The Neapolitan Swiss Roll is a delightful twist on the ordinary Swiss roll, featuring the flavors of chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla. This dessert is not only delicious, but its striped pattern is also visually appealing, making it a definite crowd-pleaser.
Photos of Neapolitan Swiss Roll Recipe
This recipe calls for a package of vanilla cake mix, so no need to make the cake batter from scratch. Cocoa powder is used for the chocolate flavor, while strawberry instant gelatin provides the strawberry flavor. Be aware that strawberry instant gelatin is not as common as the other two, so you might not have it in your pantry.
Ingredients for the Neapolitan Swiss Roll
Eggs: These are used as the binding ingredient in the cake mix.
Water: This is used to moisten the cake mix.
Oil: This keeps the cake moist and prevents it from drying out.
Vanilla cake mix: This forms the base of the Swiss roll.
Sour cream: This is used to add a tangy flavor and moistness to the cake.
Cocoa powder: This is used to create the chocolate flavor in one third of the swiss roll.
Strawberry instant gelatin: This is used to create the strawberry flavor in one third of the Swiss roll.
Vanilla frosting: This is spread in the interior of the Swiss roll after it's baked and cooled.
One reader, Farley Smallwood says:
This Neapolitan Swiss Roll recipe is a game-changer! The combination of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry flavors is simply divine. The cake is light and fluffy, and the frosting adds the perfect touch of sweetness. It's a showstopper dessert that's surprisingly easy to make. I can't wait to make it again!
Key Techniques for Mastering Neapolitan Swiss Roll Recipe
How to separate the batter into three bowls: After preparing the cake batter, divide it evenly into three separate bowls to create the different flavors for the Neapolitan Swiss roll.
How to pipe the batter onto the baking sheet: Use piping bags to carefully pipe the strawberry, chocolate, and vanilla batters onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet in a diagonal pattern, ensuring even distribution of each flavor.
How to roll the cake with the towel: When the cake is warm, carefully roll it with a large dish towel to create the initial shape for the Swiss roll. Be gentle to avoid cracking the cake.
How to spread the frosting evenly on the cake: Use a spatula to evenly spread the vanilla frosting over the cooled cake before rolling it up, ensuring that the frosting is distributed consistently for a delicious filling.
How To Make Neapolitan Swiss Roll
This Neapolitan swiss roll is mildly sweet and inviting to eat, packed with three sweet flavors of chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla, all in one roll!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 6eggs
- ¼cupwater
- ¼cupoil
- 1pkgvanilla cake mix
- ¼cupsour cream
- 1tbspcocoa powder
- 3tbspstrawberry instant gelatin
- 3cupsvanilla frosting
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
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In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until light yellow and frothy. Add the water, oil, cake mix, sour cream, and stir until combined.
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Separate the batter into three bowls.
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Add the cocoa powder to one of the bowls of batter, and stir until combined. Pour the chocolate batter into a piping bag, cut off the tip of the piping bag.
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Add the strawberry gelatin powder to one of the bowls of batter, and stir until combined. Pour the strawberry batter into a piping bag, cut off the tip of the piping bag.
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Pour the rest of the vanilla batter into a piping bag, cut off the tip of the piping bag.
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Pipe the strawberry onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, starting in the upper left corner.
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Pipe three 1-inch lines of batter diagonally across the pan, beginning with the strawberry, following with the chocolate, then the vanilla.
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Continue this pattern until the entire baking sheet is filled. Tap the pan on the counter 3 times to release any air bubbles.
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Bake for 7 minutes.
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While warm, flip the cake carefully onto a large dish towel. While still warm, roll with the towel tightly but carefully.
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Set aside to cool for at least 30 minutes.
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Unroll the cake carefully, and peel away the parchment paper.
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Spread the vanilla frosting evenly on the cake. Gently roll the cake up, making sure not to roll too tight or the frosting will come out of the sides of the cake roll.
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Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 808.86kcal
- Fat: 31.06g
- Saturated Fat: 6.23g
- Trans Fat: 0.04g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 12.65g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 10.99g
- Carbohydrates: 123.13g
- Fiber: 1.10g
- Sugar: 62.81g
- Protein: 9.63g
- Cholesterol: 123.71mg
- Sodium: 632.46mg
- Calcium: 132.97mg
- Potassium: 141.58mg
- Iron: 1.72mg
- Vitamin A: 66.87µg
- Vitamin C: 0.06mg
Crucial Technique Tip for a Flawless Neapolitan Swiss Roll
When piping the batter onto the baking sheet, make sure to keep a consistent pressure on the piping bag. This will ensure that the lines of batter are even and the same size, which will result in a more uniform and visually appealing swiss roll. Also, when rolling the warm cake with the towel, do it slowly and gently to prevent the cake from cracking. This technique requires a bit of patience, but it's worth it for the perfect neapolitan swiss roll.
