Pandan Swiss Roll

This Pandan Swiss Roll Easter Cake is a vibrant and festive dessert, perfect for spring celebrations. The soft and airy pandan sponge cake is delicately flavored with fragrant pandan extract, giving it a stunning natural green hue. Rolled with a light coconut or vanilla cream filling, this cake combines tropical flavors with a classic Swiss roll texture. Decorate with pastel-colored toppings or edible flowers for a beautiful Easter cake centerpiece!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light and fluffy texture – The perfect airy sponge that melts in your mouth.
• Beautiful green hue – Naturally colored with pandan extract.
• Tropical and fragrant – A unique twist on a classic Swiss roll.
• Great for Easter celebrations – A fun and elegant Easter cake design idea.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Pandan Sponge Cake

• Cake flour
• Baking powder
• Eggs, separated
• Sugar
• Coconut milk
• Pandan extract
• Vegetable oil
• Cream of tartar (for stabilizing egg whites)

For the Filling

• Whipping cream
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla or coconut extract

For Decoration (Optional)

• Shredded coconut
• Pastel-colored sprinkles
• Edible flowers or mini Easter eggs

Directions

Step 1: Make the Pandan Sponge

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk dry ingredients: Sift cake flour and baking powder together.
3. Mix wet ingredients: In a bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, pandan extract, coconut milk, and oil until smooth.
4. Beat egg whites: In a separate bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually add sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
5. Fold together: Gently fold egg whites into the yolk mixture in batches to keep the batter airy.
6. Bake: Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cake is set and lightly golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla (or coconut extract) until stiff peaks form.
2. Chill in the fridge while the cake cools.

Step 3: Assemble the Swiss Roll

1. Roll the cake: While still warm, gently roll the cake with the parchment paper, then let it cool completely.
2. Fill and roll: Unroll the cake, spread the filling evenly, then roll it back up tightly.
3. Chill for at least 30 minutes to set.

Step 4: Decorate

1. Dust with powdered sugar or shredded coconut.
2. Add pastel sprinkles, mini Easter eggs, or edible flowers for an Easter-themed touch.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8–10 slices
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Baking time: 15 minutes
• Cooling & decorating time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Pandan Twist: Add a chocolate ganache drizzle.
• Easter-Themed: Decorate with Easter bunny toppers or pastel icing.
• Lighter Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for the filling.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 1 month, wrapped tightly.
• Make-Ahead: Bake the sponge the day before and assemble before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pandan leaves instead of extract?

Yes! Blend fresh pandan leaves with coconut milk and strain for a natural flavor.

2. How do I prevent my Swiss roll from cracking?

Roll it while warm, then let it cool in the rolled position before adding filling.

3. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut whipping cream instead of dairy cream.

4. What’s the best way to cut clean slices?

Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wipe clean between cuts.

5. How do I make the cake extra soft?

Beat egg whites properly and fold gently to keep the batter airy.

6. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?

Yes, but replace 1 tablespoon of flour with cornstarch for a lighter texture.

7. What can I serve this with?

Pair with a tropical fruit salad or a light iced tea.

8. How do I enhance the pandan flavor?

Use coconut sugar or extra pandan extract for a stronger aroma.

9. Can I make mini Swiss rolls?

Yes! Cut the cake into smaller sections before rolling for bite-sized treats.

10. What’s the best way to decorate for Easter?

Use mini chocolate eggs, pastel-colored whipped cream, or an Easter bunny topper.

Conclusion

This Pandan Swiss Roll Easter Cake is a soft, fluffy, and beautifully flavored dessert that’s perfect for Easter celebrations or spring gatherings. Its light pandan sponge, creamy coconut filling, and festive decorations make it a showstopping centerpiece. Whether you’re making this for an Easter brunch or an elegant afternoon tea, this cake is sure to impress. Try it today for a unique and delicious twist on the classic Swiss roll!