Indulge in This Irresistible Salted Caramel Roulade Recipe
Last Updated on May 8, 2026 by rodrigorecipez
The moment I unroll this Chocolate and Hazelnut Roulade, a wave of nostalgia washes over me, transporting me to my grandmother s cozy kitchen, where the scent of melted chocolate and freshly roasted hazelnuts danced through the air. If you re looking to elevate your dessert game with a show-stopping sweet that feels both indulgent and heartwarming, then you’ve just hit the jackpot. This roulade combines the richness of chocolate with the nutty crunch of hazelnuts and the delightful creaminess of dulce de leche, creating a flavor explosion that will make you forget about fast food desserts forever.
It s the perfect treat for those cozy gatherings or a quick pick-me-up after a long day. Plus, this recipe is surprisingly simple, proving that you don t need to be a pastry chef to create something extraordinary. From the heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen to the delighted faces of your family and friends, every bite of this roulade is a little piece of happiness. Let s dive into making this delightful dessert that promises to impress and satisfy your sweet cravings!
Why will you love this Salted Caramel Roulade?
Decadent, this roulade is an irresistible blend of rich chocolate and crispy hazelnuts, all wrapped around a creamy dulce de leche filling. Simple yet impressive, it s a crowd-pleaser that looks stunning on any dessert table. Quick to prepare, with a cook time of just 20-25 minutes, you can whip this up in no time. Nostalgic flavors will transport you back to warm family gatherings, making it perfect for any occasion. Perfectly balanced sweetness ensures every bite is a joyous celebration for your taste buds!
Salted Caramel Roulade Ingredients
Here s everything you need for this delightful dessert!
For the Roulade
- 6 large free-range eggs, separated Using fresh eggs makes the texture light and airy.
- 125g caster sugar This type of sugar dissolves easily for a smooth batter.
- 50g cocoa powder, sifted (plus extra for dusting) Ensure you sift to avoid lumps and for a richer chocolate flavor.
- 100g blanched hazelnuts The nuts add a lovely crunch; you can substitute with almond flour for a nut-free option.
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt Enhances all the sweet flavors beautifully.
For the Filling
- 200g dulce de leche This creamy caramel filling adds a dreamy sweetness to your roulade.
- ½ tsp sea salt flakes, ground in a pestle and mortar A pinch of salt elevates the taste profile of the salted caramel roulade.
For the Topping
- 350ml double cream Whip this for a luscious and rich finish.
- 50ml Frangelico (hazelnut liqueur) Adds a lovely hazelnut flavor; can be replaced with vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version.
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder, sifted For a chocolatey touch on top of your roulade.
Get ready to enjoy the magic of flavors whipping together in your kitchen!
How to Make Salted Caramel Roulade
Heat the oven to 180°C (gas 4). In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the sugar until they become pale and thick. Gently fold in the sifted cocoa powder until fully combined.
Whisk the egg whites in a separate bowl until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold a third of the egg whites into the chocolate mixture, then gently fold in the remaining egg whites until fully blended.
Pour the combined mixture into a lined baking tin, tipping the tin to ensure the mixture reaches all corners. Level the top and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until set and springy to the touch.
Make the praline while the sponge bakes. Spread 75g of hazelnuts on a greased baking sheet. In a heavy-based pan, gently heat the sugar until dissolved, shaking the pan for even heat.
Bubble the sugar until it reaches an amber color, then carefully pour it over the hazelnuts. Allow it to cool completely, then break the praline into pieces and process until fine with the added salt.
Cool the sponge in the tin for a few minutes. Lay a sheet of baking parchment on the counter and dust lightly with sifted cocoa powder.
Turn the sponge onto the dusted parchment, peel off the top parchment, and let it cool for another 5-10 minutes.
Roll the sponge, starting from the shortest end, using the baking parchment to assist. Set it aside to fully cool.
Mix the dulce de leche with sea salt for the filling; set aside.
Whip the cream with Frangelico and cocoa powder until soft peaks form; set aside. Roughly chop the remaining hazelnuts for topping.
Unroll the cooled sponge and use a palette knife to spread a layer of the Frangelico cream, reserving half for the exterior.
Drizzle about three-quarters of the dulce de leche over the cream, sprinkle 2-3 tablespoons of the ground praline, and some of the chopped hazelnuts.
Roll up the sponge again, using the parchment to help, and transfer it to a serving plate.
Cover the roulade with the remaining Frangelico cream, then drizzle the last of the dulce de leche and sprinkle with the remaining chopped hazelnuts and ground praline for finishing touches.
Optional: Garnish with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a beautiful presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Roulade
Fridge: Store leftover roulade in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and maintains its creamy filling.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the roulade tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: If desired, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat. Avoid reheating the whole roulade to preserve its texture.
Serving Freshness: Enjoy the roulade cold for the best contrast of flavors, but reheating can enhance the chocolate experience if you prefer it warm.
