Velvet Banana Cream Jelly Roll

Indulge in a truly captivating dessert that combines the nostalgic charm of a classic jelly roll with the irresistible sweetness of banana cream: the **Banana Cream Jelly Roll Cake**. This exquisite treat features a light, airy sponge cake, gracefully rolled around a rich, velvety banana pudding filling, and crowned with a luscious Dream Whip topping. A final flourish of perfectly toasted coconut adds an exotic crunch and elevates this dessert from delightful to absolutely unforgettable. It’s an elegant yet approachable bake that promises to be the star of any gathering, offering a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave everyone craving another slice.

My journey into the world of baking, and indeed my love for comforting, homemade treats, began in my mother’s kitchen. I first shared this cherished recipe back in 2014, specifically for a post dedicated to her and the culinary gems she brought into our lives. Any chance I get to speak of my mother, I seize it with immense pride and gratitude. She wasn’t just my mom; she was the heart of our home, a beacon of joy, and the reason many of my favorite recipes found their way to my plate.

My mom was quite young when she had me, just two days shy of her 19th birthday. Perhaps I’m biased, as most of us are when it comes to our mothers, but mine was truly exceptional. She was the “fun mom” on the street, always ready for an adventure, whether it was doing cartwheels in the front yard with us or never saying no to a game. Our house was constantly open to friends, buzzing with laughter and warmth. This isn’t to say she lacked discipline; she knew when to set boundaries and guide me back onto the right path. She masterfully walked that fine line between being a loving mother and a true friend, a balance I admire to this day.

She was always there when I needed a comforting shoulder, yet had the wisdom to step back, allowing me to learn from my own experiences when I thought my teenage friends knew better than her sage advice. And almost invariably, when those options didn’t turn out so well, she was right there to help me pick up the pieces, never uttering an “I told you so.” This perfect blend of friendship and guidance instilled in me a singular ambition: to become a mother just like her. Her influence shaped my entire life, guiding me toward the most fulfilling role I could imagine.

Even during challenging times, my brother and I were largely shielded from any struggles. There was always an abundance of everything that truly mattered: delicious food on the table, clothes to wear, endless laughter echoing through our halls, and an overwhelming sense of love. Our home was always immaculate, dinner was a sacred family time, and she was always there to tuck us into bed, ending each day with prayers and a comforting presence. These are the precious memories that form the bedrock of my culinary inspiration.

Mom’s Heartwarming Recipes

My mother wasn’t a gourmet chef in the classical sense, but she was a master of comfort food. Her kitchen was a sanctuary where simple ingredients transformed into dishes that nourished both body and soul. To this day, her Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup and her Pork Chops with Mushroom Gravy remain my ultimate comfort meals, the first things I crave when I need a hug in a bowl. Walking in from school to the scent of freshly baked cookies was an occasional, delightful surprise – a small luxury that made every day feel special.

Her Peanut Butter Cookies are still my absolute favorite, closely followed by her classic Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. So many of the beloved recipes I share on this site are directly inspired by my childhood and the incredible culinary heritage passed down by my amazing mom. When I was looking for a fresh recipe to feature for that dedicated post about her, I asked her if there was any dish I might have overlooked. Without hesitation, she mentioned this Banana Cream Jelly Roll Cake, and I knew instantly that it was the perfect choice to celebrate her legacy.

Discover the Delight of Banana Cream Jelly Roll Cake

This particular Banana Cream Jelly Roll Cake recipe is a true family heirloom, originally hailing from my paternal Grandma. She was an extraordinary baker, renowned for her ability to transform simple ingredients into edible masterpieces, and this jelly roll was no exception. Imagine tender, pillowy sponge cake embracing luscious layers of creamy banana pudding, all rolled into an elegant log. To finish, it’s generously smothered with a light, airy Dream Whip topping and sprinkled with golden toasted coconut. This isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience – the kind of treat that makes you want to write home about it.

