A Fluffy Apple Cinnamon Swiss Roll is a delightful dessert that combines the warm flavors of cinnamon and apple in a light, spongy cake. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday celebration, or simply a sweet treat to enjoy at home. This cake is not only delicious but also offers a wonderful alternative for those who cannot consume eggs. With its soft texture and aromatic filling, this Swiss roll is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create the perfect Fluffy Apple Cinnamon Swiss Roll:
For the Apple Filling:
- 7-8 medium apples: Choose varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji for the best flavor. Peel, core, and slice them thinly to allow for even cooking and distribution within the roll.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: This essential spice brings warmth and sweetness to the apple filling, enhancing the overall flavor of the cake.
For the Sponge Cake Batter:
- 4 egg whites: These will serve as the base for your sponge.
- A pinch of salt: This enhances flavor and helps stabilize the egg whites during whipping.
- 1 packet (10 g) vanilla sugar: Infuses the batter with a sweet vanilla aroma; if unavailable, use 1 tsp of vanilla extract instead.
- 100 g (5 tbsp without heaping) sugar: Adds sweetness; you can opt for coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
- 1/2 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour: This forms the structure of the sponge. For a gluten-free option, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Essential for leavening, ensuring the cake rises and remains fluffy.
- 1/2 cup (125 ml) non-dairy milk: To replace the moisture that egg whites would normally provide; almond or oat milk works well.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F), using the conventional mode without convection. While the oven is heating, prepare the apples. Peel, core, and slice 7-8 medium apples thinly.
In a bowl, sprinkle the sliced apples with 1 tsp ground cinnamon. Set them aside to marinate, allowing the flavors to blend while you prepare the cake batter.
Step 2: Make the Sponge Cake Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine your substitute for egg whites (1/2 cup unsweetened apple sauce) with a pinch of salt. Whisk vigorously until you achieve a slightly foamy consistency, which introduces air into the mixture.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the non-dairy milk, sugar, and vanilla sugar until well blended. Gradually add this mixture to the foamy apple sauce, stirring gently to incorporate.
Sift in 100 g all-purpose flour and 1 tsp baking powder to the wet mixture. Carefully fold the flour into the batter using a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure that your sponge remains light and fluffy.
Step 3: Prepare the Pan and Assemble
Grease a 27×38 cm (11×15 inches) baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Arrange the cinnamon-coated apple slices evenly on the bottom of the pan.
Pour the prepared sponge cake batter over the apples, ensuring an even spread. Use a spatula to gently smooth the top.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Place the prepared pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The sponge should rise nicely, develop a golden brown color, and spring back when lightly pressed. Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
Step 5: Roll the Cake
After cooling, gently invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel or a piece of parchment paper. Carefully peel off the parchment paper from the bottom of the cake.
Starting from one end, gently roll the cake into a Swiss roll, ensuring the apple slices remain intact. Use the towel or parchment paper to help guide and tighten the roll.
Let the cake cool completely while rolled to help it maintain its shape.
Step 6: Serve
Once fully cooled, slice the Swiss roll into manageable rounds to serve. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant finish. You can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Cooking Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor, opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.
- Allow to Cool: Ensure the cake cools sufficiently before unrolling; this prevents tearing and helps retain shape.
- Roll While Warm: Rolling the cake when it’s warm helps to keep its shape, making it easier to handle.
- Storage: Store the Swiss roll in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you would like to store it longer, freeze it for up to a month; just allow it to thaw before serving.
Variations
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple filling for added crunch and flavor.
- Spiced Variation: Enhance the flavors by adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the apple filling for a spicier note.
- Fruity Twist: Mix in other fruits like pears or berries with the apples to create a mixed-fruit filling.
- Vegan Cream Cheese Filling: Spread a layer of vegan cream cheese on the sponge cake before adding the apple filling for a creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend. Gluten-free flours often require additional binding agents; however, the egg replacer should help maintain the structure.
What if I don’t have vanilla sugar?
If you don’t have vanilla sugar, you can use regular granulated sugar and add 1 tsp vanilla extract to the wet mixture for flavor.
Can I use fresh apple pie filling?
Absolutely! Store-bought or homemade apple pie filling can be swapped with the sliced apples for a quicker alternative.
Is this Swiss roll suitable for freezing?
Yes! The Swiss roll can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing to maintain freshness.
How long will the Swiss roll last in the fridge?
The Fluffy Apple Cinnamon Swiss Roll can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Benefits
This Fluffy Apple Cinnamon Swiss Roll is a dessert that combines the sweetness of apples with the wholesome ingredients that create a relatively low-calorie treat. Here’s a quick look at some nutritional components:
- Apples: Rich in dietary fiber, Vitamin C, and various antioxidants, apples contribute to heart health and digestive wellness.
- Cinnamon: This spice is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its potential to lower blood sugar levels.
- Non-Dairy Milk: Typically lower in calories and fat than whole milk, it can provide nutrients like calcium and Vitamin D, especially if fortified.
Conclusion
This Fluffy Apple Cinnamon Swiss Roll recipe is not only accommodating for those who do not consume eggs but also a delightful and satisfying dessert for everyone. With its moist, flavorful sponge and the sweetness of spiced apples, it’s a perfect treat for any occasion. Enjoy baking this lovely roll and sharing it with your family and friends—it’s sure to be a hit!