The Banoffee Roulade brings together the indulgent flavors of caramel, banana, and whipped cream within a soft sponge cake roll. Perfect for family gatherings or a treat-yourself dessert night, this roulade is surprisingly easy to prepare. It’s a fresh twist on the classic British Banoffee pie, with a lighter texture and a beautiful rolled presentation.
Ingredients with Quantities
To make this Banoffee Roulade, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 5 large eggs, separated
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 large banana, sliced thinly
- 1/4 cup chocolate shavings or curls (optional, for topping)
Directions and Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare a 10×15-inch baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This will help prevent the roulade from sticking and make it easier to roll.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
- Separate the eggs into two bowls, with yolks in one bowl and whites in another.
- Using a mixer, beat the egg yolks and sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and has a pale color. This should take about 2-3 minutes on high speed.
- Add vanilla extract to the yolk mixture and blend thoroughly.
Step 3: Beat the Egg Whites
- In a separate clean, dry bowl, whip the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This means that when you lift the beater, the peaks should stand upright without falling over.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Gently fold the flour and baking powder into the egg yolk mixture. It’s essential to use a light hand here to avoid deflating the mixture.
- Next, fold the beaten egg whites into the yolk mixture in stages, being careful not to lose the airiness of the batter. A spatula is ideal for this step.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly. Ensure the batter reaches all corners for an even bake.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake has a light golden hue and springs back when touched gently.
Step 6: Roll the Cake
- Once baked, roll the warm cake with the parchment paper, starting from one short end. This initial rolling will help the cake hold its shape once the filling is added.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in this rolled shape to prevent it from cracking when filled.
Step 7: Add the Filling
- Unroll the cooled cake carefully. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream evenly across the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the whipped cream and layer banana slices evenly over the caramel for a balanced flavor in every bite.
Step 8: Roll and Decorate
- Gently roll the cake back up, keeping it as tight as possible without squeezing out the filling.
- For a finishing touch, drizzle extra caramel sauce over the roulade and, if desired, sprinkle chocolate shavings or curls on top.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works well for this recipe. However, if you want a richer flavor, you may also make a homemade caramel sauce.
Can I make this roulade gluten-free?
Certainly! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in the same quantity. Ensure it is a blend suitable for cakes to maintain the sponge’s texture.
How should I store leftovers?
This roulade is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The bananas may slightly darken, but the flavor remains delicious.
Can I make the roulade ahead of time?
You can prepare the sponge a day in advance. However, add the whipped cream and bananas just before serving to keep it as fresh as possible.
What if my cake cracks during rolling?
If the roulade cracks slightly during rolling, don’t worry! It can be disguised with caramel drizzle and chocolate shavings, which will cover any minor imperfections.
Conclusion
This Banoffee Roulade recipe is a delightful dessert that combines the irresistible flavors of caramel, banana, and fluffy whipped cream within a light sponge cake. Its elegant presentation and creamy, fruity flavors make it a fantastic addition to any dessert table, satisfying both adults and kids alike. Give this roulade a try, and bring a slice of classic British dessert with a twist to your kitchen.