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The Swiss Roll with Pumpkin Seeds is a delightful reimagining of the classic rolled sponge cake, deeply inspired by Slovenian traditions where pumpkin seed oil plays a celebrated role in cooking. Unlike conventional cakes that depend on wheat flour for structure, this recipe uses finely ground pumpkin seeds, which makes it naturally gluten-free while also giving the sponge a delicate green tint and a subtle nutty flavor. The cake is rolled around a smooth filling made from mascarpone cheese and sour cream, offering a balance of tang and creaminess that feels both indulgent and refreshing. It is elegant enough for festive occasions yet simple enough for everyday enjoyment, making it a recipe that combines comfort with sophistication.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

100 g pumpkin seeds (about 1 cup / 4.5 oz)
120 g sugar (≈ 2/3 cup / 4.2 oz)
1 tablespoon pumpkin seed oil
½ teaspoon baking powder
6 eggs

For the filling:

280 g sour cream (≈ 1¼ cups / 9.9 oz)
240 g mascarpone cheese (≈ 1⅛ cups / 8.5 oz)

Directions

Blend the pumpkin seeds with about 60 g (¼ cup) sugar until finely ground, sift, and mix with baking powder.
Preheat oven to 180 °C (355 °F). Separate egg yolks from whites.
Whisk the yolks with about 3 tablespoons sugar until pale and creamy, then stir in the pumpkin seed oil.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with the remaining sugar until soft peaks form.
Gently fold the seed mixture and the beaten whites into the yolk mixture in turns.
Grease a 30 × 40 cm (12 × 16 in) baking tray, line with parchment, spread the batter evenly, and bake for 15 minutes.
Remove from the oven and roll the hot sponge in its parchment into a roulade. Wrap in a clean kitchen towel and let cool for 30 minutes.
Stir together the sour cream and mascarpone until smooth.
Unroll the sponge, spread the filling evenly—leaving 5 cm (2 in) on one side—then roll it back up tightly.
Wrap in parchment or cling film and chill for at least 30 minutes (overnight if possible).
Slice and serve. Wrapped well, it keeps for up to three days in the fridge.

Nutrients

Serves: 8 people
Preparation time: ~15 minutes
Baking time: ~15 minutes
Resting & chilling time: minimum 60 minutes (30 minutes to cool, plus chill time)
Total time: ~90 minutes

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This pumpkin seed Swiss roll stands out for its creativity and elegance. By swapping wheat flour with finely ground pumpkin seeds, the cake becomes light, delicate, and completely gluten-free. Its pale green sponge, naturally tinted by pumpkin seeds and pumpkin seed oil, looks unique and eye-catching. But it is not just about appearance—the sponge carries a mild nuttiness that makes every bite interesting without being overpowering. The filling of mascarpone and sour cream balances richness with a gentle tang, giving the dessert freshness that keeps it from feeling too heavy. The best part is how simple the recipe is: despite looking refined and professional, it requires only basic steps and wholesome ingredients. That combination of beauty, ease, and flavor makes this cake unforgettable.

The Benefits of the Ingredients

Every ingredient in this recipe serves a purpose beyond taste. Pumpkin seeds, the star element, are nutrient-rich, packed with healthy fats, protein, magnesium, and antioxidants. They give the sponge structure and contribute to its moistness while infusing it with nutty depth. The pumpkin seed oil reinforces those flavors and provides the sponge with its charming green sheen. Eggs supply stability and lightness, allowing the sponge to rise without the need for flour. Sugar is used sparingly, creating just enough sweetness to complement the other ingredients without making the cake cloying. For the filling, sour cream introduces a fresh tanginess, while mascarpone provides luscious creaminess that balances the texture. Together, they create a smooth, stable filling that holds beautifully while enhancing the cake’s flavor. Each component contributes to a dessert that is nourishing, flavorful, and beautifully balanced.

Cooking Tips

The success of this Swiss roll lies in a few careful techniques. Rolling the sponge while it is still hot from the oven is essential; it prevents cracks when you later add the filling. When folding the egg whites into the yolk mixture, be gentle—overmixing will deflate the air you’ve built, resulting in a dense sponge. For the best texture, grind pumpkin seeds to a fine powder and sift them thoroughly before mixing. Once the roll is filled, chilling is key. The filling firms up, making slicing easier and giving the flavors time to blend. To customize the roll, you can fold in extras like orange zest, chocolate chips, or candied fruit into the filling. A drizzle of dark chocolate over the finished roll or a dusting of powdered sugar on top adds extra flair without complicating the process.

Serving Suggestions

This dessert is wonderfully versatile in presentation. Its natural green tint makes it a standout for spring gatherings, festive occasions, or holidays like St. Patrick’s Day. When serving, slice the roll into even pieces and arrange them with the spiral pattern facing up—this makes the cake look especially striking on a platter. For added elegance, dust lightly with confectioners’ sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate. Fresh fruit makes an excellent companion; raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries add a tart contrast to the creamy filling. For a more refined touch, serve each slice with a spoonful of berry coulis or compote on the side. As for beverages, this cake pairs beautifully with lightly brewed teas, herbal infusions, or sparkling drinks that balance its richness. Whether presented at a dinner party, shared during a family celebration, or enjoyed as a special afternoon treat, this Swiss roll never fails to impress.

Conclusion

The Swiss Roll with Pumpkin Seeds is more than just a dessert—it is a celebration of simplicity elevated into elegance. With no flour required, the ground pumpkin seeds form a sponge that is airy, moist, and naturally tinted, while the mascarpone and sour cream filling ensures the roll stays creamy and light. The process is approachable, yet the outcome feels polished and festive. Because it is gluten-free, it can be enjoyed by a wider range of guests without sacrificing taste or texture. Its balance of freshness, richness, and subtle nuttiness makes it as enjoyable to eat as it is beautiful to serve. Whether you prepare it for a holiday table, a special celebration, or simply to surprise your family with something new, this cake brings a touch of charm and sophistication to any occasion. Each slice reveals not only the delicate swirl of sponge and filling but also the story of how a few wholesome ingredients can transform into something extraordinary.

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