Jelly Roll That Rolls

Prep: 20 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A light, fluffy jelly roll with sweet jelly filling, perfect for tea time or dessert. Its delicate sponge and fruity flavor appeal to all ages.

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Ingredients

  • 1 c. sugar
  • 3 whole eggs
  • 1 c. all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 c. boiling water
  • 1 tsp. baking powder
  • 1 tsp. vanilla or lemon extract
  • pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Beat eggs and sugar together until light.
  2. Stir in flour, salt, and baking powder; mix well.
  3. Add boiling water, then vanilla or lemon extract; mix thoroughly.
  4. Pour the batter into a well-oiled jelly roll pan and bake in a 400°F oven for 15 minutes.
  5. Turn out the baked sponge onto a cloth wrung from hot water.
  6. Trim the edges of the sponge and spread with jelly.
  7. Roll the sponge immediately while warm.
  8. Sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, ensure your eggs are at room temperature before beating with sugar, as this helps achieve a lighter texture. If you don't have vanilla or lemon extract, substitute with almond extract for a different flavor profile. To make the jelly roll more colorful, consider using fruit preserves or a mix of jams. You can also sprinkle nuts or shredded coconut on the jelly before rolling for added texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the jelly roll dusted with powdered sugar and accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of Dad'S Vanilla Ice Cream for a delightful contrast. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, consider adding fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover jelly roll in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds; this will warm them without drying them out. Avoid freezing, as the texture may suffer.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Jelly Roll That Rolls contains roughly 180 calories, with 2g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of calcium (14% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 529mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).

180 kcal 9% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.8g 4% DV
Total Fat 1.1g 1% DV
Carbs 24.5g 9% DV
Fiber 1.4g 5% DV
Sugar 3.8g 8% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 528.7mg 23% DV
Potassium 201.1mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 38.7mg 13% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 9.5mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 11mg 12% DV
Calcium 177.2mg 14% DV
Iron 0.8mg 4% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with cake flour for a lighter sponge. However, if you need a gluten-free option, consider using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to achieve the right texture.

What can I use instead of jelly?

If you don't have jelly, you can use fruit preserves, Nutella, or even whipped cream mixed with fresh fruit. For a savory twist, consider spreading a layer of cream cheese mixed with herbs, then roll it up for a unique appetizer.

How can I prevent the jelly roll from cracking?

To prevent cracking, be sure to roll the sponge while it is still warm and flexible. Use a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar to help with the rolling process. If it does crack slightly, it's okay—just cover it with powdered sugar or whipped cream when serving.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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