- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine all sponge ingredients in a mixing bowl. Mix until a smooth batter forms.
- Spread batter evenly on the prepared sheet to a 1/4-inch thickness.
- Bake for 15 minutes. Let cool slightly on a damp kitchen towel, then roll gently from the shorter side.
- Prepare filling by beating mascarpone, butter, and erythritol until creamy.
- Unroll cooled sponge, spread filling evenly, then re-roll tightly.
- Chill in refrigerator for 1 hour before dusting with cocoa powder and slicing.
- Calories:94 kcal25%
- Energy:393 kJ22%
- Protein:5 g28%
- Carbohydrates:15 mg40%
- Sugar:3 mg8%
- Salt:150 g25%
- Fat:25 g20%
Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh
Easy Keto Chocolate Sponge Roll Recipe – Gluten-Free & Low Carb
Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you love a good dessert, but sometimes those cravings hit when you’re trying to stick to a healthier way of eating. Well, I’ve got just the thing – a ridiculously delicious Keto Chocolate Sponge Roll that’s gluten-free, low carb, and seriously satisfying. I first made this when I was looking for a dessert to bring to a friend’s potluck, and it was a huge hit! No one could believe it was keto. Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This isn’t your average diet dessert. It’s light, fluffy, and intensely chocolatey. The mascarpone filling adds a lovely creaminess, and the cocoa dusting gives it that perfect finishing touch. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make – even if you’re not a seasoned baker. It’s perfect for a weekend treat, a special occasion, or just when you need a little chocolate pick-me-up.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this keto masterpiece:
- 6 oz KMK Chocolate baking mix
- 2 tbsp psyllium husk powder
- 3 medium eggs
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 0.5 tsp vanilla extract
- 0.75 cup unsweetened almond milk (about 180ml)
- 1 tbsp coconut oil, melted
- 0.25 cup powdered Erythritol (about 60g)
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese (about 225g)
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 3 tbsp powdered Erythritol (about 72g)
Ingredient Notes
Let’s talk ingredients! I want to make sure you get the best results.
KMK Chocolate Baking Mix – A Keto Staple
This is a game-changer for keto baking! It’s a pre-mixed blend that takes out all the guesswork. You can usually find it online – I’ve linked some options at the end of this post.
Psyllium Husk Powder – Benefits and Usage
Don’t skip this! Psyllium husk acts as a binder in this recipe, replacing the gluten. It helps give the sponge its structure. It’s also fantastic for your gut health!
Erythritol – A Keto-Friendly Sweetener
Erythritol is a sugar alcohol that’s low in calories and doesn’t spike blood sugar. It’s my go-to for keto baking. Powdered Erythritol blends much better than granulated, giving a smoother texture.
Mascarpone Cheese – Its Role in Texture and Flavor
Mascarpone is an Italian cream cheese, and it’s divine. It’s richer and smoother than regular cream cheese, giving the filling a luxurious texture. Don’t substitute with cream cheese, it won’t be the same!
Coconut Oil – Choosing the Right Kind
I prefer refined coconut oil for this recipe, as it has a neutral flavor. Unrefined coconut oil will impart a coconut taste, which isn’t necessarily bad, but it will change the flavor profile.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get down to business!
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This is essential – it prevents sticking!
- Make the Sponge Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the KMK chocolate baking mix, psyllium husk powder, eggs, cocoa powder, baking powder, vanilla extract, almond milk, and melted coconut oil. Mix until you have a smooth batter. Don’t overmix!
- Bake the Sponge: Spread the batter evenly onto the prepared baking sheet, aiming for about ¼-inch thickness. Bake for 15 minutes.
- Cool and Roll: Once baked, let the sponge cool slightly on a damp kitchen towel. This keeps it pliable. Gently roll the sponge from the shorter side, starting tightly.
- Prepare the Filling: While the sponge cools, beat the mascarpone cheese, softened butter, and powdered Erythritol together until light and creamy.
- Assemble the Roll: Unroll the cooled sponge, spread the mascarpone filling evenly over the surface, and re-roll it tightly.
- Chill and Dust: Wrap the roll tightly and chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This helps it set. Before serving, dust with cocoa powder and slice.
Expert Tips
- Don’t skip the damp towel! It really does make a difference in preventing cracking.
- Softened butter is key. It needs to be truly soft, but not melted.
- Chill time is important. Don’t rush it! It allows the roll to firm up and makes slicing much easier.
Variations
- Peppermint Chocolate Roll: Add a drop of peppermint extract to the filling for a festive twist. My family loves this during the holidays!
- Raspberry Chocolate Roll: Spread a thin layer of sugar-free raspberry jam on the sponge before adding the filling.
- Coffee Infusion: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee powder to the chocolate mix for a mocha flavour.
Vegan Adaptation
While this recipe isn’t naturally vegan, you could experiment with replacing the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg) and the mascarpone and butter with vegan cream cheese alternatives. It might take a little tweaking to get the texture right!
Gluten-Free Confirmation (Already Gluten-Free)
This recipe is naturally gluten-free thanks to the KMK baking mix and the use of psyllium husk powder. No need for any special gluten-free flours!
Spice Level (Not Applicable – Option to add a hint of chili)
This recipe isn’t spicy, but if you’re feeling adventurous, a tiny pinch of chili powder in the filling could add a surprising kick!
Festival Adaptations (Christmas/Holiday Dessert)
As mentioned before, the peppermint variation is perfect for Christmas! You could also decorate it with sugar-free chocolate shavings or festive sprinkles.
Serving Suggestions
This sponge roll is delicious on its own, but it’s also lovely served with a dollop of sugar-free whipped cream or a few fresh berries. A cup of hot coffee or tea complements it beautifully.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover sponge roll in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
FAQs
What is KMK Chocolate Baking Mix and where can I find it?
KMK is a specialized keto baking mix designed to mimic the texture of traditional baked goods. You can find it on Amazon and directly from the KMK website.
Can I substitute the almond milk with another type of milk?
You can! Coconut milk (unsweetened) or even heavy cream (for a richer result) would work well.
Is Erythritol safe for everyone? What are the potential side effects?
Erythritol is generally considered safe, but some people may experience digestive upset if they consume large amounts. Start with a small amount to see how your body reacts.
How can I prevent the sponge from cracking when rolling?
The damp towel is your best friend! It keeps the sponge pliable. Also, roll it gently and don’t pull too tightly.
Can this sponge roll be made ahead of time?
Yes! You can make it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. It might even taste better after the flavors have had a chance to meld.
What is the best way to soften the butter for the filling?
Take the butter out of the refrigerator about 30-60 minutes before you start baking. You can also microwave it in short bursts (5-10 seconds) but be careful not to melt it!
Enjoy! I hope you love this Keto Chocolate Sponge Roll as much as I do. Let me know in the comments if you try it and how it turns out!