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If you’re looking for a dessert that brings together warm spices, moist texture, and a luscious filling that feels like a hug in every bite, this Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Filling Recipe is exactly what you need. It has that perfect balance of tender carrot cake wrapped around a smooth, tangy cream cheese frosting that simply melts in your mouth. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a cozy afternoon treat, this carrot cake roll will quickly become a beloved favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the fragrant spices that bring warmth and depth, to the fresh grated carrots that add natural sweetness and moistness, every component contributes to the irresistible flavor and texture of this roll.
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: The base that provides structure without making the cake dense.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise gently for a light, fluffy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidic ingredients to give a tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds that classic warm spice note essential to carrot cake.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A subtle hint of nutmeg complements the cinnamon perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Gives a slight zing that brightens the spice blend.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
- 3 large eggs: Provide richness and help bind the ingredients together.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the cake’s moisture.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Brings a deeper, caramel-like flavor and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the cake with sweet, aromatic warmth.
- 2/3 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake tender and moist without overpowering flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups finely grated carrots: The star ingredient that adds natural sweetness and that characteristic texture.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: The creamy base for the decadent frosting filling.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and smoothness to the frosting.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Enhances the flavor of the cream cheese filling.
- 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar (for frosting): Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfection.
- Extra powdered sugar for rolling and topping: Prevents sticking and adds a pretty finish.
How to Make Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Filling Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it—this ensures the cake releases perfectly later. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. This spice-infused dry mix lays the tasty foundation for your carrot cake roll.
Step 2: Whip Up the Wet Mixture
In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is thick and creamy—about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is key to a light cake. Next, stir in the vanilla extract and vegetable oil, and fold in the finely grated carrots, which keep the cake wonderfully moist and naturally sweet.
Step 3: Combine and Bake
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful to mix just until combined to keep the batter light. Spread this batter evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing the top for an even bake. Pop it into the oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes, until the cake springs back lightly when touched—a sign it’s perfectly baked but still soft.
Step 4: Roll While Warm
As soon as the cake is out of the oven, carefully turn it onto a kitchen towel sprinkled generously with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment paper gently to avoid tearing. Roll the cake up with the towel, starting from the short end, and let it cool completely in this rolled shape. This step is essential to shape the cake without cracking when you add your frosting.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake cools, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until the mixture is fluffy and smooth. This luscious frosting filling offers a tangy contrast to the sweet, spiced cake, creating the classic flavor combo everyone loves in a carrot cake roll.
Step 6: Fill and Chill
Unroll your cooled cake gently and spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the surface. Then, reroll the cake carefully without the towel to keep that perfect spiral. Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld and the frosting to set nicely.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Right before serving, dust your carrot cake roll with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant touch or decorate with your favorite toppings. Slice and enjoy the beautiful spiral of moist carrot cake and creamy frosting that makes this dessert so special.
How to Serve Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Filling Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar is classic and pretty, but you can also sprinkle chopped toasted walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that contrasts the smooth cream cheese filling. A few fresh carrot ribbons or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top adds a charming, homemade look that’s sure to impress your guests.
Side Dishes
This carrot cake roll pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. For a lighter pairing, a fresh fruit salad with oranges and berries complements the spicy sweetness beautifully by adding vibrant, refreshing flavors to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the roll into smaller individual servings for a party platter or arrange slices on a large serving board with edible flowers and nuts for a stunning centerpiece. For a fun twist, you can decorate the top with an assortment of candied ginger pieces or a drizzle of melted white chocolate for added elegance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your remaining carrot cake roll tightly in plastic wrap and keep it refrigerated. It will stay fresh and moist for up to 3 days, perfect for enjoying the next day or for a tasty snack later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the carrot cake roll by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
This dessert is delicious served cold from the fridge, but if you prefer a slightly warmer slice, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before slicing. Avoid microwaving as it may melt the cream cheese filling into a less desirable texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour?
All-purpose flour works best to achieve the tender texture in this recipe, but you can experiment with whole wheat pastry flour for a slightly nuttier taste. Keep in mind it might change the texture a bit.
How finely should I grate the carrots?
For the best texture and to help the cake bake evenly, grate the carrots as finely as possible. This ensures they blend seamlessly into the batter while still giving you that classic carrot cake bite.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the cream cheese and butter in the frosting with plant-based alternatives. Just make sure they are softened and suitable for whipping to achieve the same fluffy consistency.
Is there a way to make the cake roll gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, and check that your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free as well. Your roll will still be delicious and just as moist.
How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?
The key is to roll the cake while it’s still warm with a powdered sugar-dusted towel, then let it cool in the rolled position. This helps the cake “remember” the shape and makes it much easier to roll again with the frosting without cracking.
Final Thoughts
This Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Filling Recipe is truly a showstopper that combines the warmth of spiced carrot cake and the richness of creamy frosting in a fun, elegant roll. It’s easier to make than you might think and always brings smiles to the table. I encourage you to give it a try—you’ll find it’s a wonderful way to brighten any day or celebration with homemade sweetness and love.
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Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Filling Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful twist on traditional carrot cake, featuring a moist, spiced cake rolled with a creamy, tangy cream cheese filling. Perfect for special occasions or an elegant dessert, this recipe combines warming spices and fresh carrots in a light sponge cake, beautifully complemented by rich cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients
Cake
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 cups finely grated carrots
- Extra powdered sugar for rolling and topping
Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until evenly combined.
- Beat wet ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with granulated sugar and brown sugar for 2–3 minutes until thick and creamy. Stir in vanilla extract and vegetable oil, then fold in finely grated carrots gently.
- Combine wet and dry: Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and fold gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light.
- Bake the cake: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 12–14 minutes or until the cake springs back lightly to the touch, indicating it is done.
- Roll cake while warm: Turn the cake out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted generously with powdered sugar. Carefully peel off the parchment paper, then roll the cake and towel together starting from the short end. Allow the rolled cake to cool completely, which helps prevent cracking later.
- Prepare frosting: While the cake cools, beat softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar together until smooth and fluffy, creating the cream cheese frosting.
- Fill and re-roll: Once the cake is completely cooled, unroll it carefully and spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the surface. Gently reroll the cake without the towel to maintain its shape.
- Chill and serve: Wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set. Before serving, dust with powdered sugar or decorate as desired. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Make sure to roll the cake while it is still warm to prevent cracking.
- Use a kitchen towel generously dusted with powdered sugar to prevent the cake from sticking while rolling.
- Chilling the cake roll helps the frosting set and makes slicing easier.
- You can add chopped walnuts or raisins to the batter for added texture and flavor if desired.
- Store leftovers wrapped tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep fresh.
