tree trunk

Chocolate Roll with Hazelnut Cream - A Delicacy in the Shape of a Tree Trunk

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 12 minutes
Total time: 32 minutes
Servings: 8

The history of the chocolate roll is fascinating, with deep roots in pastry traditions. This easy-to-make recipe adds a touch of magic to any occasion, perfect for anniversaries, holidays, or simply to indulge the family. Our roll will have a soft texture and an intense chocolate flavor, thanks to the delicious combination of cocoa and hazelnut cream that will enhance its appreciation.

Ingredients:

- 4 fresh eggs
- 120 g sifted white flour
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 200 g whipped cream (can also be plant-based for a lighter version)
- 200 g hazelnut chocolate spread (like Nutella or Finetti)
- Powdered sugar for decoration (optional)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients on a clean table. Make sure the eggs are at room temperature, as they will whip better. Sifting the flour is essential to avoid lumps in the batter.

2. Beating the eggs: In a large bowl, add the 4 egg yolks and 100 g of granulated sugar, along with the packet of vanilla sugar. Use a mixer on medium speed to mix well until the mixture becomes a fluffy, light-colored cream. This step is crucial, as the air trapped in the mixture will help the roll to be fluffy.

3. Preparing the egg whites: In another bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt. This will help stabilize them. Use a clean mixer, as any trace of fat can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly. Beat until you achieve a firm foam that holds peaks.

4. Incorporating the ingredients: Sift the flour over the yolk mixture, making sure to do it in several stages. Use a spatula to gently fold in the flour with upward motions to retain the air in the mixture. Then, add the beaten egg whites, continuing to mix carefully.

5. Baking the base: Prepare a baking tray of about 30x40 cm, lining it with parchment paper. Pour the batter evenly into the tray, ensuring it reaches the corners. Place the tray in the preheated oven at 180 °C and bake for 10-12 minutes. The base is ready when it is slightly elastic to the touch and easily pulls away from the edges of the tray.

6. Rolling the base: Meanwhile, prepare a clean kitchen towel. Moisten it with water and lay it on the work surface. When the base is ready, carefully turn it out onto the damp towel, removing the parchment paper. Roll the base in the towel, allowing it to cool completely. This method helps maintain the shape of the roll.

7. Preparing the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the cream until it becomes firm. Add the hazelnut chocolate spread and gently mix until you achieve a smooth mixture. This delicious cream will give an intense flavor to your roll.

8. Assembling the roll: Once the base has completely cooled, carefully unroll it from the towel. Spread the chocolate cream evenly over the entire surface of the base, leaving a margin of about 1 cm. Roll the base carefully, starting from one end, to achieve a beautiful shape. If you prefer, you can trim the two ends of the roll for a neater appearance.

9. Decorating: Place the roll on a serving platter. You can cover the roll with the remaining cream, using a spatula to give it a uniform look. Sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a touch of elegance.

10. Cooling: Place the roll in the refrigerator for about an hour, to set and blend the flavors. This will make slicing easier later.

11. Serving: Cut the roll into slices and serve it alongside a cup of coffee or tea. You can pair it with fresh fruits, such as strawberries or raspberries, to add a contrast of freshness.

Tips and useful advice:

- Variations: Instead of hazelnut chocolate spread, you can use cream cheese or mascarpone for a less sweet taste. You can also add rum or orange essence to the cream mixture for a special flavor.
- Storing the roll: If you don't consume the entire roll immediately, you can keep it in the refrigerator, covered to prevent drying out.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use free-range eggs? Absolutely! Fresh eggs will provide a richer flavor.
- What if I don't have vanilla sugar? You can substitute with a few drops of vanilla essence or simply leave it out.
- How can I make the roll less sweet? Use a chocolate spread with a lower sugar content.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This chocolate roll contains approximately 300 calories per serving, but also provides a source of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats due to the ingredients used. Eggs are an excellent source of protein, and the hazelnut chocolate spread contains healthy fats, but it's best to consume it in moderation.

This recipe is not just a treat for the taste buds, but also a wonderful way to spend time in the kitchen, experimenting and enjoying the creative process of cooking. I encourage you to play with the ingredients and personalize your roll as you like. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 4 eggs, 120g white flour, 100g sugar, 1 packet of vanilla sugar, cream: - 200g whipped cream - 200g Finetti or Nutella, powdered sugar for decoration