Time-Saving Tips for Making a Neapolitan Swiss Roll
Prepare the ingredients: Gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment before starting to save time and ensure a smooth cooking process.
Organize your workspace: Clear and organize your workspace before you begin to make the recipe, making it easier to find and use ingredients and tools efficiently.
Multi-task: Look for steps in the recipe where you can multitask, such as preparing one component while another is baking, to save time and streamline the cooking process.
Prep ahead of time: Prepare any components of the recipe that can be made in advance, such as measuring out dry ingredients or chopping vegetables, to save time when you start cooking.
Use convenience products: Consider using pre-made or pre-packaged ingredients, such as pre-chopped vegetables or store-bought dough, to cut down on prep time without sacrificing flavor.
Substitute Ingredients For Neapolitan Swiss Roll Recipe
eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a substitute for eggs in baking to reduce cholesterol and add moisture to the recipe.
vanilla cake mix - Substitute with homemade vanilla cake mix: You can make your own vanilla cake mix by combining flour, sugar, baking powder, and vanilla extract to control the quality and flavor of the cake.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream to reduce the fat content while still providing a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
cocoa powder - Substitute with cacao powder: Cacao powder can be used as a healthier alternative to cocoa powder, as it is less processed and retains more nutrients and antioxidants.
strawberry instant gelatin - Substitute with fresh strawberry puree: Fresh strawberry puree can be used to replace instant gelatin, providing natural flavor and color to the recipe without artificial additives.
vanilla frosting - Substitute with whipped cream: Whipped cream can be used as a lighter alternative to vanilla frosting, providing a fluffy and less sweet topping for the swiss roll.
Presentation Ideas for a Stunning Neapolitan Swiss Roll
Elevate the plating: When presenting the Neapolitan Swiss Roll, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Use a combination of vibrant colors and elegant plating techniques to showcase the layers of the Swiss roll.
Incorporate edible flowers: Add a touch of sophistication by incorporating delicate and edible flowers, such as pansies or violets, to the plate. These will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a subtle floral note to the overall presentation.
Utilize chocolate garnishes: Create intricate chocolate garnishes, such as curls or shards, to adorn the plate. These delicate and artistic elements will add a luxurious touch to the presentation, elevating the overall aesthetic.
Balance with fresh berries: Introduce a pop of color and freshness by strategically placing fresh berries around the Swiss roll. The vibrant hues of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries will complement the flavors and add a refreshing element to the dish.
Dust with powdered sugar: Before serving, delicately dust the plate with a fine layer of powdered sugar to create an ethereal and elegant presentation. This subtle touch will add a hint of sweetness and a visually appealing finish to the dish.
Consider geometric plating: Experiment with geometric plating techniques to create a modern and visually striking presentation. Play with clean lines and precise placement to showcase the layers of the Swiss roll in an artistic manner.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For a touch of opulence, consider incorporating edible gold leaf as a luxurious and eye-catching addition to the plate. The shimmering gold accents will add a sense of grandeur to the presentation.
Incorporate chocolate sauce: Use a fine drizzle of rich chocolate sauce to add a decadent and artistic element to the plate. The sauce can be used to create elegant swirls or abstract designs, enhancing the overall visual appeal.
Essential Tools for Making a Perfect Swiss Roll
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients and mixing batters or doughs.
Whisk: A whisk is used for blending and mixing ingredients together, ensuring a smooth and uniform texture.
Piping bag: A piping bag is used for neatly dispensing and decorating the batter onto the baking sheet.
Baking sheet: A baking sheet provides a flat, even surface for baking the Neapolitan Swiss roll.
Parchment paper: Parchment paper prevents the cake from sticking to the baking sheet and aids in rolling the cake.
Dish towel: A dish towel is used to roll the warm cake, helping to shape it without breaking.
Offset spatula: An offset spatula is useful for spreading the vanilla frosting evenly onto the cake.
Oven: The oven is used for baking the Neapolitan Swiss roll at the specified temperature.
Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Neapolitan Swiss Roll
Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for the neapolitan swiss roll recipe:
- To store the swiss roll, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- If you want to freeze the swiss roll, follow these steps:
- Wrap the swiss roll tightly in plastic wrap, making sure there are no air pockets.
