Mocha Roll Cake Recipe Perfect for Chocolate Lovers

Updated On: October 14, 2025

If you’re a coffee lover with a sweet tooth, then this Mocha Roll Cake recipe is about to become your new favorite dessert. Combining the rich flavors of chocolate and espresso, this delicate roll cake is a perfect treat for any occasion, from afternoon tea to special celebrations.

Its light, fluffy texture paired with a creamy mocha filling will delight your senses and impress your guests with every bite.

What makes this cake truly special is the harmonious balance between the subtle bitterness of coffee and the deep sweetness of chocolate. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home!

Even if you’re new to baking, our step-by-step guide will walk you through creating this elegant dessert effortlessly. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your mixing bowls, and get ready to bake a show-stopping mocha roll cake that tastes like a slice of heaven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This mocha roll cake is not just delicious—it’s a fantastic way to elevate your baking skills and impress your friends and family. Here’s why you’ll adore making and eating it:

  • Perfect texture: The sponge is moist and airy, making it easy to roll without cracking.
  • Rich mocha flavor: The combination of coffee and chocolate creates a sophisticated taste.
  • Customizable: You can adjust the coffee intensity or swap the filling for a vegan version.
  • Beautiful presentation: The swirled roll looks stunning on any dessert table.
  • Great make-ahead dessert: It keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days, making it ideal for entertaining.

Ingredients

  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour, sifted
  • 1/4 cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp strong brewed espresso, cooled
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting
  • For the filling:
    • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
    • 2 tbsp powdered sugar
    • 2 tbsp cocoa powder
    • 1 tbsp espresso or strong coffee, cooled
    • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Electric mixer or stand mixer
  • Large mixing bowls
  • Sifter or fine mesh sieve
  • 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) jelly roll pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Spatula
  • Wire rack for cooling
  • Kitchen towel (clean and slightly damp)
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

  1. Prepare your pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your jelly roll pan with parchment paper, making sure it fits snugly and extends slightly over the edges for easy removal.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Beat the eggs and sugar: Using an electric mixer, beat the eggs and granulated sugar on high speed for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes thick, pale, and triples in volume.
  4. Add espresso and vanilla: Gently fold in the cooled espresso and vanilla extract into the egg mixture with a spatula.
  5. Incorporate dry ingredients: Carefully fold the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture in three parts. Use gentle folding motions to keep the batter light and airy.
  6. Pour and spread batter: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and spread it out with a spatula. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to release any large air bubbles.
  7. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back lightly when touched and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  8. Roll the cake: While the cake is baking, lay a clean kitchen towel on a flat surface and dust it generously with powdered sugar. Once the cake is out of the oven, immediately invert it onto the towel, peel off the parchment paper, and roll the cake up in the towel from the short edge. Let it cool completely rolled up to set the shape.
  9. Prepare the filling: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar, cocoa powder, espresso, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
  10. Fill and re-roll: Carefully unroll the cooled cake and spread the mocha cream filling evenly over the surface. Roll the cake back up (without the towel) tightly but gently. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
  11. Serve: Slice the mocha roll cake with a sharp knife and dust with additional powdered sugar if desired. Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

Tips & Variations

“For a smoother roll, make sure to roll the cake while it’s still warm and use a well-dusted kitchen towel to prevent sticking.”

  • For extra mocha kick: Add 1 tsp of instant coffee granules dissolved in your espresso before mixing it into the batter.
  • Chocolate ganache filling: Replace the whipped cream filling with a rich chocolate ganache for a more decadent treat.
  • Vegan version: Use aquafaba to whip in place of egg whites for the sponge, and coconut cream for the filling. Check out our Vegan Recipes No Tofu for more plant-based inspiration.
  • Decorations: Garnish with chocolate shavings, cocoa powder dusting, or fresh berries for a festive look.
  • Storage: Keep the cake refrigerated, covered tightly, for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before slicing for best texture.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (1 slice)
Calories 280 kcal
Carbohydrates 30 g
Protein 5 g
Fat 15 g
Saturated Fat 9 g
Cholesterol 90 mg
Sugar 22 g
Fiber 2 g
Caffeine 35 mg

Serving Suggestions

This mocha roll cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages and accompaniments. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience:

  • Serve with a steaming cup of coffee or espresso to enhance the mocha flavors.
  • A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side adds a cool, creamy contrast.
  • Fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, offer a bright, tart balance.
  • Lightly dust with cocoa powder or powdered sugar just before serving for an elegant touch.
  • For a festive touch, drizzle with melted chocolate or a coffee glaze.

Conclusion

Making a mocha roll cake at home is a rewarding baking project that combines the classic flavors of coffee and chocolate into a beautifully rolled dessert. Its light sponge and luscious mocha cream filling create a delightful contrast that’s sure to impress both casual coffee lovers and dessert aficionados alike.

Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering or simply want to treat yourself to a homemade indulgence, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.

By following the simple steps outlined, even novice bakers can create this impressive cake with ease. Plus, the recipe offers plenty of flexibility to adjust flavors or try new variations.

If you enjoyed this mocha roll cake, you might also love exploring other delicious recipes like our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or the fresh ideas in our Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.

Happy baking and savor every delightful bite!

📖 Recipe Card: Mocha Roll Cake

Description: A light and fluffy roll cake infused with rich mocha flavor, filled with creamy coffee buttercream. Perfect for coffee lovers looking for a delightful dessert.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 large eggs
  • 100g granulated sugar
  • 75g all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp instant coffee granules
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 150ml heavy cream
  • 50g powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp coffee extract
  • 30g unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tbsp espresso or strong brewed coffee, cooled

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
  2. Beat eggs and sugar until thick and pale.
  3. Sift flour, cocoa powder, and salt together, then fold into egg mixture gently.
  4. Dissolve instant coffee granules in 1 tbsp hot water and fold into batter.
  5. Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
  6. Bake for 12-15 minutes until springy to touch.
  7. Turn cake onto a clean towel dusted with cocoa powder and roll while warm; let cool.
  8. Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, coffee extract, and butter until stiff peaks form.
  9. Unroll cake and spread coffee buttercream evenly over the surface.
  10. Re-roll cake without the towel and chill for 1 hour before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 18 g | Carbs: 25 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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