Decadent Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Filling
This Carrot Cake Roll is a showstopper dessert that pairs spiced carrot cake with a rich cream cheese filling, all beautifully rolled into a spiral. Perfect for any special occasion, from Easter to holidays, it’s moist, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Ultra-soft, spiced carrot cake combined with a creamy filling
- Impressive presentation that’s easier to make than it looks
- Make-ahead friendly—this cake actually tastes better the next day
- Perfect for parties and festive gatherings
Ingredients:
For the Carrot Cake Roll:
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- ⅔ cup (130g) granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 ½ cups finely grated carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Dusting (Optional):
- Powdered sugar
- Chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions:
1. Prep & Preheat:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, lightly greased. This will prevent the cake from sticking during baking.
2. Make the Cake Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract, and mix well.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Once combined, gently stir in the finely grated carrots.
3. Bake & Roll:
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared jelly roll pan. Spread it out with a spatula to ensure an even layer. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the cake springs back when gently pressed.
While the cake is baking, lay a clean kitchen towel on your counter and dust it with powdered sugar. As soon as the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately flip it onto the prepared towel. Gently peel off the parchment paper and then roll the cake, along with the towel, from the short end. Allow the cake to cool completely while it’s rolled up.
4. Make the Cream Cheese Filling & Assemble:
While the cake cools, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated and creamy.
Once the cake has cooled, carefully unroll it from the towel. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface of the cake. Re-roll the cake without the towel, then place it seam-side down. Chill the rolled cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set.
Pro Tips for Success:
- Grate the carrots finely to ensure a smooth and tender texture in the cake.
- Roll the cake while it’s still warm to prevent cracking.
- Chill the cake before slicing to achieve clean, neat cuts.
- For added moisture, consider adding crushed pineapple or raisins to the batter (optional).
Serving Suggestions:
- Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with chopped nuts for a finishing touch.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for an added layer of decadence.
- Pair with a cup of hot coffee or chai tea for the perfect dessert experience.
Final Verdict: A Must-Try Dessert!
This Carrot Cake Roll offers the perfect balance of spiced cake and creamy filling, making it a beautiful and delicious twist on the classic carrot cake. Whether you’re making it for a holiday or a special event, it’s sure to impress!