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Japanese Cotton Candy Cake Roll

Fluffy Japanese Cotton Candy Cake Roll for Sweet Nostalgia

Experience the whimsical delight of Japanese Cotton Candy Cake Roll, a fluffy dessert filled with nostalgic flavors.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 42 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 1 cup cake flour substitute with all-purpose flour if necessary
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt ensure it's finely ground for even distribution
  • 1/2 cup whole milk can be replaced with almond milk for dairy-free option
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil melted coconut oil is a great substitute
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar (cake base) no direct substitute recommended for best results
  • 1 teaspoon cotton candy extract substitute with vanilla extract if unavailable
  • 3 large egg whites ensure they are at room temperature for optimal whipping
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar can be omitted if using pasteurized egg whites
  • a few drops gel food coloring use a gel-based product to avoid thinning the batter
For the Whipped Cream Filling
  • 1 cup heavy cream non-dairy whipping cream can be used for vegan option
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (whipped cream) avoid if using sweetened whipped cream alternatives
  • 1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin vegan alternative can be found in agar-agar
  • 2 tablespoons water any liquid can suffice here, but water is simplest

Equipment

  • 8x12 inch baking pan
  • mixing bowls
  • whisk
  • spatula
  • electric mixer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Prepare an 8x12 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together milk, vegetable oil, sugar, and cotton candy extract. In another bowl, sift together cake flour and salt, then mix dry ingredients into wet until just combined.
  3. Whip egg whites with cream of tartar until frothy, add sugar gradually until stiff peaks form. Mix in gel food coloring until evenly distributed.
  4. Fold meringue into cake batter in three additions, pour into prepared pan and tap lightly to release air bubbles.
  5. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Once done, let cool in the pan for a few minutes before flipping onto a wire rack to cool completely.
  6. Bloom gelatin by mixing it with water and heating until melted. Whip heavy cream and sugar until soft peaks form, then add melted gelatin and whip until firm peaks.
  7. Spread whipped cream over cooled cake and roll into a log shape using parchment paper. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour.
  8. After chilling, unwrap and trim the ends of the cake. Slice into pieces and serve immediately.

Notes

Store the rolled cake tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to keep it moist; best enjoyed fresh within 2-3 days.