How to Make Roll Cakes & Roulades | Bake It Up A Notch with Erin McDowell

Erin's rolling roulades! In this episode, our resident Baking BFF demystifies the technique behind jelly roll cakes and bakes it up a notch with some festive holiday versions of the roulade, including a classic yule log (Buche de Noel) and a spectacular, candy-cane-inspired Peppermint Roll Cake. Show us what you make with #bakeitupanotch and happy baking!
RECIPES IN THIS EPISODE:
Blueberry Cream Roulade: f52.co/37s6sK2
Chocolate Roulade: f52.co/3aofhq3
Cinnamon Roll-ade: f52.co/3h27fEW
Peppermint Roll Cake: f52.co/3p4x1uY
Also featured in this video
GIR Silicone Spatulas: f52.co/3rUUMcP
Nordic Ware Natural Aluminum Baking Sheets: f52.co/3vm47wh
LOOKING FOR A SPECIFIC MOMENT?
0:00 Introduction
01:27 Open Up Your Toolkit
04:56 Get to Know the Sponge
19:39 (Not) Too Hot to Handle
22:16 Ready to Roll
24:13 Filling Good, Filling Great
25:28 Put it All Together
31:19 Mistakes Happen
35:40 A Photo Finish
36:10 Peppermint Roll Cake
37:37 Yule Log
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ABOUT FOOD52
As a one-stop shop for joyful living, Food52 connects discerning home cooks with the interests they're passionate about via award-winning food and lifestyle content across platforms. We provide our audience with the recipes and solutions they crave to eat thoughtfully, live joyfully, entertain beautifully, and travel differently.

[@priyarachel]

If I could hug you right now, I would. I was so close to having a meltdown on the kitchen floor because an aunt wanted me to bake her 3 roll cakes before Christmas and I just tossed my fourth cake into the garbage because they went miserably wrong. I opened my laptop to take a break and voila! It's like you just picked me off the kitchen floor and dusted me off...lol.

[@DH-qz2so]

You should send your aunt this link, along with a sifter and some cake flour!

[@PrettyBoyKii]

I. Have. Been. THERE. Baking can make or break you. Not sure if this can help you but switching from measuring to weighing has changed my baking game. Hang in there!

[@priyarachel]

@@PrettyBoyKii Thanks. This video finally helped. I’m actually from Colorado but I’m baking in Kansas so altitude was the issue for me. Since this version does not have a rising agent, it worked. I was also trying with a flourless recipe and it was turning out to be pasty.

[@lianealbert7728]

@@PrettyBoyKii - I agree about the weighing… I haven’t tried it but the theory makes sense.. what about measuring the eggs by weight…. How to get that as close to possible especially when it’s entire egg vs whites or yolk??

[@ankeranna]

I love to listen to Erin. I want a Netflix show with her ❤️

[@francesmac]

or a podcast!!!

[@ruxtbaquero7650]

Yesssss that will be great

[@veroniquefaison]

You know you're going to have a kickass Friday when Erin shows up on your feed.

[@saskoo]

Erin makes me feel like I can bake/do anything. You just amaze with with your skills and knowledge (and science also gets me excited too).

[@mychaoticlife5222]

Every time i see erin i click. I feel like im going to a class session

[@ashleighjaimaosborne3966]

As a teacher myself, I appreciate how succinct you are. Be well and thank you for the lesson. 🇨🇦

[@littlemindfreak13]

Erin gives me strong Sookie energy and im here for it

[@SageMacBunny]

she IS sookie

[@wahbish]

Yesss she is! Hello fellow GG fan!

[@DonnaBorooah]

✌️😭✌️

[@privatename7818]

Hadn't thought of that, but yes! Love her

[@deanr3417]

Lol, thought you meant Sookie Stackhouse and I was like, whaaat?

[@pepsirosie6760]

40 plus minutes of Erin let's gooooooooooo

[@deborahanderson3106]

I am officially addicted to your show. It's amazing.

[@katiehopkins5883]

Erin is such a joy to watch while teaching me something new each time. Hope to continue seeing her.

[@johfiner]

I've fallen in love with Erin after watching this video - she's so, so knowledgable, and so thorough. Very impressive!

[@melissapennington8154]

Would it be possible to do an episode on different types of flour? Where you use each type, techniques appropriate for them, how they affect the final results? I love all these episodes!!❤️

[@hipflex168]

Oh, how I love the episodes of 'Baking up an notch' Best teacher for Baking😊

[@Person12216]

We’re only 3 minutes in and this is already extremely informative. Thanks.

[@DessertGeek]

Roll cakes are such showstoppers and so rewarding - but so scary to set up for sure! Thank you for going through all the steps, this was super helpful!

[@nancydeis7121]

I can't count the amount of times I have rewatched all of Erin's videos. She is a wonderful teacher.

[@guilhermemello525]

OMG! You’re the Baking Queen! I can never get enough of your wisdom, energy and talent! I wish I could be your student one day! 😱😱😱

[@BrandonKuti]

Erin is a baking legend. My actual baking idol. Thank you for these MASTERCLASS level, in-depth breakdowns of the subject, and the heart you put into them!!

[@phylojenie9301]

Happy holidays, Erin! I would love to see an episode about all the French creams that you can make for filling and topping desserts. Like chantilly, patissiere, mousseline, diplomat...it would be great to see your tips and tricks for how to make them turn out right!

[@niki20072]

I totally agree! I would love to see an episode on this!! Some of those are very tricky and Erin has a way of explaining things so clearly.

[@MSchoen37]

Another fantastic Erin McDowell video, you do such a great job explaining your process and logic in an approachable way. Please keep these coming!

[@PrettyBoyKii]

Yes, and she is so peppy and encouraging.

[@sharimeyers292]

I made the Blueberry Cream Roulade today just exactly as the recipe is written using our homemade jam. What a revelation! the instructions were easy to follow (both the video, which I found very helpful, and the recipe at FOOD52. I've never made a roulade before but mine came out perfect and my husband said it was the best cake he has ever eaten (he had two pieces). The recipe is a winner and so is Erin. I'm looking forward to trying different flavors of jam. Thanks, Erin.

[@ohioskane363]

Nothing original to say, just that Erin is the best!!!!

[@bstjohnson8]

So glad I watched this video “first” before making my very first roll cake. Great video teaching proper baking techniques on how to make a rolled cake which gave me the confidence to bake my first one for Thanksgiving. Excellent instructions from a top pastry chef and easy to follow and learn making baking fun.

[@tabassum3052]

I just love to watch anything Erin!! So fun, informative and heartwarming. How about an episode on muffins and cupcakes?

[@wounded_healer1439]

Roulades are tha first thing I'd ever baked, I had jus started watching The Great British Baking Show, they did Roulades in tha first episode of tha first season. I don't know why but I was inspired.& had ta try it, it was so much fun.& came out so much better than I'd expected that I kept baking.& making deserts, then that brought me ta bread.& pastries. It's been 3-4 years since.& I don't plan on stopping🙆🏻‍♂️

[@kimbers1111]

Erin's mastery of technique and knowledge is impressive enough, but when you add her teaching ability, it's extraordinary. I have bought both of her books, made her pumpkin sugar pie 3 times since November, and have been telling everyone I know who bakes and who doesn't about her. Please keep her videos coming!

[@lindacgrace2973]

I am very interested in hand-pies! Empanadas, turnovers, Southern-style fried peach pie, savory one-person chicken pot pies, English pork pies. They are fabulous either sweet or savory for cold weather and portable feasts or even simple lunch box meals. So far, I have found no worthwhile instructions online. It's up to you, Erin, to lead the charge.

[@przybyla420]

Me too, but they aren’t that tricky are they? The dough needs to be cold to roll out thin and fold, and it helps to work quickly on a few at a time, with the rest in the fridge. Use parchment paper to help you manipulate the thin dough. Don’t over fill, you can trim excess off after folding. Don’t let any filling get on the seal area or it will leak filling. Push down wit fork around edges to seal. Egg wash. Cut vent holes with sharp knife, cleaning in between as necessary. Bake around 400F.

[@jackiehiebert7064]

Oh man. Just when December seemed a bit much, there is another one of these brilliant tutorials. Such a great teacher, and the enthusiasm is infectious. I always feel so much more confident in the kitchen. Thank you to everyone involved in putting these together.

[@vickiivins3288]

Erin, I really enjoy your Bake it up a notch videos. They manage to be very informative and entertaining which is difficult to achieve! Thank you you for sharing your knowledge.

[@knitterlisa693]

Oh my gosh, thank you so much for this video. I have wanted to try the roulade/jelly roll/roll cake situation for awhile. I was intimidated, but this video helped me so much. When I got married someone gave me the stand mixer with the extra bowl. I have used the stand mixer a zillion times but this is the first time I utilized the second bowl. I have been married 18 years by the way!! I also am happy to report that I achieved peak peakage LOL

[@marjanyd1703]

I can be in your class forever. What a precious knowledge

[@heyitsmeshaz]

My first time ever coming across a Erin video, and as a fellow pastry chef, I judge others pretty harshly..... But I loved this video, and her. All her facts and tips were absolutely correct, and her personality is an absolute delight. Subscribed.

[@Jcodd21]

I am so excited for a holday episode! These are my ABSOLUTE FAVORITE! 😍

[@debrariley2057]

What a delightful episode, roll cakes are a favourite in our house, in the uk, these type of roll cakes were often referred to as a “Swiss roll” not sure why. They often contain jam or jam and butter cream. Now with changing times they have also be renamed roulade. Lovely episode again, clear concise and informative. Wishing you a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from the UK.

[@makennnzieee]

These videos make my LIFE.

[@svas1123]

Clicked "liked" before even watching! I absolutely love watching Erin bake and teach us

[@FA-kt3is]

I'm going to tape all your videos to make a baking school for my 2 daughters in future! You are the best!!!

[@shabbin100]

I love Roulades! I’m so happy with their comeback. Bring it on.....girrrrl! Love your show.

[@pilarneary3526]

Dear Erin, Thank you. You inspire me to bake. You are wonderful! 🌺🤗🌺

[@AlexCowlesMusic]

I found this channel because of Sohla, but I'm so glad I explored the other videos! Most of the big culinary KZbinrs are men, so it's great to see more women!

[@chocchip21me62]

I absolutely love your informative videos. You make baking so much fun. Thank you sooo much for all of the tips and I love your energetic teaching style. 😊

[@notyourfriend5899]

I love how you explain everything in detail and I love that your voice is easy on the ears and makes me want to keep listening.

[@jaxkereopa107]

I don't bake but I watched this episode until the end. I love how easy you are to understand and how thorough you are. I appreciate the disaster examples, the first time I've seen anyone offer that so thank you. Will keep watching your channel.

[@anblesduke6360]

We love you Erin!!!

[@gloriashaeffer9117]

If you are not a teacher , you should be. I just found you a couple of days ago and I can't get enough !!! I love the clarity and thoroughness of your instructions, along with the humor and non intimidating air of the entire videos. I love to bake and this is the best I have ever seen. Thank you Erin Enjoying all I have watched !!!1

[@paulapuglisi483]

I have learned more about the chemistry of baking and technical tips from Erin than from any TV cooking show or cookbook or KZbin video. She also is such a pleasure to watch. She is so down to earth and charming and spontaneous and funny!!!

[@Trina_White]

Omg I LOVE Erin and her energy, I bet we would be buds! Lol

[@barbaramikulcik1930]

I also bake alot you make me want to do what you’re doing. You are so entertaining. I just love your show. Keep it up. I love it

[@ginasilvestri2124]

Erin ...you are the bright spot of every single day for me..thank you!

[@ChefGamrGrrrL]

THANK YOU for this episode today! I'm going to bake my very first Yule log tomorrow and you've helped me feel more confident going into the process.

[@carolyndavid1959]

Love your tidiness in the kitchen! Very clean and organized and very professional! With hair up and apron, you mean business on what you do! Good baking!

[@maylien]

And she’s BACK!

[@rumbidzaikuwaza9720]

I love how you are a teacher first and a baker after that. So many people demonstrate their knowledge you impart it. I really enjoy watching you- thank you for doing what you do so well🤗🤗🤗🤗

[@user-lx9fc4hf6o]

love all of Erin's videos....yummy !! Tracey from Austin Texas

[@kayhart5267]

The first utube tutorial that explains why you do things, which so helps with the process. Learnt so much. Thank you.

[@mimiesdessertstudio6489]

I love how you explain everything and the science behind baking. You inspire me.

[@fhpratiwi5022]

I have a really poor attention span to almost everything but I can watch Erin from start to finish non stop. She's such a great teacher and I actually applied some of her baking tips, which all turned out great. Thank you so much, Erin!

[@food52]

Thanks for watching, Pratiwi. We’d love to see what you made - if you post pics, use #bakeitupanotch so we can see. Happy baking!

[@tasneemabrahams1726]

I came across this channel a few days ago and I'm so glad I did.. Erin & Anna Olson is my favorite bakers and in my opinion the 2 best bakers. Both bakers explain in detail and make everything sound so easy..

[@stevenfiske1306]

I love Erin so, so much! ❤

[@makgrape]

Love ALL of her episodes! I used your pie crust for Thanksgiving. First pie dough I have ever made and seriously people asked me what I did to make it so delish and flaky. I almost said old family recipe but ultimately shared your site!!

[@CDMatt94]

Thank you! Love it

[@marialuisagarabelli9235]

Excellent demonstration. A pleasure to watch! Very professional! I love Dulce de Leche as a filling! A thick version

[@shecaleskitchen357]

You are indeed the baking Queen. I can’t never get enough of God. God richly blessed , my Baking Queen 🌹🌹🌹

[@maggiefranklin1175]

I just love Erin. She’s the whole package. She makes me want to bake!!

[@portakalagaci]

Wauw. 50 Shades of Roulade.. Amazing.. Thanks

[@wondering8923]

My god...you’re wonderful. Clear, concise, organized, thorough. Love your videos!

[@pennyflaherty1448]

Thank you for your detailed instructions for the patterned Swiss roll , very helpful . I’m glad I’ve seen how to do the vertical cake I’ve always wondered how it was done ! I’ll have a go 😊

[@Findyozen]

We love you Erin!! Thanks for sharing your amazing knowledge! 😍😍😍🥰

[@glg3945]

Happy Holidays 😊 Peace and good fortune and good health to you all.

[@martihurford]

This was a fun episode, mainly because of your wonderful personality blended with exceptional baking skills. Thanks so much! ♥️🎄♥️

[@MrSoulgina]

I’m so glad I stumbled across Erin’s series a couple months ago. Her joy has lifted me back up during some trying times and has rekindled my love of baking. I’ve already learned so much from her and have refined a couple things that were never quite turning out exactly right. Thank you, Erin!!!!

[@food52]

We’re so glad you’re watching, MrSoulgina. If you post any pics, share them using the hashtag #bakeitupanotch so we can see!

[@11terr]

good grief... i missed this one... wow!!! excited!

[@jenniferkeyserling4537]

This is such a terrific episode. Erin’s enthusiasm is so motivating and infectious and just makes me want to go bake!

[@terid6708]

The videos by Erin are informative, entertaining and enjoyable. I'll even watch videos I have no intention of making, mostly for the tips, for just in case. They also come in handy for things I intend to bake. Thank you Erin, and Food 52

[@elysetodd2308]

Erin, You are a delight! I love all your videos and how much passion and love you have for baking. You always get me feeling in the mood to bake.

[@samiasasin3147]

Thank you Erin 🎄

[@ShaGLAM1]

Erin is such a great teacher and overall delight.

[@christinaripley6077]

Awesome episode. In 1984 I made my first Roulade, filled with lemon sorbet and served frozen. Have loved them ever since. Christmas isn’t Christmas without a Yule Log cake.

[@davidcrompton6324]

Erin is such an amazing teacher, she is the Julia Child of baking!

[@vestalawson4384]

I love how detail you are I learn more from you than anyone else. Thank you for imparting such great baking knowledge

[@leahness3588]

So excited to see your new show!!! Missed you!! You make it so fun!!😁😁

[@garythomas9440]

“This is why you have me.... otherwise you will be baking at the same notch - Every month”...... Erin’s teaching us to bake it up a notch!

[@TarshaNicole]

Just love watching Erin! Love her energy

[@alearguero]

I loooooove your energy, passion and how complete your episodes are!! Definitely you make all the process of making cake or pie or anything look sooooo much easier and confident. Love it 💕✨

[@bninchen123]

Best baking show ever!!!! Thank you very much for the effort!!!🥰🥰🥰

[@user-gc7kb1df4s]

Thank you so much for this video ! Made my first swiss roll. Watching helped so much! Thank you for all the tips and tricks!

[@autumnlawley9461]

So glad I found this channel!!! Love Erin, she is such a good host and her energy is so calm and wonderful. I honestly probably won't be making these cakes but I love listening to her explain it!!!

[@TheNinnyfee]

Folding in biscuit dough is the zen garden of baking. So peaceful. ♥️ My favourite is a lemon roulade, with a simple whipped cream lemon filling and powdered sugar on top.

[@queencleo1151]

Greetings from Cyprus! Your tutorials are so educational and fun to watch. You bring so much cheer into your creations that it makes everything less intimidating despite all the hiccups that might occur... Thank you very much Erin!

[@uzmasaleem900]

Love your recepies ❤you explain everything up to mark❤️

[@sadiehearn4250]

I could listen to Erin ALL DAY! She is so knowledgeable and such a great “teacher”. Merry Christmas everyone! 🎄. Hello from Windsor, Ontario 🇨🇦

[@carolineseasybakinglessons]

Great, as I had watched all your other videos. I would love to see you tempering chocolate and working with gelatine (or Agar Agar). Actually anything you haven't already covered. I enjoy watching and also enjoy the science elements too.

[@nme0830]

Erin you keep our bellies oh so happy!! Thank you, you Goddess of kitchen chemistry!🥰🥰👏👏

[@SuperDuppydoo]

Fun times! Thank you!

[@rontavakoli-JD-MBA]

I think this is one of the most incredible desserts and thank you Erin for such fantastic instructions. The regional/transnational iterations are equally delicious to explore, but a solid foundation of understanding the chemistry of sponginess is absolumont

[@DrumBear78]

You referenced folding the cheese! As if we didn't love you enough already LOL.

[@katem5843]

My first Erin video and I’m here for it.

[@anahidkassabian4471]

Love love love this series! As for future things, I’d really like to see different baking traditions from other cultures, like that pancake stack cake, or working with khadaif, or the host of things I’ve never encountered and therefore can’t list 😄

[@zingyflaps7757]

Loved this episode! Exactly what I was going to attempt to make next. A jelly roll pan will be my next investment, since now I know what it is. Thank you!

[@hellothisislilac]

This was sooooooo fun to watch. And thank you for cutting and showing us how it looks. So satisfyinggggg. Also I need to add. I tried your ultimate chocolate cake for my sister-in-law's birthday and EVERYONE LOVED IT. It's the best cake I've ever had hands down home-made or like gourmet store bought. Sooooo good. Thanks for putting excellent content and sharing excellent recipes with us!!