Ingredients:
For the chocolate sponge cake:
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
4 large eggs, room temperature
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup milk
Powdered sugar (for rolling)
For the caramel whipped cream filling:
1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
1/3 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For the caramel drizzle (optional but amazing):
1/4 cup caramel sauce (extra for topping)
1 oz chocolate, melted (optional for swirl effect)
Optional garnish:
Extra whipped cream
Caramel shards or toffee bits
Chocolate curls
Sea salt flakes
Directions:
Preheat and prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper. Lightly spray or butter the parchment to prevent sticking.
Make the chocolate sponge: In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt. In another large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until pale and thick (about 5 minutes). Add vanilla and milk, and gently fold in the dry ingredients. Do not overmix.
Bake the cake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the top springs back when lightly touched.
Roll the cake: While still warm, turn the cake out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment paper and roll the cake up gently with the towel from the short end. Let cool completely.
Make the caramel whipped cream: In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the caramel sauce until fully incorporated and fluffy. Keep chilled until ready to use.
Assemble the roll: Unroll the cooled cake gently. Spread the caramel cream evenly across the surface, leaving a 1-inch border on the edges. Roll the cake back up tightly (without the towel), and place seam side down on a serving platter.
Chill and decorate: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set. Just before serving, drizzle with warm caramel sauce, melted chocolate (if using), and garnish with your favorite toppings like whipped cream, caramel shards, or sea salt flakes.
