How to Make Gâteau Roulé – A Classic French Swiss Roll Recipe

 

--- published by foodie Parmod.

Introduction

Gâteau Roulé, also known as the French Swiss roll, is a light sponge cake rolled around a filling of jam, whipped cream, or ganache. This elegant dessert is easy to make, quick to bake, and endlessly versatile. Whether you prefer it filled with raspberry jam, chocolate ganache, or fresh cream and fruit, the Gâteau Roulé is a timeless treat that looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to prepare.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you step by step on how to make a Gâteau Roulé using British ingredients and techniques, optimised for full Google SEO.

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What Is Gâteau Roulé?

Gâteau Roulé is the French take on the Swiss roll – a thin sheet of airy sponge cake that’s rolled with a sweet filling. It can be enjoyed plain, dusted with icing sugar, or decorated with icing and toppings. Light in texture and beautiful when sliced, it’s perfect for tea time, birthdays, or special occasions.

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Ingredients

(Serves 6–8)

For the sponge:

4 large eggs

100g caster sugar

100g plain flour (sifted)

1 tsp vanilla extract

A pinch of salt

For the filling (choose one):

4–5 tbsp raspberry or strawberry jam (classic version)

OR

150ml double cream, whipped + fresh berries

OR

Chocolate ganache (100g dark chocolate + 100ml cream)

To finish:

Icing sugar for dusting

Optional: melted chocolate or fruit for decoration

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Equipment Needed

Swiss roll tin (approx. 23 x 33cm)

Electric whisk or stand mixer

Baking paper

Clean tea towel

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Method

Step 1: Prepare the tin and preheat oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / 400°F / Gas Mark 6.

Grease your Swiss roll tin and line it with baking paper.

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Step 2: Make the sponge

Break the eggs into a large mixing bowl, add the sugar and whisk for 5–7 minutes until thick, pale, and tripled in volume. It should leave a ribbon trail when lifted.

Add the vanilla extract. Gently fold in the sifted flour and a pinch of salt using a spatula or metal spoon – be careful not to knock out the air.

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Step 3: Bake the sponge

Pour the mixture into the prepared tin and spread evenly. Bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden and springy to the touch.

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Step 4: Roll the sponge

While the cake is baking, place a clean tea towel on the worktop and dust it with icing sugar.

Once the cake is out of the oven, immediately turn it out onto the sugared tea towel. Carefully peel off the baking paper.

While still warm, roll the cake up from the short side with the tea towel inside – this helps it hold its shape and prevents cracking later. Let it cool rolled up.

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Step 5: Add the filling

Once the sponge is cool, gently unroll it. Spread your chosen filling (jam, whipped cream, or ganache) evenly, leaving a 1cm gap around the edges.

Re-roll the sponge carefully (without the towel) and place seam-side down on a serving plate.

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Step 6: Finish and serve

Dust with icing sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate. Slice with a sharp knife for neat rounds.

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Filling Ideas & Variations

Classic: Raspberry or apricot jam

Festive: Chestnut cream and whipped cream

Summery: Fresh strawberries and mascarpone

Chocolate lovers: Nutella or chocolate ganache

Zesty: Lemon curd and whipped cream

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Storage Tips

Best eaten fresh on the day, but will keep in the fridge for up to 2 days.

If filled with cream, store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Not suitable for freezing once filled, but the sponge alone can be frozen.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Light and fluffy texture: Perfect with tea or coffee

Elegant presentation: Ideal for special occasions

Customisable fillings: Make it fruity, creamy, or rich with chocolate

Quick to prepare: Less than 30 minutes from start to finish

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my sponge crack when rolling?

Rolling the sponge while warm helps prevent cracking. Don’t overbake – it should be soft and pliable.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free plain flour blend in the same quantity.

Can I decorate it like a Bûche de Noël?

Absolutely – this sponge is the perfect base for a Yule log or chocolate roulade.

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Conclusion

Gâteau Roulé is an elegant, light, and delightful French dessert that’s easy enough for beginners yet sophisticated enough to impress guests. Whether filled with jam or cream, this rolled sponge cake brings a touch of Parisian pâtisserie to your home kitchen.

--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.

Tried the recipe?

Share your creation on social media with #GateauRouléUK – we’d love to see your twist!