While this dessert might appear to be a fancy confection best reserved for professional bakeries, I’m here to demystify the process and show you just how effortlessly you can create this show-stopping banana-flavored masterpiece in your own kitchen. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this surprisingly simple yet utterly sophisticated dessert.

What Exactly is a Jelly Roll?

For those unfamiliar with this delightful creation, a jelly roll is a classic dessert also widely known as a Swiss roll in various parts of the world. At its heart, it’s a delicate, rectangular sponge cake baked thin, which is then spread with a sweet filling – be it jam, jelly, cream, or other luscious concoctions – and meticulously rolled into a spiral shape. This iconic spiral presentation is what gives the jelly roll its distinctive and appealing appearance.

We adore jelly rolls for several compelling reasons. Their inherent light and airy texture, coupled with the perfect balance of cake and filling in every bite, makes them incredibly satisfying without being overly heavy. Beyond their delightful taste, jelly rolls boast an impressive visual appeal. When sliced, the intricate spiral pattern creates a stunning presentation that’s sure to capture attention, making them an excellent choice for both casual everyday indulgence and more sophisticated special occasions. They truly offer the best of both worlds: a comforting treat that also looks incredibly chic.

If you’re already a fan of this type of rolled cake, you’ll undoubtedly enjoy exploring other variations. Be sure to try our refreshing Banana Split Jelly Roll Cake for a playful twist, or the vibrant Blueberry Orange Angel Food Cake Roll for a burst of citrusy sweetness.

Mastering the Jelly Roll Cake Technique

While the idea of preparing a jelly roll might sound intimidating, particularly the rolling technique, it’s surprisingly straightforward and achievable for home bakers. The fundamental process involves baking a thin sheet of sponge cake, typically in a 10 x 15-inch jelly roll pan. Once the cake has cooled sufficiently, you’ll spread your chosen filling generously over its surface and then, with a gentle hand, roll it into a neat log. The key is to roll the cake while it’s still warm to prevent cracking, a technique we’ll delve into more deeply below.

For this recipe, we’ve chosen a rich and creamy banana pudding to fill our jelly roll, creating an ultimate banana cream experience. However, the versatility of this dessert means you can experiment with almost any flavor of pudding, your favorite fruit jams, luscious jellies, or even rich preserves. This particular sponge cake recipe is also refreshingly simple, as it doesn’t require the separation of egg whites and yolks, streamlining the preparation process and making it more accessible for bakers of all skill levels. It’s designed to come together easily, allowing you to focus on the fun of assembly and decoration.

Essential Ingredients for this Irresistible Banana Roll

Crafting this delightful banana cream jelly roll cake requires a selection of common pantry staples, ensuring that this indulgent dessert is accessible to all. For precise measurements and detailed instructions, please refer to the full printable recipe card at the bottom of this article. Here’s a breakdown of the key components:

• Eggs: The foundation of our tender sponge cake, eggs provide structure and richness. Any standard large eggs will work perfectly for this recipe.
• Sugar: White granulated sugar is used to sweeten the cake batter, ensuring a perfectly balanced sweetness that complements the banana filling.
• All-Purpose Flour: This provides the necessary structure for the cake, creating a light yet stable base that can be easily rolled without cracking.
• Baking Powder: A crucial leavening agent, baking powder helps the sponge cake rise beautifully, contributing to its signature airy and soft texture.
• Salt: Just a pinch of salt is added to the cake batter to enhance and balance all the sweet flavors, preventing the cake from tasting flat.
• Vanilla Extract: Vanilla is a classic flavor enhancer in baking, adding a warm, aromatic note that elevates the overall sweetness of the cake.
• Banana Pudding: This is the star of our filling, providing the creamy texture and intense banana flavor that defines this jelly roll. Instant banana pudding mix works wonderfully for convenience.
• Dream Whip: Used to create a light, fluffy, and stable whipped topping for the exterior of the cake, offering a delightful contrast to the rich filling.
• Toasted Coconut: This garnish is more than just decoration; toasted coconut adds a wonderful tropical aroma, a delicate crunch, and another layer of flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the banana.

