Hello, fellow dessert lovers! If you’re searching for a show-stopping dessert that combines all the cozy flavors of a traditional carrot cake with the elegance of a rolled cake, you’ve found the perfect recipe. This Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting is light, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible. With a soft, spiced carrot cake and rich, tangy cream cheese filling, this dessert is sure to become a favorite in your home. Let’s get started!
Introduction
Carrot cake has long been a favorite, thanks to its moist texture and subtle spice flavors. This recipe takes that classic cake to the next level by transforming it into a beautifully rolled dessert, filled with smooth, decadent cream cheese frosting. The result is not only delicious but also visually striking—perfect for impressing guests at any occasion. Plus, this carrot cake roll is surprisingly simple to make, so you don’t need to be a professional baker to create something spectacular.
Ingredients
To prepare this comforting Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll need the following:
For the cake:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2/3 cup grated carrots
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ginger
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the cream cheese frosting filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup butter (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How to Make Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Grease the parchment paper as well.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, ginger, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Beat the eggs and sugars: In a large bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla until thick and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until combined. Stir in the grated carrots and nuts (if using).
- Spread and bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched.
- Prepare the towel: While the cake is baking, place a clean kitchen towel on the counter and generously dust it with powdered sugar.
- Roll the cake: As soon as the cake is done, carefully flip it onto the prepared towel. Gently peel off the parchment paper, then roll the cake up tightly in the towel (starting from the short side) to form a log. Let the cake cool completely while rolled.
- Make the frosting: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
- Frost and re-roll: Once the cake has cooled, gently unroll it from the towel. Spread an even layer of the cream cheese frosting over the surface of the cake. Re-roll the cake (without the towel) and wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set.
- Serve: Dust with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.
Helpful Tips
- For a cleaner roll: Trim the edges of the cake before rolling it up with the filling. This will create a more uniform roll and avoid uneven edges.
- Make ahead: The cake roll can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. In fact, it tends to taste even better the next day after the flavors have melded.
- For an added twist: Garnish the cake roll with extra chopped nuts, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a drizzle of caramel for more flavor and texture.
Cooking Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese and butter for the frosting are softened. This ensures the filling is smooth and easy to spread.
- Don’t overbake the cake: Keep an eye on the cake while it’s in the oven. Overbaking can lead to a dry cake that’s harder to roll.
- Equipment tip: A jelly roll pan is essential for creating a thin, flexible cake that’s easy to roll. Also, having a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar prevents sticking while rolling the cake.
Serving Suggestions
This Carrot Cake Roll is a versatile dessert that pairs well with various accompaniments. Here are a few serving ideas:
- Serve with tea or coffee: The warm spices in the carrot cake make it a perfect match for a cozy cup of tea or coffee.
- Top with whipped cream: For an extra touch of indulgence, add a dollop of whipped cream on each slice.
- Decorate with edible flowers or extra grated carrots: If you’re serving this for a special occasion, decorate the top of the roll with finely grated carrots or edible flowers to make it look as good as it tastes.
Nutritional Information
This cake roll is rich in flavors but also contains wholesome ingredients like carrots and nuts. Here’s a quick breakdown of its nutritional content.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 280
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Potassium: 150mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 23g
- Vitamin A: 80%
- Vitamin C: 3%
- Calcium: 6%
- Iron: 5%
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store the Carrot Cake Roll in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors tend to improve over time, making it perfect for making ahead.
Reheat: Although this cake roll is best served chilled, if you prefer it slightly warm, you can let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before serving. Avoid reheating it in the microwave as it may ruin the texture of the cake and the filling.
Leftover ideas: If you have any leftover slices, you can serve them as part of a brunch platter alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, and a selection of cheeses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I freeze the cake roll?
Yes! You can freeze the assembled cake roll (without the powdered sugar dusting). Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. It will last in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. - What can I substitute for cream cheese in the filling?
If you want a lighter filling, you can substitute the cream cheese with mascarpone. For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based cream cheese alternative. - How do I prevent my cake from cracking when rolling it?
Rolling the cake while it’s still warm helps prevent cracks. The heat makes the cake more pliable, allowing it to form a tight roll without breaking. - Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking. The texture may change slightly, but the result will still be delicious.
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Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like the flavors of a moist Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting. It’s an elegant dessert that will be the star of any gathering. Whether you’re a carrot cake lover or just looking for something new to try, this recipe won’t disappoint. Don’t forget to share your experience and let us know how it turned out! Happy baking!