The Coziest Carrot Cake Roll Recipe for Sweet Cinnamon Bliss

Decadent desserts have a special way of stealing hearts, and this creamy carrot cake roll recipe promises pure indulgence.

Rich, moist layers of spiced cake wrapped around a silky cream cheese filling create a dessert that’s both elegant and comforting.

Warm cinnamon and hints of nutmeg dance through each delicate slice, making this roll a true showstopper at any gathering.

Soft carrots blended into the batter ensure a tender, flavorful experience that melts in your mouth.

The delicate rolling technique might seem challenging, but with a few simple steps, you’ll master this stunning dessert.

Topped with a light dusting of powdered sugar, this carrot cake roll transforms an ordinary afternoon into a celebration of sweet, spiced perfection.

Prepare to impress and delight everyone at your table with this irresistible treat.

What Makes Carrot Cake Roll a Showstopper Dessert

• Irresistible baking adventure that transforms simple ingredients into a show-stopping treat that'll make everyone's taste buds dance.
• Perfect for gatherings where people crave something sweet yet not overwhelmingly rich, this roll brings smiles and pure joy to the table.
• Beginner bakers can confidently tackle this recipe with straightforward steps, learning classic techniques while producing a professional-looking dessert that impresses family and friends.
• Adaptable recipe allows creative cooks to experiment with spice levels, add nuts, or swap ingredients, making it a versatile canvas for personal culinary expression.

Carrot Cake Roll Ingredient Essentials

• All-Purpose Flour: A key component that provides structure to the soft and delicate cake roll.
• Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Chemical leavening agents that help the cake rise and become light and fluffy.
• Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger: Warm spices that add depth and classic carrot cake flavor to the dessert.
• Salt: Enhances the overall taste and balances the sweetness of the cake.

• Eggs: Provide richness, structure, and help bind the cake ingredients together.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender cake texture.
• Carrots: Give moisture, natural sweetness, and a signature texture to the cake roll.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle, aromatic flavor that complements the spices.

• Cream Cheese, Butter: Create a smooth, rich, and creamy filling with a tangy flavor.
• Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps thicken the filling.
• Vanilla Extract: Provides a complementary flavor to the cream cheese filling.

• Powdered Sugar: Used for dusting the exterior of the cake roll for a decorative touch.
• Parchment Paper, Cooking Spray: Help prevent the cake from sticking and ensure easy removal.

Must-Have Tools for Baking a Carrot Cake Roll

• Jelly Roll Pan: 10×15-inch baking pan for creating thin, even cake layer.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and helps easy cake removal.
• Cooking Spray: Ensures smooth greasing of pan and paper.
• Mixing Bowls: Two separate bowls for dry and wet ingredients.
• Whisk: Perfect for beating eggs and blending ingredients smoothly.
• Grater: For shredding fresh carrots into fine pieces.
• Kitchen Towel: Sugared towel used for initial cake rolling.
• Electric Mixer: Helps create smooth, creamy filling.
• Plastic Wrap: Used for chilling and storing rolled cake.
• Knife: Helps loosen cake edges and trim ends.
• Sifter or Strainer: Optional for dusting powdered sugar.

Step-by-Step Guide to Carrot Cake Roll Perfection

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Heat the oven to 375F (190C).

Grab a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan and give it a generous spray of cooking oil.

Layer parchment paper inside and spray again to ensure easy removal.

Step 2: Create Dry Ingredient Blend

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Ground cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Ground ginger
• Salt

Whisk these ingredients together and set aside.

Step 3: Whip Egg Mixture

In a separate large bowl, crack eggs and add sugar.

Whisk vigorously until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.

Fold in freshly grated carrots and splash of vanilla extract.

Step 4: Merge Mixtures

Gently combine the dry ingredient blend with the egg mixture.

Stir carefully to keep the batter light and airy.

Avoid overmixing to maintain the cake’s delicate texture.

Step 5: Bake The Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.

Slide into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes.

Look for a golden color and a springy texture when touched.

Step 6: Whip Up Creamy Filling

• Cream cheese
• Softened butter
• Vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar

Beat until smooth and completely combined.

Step 7: First Cake Roll

Once baked, immediately loosen cake edges with a knife.

Flip the cake onto a towel generously dusted with sugar.

Carefully peel off the parchment paper.

Step 8: Initial Cake Wrap

Starting from one short end, gently roll the cake together with the towel.

Allow the cake to cool completely while wrapped.

Step 9: Add Creamy Filling

When fully cooled, unroll the cake.

Spread the cream cheese filling evenly across the surface.

Roll the cake again, this time without the towel.

Step 10: Final Touches

Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap and chill for one hour.