Keep reading for invaluable tips, creative substitutions, and answers to frequently asked questions that will empower you to master this banana cream jelly roll recipe and customize it to your heart’s content.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make this Jelly Roll Cake Recipe

Making this banana cream jelly roll is a rewarding and surprisingly straightforward process. Gather your ingredients and your electric mixer, and let’s begin crafting this beautiful dessert.

1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
2. Prepare Pan: Line a standard 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper. This is a critical step for easy removal of the baked cake. Grease the parchment paper and the sides of the pan with Crisco or a non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3. Whip Eggs: In a large mixer bowl, beat the eggs on medium speed for approximately 5 minutes. Continue beating until the eggs are very thick, pale lemon-colored, and form ribbons when the beater is lifted. This aeration is crucial for a light sponge cake.
4. Add Sweetness and Flavor: Gradually beat the granulated sugar into the whipped eggs until fully incorporated and the mixture is fluffy. Follow this by beating in the vanilla extract until just combined.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the sifted dry ingredients – flour, baking powder, and salt – to the egg mixture. Mix on low speed until the batter is just smooth, being careful not to overmix, which can lead to a tough cake.
6. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared jelly roll pan, spreading it gently into all corners. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean and the top springs back when lightly touched.
7. The Rolling Technique: Immediately upon removing the cake from the oven, loosen its edges with a knife. While the cake is still hot, invert it onto a clean kitchen towel (a tea towel works well) that has been lightly dusted with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Carefully roll the cake up from the short side, jelly roll style, along with the towel. This step “trains” the cake to roll without cracking once it’s cool and filled. Allow the rolled cake to cool completely to room temperature on a wire rack.
8. Toast Coconut: While the cake is cooling, it’s the perfect time to toast your coconut. Spread shredded coconut in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast in the oven (or a skillet on the stovetop) until golden brown and fragrant. Watch it closely as it can burn quickly!
9. Prepare Fillings: Prepare the banana pudding and the Dream Whip according to their package directions. Place both prepared fillings in the refrigerator to chill and firm up slightly until you’re ready to assemble the cake.
10. Unroll and Fill: Once the cake is completely cooled, carefully unroll it. Gently remove the kitchen towel. Evenly spread the chilled banana pudding over the entire surface of the cake, leaving a small border around the edges.
11. Roll and Finish: Carefully roll the cake back up, starting from the short side. Place the seam side down onto your serving plate.
12. Frost and Garnish: Generously frost the entire exterior of the jelly roll with the prepared Dream Whip. For the grand finale, lavishly sprinkle the toasted coconut over the whipped topping.
13. Chill and Serve: Store the finished Banana Cream Jelly Roll Cake in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to set. Slice to serve and enjoy this delightful creation!

For storing leftovers, wrap the Banana Cream Jelly Roll Cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator until it’s soft enough to slice and serve.

Love it? Pin it!

If you adore the idea of this luscious Banana Cream Jelly Roll Cake as much as we do, don’t let it disappear into the depths of the internet! Make sure to save this incredible recipe to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you move on. That way, you’ll always have it handy for your next baking adventure or whenever a craving for this delightful banana dessert strikes!

