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Boston Cream Cake Roll

A delightful dessert combining rich chocolate, creamy custard, and a fluffy cake in a beautiful rolled presentation.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 4 large eggs The foundation of the cake, providing structure and richness.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the cake and provides a lovely crust.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract Infuses the cake with warmth and depth.
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour Ensures a light and fluffy texture.
  • 1 tsp baking powder Helps the cake rise beautifully.
  • 1/4 tsp salt Balances the flavors perfectly.
For the Custard Filling
  • 1 cup whole milk Adds richness to both the cake and custard.
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream Creates a luxuriously smooth custard.
  • 1/4 cup sugar Sweetens the custard filling.
  • 4 large egg yolks Thickens the custard and adds richness.
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch Helps set the custard.
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter Adds a creamy finish to the custard.
For the Ganache
  • 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped Forms the decadent ganache to top the cake.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Used to make ganache.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 5-7 minutes. Add the vanilla extract and combine.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined.
  4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until golden brown.
  5. Remove the cake from the oven, let it cool slightly for 5 minutes. Turn the cake onto a kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar, peel off the parchment, and roll the cake using the towel. Set aside to cool completely.
Custard Filling
  1. For the custard, heat the milk, heavy cream, and sugar over medium heat until steaming.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, cornstarch, and remaining vanilla until smooth. Gradually add the hot milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly.
  3. Return everything to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking until thickened, approximately 3-5 minutes. Stir in the butter until completely melted and smooth, then let it cool to room temperature.
Ganache
  1. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it begins to simmer. Pour over the chopped chocolate and let it sit. Stir until smooth and mix in any remaining butter until glossy.
Assembly
  1. Gently unroll the cooled cake, spread the custard evenly over the surface, then roll it back up seam-side down on a serving platter.
  2. Pour the ganache over the top, letting it drizzle down the sides.
  3. Chill in the refrigerator for one hour before slicing.

Notes

Temperature matters: Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for better incorporation. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements. Add some lemon zest for extra flavor, or try white chocolate ganache for a variation.