Salted Caramel Roulade Variations
Feel free to get creative with your roulade and explore these delightful twists to personalize your dessert!
Nut-Free: Substitute hazelnuts with almond flour or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version without sacrificing flavor.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream in place of double cream and a dairy-free alternative for dulce de leche for a luscious vegan treat.
Flavor Infusion: Swap Frangelico with coffee liqueur or vanilla extract for a different flavor profile that still delights the senses.
Texture Twist: Incorporate chocolate chips or dried fruits, like cherries or cranberries, into the filling for added texture and pops of sweetness.
Plant-Based: Replace eggs with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) in the batter for an entirely plant-based option. Whip it until stiff peaks form just like egg whites.
Extra Crunch: Add a sprinkle of crispy chocolate pearls on top for extra crunch and visual appeal to this already stunning dessert.
Spicy Kick: Mix a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground cinnamon into the cocoa powder for a unique, warm spicy note to your roulade.
Fruit Zest: Brighten the flavors by adding orange or lemon zest to the whipped cream filling, bringing a fresh and zesty kick to every bite.
Make Ahead Options
These Salted Caramel Roulade components are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delectable dessert with minimal last-minute effort! You can prepare the chocolate sponge up to 24 hours in advance by baking it and storing it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator to prevent it from drying out. The praline can also be made ahead; keep it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply unroll the sponge, spread the cream filling, and roll it up again. Finish by decorating with the remaining toppings, and you’ll have a stunning dessert ready to impress!
What to Serve with Chocolate and Hazelnut Roulade?
Indulging in this luscious roulade is the perfect centerpiece for any gathering, enhancing your meal with delectable pairings.
Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing contrast, cutting through the richness of the chocolate and hazelnuts.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and smooth, a scoop of vanilla ice cream elevates this dessert, creating a delightful temperature contrast. The simplicity of vanilla lets the roulade shine.
Espresso or Coffee: A rich espresso or a warm cup of coffee pairs beautifully, enhancing the chocolate flavors while providing a comforting after-dinner beverage.
Hazelnut Praline Cookies: These crunchy cookies echo the flavors within the roulade, offering an extra layer of texture that will delight your guests.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: For true chocolate lovers, a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce on top brings an extra layer of decadence to each slice.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream boosts the creaminess of the roulade while lending a lovely flair to every bite.
Mint Tea: For a refreshing drink option, freshly steeped mint tea will cleanse the palate and enrich the chocolate experience.
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats add a lovely contrast in flavor and texture, enhancing the dessert table and offering a playful twist.
Tips for the Best Salted Caramel Roulade
Egg Whites Matter: Whisk egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This is crucial for a light and fluffy roulade, avoiding a dense texture.
Gentle Folding Technique: When incorporating egg whites into the chocolate mix, fold gently. Over-mixing can deflate the batter, resulting in a less airy roulade.
Perfect Cooling: Allow the sponge to cool properly before rolling. If it s too warm, it may break, but if it s too cool, it could crack.
Dusting Secrets: Use cocoa powder for dusting the parchment; this prevents sticking and adds extra chocolate flavor without an unsightly residue.
Serving Suggestions: Chill the roulade before serving for a refreshing dessert experience. Pair it with whipped cream or berries for added textures and flavors!
Taste Balance: Adjust the amount of sea salt in the filling to enhance the caramel flavor. Just a pinch more can make the salted caramel roulade shine!
Chocolate and Hazelnut Roulade Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe hazelnuts for the praline?
Absolutely! For the freshest flavor, choose hazelnuts that are firm and tan without dark spots or blemishes. If they’re in their shells, look for clean, unbroken shells. If possible, opt for blanched hazelnuts for a smoother texture in your praline.
How should I store leftover roulade?
Very good question! Store any leftover roulade in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will keep it fresh while allowing the flavors to continue melding together beautifully. Just be sure to slice it carefully to avoid damaging the lovely presentation!
Can I freeze the Chocolate and Hazelnut Roulade?
Absolutely, you can! To freeze, wrap the roulade tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This will protect it from freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
What if my roulade cracks when I roll it?
Not to worry! If your roulade cracks, it could be due to cooling too quickly or being too warm when rolling. To fix this, gently press the cracked edges together, and fill in with the cream when assembling. You can disguise any imperfections with additional topping or a dusting of cocoa powder!
Is the roulade safe for those with nut allergies?
While this recipe features hazelnuts, which are a common allergen, you can create a nut-free version! Substitute the hazelnuts with sunflower seeds or simply omit them entirely. Ensure your other ingredients don t contain cross-contaminants if allergies are severe.
Can pets eat any of the ingredients?
It’s best to keep this roulade away from pets. Chocolate can be toxic to dogs and cats, so make sure not to share any leftovers with your furry friends. Always check that the ingredients you use are safe for them, particularly if they have any dietary restrictions.