Carrot Cake Roll
This Carrot Cake Roll is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, perfect for Easter celebrations or any special occasion. With its moist spiced carrot cake and rich cream cheese frosting, this cake roll offers a unique presentation and flavor that will impress your guests. It’s not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious, making it a must-try recipe for your next gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Presentation: The rolled shape makes this cake stand out at any event, creating an eye-catching centerpiece.
- Moist and Flavorful: The combination of spices and fresh carrots ensures every bite is packed with flavor and moisture.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for Easter, birthdays, or simple family gatherings; this cake roll fits any occasion.
- Easy to Slice: The chilled cake rolls can be cut into neat slices, making serving a breeze.
- Cream Cheese Goodness: The rich cream cheese frosting adds a decadent touch that complements the spiced cake beautifully.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this Carrot Cake Roll recipe, gather the necessary tools. Having everything in place will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Jelly roll pan (10×15 inches)
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- Plastic wrap
Importance of Each Tool
- Jelly roll pan: This specific size is crucial for achieving the right thickness in your cake, ensuring it rolls easily without cracking.
- Electric mixer: It saves time and effort when beating the cream cheese frosting to achieve a smooth consistency.
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.
Ingredients:
– 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))
– 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 jelly roll pan (10×15 inches) with parchment paper. To ensure the paper sticks well, lightly spray the pan with cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Carrot Cake Batter
Combine all dry ingredients:
1. In a bowl, mix together:
– Flour
– Baking powder
– Baking soda
– Salt
– Ground cinnamon
– Ground ginger
– Ground nutmeg
– Ground cloves
Set aside.
- In another large bowl, whisk together:
- Eggs
- Granulated sugar
- Oil
-
Vanilla extract
-
Gradually stir the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until almost combined. Fold in shredded carrots gently.
-
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Bake at 375˚F for about 10 to 13 minutes. The cake should spring back when touched or have a toothpick come out clean from the center.
Step 4: Roll the Cake
Immediately after taking it out of the oven:
1. Carefully roll up the warm cake from one short end to another while still in the parchment paper.
2. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes while rolled up.
Step 5: Make Cream Cheese Frosting
While waiting for your cake to cool:
1. Place cold cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Beat until smooth using an electric mixer.
2. Gradually add room temperature butter in two-tablespoon increments until fully blended.
3. Finally, add powdered sugar and vanilla extract all at once; mix until combined and smooth.
Step 6: Assemble Your Cake Roll
- Gently unroll your cooled cake carefully (it’s okay if it cracks slightly).
- Evenly spread cream cheese frosting over all but one inch of one end of the cake.
Step 7: Re-Roll Your Cake
Starting from the frosted end:
1. Tightly roll up your cake towards the unfrosted edge.
2. As you go, loosen and remove parchment paper gradually.
3. Discard any leftover parchment once fully rolled.
Step 8: Chill Before Serving
Wrap your completed roll tightly in plastic wrap and chill in either refrigerator or freezer for at least one hour before slicing.
Step 9: Cut & Serve
For clean slices, use a hot knife by running it under hot water first before cutting through your chilled carrot cake roll! Enjoy!
This delicious Carrot Cake Roll serves about twelve slices, making it perfect for sharing during festive occasions or family dinners!
How to Serve Carrot Cake Roll
Serving a Carrot Cake Roll can be as creative as you want it to be. This delightful dessert is not only visually appealing but also versatile, making it perfect for various occasions, especially Easter. Here are some fun serving ideas that will enhance your experience.
Individual Slices
- Serve each slice on a small dessert plate for an elegant touch.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor.
With Fresh Fruit
- Pair the cake roll with fresh berries like strawberries and blueberries.
- The tartness of the fruit complements the sweetness of the cream cheese frosting.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for a decadent twist.
- The rich flavor pairs beautifully with the spiced carrot cake.
Whipped Cream Topping
- Top each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
- This adds a light and airy texture that balances the richness.
Coffee or Tea Pairing
- Serve alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
- The warm beverage enhances the spices in the carrot cake.
