Carrot Cake Roll
This Carrot Cake Roll is a delightful twist on a classic dessert, perfect for Easter or any festive gathering. With its spiced carrot cake and luscious cream cheese frosting, this roll not only pleases the palate but also impresses the eye. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday dinner or enjoying it during an afternoon tea, this treat stands out for its versatility and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and sweet carrots creates a moist and flavorful cake that everyone will love.
- Easy to Make: Despite its elegant appearance, this recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Easter, birthdays, or just a weekend treat, this carrot cake roll fits right in.
- Impressive Presentation: The rolled shape and creamy filling make it a stunning centerpiece for any dessert table.
- Make Ahead Option: This cake rolls can be made in advance and frozen, saving you time when hosting guests.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience. Having the right equipment makes all the difference when creating your delicious Carrot Cake Roll.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Jelly roll pan (10×15 inches)
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Jelly roll pan: The ideal size ensures even baking and helps achieve that perfect roll.
- Electric mixer: Makes whipping cream cheese and butter much easier for a smooth frosting.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and allows easy removal of the cake after baking.
Ingredients
This Carrot Cake Roll is a classic Easter dessert with a twist. Spiced carrot cake is rolled up with the BEST cream cheese frosting inside.
For the Carrot Cake
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour (stir, spoon & level)
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ⅛ tsp ground cloves
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 Tbsp oil (canola/vegetable)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups shredded carrots (loosely packed into measuring cup)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz brick cream cheese (cold)
- 8 Tbsp butter (1 stick; room temperature)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How to Make Carrot Cake Roll
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper. For best results, use a little cooking spray on the pan to help keep the paper in place.
Step 2: Make Carrot Cake Batter
In a medium bowl, combine:
1. Flour
2. Baking powder
3. Baking soda
4. Salt
5. Ground cinnamon
6. Ground ginger
7. Ground nutmeg
8. Ground cloves
Mix these dry ingredients together and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together 3 large eggs until frothy.
2. Beat in ¾ cup granulated sugar along with 2 tablespoons of oil and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Gradually stir the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. Gently fold in 2 cups of shredded carrots until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan and bake at 375˚F for about 10–13 minutes. The cake should spring back when touched, or you can check by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Roll
As soon as it’s done baking, carefully roll the cake from one short end to another while it’s still inside the parchment paper. Allow it to cool for 10 minutes before unrolling.
Step 7: Make Cream Cheese Frosting
In a new bowl:
1. Beat 8 oz of cold cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add in room temperature butter (2 tablespoons at a time), mixing until fluffy.
3. Finally, add in 1 cup powdered sugar and another teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
Step 8: Frosting Filling
Carefully unroll your cooled cake gently; if there are cracks, don’t worry too much—just be gentle! Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly across all but one inch at one end of the cake where you’ll be rolling it back up again.
Step 9: Re-Roll
Starting from the frosted end, re-roll tightly towards the unfrosted edge while removing parchment paper as you go along.
Step 10: Chill
Wrap your rolled cake with plastic wrap and chill in either the refrigerator or freezer for at least an hour before slicing.
Step 11: Slice & Serve
When ready to serve, use a hot knife (dipped in hot water) to cut slices from your chilled Carrot Cake Roll for clean cuts without crumbling!
Enjoy this decadent treat that perfectly captures springtime vibes!
How to Serve Carrot Cake Roll
Serving a Carrot Cake Roll can be as delightful as making it. This dessert is not only visually appealing but also versatile in how it can be presented and enjoyed. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your Carrot Cake Roll experience.
Festive Plate Presentation
- Use a beautiful plate or cake stand to showcase the roll. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.
With Fresh Fruit
- Serve slices alongside seasonal fruits like strawberries or raspberries. This adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- A light drizzle of caramel sauce on top enhances the flavor and adds an indulgent touch.
Whipped Cream Topping
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on each slice for extra creaminess. You can even flavor it with vanilla or cinnamon for added taste.
Coffee Pairing
- Pair each slice with a cup of coffee or espresso for a delightful afternoon treat. The bitterness of coffee complements the sweetness of the carrot cake.
Ice Cream Side
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. The cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the spiced cake.
How to Perfect Carrot Cake Roll
To achieve the best results with your Carrot Cake Roll, follow these tips for an impeccable finish. These small details can make a big difference in your dessert.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure that eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Gently fold in the dry ingredients to maintain lightness in your cake.
