Chocolate Roulade with Baileys Cream

Introduction

Chocolate Roulade with Baileys Cream is the kind of dessert that turns heads and earns applause the moment it’s served. A light, airy chocolate sponge rolled with a silky Baileys-infused cream filling, it’s both visually stunning and irresistibly indulgent. The combination of deep chocolate flavors and the creamy warmth of Baileys makes this roulade a truly special treat, perfect for entertaining or elevating a simple family dinner into something memorable.

I first discovered the magic of a roulade during a holiday baking session with friends. While it looked intimidating at first, I was amazed by how manageable it was once I broke it down step by step. When I added the Baileys cream, it became an instant favorite—rich, smooth, and full of that unmistakable Irish cream flavor that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. Since then, this roulade has become a centerpiece for celebrations in my home.

What makes this dessert even better is its versatility. You can garnish it with powdered sugar, drizzle with chocolate ganache, or sprinkle with festive decorations to suit any occasion. Despite its fancy appearance, the process of making a roulade is straightforward and rewarding. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this dessert will leave you feeling accomplished and your guests thoroughly impressed. Chocolate Roulade with Baileys Cream is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience.

Perfect for:

• Holiday gatherings
• Dinner parties
• Celebrations and anniversaries
• Chocolate lovers
• Special dessert moments

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Chocolate Roulade with Baileys Cream will win over everyone:

• Decadent Flavor Combination: The rich chocolate sponge paired with the creamy, Baileys-infused filling creates a delightful flavor balance.
• Stunning Presentation: Rolled to perfection, this dessert is visually striking and will wow your guests.
• Light and Airy Texture: The sponge is delicate and airy, making this dessert indulgent without being too heavy.
• Customizable Filling: While Baileys is a classic choice, the filling can easily be adjusted to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
• Great for Make-Ahead: Prepare the roulade in advance and store it in the fridge, making entertaining a breeze.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 2.5 hours (includes chilling time)
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Baking Time: 12 minutes
• Chilling Time: 2 hours
• Servings: 8-10 slices
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 5g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for the Chocolate Roulade with Baileys Cream:

For the Sponge:

• 4 large eggs, separated
• 100g (½ cup) granulated sugar
• 50g (½ cup) all-purpose flour, sifted
• 25g (¼ cup) cocoa powder, sifted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Baileys Cream Filling:

• 200ml (¾ cup) heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons Baileys Irish Cream
• 50g (½ cup) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Decoration:

• Cocoa powder or powdered sugar for dusting
• Chocolate shavings or curls (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Baileys Irish Cream: Infuses the filling with a creamy, boozy flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.
• Heavy Cream: Whipped into soft peaks, it forms the base of the smooth, luscious filling.
• Cocoa Powder: Adds a rich chocolatey depth to the sponge while keeping it light and fluffy.
• Eggs: Essential for creating the airy sponge texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Sponge:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a 10×15-inch Swiss roll pan with parchment paper. Grease the paper lightly.
2. Beat Egg Yolks and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks with half the sugar until pale and thick, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Whip Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
4. Combine and Fold: Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the yolk mixture in batches, taking care not to deflate the batter.
5. Add Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour and cocoa powder over the batter and gently fold until just combined.
6. Bake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the sponge is set and springs back when touched.

Roll the Sponge:

7. Cool in a Towel: While the sponge is still warm, invert it onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Carefully peel off the parchment paper, then roll the sponge up tightly with the towel. Let it cool completely in the rolled shape.

Prepare the Baileys Cream Filling:

8. Whip the Cream: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and Baileys until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.

Assemble the Roulade:

9. Unroll the Sponge: Gently unroll the cooled sponge. Spread an even layer of Baileys cream over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.
10. Roll It Back Up: Carefully roll the sponge back up, using the towel to guide you. Place seam-side down on a serving platter.

Chill and Decorate:

11. Chill the Roulade: Wrap the roulade in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
12. Dust and Garnish: Dust with cocoa powder or powdered sugar before serving. Add chocolate shavings or curls for extra flair.

