Chocolate Peanut Butter Swiss Roll Recipe

If you’re a fan of decadent desserts that bring together the best of rich, creamy flavors wrapped in an elegant presentation, the Chocolate Peanut Butter Swiss Roll is your new go-to treat. This irresistible dessert features a tender chocolate sponge cake rolled effortlessly around a luscious peanut butter filling, then cloaked in a silky chocolate ganache that gives every bite a dreamy texture and intense flavor. Each element—from the moist cocoa layer to the fluffy peanut butter cream—works harmoniously, making this Chocolate Peanut Butter Swiss Roll an unforgettable centerpiece for any celebration or cozy night in.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating the perfect Chocolate Peanut Butter Swiss Roll may sound fancy, but it relies on a handful of simple ingredients that are easy to find and essential to delivering the ideal balance of flavor, texture, and appearance. Each component plays a crucial role—from the airy sponge to the creamy filling and glossy ganache, every bite tells a delicious story.

• 4 large eggs (room temperature): These provide structure and fluffiness to the sponge, ensuring it’s light and springy.
• ¾ cup (90 g) all-purpose flour: The backbone of the sponge, adding just the right amount of density without weighing it down.
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar: Sweetness that helps create a tender crumb and balanced flavor.
• ¼ cup (25 g) unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers deep chocolate flavor and stunning color.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Adds lift to the cake, making sure it’s light and soft.
• ¼ cup (60 ml) milk: Keeps the sponge moist and tender.
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter: Adds richness and prevents dryness.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all flavors with a floral sweetness.
• Pinch of salt: Intensifies the chocolate and balances sweetness perfectly.
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, chilled: Whipped to perfection, it’s the fluffy base for the peanut butter filling.
• ¾ cup (190 g) creamy peanut butter: The star flavor, creamy and nutty, creating a delightful contrast.
• ⅓ cup (40 g) powdered sugar: Sweetens the peanut butter filling smoothly without grittiness.
• ½ tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the filling.
• 200 g semisweet or milk chocolate, chopped: For the irresistible ganache that ties everything together.
• ¾ cup (180 ml) heavy cream: Heated to melt the chocolate into a shiny, smooth glaze.
• 1 tbsp butter: Adds gloss and silkiness to the ganache.
• Mini peanut butter cups (optional): For a playful, decorative touch on top.
• Chocolate drizzle or extra ganache (optional): To elevate the look and chocolate intensity.
• Crushed peanuts (optional): Provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy textures.

How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Swiss Roll

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Sponge

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper for easy release. Beat the eggs and sugar on high speed until they turn pale and fluffy, capturing plenty of air which is key to that light sponge texture. Then sieve together your dry ingredients—flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt—and gently fold them into the airy egg mixture. Finally, stir in the milk, oil, and vanilla until everything is silky smooth. Pour the batter evenly into your pan and bake for just 10 to 12 minutes, being careful not to overbake to keep the sponge perfectly tender and pliable.

Step 2: Roll the Cake

Right out of the oven, dust a clean kitchen towel with cocoa powder. Invert the hot cake onto the towel and peel off the parchment paper. While the cake is still warm, roll it gently from the short edge using the towel to help guide it without cracking. This delicate rolling stage is what sets apart a professional-looking Swiss roll — allowing the cake to cool while already rolled helps it remember that shape and prevents it from breaking when you fill it.

Step 3: Create the Peanut Butter Filling

Whip the chilled heavy cream to soft peaks—this step is important to ensure the filling is light and airy rather than dense. In a separate bowl, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture until the filling becomes fluffy and luscious, striking the perfect harmony between richness and lightness.

Step 4: Assemble the Swiss Roll

Carefully unroll your cooled sponge and spread the peanut butter filling evenly over the surface, leaving a neat margin around the edges so the filling doesn’t spill out while re-rolling. Roll the cake back up tightly but gently to encase the filling in a beautiful spiral. Wrap the roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes so it firms up and the flavors meld.

Step 5: Make and Apply Chocolate Ganache

Heat the heavy cream until it’s steaming, then pour it over the chopped chocolate and butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth, glossy, and velvety. Pour the ganache generously over your chilled roll, allowing it to naturally drip down the sides for that irresistible, homemade look that feels so inviting.

Step 6: Decorate Your Chocolate Peanut Butter Swiss Roll

To finish your beautiful dessert, add mini peanut butter cups on top, drizzle with extra chocolate or ganache, and scatter some crushed peanuts if you’d love a crunchy contrast. These little extras make your Chocolate Peanut Butter Swiss Roll as eye-catching as it is delicious.

How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Swiss Roll

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of crushed peanuts, a dusting of cocoa powder, or a few mini peanut butter cups on top add texture and visual appeal. A final drizzle of chocolate ganache can elevate the look and intensify the flavor, making every slice picture-perfect and bursting with promise.

Side Dishes

While the Chocolate Peanut Butter Swiss Roll stands proudly as the star, pairing it with a dollop of lightly whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries helps balance the richness with refreshing brightness. A cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk are classic companions that enhance the indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

You can serve this Swiss roll in various charming ways for different occasions—slice it thick for a hearty dessert or thin for elegant finger desserts at parties. Wrapping individual slices with edible gold leaf or serving on colorful plates with complementary sauces like caramel or raspberry coulis adds a wow factor sure to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Chocolate Peanut Butter Swiss Roll keeps beautifully when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to deepen even more, making your leftovers just as delightful as the fresh slices.

Freezing

To enjoy your Chocolate Peanut Butter Swiss Roll longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It freezes well for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to preserve the delicate textures and flavors.

Reheating

Since this is a cream-filled cake, avoid microwaving. Instead, bring the roll to room temperature by leaving it out for 15 to 20 minutes before slicing. This step allows the ganache to soften and the filling to regain its luscious creaminess for the best eating experience.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture, which can be delightful, but it might make the filling a bit less smooth. If you love that nutty crunch, go for it! Just make sure to beat the cream thoroughly for a balanced texture.

Is it necessary to roll the cake while warm?

Yes, rolling the sponge warm helps it become flexible and prevents cracking. If the cake cools completely before rolling, it may break, making assembly difficult or messy.

Can I substitute the ganache with something else?

Absolutely! If you prefer, you can dust the roll with powdered sugar or use a chocolate buttercream frosting. However, ganache adds a glossy finish that beautifully complements the chocolate peanut butter flavor.

How long does the Chocolate Peanut Butter Swiss Roll take to make?

From start to finish, including chilling time, expect about 2 to 3 hours. The actual hands-on prep is under an hour, but chilling and resting are crucial steps to get the best texture and flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. The key is to maintain the right texture, so using a blend that contains xanthan gum or similar binding agents works best.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly something magical about the Chocolate Peanut Butter Swiss Roll—a dessert that feels both classic and exciting, combining comforting flavors with elegant presentation. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, this cake delivers joy in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the delight of sinking into that melt-in-your-mouth chocolate sponge, paired with dreamy peanut butter cream and the shine of rich ganache. Happy baking, my friend!