- Cool properly before frosting: Allow your cake to cool completely before spreading frosting. This prevents melting and ensures clean slices.
- Tightly roll the cake: When rolling, keep it tight to avoid cracks and ensure even layers of frosting.
- Chill before slicing: Refrigerating or freezing helps firm up the cake, making it easier to cut without crumbling.
- Use a hot knife: For clean cuts, run your knife under hot water and dry it before slicing through the chilled roll.
Best Side Dishes for Carrot Cake Roll
Pairing side dishes with your Carrot Cake Roll can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some delicious options that complement this sweet treat nicely.
- Citrus Salad: A refreshing mix of citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits provides a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the cake.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A light, tangy coleslaw offers crunch and balances out the sweetness with its acidity.
- Roasted Nuts: A bowl of seasoned roasted nuts adds texture and a savory element that pairs well with dessert.
- Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses such as brie or goat cheese; their creaminess complements the spiced flavors of carrot cake.
- Herbed Quinoa Salad: A healthy quinoa salad with herbs and lemon dressing adds a nutritious side that’s still flavorful.
- Chocolate Mousse: A rich chocolate mousse offers a decadent contrast to the spiced carrot flavors, creating a delightful combination.
- Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries provides freshness, balancing out the richness of the carrot roll.
- Spiced Chai Tea: Serve warm spiced chai tea alongside; its warming spices echo those in the cake, enhancing flavors beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Carrot Cake Roll can be a delightful experience, but avoid these common mistakes for the best results.
- Not Preparing the Pan Properly: Always line your jelly roll pan with parchment paper and use cooking spray. This prevents sticking and ensures an easy release after baking.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to wet. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy texture.
- Ignoring Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool for at least 10 minutes before rolling it up. This prevents cracking and helps maintain its shape.
- Using Warm Cake for Frosting: Make sure the cake is cool before spreading on the cream cheese frosting. A warm cake can cause the frosting to melt and slide off.
- Rolling Too Tightly or Loosely: Roll the cake tightly but not excessively. A loose roll will unravel, while a too-tight roll may crack.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover slices in an airtight container.
- They can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing Carrot Cake Roll
- Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Carrot Cake Roll
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place slices on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, flipping slices occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a Carrot Cake Roll.
What is a Carrot Cake Roll?
A Carrot Cake Roll is a dessert made from spiced carrot cake that is rolled with cream cheese frosting inside, creating a beautiful and tasty treat.
Can I use box cake mix for a Carrot Cake Roll?
Yes! You can use box cake mix as a base. Just follow the instructions on the box and add shredded carrots and spices for flavor.
How long does it take to make a Carrot Cake Roll?
The total time needed is about 90 minutes, including preparation, baking, cooling, and chilling time.
Can I customize my Carrot Cake Roll?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, raisins, or even pineapple for extra flavor. Feel free to adjust spices based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Carrot Cake Roll is not only a stunning centerpiece for your dessert table but also incredibly versatile. Whether you enjoy it as an Easter treat or at any gathering, it’s sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite add-ins!
Carrot Cake Roll
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
Description
Experience the delightful twist of our Carrot Cake Roll, an elegant dessert that brings together the warm spices of traditional carrot cake and the creamy goodness of cream cheese frosting. Perfect for Easter or any festive occasion, this rolled cake not only captivates with its stunning presentation but also offers a moist and flavorful treat that everyone will adore. Easy to make and even easier to customize, it’s a showstopper that fits seamlessly into any celebration or casual gathering. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday feast or enjoying it during afternoon tea, this carrot cake roll is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ⅛ tsp ground cloves
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 Tbsp oil (canola/vegetable)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups shredded carrots (loosely packed into measuring cup)
- 8 oz brick cream cheese (cold)
- 8 Tbsp butter (1 stick; room temperature)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices; set aside.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs until frothy; add sugar, oil, and vanilla.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients; fold in shredded carrots.
- Spread batter in prepared pan and bake for 10–13 minutes until springy.
- Roll the warm cake in parchment; cool for 10 minutes then unroll.
- For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth; add powdered sugar and vanilla.
- Frost the cake (leave one edge unfrosted) then re-roll tightly.
- Chill for an hour before slicing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 195mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