How to Serve

Chocolate Roulade with Baileys Cream is a versatile dessert that can be served in various ways:

1. Slice Thinly: Serve thin slices for an elegant dessert plate presentation.
2. Pair with Coffee: A warm cup of coffee or espresso enhances the rich chocolate flavor.
3. Top with Berries: Add fresh raspberries or strawberries for a tart contrast to the creamy roulade.
4. With Ice Cream: Pair with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent treat.
5. For Special Occasions: Serve as the centerpiece dessert at holiday dinners, birthdays, or anniversaries.

Additional Tips

• Use Room Temperature Eggs: Room temperature eggs whip up better, creating a lighter sponge.
• Work Quickly: Roll the sponge while warm to prevent cracking.
• Don’t Overwhip the Filling: Whip the cream to soft peaks to ensure a smooth texture.
• Chill for Stability: Allow the roulade to chill before slicing to help it hold its shape.
• Experiment with Fillings: Substitute Baileys with other liqueurs like amaretto or hazelnut liqueur for a different flavor.

Recipe Variations

Try these variations for your Chocolate Roulade with Baileys Cream:

1. Triple Chocolate Roulade: Add a layer of melted dark chocolate before spreading the Baileys cream.
2. Coffee Roulade: Infuse the sponge with instant coffee granules for a mocha twist.
3. White Chocolate Filling: Replace Baileys with white chocolate ganache for a luxurious filling.
4. Hazelnut Roulade: Add crushed hazelnuts to the Baileys cream for a nutty crunch.
5. Mint Chocolate Roulade: Mix a few drops of peppermint extract into the filling for a refreshing flavor.
6. Orange Chocolate Roulade: Zest an orange into the sponge batter for a citrusy twist.
7. Non-Alcoholic Roulade: Replace Baileys with a splash of vanilla or caramel syrup.
8. Chocolate-Cherry Roulade: Add a layer of cherry preserves beneath the cream filling for a fruity surprise.
9. Spiced Roulade: Add cinnamon and nutmeg to the sponge for a holiday-inspired dessert.
10. Caramel Roulade: Drizzle caramel sauce over the cream before rolling for extra sweetness.

Special Equipment

• Swiss Roll Pan: Essential for baking the sponge evenly.
• Hand or Stand Mixer: Makes whipping the cream and eggs much easier.
• Sifter: For dusting the towel with powdered sugar and evenly sifting the dry ingredients.
• Offset Spatula: Helpful for spreading the cream filling evenly.
• Kitchen Towel: Needed for rolling the sponge and preventing cracks.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make this roulade alcohol-free?
   Yes, simply replace Baileys with vanilla extract or your favorite syrup.
2. How do I prevent the sponge from cracking?
   Roll the sponge while it’s still warm and pliable to avoid cracking.
3. Can I freeze the roulade?
   Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 weeks. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
4. Can I use whipped topping instead of cream?
   While whipped topping can work, fresh heavy cream provides the best flavor and texture.
5. What other fillings can I use?
   Try flavored creams, ganache, or fruit preserves for a variety of flavors.

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Conclusion

Chocolate Roulade with Baileys Cream is the perfect dessert to impress your guests with its stunning presentation and indulgent flavor. The combination of light and airy chocolate sponge with a luscious Baileys-infused cream filling creates a decadent treat that’s both elegant and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or celebrating a special occasion, this dessert is sure to be a showstopper.

With its versatility and make-ahead convenience, you can easily prepare this roulade ahead of time, leaving you free to focus on other aspects of your gathering. Customize it with garnishes like chocolate shavings, a dusting of cocoa powder, or a drizzle of Baileys for an extra touch of luxury. Its balance of rich flavors and light texture makes it the perfect way to end any meal.

Give this roulade a try, and enjoy the delightful combination of chocolate and Baileys in every bite. I can’t wait to see how your Chocolate Roulade with Baileys Cream turns out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations! Happy baking!