Peppermint Ganache Swiss Roll (Printer-Friendly Version)

Chocolate sponge wrapped in cool peppermint buttercream and glossy ganache with peppermint candy topping.

# Ingredients Needed:

→ Chocolate Sponge

01 - 1/3 cup unsweetened natural cocoa powder, sifted
02 - 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, unbleached
03 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
04 - 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
05 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
06 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
07 - 3 large eggs, room temperature
08 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
09 - 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract

→ Peppermint Buttercream

10 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
11 - 2 1/2 cups confectioners sugar, sifted
12 - 2 tablespoons heavy cream
13 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
14 - 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract

→ Chocolate Ganache & Garnish

15 - 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
16 - 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
17 - 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candy
18 - 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a 15x12-inch jelly roll pan tightly with parchment paper, pressing into the corners for easy release.
02 - Whisk together cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl until aerated and uniform.
03 - Using a stand or hand mixer, beat softened butter with granulated sugar until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes, scraping down sides as needed.
04 - Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to form a thick emulsion. Stir in vanilla and peppermint extracts.
05 - Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring on low speed until just combined to maintain a tender sponge. Scrape sides with a spatula to ensure even mixing.
06 - Pour batter evenly into prepared pan and smooth with an offset spatula. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the cake springs back lightly when touched.
07 - Immediately remove cake from oven, let cool 5 minutes, then carefully roll the cake with parchment paper into a tight log to train the sponge for rolling without cracks.
08 - Place rolled cake on a wire rack and allow to cool fully while wrapped to prevent cracking.
09 - Beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add sifted confectioners sugar alternated with heavy cream, vanilla, and peppermint extracts. Continue beating on medium until light and spreadable.
10 - Gently unroll the cooled cake. Spread buttercream evenly, leaving a 1/4-inch border. Reroll tightly without parchment, wrap in fresh parchment, and refrigerate to set.
11 - Heat heavy cream until just simmering. Pour over chocolate chips in a bowl and let stand for 1 minute. Stir gently until smooth and glossy.
12 - Place chilled cake on a wire rack over a tray. Pour ganache over cake, smoothing to coat top and sides. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candy and mini chocolate chips evenly over ganache.
13 - Allow ganache to set at room temperature for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve in thick slices, optionally paired with whipped cream or hot beverages.

# Helpful Hints:

01 - Rolling the cake while still warm prevents cracking and helps maintain a perfect swirl.
02 - Using room temperature eggs yields a fluffier sponge texture.
03 - The cake is best prepared a day ahead to enhance flavor melding.
04 - Sift cocoa powder directly into flour mixture to avoid lumps.