Mom'S Jelly Roll
A nostalgic, light jelly roll cake with fluffy sponge and sweet jelly filling, perfect for teatime or special occasions, enjoyed by all ages with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat eggs with a pinch of salt; add sugar and beat until well combined.
- Add boiling water and beat again.
- Gradually add sifted flour with baking powder and mix thoroughly.
- Use a beater throughout the process for a smooth batter.
- Pour batter into a cookie sheet with sides and bake at 375°F for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Lay a towel out on the counter.
- Cover the towel with powdered sugar.
- Carefully turn the cake out of the pan onto the towel.
- Roll the cake from the narrow side while still warm.
- Allow the cake to cool completely, then unroll carefully, spread with jelly, and reroll into a tight roll.
- Slice with a serrated knife to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve a light and fluffy jelly roll, make sure to beat the eggs well to incorporate air. If you don't have a cookie sheet, a rectangular baking dish can work in a pinch. For a flavor twist, consider using fruit preserves or whipped cream instead of jelly. Ensure the towel is generously dusted with powdered sugar to prevent sticking, similar to techniques used in Grandma's Chew Bread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the jelly roll chilled or at room temperature, garnished with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. It pairs beautifully with Russell's Pancakes for a delightful brunch spread. You can also dust it with additional powdered sugar right before serving for a touch of elegance.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover jelly roll tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best results, keep it uncut until ready to serve. To reheat, place slices in a microwave for about 10–15 seconds, just enough to warm them without drying out, ensuring they maintain their delightful texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Jelly Roll contains roughly 171 calories, with 5g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 jelly roll?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make a gluten-free jelly roll. However, results may vary, so be sure to check the blend's recommended usage. Keep in mind that gluten-free flours often absorb more moisture, so you may need to adjust the liquid slightly.
What can I do if my jelly roll cracks while rolling?
If your jelly roll cracks, don't worry! This can happen if the cake is rolled too tightly or isn't cooled enough. If it cracks, simply spread a bit more jelly over the cracks before rerolling. For future attempts, ensure the cake is slightly cooled and roll it gently to minimize cracking.
Can I freeze the jelly roll for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the uncut jelly roll tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to two months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then slice and serve. This is a great way to prepare ahead for gatherings.
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).