This meringue roll is a perfect blend of soft, fluffy meringue and a creamy, tangy filling. It’s light, sweet, and a showstopper dessert for any occasion. The crisp exterior of the meringue complements the luscious cream cheese filling, making it an irresistible treat. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a special event, this roll will leave everyone asking for more!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Baking Time: 30-40 minutes
- Cooling and Assembly Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Meringue:
- 200 g (7 oz) egg whites (approx. 6 large eggs)
- 300 g (10.5 oz) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 40 g (1.4 oz) cornstarch
For the Cream Filling:
- 300 g (10.5 oz) whipped cream
- 30 g (1 oz) powdered sugar
- 180 g (6.3 oz) cream cheese
Directions
- Prepare the Meringue
- Preheat your oven to 150°C (302°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a clean, grease-free bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, a few spoonfuls at a time, while continuing to beat. Increase the speed to high and beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Add the lemon juice and sift in the cornstarch. Gently fold them into the meringue until well combined.
- Spread the meringue evenly onto the prepared baking sheet, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly golden and set.
- Cool the Meringue
- Once baked, remove the meringue from the oven and allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Prepare the Cream Filling
- In a mixing bowl, beat the whipped cream with the powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
- Add the cream cheese and beat until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Roll
- Gently lift the meringue from the parchment paper and place it on a fresh sheet of parchment paper or a clean kitchen towel.
- Spread the cream filling evenly over the meringue, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Using the parchment paper or towel to guide you, carefully roll the meringue from one short side to the other, creating a tight spiral.
- Chill and Serve
- Transfer the roll to a serving plate and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set.
- Dust with powdered sugar or decorate with fresh fruit or chocolate drizzle before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of fresh berries or a drizzle of berry coulis for a refreshing contrast.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for an elegant afternoon treat.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry for the best meringue results.
- Be gentle when rolling the meringue to prevent cracks. If small cracks appear, they can be disguised with powdered sugar or decorations.
Nutritional Benefits
- Egg Whites: High in protein and low in calories.
- Whipped Cream: Provides calcium and fat for energy.
- Cream Cheese: Adds richness and a touch of tanginess to balance the sweetness.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly.
- Can be made gluten-free if cornstarch is certified gluten-free.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~220
- Protein: ~5 g
- Carbohydrates: ~28 g
- Fat: ~10 g
Storage Tips
- Store the meringue roll in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- For longer storage, freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 weeks.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Light and airy texture that melts in your mouth.
- Perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.
- Visually stunning and impressive for any occasion.
- Easy to customize with different fillings or toppings.
Conclusion
This meringue roll is a dessert lover’s dream—light, fluffy, and beautifully creamy. It’s an easy recipe with a stunning result that’s bound to impress your guests. Whether for a celebration or a cozy family dessert, this roll is guaranteed to be a hit.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make the meringue roll ahead of time?
- Yes, prepare and assemble the roll a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.
- Can I use a different filling?
- Absolutely! Try a chocolate ganache, lemon curd, or fruit jam filling for variety.
- Why did my meringue crack?
- Meringue is delicate. Roll it while slightly warm or ensure it’s cool but pliable when assembling.
- Can I substitute cream cheese?
- Mascarpone or ricotta cheese can be used as alternatives.
- How do I prevent meringue from sticking to the parchment paper?
- Use high-quality parchment paper or lightly grease it before spreading the meringue.
- Can I make this dairy-free?
- Substitute dairy-free whipped cream and cream cheese for the filling.
- What should I do if the meringue feels sticky?
- Chill it in the fridge; the stickiness should reduce.
- Can I use a stand mixer?
- Yes, a stand mixer works perfectly for whipping the egg whites and cream.
- What is the best way to slice the roll?
- Use a sharp, serrated knife, wiping it clean after each slice.
- Can I add cocoa powder to the meringue?
- Yes, sift in 1-2 tablespoons of cocoa powder with the cornstarch for a chocolatey twist.