S’mores Swiss Roll – sweetydreamz

This S’mores Swiss Roll reimagines the nostalgic campfire treat as an elegant, bakery-style dessert with serious wow factor. A light, flexible sponge cake is rolled around fluffy marshmallow cream, coated in glossy chocolate ganache, and finished with crunchy graham cracker crumbs and toasted marshmallows. The result is a perfectly balanced dessert that’s rich, airy, and unmistakably s’mores-inspired.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Flavors, Elevated – All the elements of traditional s’mores transformed into a refined, sliceable dessert.
Stunning Visual Impact – The spiral filling, dripping ganache, and toasted marshmallow topping make it a true showstopper.
Balanced Texture – Soft sponge, creamy filling, smooth ganache, and crunchy graham crumbs in every bite.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Can be prepared in stages and assembled in advance for stress-free entertaining.
Technique-Driven but Achievable – Intermediate-level steps with clear structure and forgiving finishes.
Crowd-Pleasing Dessert – Familiar flavors that appeal to both kids and adults.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Sponge Cake

4 large eggs, room temperature – Provide structure and volume when whipped with sugar.
¾ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake and stabilizes the whipped eggs.
1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted – Creates a light, flexible sponge texture.
1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth to the cake base.
¼ tsp salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.

Marshmallow Cream Filling

2 cups marshmallow fluff – Forms the sweet, fluffy backbone of the filling.
1 cup heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks – Lightens the fluff for a mousse-like consistency.
1 cup mini chocolate chips – Adds chocolate bursts reminiscent of melted chocolate bars.

Ganache & Coating

1½ cups chocolate ganache – Provides a rich, glossy exterior layer.
1½ cups graham cracker crumbs – Adds crunch and classic s’mores flavor to the outside.
10 large marshmallows – Toasted on top for visual drama and flavor.
Powdered sugar (optional) – Used for dusting the towel and finishing touches.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Whip the Eggs and Sugar – Beat eggs and granulated sugar on high speed for 5–7 minutes until pale, thick, and tripled in volume, forming ribbons when lifted.
Fold the Batter – Gently fold in sifted flour, vanilla, and salt with a spatula, preserving as much air as possible.
Bake the Sponge – Spread batter evenly in a lined 10×15-inch jelly roll pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes until springy.
Roll While Warm – Immediately invert the cake onto a powdered sugar–dusted towel, peel parchment, and roll from the short end with the towel inside; cool completely.
Prepare the Filling – Fold marshmallow fluff with whipped cream until light, then gently incorporate mini chocolate chips.
Fill and Re-Roll – Unroll cooled cake, spread filling evenly leaving a 1-inch border, then roll tightly without the towel.
Chill to Set – Wrap the roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.
Make the Ganache – Pour hot cream over chocolate, rest 2 minutes, then whisk until smooth and let thicken slightly.
Coat and Finish – Pour ganache over the chilled roll, press on graham crumbs, toast marshmallows on top, and chill briefly before slicing.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Room-Temperature Eggs – Essential for maximum volume and a tender sponge.
Warm Roll Technique – Rolling the cake hot “trains” the sponge to bend without cracking later.
Ganache Consistency – Aim for thick honey; too thin will run off, too thick won’t drip.
Clean Slices – Use a serrated knife dipped in hot water and wiped between cuts.
Advance Prep – Assemble up to 2 days ahead; toast marshmallows just before serving.
Imperfections Are Okay – Cracks are hidden beautifully under ganache and crumbs.

Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes (plus chilling)
Servings: 10 slices (one generous slice per serving)
Calories: Approximately 420–460 calories per serving (estimate; varies by portion and ingredients)

Perfect Pairings

Hot Chocolate or Mocha – Complements the chocolate-forward flavors.
Espresso or Black Coffee – Cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
Vanilla Ice Cream – Adds temperature contrast and extra indulgence.
Fresh Berries – Provide acidity to balance richness.

Ideal Occasions

Holiday Desserts – A guaranteed centerpiece for festive tables.
Dinner Parties – Elegant enough to impress without plated complexity.
Birthday Celebrations – A fun alternative to traditional layer cakes.
Potlucks & Gatherings – Familiar flavors that travel well.

Storage & Serving Tips

Refrigerated Storage – Keep tightly wrapped for up to 2 days.
Slice Cold, Serve Slightly Cool – Best texture when just chilled, not icy.
Avoid Freezing – Marshmallow filling can lose structure when thawed.
Toast Marshmallows Last-Minute – Ensures the best look and flavor.

Creative Variations to Try

Peanut Butter S’mores Roll – Add a thin peanut butter layer under the filling.
Dark Chocolate Espresso Ganache – Intensifies chocolate depth.
Chocolate Sponge Version – Replace some flour with cocoa powder.
Mini Swiss Rolls – Bake thinner layers and create individual portions.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Cake Cracks When Rolling – Roll immediately while warm and don’t overbake.
Filling Oozes Out – Leave a clear border and avoid overfilling.
Ganache Slides Off – Chill the roll well and allow ganache to thicken properly.
Uneven Spiral – Spread filling evenly and roll with steady pressure.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe relies on classic sponge-cake technique: whipped eggs provide structure without fat, keeping the cake light and flexible. Rolling while warm prevents gluten breakage, while chilling after filling stabilizes the spiral. The marshmallow cream balances sweetness with airiness, and the ganache adds richness without overwhelming the interior. Textural contrast from graham crackers completes the s’mores experience. At roughly 420–460 calories per slice, it’s an indulgent dessert designed for sharing.

Final Thoughts

The S’mores Swiss Roll delivers nostalgia, elegance, and technical satisfaction in one dessert. It’s a perfect example of how classic flavors can be transformed through thoughtful technique and presentation. Rich yet light, indulgent yet balanced, this dessert is ideal for special occasions—and can easily be adapted for lighter portions or creative twists while keeping its signature s’mores charm. 🍫🔥