake Roll Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by lightly oiling or spraying a 15x10x1 inch jelly roll pan, then line it with parchment paper for easy cake removal. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and place the rack in the center for even baking. This prep step makes a big difference when it’s time to roll your cake without cracks or tears.

Step 2: Separate and Whip Eggs

Separate the eggs carefully. Begin whipping the egg whites on high speed until foamy, then gradually add half the sugar and beat until you get medium-stiff peaks — you want those peaks to hold shape but gently fold over at the tips. This step builds the airiness that makes the sponge delightfully light.

Step 3: Whip the Egg Yolks

In the same mixer bowl, combine the yolks, remaining sugar, vanilla, oil, and a pinch of salt. Whip this mixture for about 4 minutes until it triples in volume and becomes pale and thick. When you lift the whisk, the yolks should cascade in ribbons — this means you’ve got the perfect base to fold the whites into.

Step 4: Gently Fold Ingredients

Fold a third of the whipped egg whites into the yolk mixture with a rubber spatula to lighten it. Repeat until all whites are incorporated, being careful to preserve as much air as possible. Then sift half the flour over the batter and fold gently, repeating with the remaining flour. This ensures a tender, airy cake that won’t be dense or gummy.

Step 5: Bake the Sponge

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan using an offset spatula and bake for 10-12 minutes, until the top turns light golden and springs back when touched gently. The quick bake keeps the sponge moist and soft — exactly what you want for rolling later.

Step 6: Roll the Cake When Warm

Prepare a clean tea towel on your counter and dust it generously with powdered sugar. Once the sponge comes out of the oven, invert it onto the towel, peel off the parchment, and dust with more sugar. Roll the cake gently but firmly with the towel from the short edge and let it cool completely on a rack. This rolling while warm sets the cake’s shape and prevents cracking when filled.

Step 7: Make the Mascarpone Cream

Mix mascarpone, powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla in a medium bowl until combined. Gradually add whipped heavy cream, starting slow and increasing speed, until the mixture is thick and forms stiff peaks. The mascarpone cream has to be luscious and stable — it’s what makes this Tiramisu Cake Roll Recipe truly irresistible.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake Roll

Unroll your cooled sponge carefully. Mix your brewed coffee with amaretto or coffee liqueur if using, then drizzle the coffee mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak in without saturating. Spread half of the mascarpone cream over the coffee-soaked sponge, leaving a small margin at the edges. Re-roll the sponge tightly, pipe the remaining cream on top, and dust with cocoa powder. Chill for at least an hour to set perfectly before slicing.

How to Serve Tiramisu Cake Roll Recipe

A rolled light brown sponge cake lies flat on a white marbled surface, with a piping bag squeezing dollops of pale beige cream in several thick, round dollops on top. Each dollop is smooth and has a small peak at the center, arranged close together in a small pile near one edge of the roll. The texture of the sponge is fluffy but slightly firm, showing tiny pores, while the cream looks soft and rich. The scene focuses closely on the topping process. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Delight your guests by sprinkling extra cocoa powder just before serving or add chocolate shavings for a rich contrast. Fresh raspberries or a sprig of mint can add a refreshing hint of color and brightness to this dreamy dessert.

Side Dishes

Pair with a scoop of vanilla bean gelato or a light espresso for a harmonious flavor match that enhances the coffee and creamy notes of the cake roll without overpowering it.

TCreative Ways to Present

Impress with individual servings by slicing the roll and placing each piece on elegant dessert plates adorned with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. For a festive touch, layer slices with fresh berries in a trifle dish for a stunning visual and textural treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover tiramisu cake roll in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually continue to develop overnight, making it just as delightful, if not better, the next day.

Freezing

While this cake roll is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it unfilled for up to one month. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw in the fridge before preparing the mascarpone cream and assembling for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

This dessert is best served chilled, so reheating is not recommended. Instead, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes after removing from the fridge to fully appreciate the creamy texture and rich coffee notes.

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of cake flour?

You can substitute all-purpose flour if cake flour is unavailable, but reduce the amount slightly and sift it well to maintain a tender sponge. Cake flour helps keep the texture light and delicate, so it is the preferred choice.

Is the alcohol necessary in the recipe?

Alcohol is completely optional. It adds depth and complexity, but leaving it out still yields a delicious, authentic-tasting Tiramisu Cake Roll Recipe perfect for all ages and preferences.

How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?

Rolling the sponge while it is still warm and covered with a sugar-dusted towel sets the shape gently. Also, avoid overbaking the sponge, as a dry cake is more prone to cracking.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, substitute mascarpone with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use coconut or oat-based heavy cream substitutes. Keep in mind this will alter the final flavor but still create a luscious, enjoyable dessert.

What’s the best way to cut the cake roll cleanly?

Use a sharp serrated knife and wipe it clean between each slice to avoid dragging cream through the sponge. Chill the cake thoroughly before slicing for cleaner cuts.

Final Thoughts

This Tiramisu Cake Roll Recipe is truly one of those desserts you’ll want to make again and again. The marriage of fluffy sponge, rich mascarpone cream, and coffee-soaked layers delivers an unforgettable experience that feels both elegant and utterly comforting. I encourage you to give it a try — your friends and family will thank you, and you might just discover a new signature dessert to add to your repertoire.