Get ready to roll out the red carpet for this show-stopping dessert that combines the cozy flavors of carrot cake with the creamy dreaminess of cream cheese frosting, all rolled up into one irresistible treat.
Why This Recipe Works
- The perfect balance of spices and sweetness makes every bite a flavor explosion.
- Rolling the cake while warm ensures a seamless spiral without cracks.
- Cream cheese frosting adds a tangy contrast that complements the spiced cake beautifully.
- It’s a visually impressive dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make.
- Perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup finely grated carrots
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Equipment Needed
- 10×15 inch jelly roll pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
- Clean kitchen towel
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F and line your jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. This ensures your cake won’t stick and makes transferring a breeze.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This blend of spices will give your carrot cake roll its signature warm flavor.
Beat Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Then, mix in the oil and vanilla. Fold in the grated carrots until just combined. The carrots add moisture and natural sweetness to the cake.
Bake to Perfection
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched. The key here is not to overbake, as the cake needs to be pliable for rolling.
Roll and Cool
Immediately after baking, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar and invert it onto a clean kitchen towel. Carefully peel off the parchment paper, then roll the cake up in the towel from the short end. Let it cool completely rolled up to set its shape.
Prepare the Frosting
While the cake cools, beat the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable. This creamy frosting is the perfect complement to the spiced cake.
Assemble the Roll
Gently unroll the cooled cake, spread the frosting evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges. Roll it back up without the towel, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least an hour before serving. This step ensures a neat, sliceable roll.
Tips and Tricks
For the best results, make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before making the frosting to avoid lumps. When grating the carrots, use the fine side of your grater for a smoother texture in the cake. If you’re short on time, you can speed up the cooling process by placing the rolled cake in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Always use fresh baking powder and soda to ensure your cake rises properly. And for an extra touch of elegance, dust the finished roll with a little more powdered sugar before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy texture.
- Mix in 1/4 cup of crushed pineapple (drained) for a tropical twist.
- Swap the cream cheese frosting for a mascarpone frosting for a richer flavor.
- Incorporate 1/2 tsp of ginger into the dry ingredients for an extra spice kick.
- Top the finished roll with a drizzle of caramel sauce for added decadence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s a 1:1 substitute to ensure the texture remains light and fluffy.
How do I store the carrot cake roll?
The roll can be stored in the refrigerator, wrapped in plastic wrap, for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to a month. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Can I use pre-shredded carrots?
While convenient, pre-shredded carrots are often too thick and dry for this recipe. Freshly grated carrots provide the best moisture and texture, so it’s worth the extra effort.
Summary
This carrot cake roll with cream cheese frosting is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, combining spiced cake with creamy frosting in a beautiful spiral. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to impress with its flavor and presentation.