Creative Substitutions for Your Jelly Roll

One of the joys of baking is the freedom to customize and experiment. Don’t hesitate to get creative with this banana cream jelly roll recipe, adapting it to suit your personal tastes, dietary needs, or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Make it uniquely yours with these substitution ideas:

• Pudding Flavor Variations: While banana pudding is classic here, the sponge cake pairs beautifully with almost any flavor. Consider using vanilla, chocolate, coconut, or even a different fruit-flavored pudding for a delightful change.
• Alternative Frostings: If Dream Whip isn’t available or you prefer a different topping, feel free to use homemade whipped cream or a store-bought Cool Whip. For a richer, more decadent option, a tangy cream cheese frosting would also be a fantastic choice.
• Fruity Drizzles: For an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal, drizzle the frosted jelly roll with a vibrant raspberry or strawberry sauce. This can be done in addition to or as a lighter alternative to the whipped topping.
• Nutty Toppings: If coconut isn’t your preference, finely chopped toasted pecans, walnuts, or almonds would add a wonderful textural contrast and nutty flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Banana Cream Jelly Roll Cake

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying a banana cream jelly roll, along with helpful answers to ensure your baking success:

• What is the difference between a jelly roll and a Swiss roll? Essentially, a jelly roll and a Swiss roll refer to the same type of rolled-up sponge cake dessert with various sweet fillings. The primary difference is regional terminology: “Swiss roll” is commonly used in England and many Commonwealth countries, while “jelly roll” is the prevalent term in the United States. Both describe the same delightful confection.
• Does a jelly roll need to be refrigerated? Yes, due to the dairy-based banana pudding and whipped topping, this banana cream jelly roll cake must be stored in the refrigerator. This maintains its freshness, prevents spoilage, and keeps the cream and pudding firm.
• What is the difference between a jelly roll and a roulade? A jelly roll is a specific type of roulade. While a jelly roll typically refers to a sweet, rolled sponge cake with sweet fillings, the term “roulade” is broader and can encompass both sweet and savory dishes that are rolled. For example, a meat roulade would feature savory fillings.
• How do you properly roll up a jelly roll cake? The secret to a perfectly rolled jelly roll lies in preparing the cake correctly. First, bake your sponge cake in a jelly roll pan until done. Immediately after baking, while the cake is still hot and pliable, loosen the edges with a knife. Then, invert the hot cake onto a clean kitchen towel lightly dusted with powdered sugar. Starting from one of the shorter sides, gently but firmly roll the cake, along with the towel, into a spiral. Allow it to cool completely in this rolled position on a wire rack. Once cool, carefully unroll it, spread your filling evenly, and then re-roll it gently without the towel.
• How do you keep a jelly roll cake from cracking? Preventing cracks is a common concern. The main keys are to avoid overbaking the cake, as a dry cake is much more prone to cracking. Baking just until a toothpick comes out clean is ideal. Rolling the cake while it’s still warm (not scorching hot, but definitely not cold) helps it retain flexibility. Some bakers also lightly dampen the towel used for the initial roll to keep the cake moist during cooling. Additionally, ensure you spread the filling evenly across the cake to distribute pressure uniformly when re-rolling. Always roll from the shorter edge of the cake, not the longer one, as this creates a tighter, more stable spiral.
• Can I use a 9×13 pan instead of a jelly roll pan? While a 9×13-inch pan can be used, it’s not ideal for a traditional jelly roll. A jelly roll pan (typically 10×15 inches) bakes a thinner cake, which is easier to roll without cracking. If you use a 9×13 pan, your cake will be thicker, potentially making it harder to roll and altering the cake-to-filling ratio. You may also need to slightly adjust baking time and the amount of filling to compensate for the different dimensions. Handle the thicker cake with extra care when rolling.

Expert Tips & Tricks for Perfecting Your Jelly Roll

Elevate your banana cream jelly roll from great to extraordinary with these insightful tips and tricks:

• Boost Banana Flavor: For an even more intense banana flavor, consider mashing a ripe banana and folding it into your prepared banana pudding mix. This adds natural sweetness and a deeper fruit essence.
• Caramel Banana Twist: To create an even more decadent dessert, drizzle the finished banana cream jelly roll with a generous amount of homemade salted caramel sauce. This transforms it into a luscious caramel banana cake roll, perfect for special occasions.
• Time-Saving Topping: If you’re short on time or prefer a ready-made option, a container of store-bought Cool Whip can be a convenient substitute for Dream Whip, offering a similar light and airy topping.
• Simple Elegance: For a lighter finish or a more rustic look, forgo the whipped topping entirely and simply dust the banana roll cake with a delicate layer of powdered sugar (also known as confectioner’s sugar) before serving.
• Chill for Clean Slices: Always ensure your jelly roll is thoroughly chilled for at least an hour before slicing. A cold cake will yield much cleaner, more defined slices, making for a more professional presentation.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your pudding and topping as you go. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can slightly reduce the sugar in the cake batter or use unsweetened coconut.

