Carrot Cake Roll: A Moist, Flavorful Dessert with Cream Cheese Filling

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s both impressive and delicious, look no further than a Carrot Cake Roll. This rolled-up beauty features all the flavors of classic carrot cake—moist, spiced cake with finely grated carrots—wrapped in a delicate swirl and paired with a rich, creamy cream cheese filling. It’s like a carrot cake, but with a fun, elegant twist.

This dessert is perfect for holiday gatherings, birthdays, or any special occasion that calls for something a little different. It might look fancy, but it’s actually simple to make. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful treat.

Why You’ll Love This Carrot Cake Roll

• Moist and Flavorful: A soft, spongy carrot cake with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
• Cream Cheese Filling: Rich, tangy cream cheese filling that perfectly complements the cake.
• Impressive Appearance: The swirl looks elegant on any dessert table.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for holidays, birthdays, or afternoon tea.
• Easy to Make: Don’t be intimidated by the roll—this is simpler than it looks!

Ingredients for Carrot Cake Roll

Makes: 1 cake roll (about 10 slices)

For the Carrot Cake:

• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups (180 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups (180 g) grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups (180 g) powdered sugar
• Pinch of salt

For Dusting (Optional):

• Powdered sugar (for rolling and serving)

How to Make Carrot Cake Roll

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan or baking sheet with butter and line it with parchment paper. Grease the parchment paper as well.
3. Lightly dust the parchment with flour or powdered sugar to ensure the cake doesn’t stick when rolling.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy (about 3 minutes). Add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract and continue to beat until well combined.
3. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, followed by the grated carrots. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
2. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
3. Once baked, immediately remove the cake from the oven and place a clean kitchen towel on your countertop. Lightly dust the towel with powdered sugar.
4. Turn the cake out onto the towel, remove the parchment paper, and roll the cake up in the towel while it’s still hot. Let it cool completely in the rolled-up shape. This helps the cake keep its form when you unroll it later.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

1. While the cake is cooling, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.
2. Add the vanilla extract and powdered sugar, and beat until fully combined and creamy. Taste for sweetness, adding more powdered sugar if desired.
3. Set the filling aside while you unroll the cooled cake.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake Roll

1. Once the cake has cooled completely, carefully unroll it from the towel.
2. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the cake, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Carefully roll the cake back up (without the towel) and transfer it to a serving platter. If the cake cracks slightly, don’t worry—it’s normal.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Dust the top of the cake roll with powdered sugar before serving.
2. Slice into 10-12 pieces and enjoy! Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Tips for a Perfect Carrot Cake Roll

• Use fresh carrots: Freshly grated carrots are key to the perfect texture and flavor. Pre-grated carrots from the store often have too much moisture and can affect the cake’s consistency.
• Roll while warm: Rolling the cake while it’s warm and soft helps it keep its shape and prevents cracking.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time—overbaking can make the cake dry and harder to roll.
• Cool completely: Allow the cake to cool fully before spreading the cream cheese filling, or the filling might melt and ooze out when rolled.
• Optional garnish: Add a few chopped pecans or walnuts on top for extra crunch.

How to Store and Freeze

• Storing: Store the cake roll in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unfilled cake for up to 2 months. After baking and cooling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Thaw and fill with cream cheese frosting before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a cup of tea or coffee for an elegant afternoon treat.
• Pair with fresh whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Top with chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and a beautiful presentation.

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FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. It actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together.

2. How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?

Make sure the cake is fully cooled before unrolling it, and be gentle when rolling it back up. The towel method is key for creating a soft roll that holds its shape.

3. Can I use store-bought frosting instead of making the cream cheese filling?

While store-bought frosting can work, homemade cream cheese filling gives the cake a richer, fresher taste. It’s worth the extra step!

4. Can I use a different kind of frosting?

Absolutely! You can try a buttercream frosting or a whipped cream topping for a different texture and flavor.

5. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the ingredients in your baking powder and soda to ensure they’re gluten-free.

6. How can I make this cake dairy-free?

You can substitute the butter and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives, such as plant-based butter and vegan cream cheese.

7. Can I add nuts to the cake?

Yes! You can fold in finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added crunch and flavor.

8. How do I roll the cake without cracking it?

The key is to roll it up while it’s still warm and soft, using a kitchen towel to help prevent it from cracking. Don’t let it cool too much before rolling.

9. Can I add more spices to the cake?

Of course! Feel free to experiment with spices like ginger, cloves, or even a bit of cardamom for extra warmth and flavor.

10. How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. It should spring back slightly when touched.