Orange Cake Roll Recipe

If you adore citrusy treats that feel like a burst of sunshine wrapped in a soft, fluffy embrace, this Orange Cake Roll Recipe is going to be your new best friend. With its beautifully candied orange slices baked into the delicate sponge and a luscious, creamy filling, it’s a dessert that’s both stunning to look at and utterly irresistible to eat. I love how every bite delivers that vibrant orange flavor paired with a light sweetness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that feels truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this Orange Cake Roll Recipe is delightfully simple, yet each component plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture. From fresh oranges that bring zesty brightness to the carefully sifted cake flour ensuring a tender crumb, every single ingredient works together to make this cake a star.

• Orange Slices (6-8 fresh): These are candied to add a sweet, tangy contrast and a beautiful decorative touch inside the cake.
• Granulated Sugar (38g for syrup): Essential for creating the orange syrup to candy the slices, enhancing their flavor.
• Water (55g for syrup): Used with sugar to gently simmer and candy the orange slices.
• Eggs (5 large, separated): The backbone of the sponge; yolks add richness and whites bring lightness when whipped into peaks.
• Fresh Orange Juice (56g): Adds bright, fresh citrus aroma and moisture to the batter.
• Vegetable Oil (42g): Keeps the cake tender without overpowering the orange flavors.
• Cake Flour (66g, sifted): Low protein content makes for a soft, delicate crumb perfect for rolling.
• Granulated Sugar (52g for egg whites): Stabilizes and sweetens the whipped egg whites for a fluffy texture.
• Lemon Juice (1 tbsp): Helps stabilize whipped egg whites and adds a subtle tartness.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tbsp): Enhances the citrus tones with a warm, aromatic touch.
• Heavy Cream (160g): Whipped to create the luxuriously creamy filling that complements the sponge.
• Granulated Sugar (25g for cream): Sweetens the whipped cream without masking the orange flavors.
• Salt (1.5g): Balances sweetness and elevates all the flavors in the cream filling.

How to Make Orange Cake Roll Recipe

Step 1: Syrup the Oranges

Begin by placing fresh orange slices into a saucepan with granulated sugar and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to let it simmer gently until most of the water evaporates and the slices become beautifully candied. Once done, transfer the slices onto a parchment paper-lined tray and gently pat them dry. This syruping step intensifies the orange flavor and gives your roll a stunning visual that shines through the cake.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Tray

Line a baking tray with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper to prevent sticking. Spread the dried orange slices randomly across the tray. These slices will become embedded in the cake, adding bursts of citrus with every bite. It’s like painting your canvas to create a citrus masterpiece!

Step 3: Make the Yolk Batter

In a clean mixing bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, vegetable oil, sifted cake flour, and egg yolks. This mixture will be smooth and infused with the bright orange essence, forming the flavorful base of your sponge.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

Turn the oven on to 150℃ (302℉) so it’s ready to bake your cake to fluffy perfection. Having the oven properly preheated ensures even cooking and a perfect texture.

Step 5: Whip the Egg Whites

In another bowl, add lemon juice, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract to the egg whites. Using a hand mixer, beat until soft peaks form. These whipped egg whites will give your cake the lift and airy texture that makes rolling so easy and elegant.

Step 6: Fold and Bake

Carefully fold the yolk mixture into the whipped egg whites a little at a time. This gentle folding keeps the batter light and prevents deflating those beautifully whipped egg whites. Pour the batter over the tray arranged with orange slices, spread it evenly, then pop it in the oven for 32 minutes. The kitchen will soon smell amazing with that citrus aroma filling the air.

Step 7: Whip the Cream Filling

While the cake cools, whip together heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until thick and stiff peaks form. This cream filling is the perfect contrast—smooth, rich, and just sweet enough to complement the tangy orange sponge.

Step 8: Cool and Release the Cake

Once the cake is baked, transfer it to a cooling rack. Use an icing spatula to gently loosen the edges, then carefully invert the cake onto a sheet of parchment paper. Peel off the baking mat for a clean, stunning canvas of sponge ready for filling.

Step 9: Fill and Roll

Spread the whipped cream evenly over the cake’s surface, making sure to distribute it to the edges. Then, delicately roll the cake using the parchment paper to guide it. Refrigerate the roll for 15 minutes to set the shape, which helps create neat slices when serving.

Step 10: Slice and Serve

After chilling, slice the cake roll into generous portions that reveal those gorgeous candied orange slices swirled inside. Each bite promises vibrant flavor, light texture, and creamy indulgence.

How to Serve Orange Cake Roll Recipe

Garnishes

To add an extra touch of elegance and flavor, consider topping your Orange Cake Roll slices with a few candied orange segments or a light dusting of powdered sugar. Fresh mint leaves or edible flowers can also brighten the presentation beautifully, making it feel like a special occasion every time.

Side Dishes

This Orange Cake Roll pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of softly whipped cream flavored with a hint of orange zest. For a refreshing twist, serve alongside a light citrus fruit salad or a cup of zingy green tea to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

You can turn your Orange Cake Roll into a centerpiece by layering slices on a cake stand or arranging them on a decorative platter with alternating garnishes like pomegranate seeds or toasted almonds for added texture and color. For parties, try serving mini slices individually wrapped with orange ribbon to delight your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the Orange Cake Roll in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled maintains the cream’s texture and keeps the sponge tender, ensuring every bite stays fresh and delicious.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake roll if needed by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It’s best to freeze for no longer than one month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.

Reheating

While this cake is best served chilled, if you prefer a slightly softer texture, allow the roll to come to room temperature before serving. Avoid microwaving as it may melt the cream filling and make the sponge soggy.

FAQs

Can I use orange zest instead of orange slices?

While orange zest adds wonderful fragrance and flavor, it won’t provide the visual appeal or the juicy burst that the syruped orange slices bring to the cake. For the full Orange Cake Roll experience, I definitely recommend using the slices.

What type of cake flour should I use?

Look for cake flour with a protein content between 7-9% for the lightest, softest sponge. This ensures your cake roll will be tender and flexible, perfect for rolling without cracking.

Is it necessary to separate the eggs?

Yes! Separating the eggs allows you to whip the egg whites to soft peaks, which aerates the batter and gives the cake its lovely light texture. Mixing yolks with other ingredients produces a rich, moist crumb.

Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?

Heavy cream is key for the smooth, stable filling in this Orange Cake Roll Recipe. If dairy is a concern, consider using coconut cream whipped with a little sugar and vanilla as an alternative, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different.

How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?

Rolling the cake while it’s still slightly warm, but not hot, on the parchment paper helps it bend gently without cracking. Also, spreading an even layer of whipped cream and chilling the roll to set helps maintain its shape.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a dessert that feels both special and brightens any gathering with its joyful flavor, this Orange Cake Roll Recipe is your go-to. Every step, from syruping oranges to that final creamy roll, is like gifting yourself a moment of pure deliciousness. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a beloved classic you’ll want to make again and again!

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