Explore More Banana Recipes to Love

If your heart (and stomach) craves more delightful banana desserts, you’re in luck! I have a treasure trove of recipes perfect for any banana lover:

• For refreshing frozen treats, you might fall in love with these creamy Banana Cream Pie Shakes or the wonderfully simple 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Banana Ice Cream.
• If baked delights are what you’re after, be sure to try my warm Banana Pecan Rolls, my classic Banana Cream Pie (pictured above, a truly comforting dessert), these autumnal Pumpkin Spice Banana Muffins, or the rich and indulgent Chocolate Banana Bars.

You can find an extensive collection of all my Banana Recipes here, ensuring you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy this versatile fruit.

My dearest Mom, “I love you, a bushel and a peck and a hug around your neck.” I truly adore my mother, and I know without a doubt that God couldn’t have given me a more perfect person to be mine. I only hope that I am lucky enough to make my children feel even a fraction of the immense love and gratitude I have for her.

This Banana Cream Jelly Roll Cake is more than just a delicious dessert; it’s a show-stopper that delights both the palate and the eyes. With its tender cake, creamy filling, and elegant presentation, it’s the perfect recipe if you’re seeking a banana-flavored treat that truly impresses.

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Print Recipe

Banana Cream Jelly Roll Cake Recipe

Light fluffy cake filled with banana cream pudding, topped with Dream Whip and Toasted coconut

Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time20 mins

Additional Time1 hr

Total Time1 hr 40 mins

Course: Cake & Cupcakes

Cuisine: American

Keyword: banana cream, Banana Cream Jelly Roll, Coconut, jelly roll

Servings: 12 servings

Calories: 150 kcal

Author: Michaela Kenkel

Equipment

• 15 x 10 x 1-Inch Cookie/Jelly Roll Pan
• Wilton Performance Pans Aluminum Jelly Roll and Cookie Pan, 10.5 x 15.5-Inch
• OXO Good Grips Non-Stick Pro Jelly Roll, 9 x 13 Inch
• KitchenAid Hand Mixer
• Kitchenaid Stand Mixer

Ingredients

• 5 eggs
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 – 3 ounce box banana pudding
• 2 envelopes Dream Whip
• 1/2 cup or more to taste Toasted Coconut

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper, greased with Crisco.
3. In a mixer bowl, beat eggs for about 5 minutes or until very thick and lemon colored.
4. Gradually beat sugar into eggs, followed by vanilla.
5. Slowly add flour, baking powder and salt and beat until batter is smooth.
6. Pour into pan and spread into the corners. Bake for approximately 20 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
7. Loosen cake from the edges of the pan. While hot invert cake onto a towel, and roll from the narrow side, jellyroll style. Cool completely on a wire rack.
8. Prepare pudding and Dream Whip as directed on the packages. Place in the refrigerator until ready to use.
9. Carefully unroll cooled cake. Remove towel and spread pudding evenly over cake.
10. Roll back up and place seam side down on a plate.
11. “Frost” with Dream Whip and top with toasted coconut.
12. Store in the refrigerator. Slice to serve.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge until soft enough to cut.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 150kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 68mg | Sodium: 182mg | Potassium: 50mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 19g | Vitamin A: 99IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 52mg | Iron: 1mg

This recipe was originally posted on May 14, 2014. It has been updated to improve user experience and reshared on July 15, 2024.