Chocolate Cake Roll: A Decadent, Light, and Delicious Dessert

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cake

In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer on medium-high speed for about 2 minutes, until the mixture is thick and pale.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, folding gently to combine.
Add the vanilla extract and warm water, stirring until the batter is smooth and evenly mixed.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly.
Step 3: Bake the Cake

Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the cake is baking, prepare a clean kitchen towel by dusting it with powdered sugar.
Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and immediately invert the pan onto the prepared towel. Carefully peel away the parchment paper. Starting from one short end, gently roll the cake up with the towel inside. Let it cool completely while rolled up.
Step 4: Make the Filling

In a medium bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form.
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and cocoa powder (if using) until smooth and creamy. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until combined.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake Roll

Once the cake has cooled, carefully unroll it and remove the towel.
Spread the filling evenly over the entire surface of the cake, leaving a small border around the edges.
Carefully roll the cake back up, this time without the towel, starting from the short end.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Place the cake roll seam-side down on a serving platter.
Dust with powdered sugar and optionally top with shaved chocolate or a drizzle of chocolate ganache.
Slice the cake into 1-inch pieces and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Serving and Storage Tips: