This Carrot Cake Roll recipe combines the timeless flavors of spiced carrot cake with a luscious cream cheese filling. It’s perfectly moist, brimming with fresh carrots, and topped with a decadent cream cheese frosting. Whether for a holiday celebration or a casual treat, this dessert is guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- Dry Ingredients:
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Wet Ingredients:
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups finely grated carrots
- Optional:
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Dry Mix
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until thick and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add vanilla extract and mix well.
Step 4: Mix the Batter
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
- Gently fold in the grated carrots and walnuts (if using).
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
Step 6: Roll the Cake
- Dust a clean kitchen towel generously with powdered sugar.
- Turn the hot cake onto the towel, peel off the parchment paper, and roll the cake up in the towel (starting from a short side).
- Let the rolled cake cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
- Beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Step 8: Fill and Roll
- Unroll the cooled cake and spread most of the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface, leaving a small border.
- Carefully re-roll the cake (without the towel) and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
- Spread the reserved cream cheese filling on top of the cake roll.
- Sprinkle with chopped walnuts for garnish.
- Slice and serve!
Helpful Tips
- Prevent Cracking: Rolling the cake in a towel while it’s still warm helps prevent cracks by keeping the cake pliable.
- Grating Carrots: Use the finest side of a box grater for evenly distributed moisture.
- Chill Time: Chilling the cake roll ensures the filling sets, making it easier to slice cleanly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of frosting?
Yes! While cream cheese frosting is a classic pairing, buttercream or whipped cream can also work.
2. Can I make the cake roll ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
3. What if I don’t have a jelly roll pan?
You can use a standard baking sheet, but ensure the dimensions are close to 15×10 inches for consistent results.
4. Can I freeze the cake roll?
Yes. Wrap the cake roll tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
5. How do I prevent the cake from cracking?
Rolling the cake in a powdered sugar-dusted towel immediately after baking keeps it pliable, reducing the risk of cracks.
Conclusion
This Carrot Cake Roll is a delightful way to transform traditional carrot cake into an elegant dessert. Packed with warm spices, sweet carrots, and a dreamy cream cheese filling, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion. Easy to prepare and stunning to serve, this dessert is bound to become a go-to recipe in your repertoire. Enjoy every bite!