How to Perfect Carrot Cake Roll
To ensure your Carrot Cake Roll turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips. These pointers can help you achieve that ideal texture and flavor.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and consistency.
- Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
- Roll While Warm: Rolling the cake while it is warm helps prevent cracking, making it easier to shape.
- Chill Before Cutting: Allowing the cake roll to chill in the fridge or freezer firms it up, making slicing easier and cleaner.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preference; cinnamon and nutmeg work well together.
Best Side Dishes for Carrot Cake Roll
Pairing side dishes with your Carrot Cake Roll can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options that complement its flavors beautifully.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and contrasts nicely with the rich cake.
- Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory balance against sweetness.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a creamy texture that pairs well with moist carrot cake.
- Chocolate Mousse: The richness of chocolate mousse complements the spices in the carrot cake roll wonderfully.
- Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola on top offers an interesting textural contrast and adds nutty flavors.
- Sweet Tea: A chilled glass of sweet tea enhances the sweetness of the dessert while providing refreshment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Carrot Cake Roll can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that can lead to disappointment. Here are key mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Not preparing the pan properly: If you skip greasing the pan before adding parchment paper, your cake may stick and tear when you roll it. Always use cooking spray or Baker’s Joy for easy removal.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make your cake dense and tough. Mix until just combined to keep it light and fluffy.
- Rolling the cake while warm: Rolling a hot cake can cause cracks. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before rolling it up in the parchment paper.
- Skipping refrigeration: Not chilling the roll after assembling can result in a messy slice. Make sure to chill for at least an hour for easier cutting later.
- Using cold cream cheese: If your cream cheese is too cold, it may not blend smoothly with the butter. Let it sit at room temperature before making your frosting.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Carrot Cake Roll
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Carrot Cake Roll
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 10 minutes wrapped in foil.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for short bursts of 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a Carrot Cake Roll.
What makes a Carrot Cake Roll different from traditional carrot cake?
A Carrot Cake Roll is rolled into a log with cream cheese frosting inside, giving it a unique texture and presentation compared to traditional layered carrot cakes.
Can I customize my Carrot Cake Roll?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, raisins, or even different spices according to your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment!
How do I prevent my Carrot Cake Roll from cracking?
To prevent cracks, ensure you roll your cake while it’s still warm but not hot. Additionally, don’t overbake; check for doneness early.
Is the Carrot Cake Roll suitable for freezing?
Yes! This dessert freezes well. Just wrap it tightly before storing it in the freezer.
How long does it take to make a Carrot Cake Roll?
The total time is around 90 minutes including prep and chilling time, making it perfect for special occasions like Easter!
Final Thoughts
This Carrot Cake Roll is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious! The combination of spiced carrot cake with creamy frosting makes each slice heavenly. Plus, its versatility allows you to customize it with various fillings or toppings. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try and delight your family and friends!
Carrot Cake Roll
- Total Time: 43 minutes
- Yield: About 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of our Carrot Cake Roll, a show-stopping dessert that’s ideal for Easter and other special occasions. This moist spiced carrot cake is expertly rolled with luscious cream cheese frosting, creating a visually stunning and delicious treat that will impress your family and friends. Each slice offers a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making it an irresistible addition to any gathering. With simple steps, this recipe is easy enough for bakers of all skill levels to master, ensuring you’ll enjoy every moment while creating this scrumptious cake roll.
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
- 8 oz cold cream cheese
- 8 Tbsp room temperature butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a jelly roll pan (10×15 inches) with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, oil, and vanilla extract. Gradually combine wet and dry mixtures until almost blended; fold in shredded carrots.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 10 to 13 minutes or until springy.
- Roll the warm cake gently in the parchment paper and cool for about 10 minutes.
- For the frosting, beat cream cheese until smooth, add butter incrementally, then mix in powdered sugar and vanilla until combined.
- Unroll the cooled cake carefully; spread frosting except for one inch at one end. Roll tightly from the frosted end to complete.
- Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least one hour before slicing.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
