Ingredients
For the sponge cake:
- 4 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
For the filling:
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Equipment
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a jelly roll pan (approximately 10×15 inches) with parchment paper, ensuring it extends slightly over the edges for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Sponge Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on high speed for about 5 minutes. The mixture should turn pale and thick, forming ribbons when lifted. This step is crucial for achieving a light sponge.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the batter.
- Add the lemon zest and fold gently until incorporated.
Step 3: Bake the Sponge Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the blueberries evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake is golden and springs back when lightly touched.
Step 4: Roll the Cake
- While the cake is baking, prepare a clean kitchen towel by dusting it with confectioners’ sugar.
- Once baked, immediately turn the cake onto the prepared towel. Carefully peel off the parchment paper.
- Starting from one short end, roll the cake and towel together while it is still warm. This helps the cake hold its shape without cracking later. Let it cool on a wire rack.
Step 5: Prepare the Filling
- In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Unroll the cooled cake and brush the surface with lemon juice for extra moisture and flavor.
- Spread the whipped cream filling evenly over the cake, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
Step 6: Re-Roll and Chill
- Carefully roll the cake back up, this time without the towel. Use gentle pressure to keep it tight but not too firm.
- Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to set.
Notes
How to Prevent the Cake from Cracking
- Beating the eggs and sugar properly is essential. The thick, aerated mixture helps create a flexible sponge.
- Rolling the cake while warm prevents cracks. If the cake cools too much before rolling, it may become stiff.
- If cracks appear, don’t worry—extra whipped cream and a dusting of sugar can disguise imperfections.
What to Do If the Cake Is Too Dry
- Brushing the cake with extra lemon juice or a light sugar syrup can help restore moisture.
- Overbaking can cause dryness. Check for doneness at 12 minutes and remove the cake once it springs back.
How to Whip Cream Successfully
- Use cold heavy cream and chill your mixing bowl for best results.
- If the cream is not thickening, place the bowl over an ice bath while whipping.
- Avoid overbeating, as it can turn the cream into butter.
Efficient Kitchen Prep
- Measure ingredients before starting to streamline the process.
- Use an electric mixer for whipping eggs and cream to save time and effort.
- Clean as you go to avoid a messy kitchen.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes