If you have a soft spot for dreamy desserts that look almost too magical to eat, you are going to adore this Galaxy Cake Roll Recipe. It’s a stunning swirl cake that captures the essence of a cosmic night sky with vibrant hues of purples, blues, pinks, and even black, all wrapped up in a light, fluffy cake and slathered with silky whipped cream. Every bite feels like a starry celebration, perfectly sweet and simply irresistible. This recipe will bring a splash of wonder to your baking repertoire, making it a showstopper for gatherings or an indulgent treat any day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Galaxy Cake Roll Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that delicate texture, subtle flavor, and dazzling color. You don’t need anything fancy, just some basics and a few special touches to bring in that cosmic vibe.
- 4 large eggs: The foundation of the cake, providing structure and fluffiness when whipped properly.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter while helping to create a tender crumb and light texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic undertone that complements the colorful theme beautifully.
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: The main dry ingredient giving the cake just enough body without weighing it down.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the roll a gentle rise for a springy bite.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances out sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
- Gel food coloring (purple, blue, black, pink): The secret to the galaxy effect—use gel for vivid, deep colors that won’t thin the batter.
- 1/4 cup whole milk: Keeps the batter moist and tender.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Adds richness and keeps the cake soft even after baking and rolling.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (for filling): Whipped to fluffy perfection for that creamy, dreamy filling.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for filling): Sweetens the cream while helping it hold its shape.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling): Brings a lovely flavor to the whipped cream that ties the whole cake together.
- Edible glitter or luster dust (for decorating): The final sparkling touch that transforms this cake roll into a celestial masterpiece.
- Star sprinkles (optional): To sprinkle on top for some fun, thematic detail that’s just too cute to skip.
How to Make Galaxy Cake Roll Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper. This ensures the cake bakes evenly and releases easily when it’s time to roll.
Step 2: Whip the Eggs and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the eggs with granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract using a hand mixer until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale—about 5 minutes. This aeration is key for a spongy texture that will roll without cracking.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Fold Gently
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the egg mixture, careful not to deflate your batter. This gentle folding keeps the cake soft and pull-apart ready.
Step 4: Add Milk and Oil
Mix the milk and vegetable oil together, then fold this smoothly into the batter. The milk adds moisture and the oil keeps the cake tender and pliable.
Step 5: Color the Batter and Create Your Galaxy
Divide the batter evenly into four small bowls. Using gel food coloring, tint each portion a different galaxy shade: purple, blue, black, and pink. Drop spoonfuls of each colored batter randomly into the prepared pan and then swirl lightly with a skewer to create that mesmerizing galaxy pattern. Don’t over-swirl—it’s the contrast of colors that gives this cake its celestial charm.
Step 6: Bake and Roll
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the cake springs back when gently touched. Remove immediately from the oven, invert it onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar, and peel off the parchment paper. Roll the cake up with the towel from the short side while it’s still warm and let it cool completely. This step trains the cake to hold the roll shape without cracking later.
Step 7: Make the Filling and Assemble
Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. When the cake is fully cool, gently unroll it, spread the whipped cream evenly across the surface, and roll it back up carefully. This luscious filling complements the colorful sponge with fresh creaminess that’s not too heavy.
Step 8: Add the Final Cosmic Touches
Dust the roll with edible glitter or luster dust for a sparkling galaxy effect. For even more star power, sprinkle on some star-shaped sprinkles just before serving. This turns the cake into a true cosmic delight for the eyes as well as the palate.
How to Serve Galaxy Cake Roll Recipe
Garnishes
Edible glitter and star sprinkles are your best friends here. They not only add shimmer and wonder but create a festive look that invites everyone to dive right in. Fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar can also complement the colors and flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
The Galaxy Cake Roll Recipe shines on its own, but pairing it with fresh fruit like raspberries or blackberries can add a refreshing bright contrast. A simple cup of rich coffee or a light floral tea is perfect to balance the cake’s sweetness and round out your dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the roll into generous pieces to showcase the swirling galaxy pattern inside. For a party, arrange slices on a platter in a spiral to echo the galaxy theme, or serve individual rolls in pretty cake stands topped with edible stars. Packaging slices in clear boxes tied with a ribbon makes for a charming gift that wows.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover Galaxy Cake Roll tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator to keep the whipped cream filling fresh. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days, maintaining its moist texture and cosmic colors.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake roll without decorations for up to one month. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before decorating and serving.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed chilled, so no reheating is needed. If you prefer it closer to room temperature, simply leave it out for 15 to 20 minutes before serving to soften the cream and enhance flavor.
FAQs
Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel?
Gel food coloring is recommended because it provides vibrant, intense colors without thinning the batter. Liquid food coloring can make the batter too runny and affect the cake’s texture, so stick with gels for the best galaxy effect.
What if my cake cracks while rolling?
Rolling the cake when it is warm is crucial to prevent cracking. Be gentle and use a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar to help ease it into shape. If cracks appear, simply spread your filling over and roll carefully; the cream will help patch small gaps.
Can I make this cake dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute whole milk with your favorite plant-based milk and use coconut cream or another dairy-free whipping cream alternative for the filling. The texture and taste will be slightly different but still delightful.
How long does it take for the cake to cool before filling?
Allow the rolled cake to cool completely before unrolling and filling, usually about 30 to 40 minutes at room temperature. This prevents the whipped cream from melting and keeps your roll neat.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! The Galaxy Cake Roll Recipe is straightforward with a step-by-step approach. Just take your time with the folding and swirling steps, and you’ll end up with a stunning cake that looks more complex than it is.
Final Thoughts
This Galaxy Cake Roll Recipe is one of those desserts that simply spark joy every time you make it. It takes basic ingredients and elevates them into a visually dazzling, delicious treat that’s perfect for impressing friends or brightening a special day. Don your apron, embrace the swirls, and let this little cosmic cake inspire your baking adventures. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become a beloved classic in your recipe box!
Print
Galaxy Cake Roll Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Galaxy Cake Roll is a visually stunning and delicious dessert featuring a colorful swirled sponge cake with a light whipped cream filling. The cake’s vibrant galaxy pattern is created using gel food colorings and finished with edible glitter and optional star sprinkles, making it perfect for special occasions or cosmic-themed parties.
Ingredients
Cake
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Gel food coloring (purple, blue, black, pink)
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Filling
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Galaxy Effect
- Edible glitter or luster dust
- Star sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the pan and oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper for easy cake removal.
- Make the batter base: In a large bowl, beat the eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract with a hand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 5 minutes.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually fold the flour mixture into the egg mixture gently to avoid deflating the batter.
- Add liquids: Mix the milk and vegetable oil together, then fold this mixture gently into the batter for moisture and tenderness.
- Color the batter: Divide the batter evenly into four small bowls and tint each with a different gel food coloring: purple, blue, black, and pink.
- Create galaxy pattern: Spoon dollops of each colored batter randomly into the prepared pan. Using a skewer, swirl the colors lightly to form a marbled galaxy effect.
- Bake the cake: Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the cake springs back to the touch, indicating it is fully baked.
- Cool and roll: Immediately invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar, peel off the parchment, and roll the cake up with the towel from the short side. Let it cool completely rolled up.
- Prepare the filling: Beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl until stiff peaks form, ensuring a stable whipped cream.
- Assemble the cake: Once the cake is cooled, carefully unroll it, spread the whipped cream evenly over the surface, then re-roll the cake snugly.
- Decorate and serve: Dust the outside with edible glitter and add star sprinkles if desired for a magical finishing touch before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use gel food coloring instead of liquid for more vibrant and deeper colors in the cake batter.
- Store the finished cake roll in the refrigerator until ready to serve to keep the filling firm.
- You can freeze the cake roll without decorations for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before adding edible glitter and sprinkles.