Before serving, trim the edges and dust with a delicate sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Pro Tips for a Soft, Flavorful Carrot Cake Roll

• Roll the warm cake in a sugared towel immediately after baking to help it stay flexible and prevent splitting when filling later.
• Grate carrots finely and pat them dry to ensure the cake remains light and doesn't become soggy during baking.
• Ensure cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling that spreads easily across the cake.
• Refrigerate the rolled cake for at least an hour to help the filling set and make slicing cleaner and more precise.
• Wrap the finished carrot cake roll tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture.

Unique Variations for Your Carrot Cake Roll

• Gluten-Free Carrot Cake Roll: Replace wheat flour with almond or coconut flour for a celiac-friendly version that maintains the cake's soft texture.
• Vegan Carrot Cake Alternative: Swap eggs with flax eggs, use coconut cream instead of cream cheese, and replace butter with coconut oil for a plant-based adaptation.
• Low-Sugar Carrot Cake Option: Substitute sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, reducing overall calories while maintaining sweet flavor profile.
• Nutty Protein Boost: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter and filling for extra crunch and nutritional value, creating a more substantial dessert experience.

Carrot Cake Roll Serving Suggestions to Impress

• Festive Dessert Platter: Slice the carrot cake roll into elegant rounds and arrange on a decorative platter with fresh mint leaves and a light dusting of cinnamon.
• Brunch Companion: Pair each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped walnuts for a delightful weekend brunch centerpiece.
• Coffee Shop Style: Serve alongside a steaming cappuccino or chai latte, creating a cozy café-inspired dessert experience that delights the senses.
• Holiday Gift Idea: Wrap individual slices in parchment paper with a rustic twine bow for a charming homemade gift that spreads sweet joy.

Storage Solutions for Carrot Cake Roll Goodness

• Store the carrot cake roll tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep it away from strong-smelling foods to preserve its delicate flavor.
• Wrap the cake roll securely in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months without losing its soft texture and delicious taste.
• Remove from the freezer and let the cake roll defrost slowly in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid room temperature thawing to maintain its moisture and prevent soggy edges.
• Slice desired portions and warm briefly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds at 50% power. Dust with fresh powdered sugar just before serving to restore its original presentation.

FAQs

• What makes the cake roll different from a traditional carrot cake?

This recipe uses a thin, flexible cake that’s rolled with cream cheese filling, creating a unique spiral design and lighter texture compared to a dense, layered carrot cake.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for better texture and binding.

• How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?

Roll the cake while it’s still warm and use a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Rolling the cake immediately after baking helps maintain its flexibility and prevents cracking.

• Is this dessert kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the fun spiral design and sweet cream cheese filling. The recipe is mild in spices and has a soft, delicate texture that children typically enjoy.

Carrot Cake Roll Recipe

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4.6 from 36 reviews

• Total Time: 42 minutes
• Yield: 10 1x

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Description

Irresistible carrot cake roll combines classic autumn spices with cream cheese frosting for a delightful dessert. Culinary enthusiasts can enjoy this elegant treat that balances sweet and tangy flavors with each delectable slice.

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Ingredients

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Cake Base:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2/3 cup grated carrots
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) salt
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Filling:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) softened cream cheese
• 1/4 cup (57 grams) unsalted butter
• 1 cup powdered sugar

Garnish:

• Powdered sugar for dusting

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan by spraying with cooking spray, lining with parchment paper, and re-greasing the paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt in a mixing bowl, then set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, vigorously beat eggs with sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, then incorporate grated carrots and vanilla extract.
4. Delicately fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined and no flour streaks remain.
5. Evenly distribute the batter across the prepared pan, ensuring smooth coverage, and bake for 10-12 minutes until the surface turns golden and springs back when gently touched.
6. Create the filling by whipping cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy, then gradually add vanilla extract and powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
7. Immediately after baking, carefully loosen the cake edges with a knife and invert onto a sugar-dusted kitchen towel, peeling away the parchment paper.
8. Gently roll the warm cake with the towel from the short end, allowing it to cool completely while maintaining the rolled shape.
9. Once cooled, carefully unroll the cake, spread the cream cheese filling evenly across the surface, then re-roll the cake without the towel.
10. Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate for one hour to set the filling and shape, then trim the edges and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

• Make ahead the day before serving to allow flavors to meld and cake texture to soften perfectly.
• Replace refined sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a lower glycemic index and more complex flavor profile.
• Use gluten-free flour blend to transform this dessert into a celiac-friendly treat without compromising texture.
• Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for extra crunch and nutty depth, creating more interesting mouthfeel.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 10
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 20 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 50 mg