- Cover the wrapped swiss roll with aluminum foil for an extra layer of protection against freezer burn.
- Place the wrapped swiss roll in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Freeze the swiss roll for up to 2 months.
- To thaw the frozen swiss roll, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Do not thaw at room temperature, as this can cause the cake to become soggy and the frosting to melt.
- Once thawed, remove the plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and let the swiss roll sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the cake and frosting to soften slightly and make it easier to slice.
- If you notice any condensation on the surface of the thawed swiss roll, gently blot it with a paper towel before serving.
How To Reheat Leftover Neapolitan Swiss Roll
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover neapolitan swiss roll on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the roll is heated through and the frosting starts to melt slightly. This method will help restore the texture of the cake and make the frosting creamy again.
For a quicker option, microwave individual slices of the neapolitan swiss roll on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds, or until warm. Be careful not to overheat, as the cake may become rubbery, and the frosting may melt too much.
If you have an air fryer, you can reheat the neapolitan swiss roll slices in it. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the slices in the basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Heat for 3-4 minutes, or until warmed through and the frosting starts to melt slightly. This method will help crisp up the exterior of the cake while keeping the interior soft and moist.
For a more indulgent treat, slice the leftover neapolitan swiss roll and place it in a skillet with a small amount of butter over medium heat. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until the cake is warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside. The melted butter will add a rich flavor to the cake and help revive the texture.
If you want to maintain the moisture of the neapolitan swiss roll while reheating, wrap the roll or individual slices in aluminum foil before placing them in the oven. This will help prevent the cake from drying out and keep the frosting from melting too quickly. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.
Fascinating Facts About the Origins of Neapolitan Swiss Roll
The Neapolitan Swiss roll is a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry in a visually appealing way. It's a versatile recipe that allows for creativity in the presentation and can be a fun baking project for both kids and adults. The combination of flavors and colors makes it an eye-catching treat for parties and gatherings. Additionally, Swiss rolls have been enjoyed since the 19th century and are a beloved dessert in many cultures. They are known for their light, spongy texture and delicious fillings, making them a popular choice for sweet indulgences.
Is Making Neapolitan Swiss Roll at Home Cost-Effective?
The Neapolitan Swiss Roll recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of basic ingredients like eggs, cake mix, and vanilla frosting keeps the cost reasonable. However, the addition of strawberry instant gelatin might slightly increase the overall cost. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10, considering its visual appeal, flavor combination, and the joy it brings to the table.
Is the Neapolitan Swiss Roll Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This Neapolitan Swiss roll recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients - cake mix, oil, and frosting - are high in sugar, fat, and calories, with little nutritional value. The addition of sour cream and eggs does provide some protein, but it's overshadowed by the less wholesome components. The cocoa powder and strawberry gelatin contribute mostly artificial flavors and colors rather than any significant health benefits.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace the cake mix with a homemade batter using whole wheat flour, reducing the sugar content, and incorporating healthier alternatives like applesauce or mashed bananas to replace some of the oil
- Use a reduced-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt in place of regular sour cream
- Opt for a lighter frosting made with reduced-fat cream cheese, or simply dust the cake with powdered sugar instead
- Incorporate fresh strawberries into the batter or as a filling, providing natural flavor, fiber, and vitamins
- Experiment with using a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol to reduce the overall sugar content without sacrificing sweetness
Editor's Opinion: Thoughts on the Neapolitan Swiss Roll Recipe
The Neapolitan Swiss Roll recipe is a delightful twist on the classic treat. The use of vanilla cake mix and instant gelatin adds convenience without compromising flavor. The technique of piping the different batters onto the baking sheet creates a visually stunning result. However, to elevate the recipe, consider using fresh strawberries and cocoa for a more intense flavor. Additionally, incorporating a homemade vanilla frosting can enhance the overall taste and quality of the roll. Overall, this recipe offers a fun and delicious dessert option, with potential for personalization and creativity.
Enhance Your Neapolitan Swiss Roll Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Neapolitan Swiss Roll Recipe:
This Neapolitan Swiss Roll recipe is a delightful treat that combines the flavors of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry. The use of sour cream adds a rich and creamy texture, while the addition of vanilla frosting enhances the overall sweetness. The separation of the batter into three distinct flavors ensures a delightful and visually appealing dessert. With the combination of cake mix and strawberry instant gelatin, this recipe promises a burst of flavors in every bite. Trust in the simplicity and creativity of this recipe to create a delightful and impressive dessert for any occasion.
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