𝑽𝒆𝒍𝒗𝒆𝒕 𝑳𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒏 𝑪𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒎 𝑹𝒐𝒍𝒍 𝑪𝒂𝒌𝒆

### Instructions

#### 1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan (or similar) with parchment paper. This ensures the cake doesn’t stick and allows for easy rolling later. Lightly grease the parchment paper with non-stick cooking spray or a bit of butter.

#### 2. Make the Sponge Cake:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with the granulated sugar using an electric mixer or stand mixer on high speed for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture is thick, pale, and tripled in volume. This is crucial for achieving that light, airy texture in your cake.

Once the eggs and sugar are fully beaten, add the vanilla extract and lemon zest, mixing just until combined. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt to remove any lumps and evenly distribute the dry ingredients.

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture with a spatula, being careful not to deflate the batter. Continue folding until everything is just combined, but do not overmix.

#### 3. Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out into an even layer with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cake is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

While the cake bakes, prepare a clean kitchen towel by sprinkling it lightly with powdered sugar. As soon as the cake is done, remove it from the oven and immediately flip it onto the prepared towel. Gently peel off the parchment paper and, while the cake is still warm, roll it up with the towel starting from the short side.

Let the rolled cake cool completely on a wire rack while you make the filling.

#### 4. Prepare the Lemon Cream Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined and creamy. Then gently fold in the whipped cream, being careful not to deflate the mixture. The result should be a smooth and velvety lemon cream filling.

#### 5. Assemble the Cake:
Once the sponge cake has cooled completely, carefully unroll it from the towel. Spread an even layer of the lemon cream filling over the entire surface of the cake, leaving about an inch of space along the edges.

Gently roll the cake back up, this time without the towel, making sure the filling stays in place. If any filling oozes out, it’s okay—just wipe it away. Place the cake seam-side down on a serving platter.

#### 6. Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to firm up a little. Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish. You can also garnish with extra lemon zest or fresh berries for added color and flavor.

### Tips for Perfect Velvet Lemon Cream Roll Cake:
– **Room Temperature Ingredients:** Make sure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for the best texture and ease of mixing. Cold ingredients can cause the filling to be lumpy or the cake to not rise as well.
– **Don’t Overbake the Cake:** The sponge cake is delicate and can dry out quickly. Be sure to check it with a toothpick, and remove it from the oven once it’s done. If overbaked, it will crack when you try to roll it.
– **Use Fresh Lemon:** For the best flavor, always use fresh lemon juice and zest. Bottled lemon juice doesn’t have the same vibrant taste.
– **Chill Before Serving:** Allowing the roll to chill after assembling helps set the filling and gives you a cleaner slice when cutting the cake.

### Why You’ll Love Velvet Lemon Cream Roll Cake:
Velvet Lemon Cream Roll Cake is the ultimate dessert for citrus lovers and anyone who enjoys a refreshing, light treat. The soft sponge cake offers a delicate base that contrasts perfectly with the creamy lemon filling. The zesty lemon flavor adds a burst of brightness, while the smooth cream makes every bite melt in your mouth.

This roll cake is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a showstopper at any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself and loved ones to something special, this cake will certainly deliver.

So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to make this stunning Velvet Lemon Cream Roll Cake—the perfect blend of lightness, tang, and sweetness!