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This carrot cake roll brings all the warmth and nostalgia of classic carrot cake in a stunning spiral, layered with tangy cream cheese frosting. It is a showstopper that is surprisingly simple to pull off and always gets rave reviews from friends and family.
I discovered this recipe when I wanted something special for spring gatherings but did not want the hassle of a layer cake. It won everyone over the first time and it is now my go-to for Easter and birthdays.
Ingredients
- All purpose flour: gives structure so the cake rolls beautifully. Choose a good unbleached brand for best texture
- Baking powder and baking soda: help the cake rise so it is soft not dense
- Salt: enhances the flavor of the spices and keeps sweetness balanced
- Ground cinnamon ginger nutmeg and cloves: build a classic carrot cake warmth. Using fresh spices makes all the difference
- Eggs: hold the cake together and help create a flexible sponge. Farm fresh will yield a brighter yolk and better rise
- Granulated sugar: sweetens and creates a tender crumb. Stick with fine granulated for smooth texture
- Canola or vegetable oil: makes the cake moist without overpowering the carrot flavor
- Vanilla extract: deepens the flavor. Go for real vanilla if you can
- Shredded carrots: are essential for color and natural sweetness. Fresh grated carrots are key as pre shredded ones can be too dry
- Cream cheese: creates the signature tang and creamy filling. Use full fat for richness
- Butter: gives silkiness to the frosting. Room temperature helps it blend smoothly
- Powdered sugar: sweetens the frosting and ensures it stays smooth. Sift before using for best results
Instructions
- Bake the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit. Line a ten by fifteen inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper leaving some overhang to lift the cake out easily. In a medium bowl whisk flour baking powder baking soda salt cinnamon ginger nutmeg and cloves together to distribute the spices evenly. In a large bowl whisk eggs sugar oil and vanilla extract about one to two minutes until lightened in color and smooth. Gradually sprinkle the dry mixture into the wet while stirring gently and mix just until no dry flour remains. Fold in the freshly shredded carrots making sure they are evenly distributed but do not overmix. Immediately pour the batter into your lined jelly roll pan and use an offset spatula to spread it right to the corners for an even layer. Bake for ten to thirteen minutes until the top springs back when gently pressed and you see no wet batter on a toothpick.
- Roll and Cool:
- While cake is still hot lift it out of the pan using parchment overhang and place on a clean flat surface. Starting with the short edge carefully roll the cake and the parchment up together into a tight spiral. Let cool in this rolled shape for at least ten minutes to set the structure before unrolling to fill.
- Prepare the Frosting:
- While the cake cools place cold cream cheese and softened butter in a medium bowl. Beat with an electric mixer or sturdy spoon until completely smooth and homogenous scraping the bowl as needed. Slowly add in the sifted powdered sugar a little at a time beating well after each addition to avoid lumps. Add vanilla extract at the end for extra flavor and beat until fluffy.
- Assemble the Cake Roll:
- Gently unroll the cooled cake and do not worry if you see slight cracks as the filling will cover them. Using a small offset spatula spread a thick even layer of cream cheese frosting across the entire surface leaving a half inch bare on the long side to prevent frosting from squeezing out. Carefully roll up the cake again easing it tightly without the parchment and place the seam side down. Wrap snugly in plastic wrap and chill at least one hour or thirty minutes in the freezer so the swirl stays defined.
- Serve:
- To slice cleanly use a large sharp knife run under hot water and wiped dry after each cut. Let slices sit at room temperature a few minutes if the roll is very cold for the best texture.
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My favorite part of carrot cake roll is sneaking bites of the cream cheese filling as I spread it on. My kids now compete for the end pieces with the most frosting. This dessert became a tradition during spring break when we would make it together and eat it right from the fridge.
Storage Tips
Once assembled and chilled the cake roll keeps well tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage freeze the whole roll or individual slices double wrapped then thaw in the fridge or at room temperature for a quick treat. Always slice only what you need to keep the rest fresh.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap in white whole wheat flour for a little more nutrition or try a gluten free blend if needed. Dairy free butter and vegan cream cheese substitutes also work fairly well though the flavor will change. For extra warmth try adding a pinch more ginger or even a dash of cardamom if you like a spicier cake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve thick slices on their own or dust lightly with extra powdered sugar before a special occasion. For a brunch crowd add fresh berries or candied pecans on the side. It is just as welcome alongside a mug of hot tea as it is as a party centerpiece.
Cultural and Historical Notes
The cake roll format is popular across many European traditions but the carrot cake roll is a modern twist that became popular over the last decade as bakers looked for new ways to present old favorites. Carrots became a part of sweet cakes as a way to add moisture back when sugar was scarce. Now that classic flavor is both comforting and a little bit fancy in this rolled form.
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This carrot cake roll is sure to impress at any gathering. Enjoy every slice with extra frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar for a perfect final touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What pan size should I use?
A 10x15-inch jelly roll pan is ideal to achieve the thin, flexible sponge for rolling.
- → How do I prevent the cake from cracking?
Roll the cake while it's still warm using parchment paper to help retain moisture and flexibility.
- → Can I make the roll ahead of time?
Yes, chill the assembled roll in the fridge or freezer. Slice just before serving for best texture.
- → What spices are essential for the flavor?
Cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves provide a warm, aromatic taste that complements the carrots.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for several days to maintain freshness.