Introduction
Carrot cake is a beloved classic, known for its moist texture and warm spices. However, transforming this traditional dessert into a roll adds an elegant twist that's perfect for celebrations or everyday indulgences.
A carrot cake roll combines the rich flavors of carrot cake with a light and airy cream cheese filling, all wrapped up in a soft sponge. This dessert not only looks impressive but is also surprisingly simple to make, making it an ideal choice for home cooks of all skill levels.
Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or simply a sweet treat for yourself, this carrot cake roll is sure to impress with its delightful presentation and delicious taste.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups finely grated carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for filling)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Directions & Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- In a large bowl, beat the granulated sugar and eggs together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the grated carrots and walnuts, if using, until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and immediately dust the top with powdered sugar. Place a clean kitchen towel over the cake, and carefully invert it onto the towel.
- Peel off the parchment paper and roll the cake up in the towel starting from the short end. Allow it to cool completely while rolled up.
- While the cake cools, prepare the filling by beating the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
- Once the cake is completely cool, carefully unroll it and spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface.
- Roll the cake back up without the towel, then wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
- Before serving, dust the top with additional powdered sugar and slice into pieces.
FAQs
What can I do if my carrot cake roll cracks while rolling?
If the cake cracks, it may be due to overbaking. Next time, try to bake it just until it springs back when touched.
Can I add raisins or other dried fruits to the batter?
Yes, you can add raisins or other dried fruits to enhance the flavor and texture of the cake.
What can I do if my cream cheese filling is too runny?
If the filling is too runny, try chilling it for a bit to firm it up, or add extra powdered sugar to thicken it.
What if I want to make a chocolate version of this roll?
You can substitute part of the flour with cocoa powder for a chocolate-flavored cake roll.
Can I use a different type of nut for the filling?
Absolutely! Pecans or almonds can be great substitutes for walnuts.
How can I make the cake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the cake or filling to suit your taste.
What can I do if my cake is too dry?
If your cake turns out dry, it may have been overbaked. Ensure to check it towards the end of the baking time.
Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?
You can experiment with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but this may alter the texture slightly.
Conclusion
The carrot cake roll is an innovative dessert that combines the comforting flavors of traditional carrot cake with a modern twist. It's perfect for impressing guests or enjoying as a delightful treat.
With its beautiful presentation and rich taste, this dessert is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients and start rolling—sweet success awaits!
Recipe Card
Delightful Carrot Cake Roll for Every Occasion
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups finely grated carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts optional
- 1 cup powdered sugar for filling
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for filling
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 15x10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- In a large bowl, beat the granulated sugar and eggs together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the grated carrots and walnuts, if using, until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and immediately dust the top with powdered sugar. Place a clean kitchen towel over the cake, and carefully invert it onto the towel.
- Peel off the parchment paper and roll the cake up in the towel starting from the short end. Allow it to cool completely while rolled up.
- While the cake cools, prepare the filling by beating the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
- Once the cake is completely cool, carefully unroll it and spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface.
- Roll the cake back up without the towel, then wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
- Before serving, dust the top with additional powdered sugar and slice into pieces.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.