Spring is the season of renewal, vibrant colors, and delicious celebrations. What better way to welcome this cheerful time of year than with a Perfect Carrot Cake Roll? With its soft, spiced sponge filled with creamy frosting, this dessert is a showstopper at any spring gathering. Whether you’re hosting Easter brunch or simply treating yourself, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Carrot Cake Roll
This dessert combines everything you adore about traditional carrot cake in a unique, elegant presentation. Here’s why it’s a must-make:
- Light and Spongy Texture: The airy cake rolls easily without breaking.
- Perfectly Spiced Flavor: Warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg enhance the natural sweetness of carrots.
- Creamy Filling: Tangy cream cheese frosting complements the cake beautifully.
- Easy to Serve: Pre-sliced portions make it ideal for entertaining.
Ingredients for Your Carrot Cake Roll
To make this delightful dessert, gather the following ingredients:
Component | Ingredients | Measurements |
---|---|---|
Cake Batter | Eggs | 3 |
Granulated sugar | ⅔ cup | |
Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | |
Salt | ½ tsp | |
Baking powder | 1 tsp | |
Ginger | 1 tsp | |
Nutmeg | ¼ tsp | |
Cinnamon | 2 tsp | |
Flour | ¾ cup | |
Shredded carrots (2 medium) | 2 cups | |
Powdered sugar (for rolling) | As needed | |
Filling | Cream cheese, room temp | 6 oz |
Butter, room temp | 4 tbsp | |
Powdered sugar | 2 cups | |
Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | |
Topping | Powdered sugar (for dusting) | As needed |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with foil and spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
- Beat Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs for about 5 minutes until frothy and pale.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually beat in the granulated sugar and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the salt, baking powder, ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon, and flour.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry mixture into the egg mixture until smooth. Gently fold in the shredded carrots.
2. Bake the Cake
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan, creating a thin layer.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched lightly in the center.
3. Roll the Cake
- Lay a clean kitchen towel flat and sprinkle it generously with powdered sugar.
- Immediately turn the hot cake onto the prepared towel, peeling off the foil.
- Starting from the short end, roll the cake and towel together into a tight spiral. Let it cool completely for about 1 hour.
4. Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fluffy.
5. Assemble the Cake Roll
- Carefully unroll the cooled cake, removing the towel.
- Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface of the cake.
- Re-roll the cake tightly, ensuring the filling stays in place. Wrap the roll in plastic wrap and chill for 30-60 minutes.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Dust the top of the chilled cake roll with powdered sugar.
- Slice into even pieces and serve to your delighted guests.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Carrots: Freshly grated carrots add moisture and flavor.
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can make the cake too stiff to roll.
- Chill Before Slicing: Chilling the roll ensures clean, even slices.
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
Calories | 250 |
Fat | 12g |
Carbohydrates | 32g |
Protein | 4g |
Sugar | 22g |
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know
Q: Can I make this cake roll ahead of time? A: Yes! Prepare the roll up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze the cake roll? A: Absolutely. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Q: How do I prevent the cake from cracking? A: Rolling the cake while it’s still warm prevents cracks. Be gentle and use the towel to guide the roll.
Q: Can I add nuts or raisins? A: Yes! Fold ½ cup of chopped nuts or raisins into the batter for added texture and flavor.
Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers? A: Wrap leftover slices in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I use pre-shredded carrots? A: Freshly grated carrots are recommended for the best texture and flavor.
Your Turn to Bake!
Now that you have the ultimate recipe for a Perfect Carrot Cake Roll, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start baking. Whether it’s for a spring celebration or a cozy family dinner, this dessert is sure to be a hit. Share your creations on social media and inspire others to try their hand at this elegant treat. Happy baking!
PrintPerfect Carrot Cake Roll for Spring Celebrations
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
Description
Celebrate spring with this Perfect Carrot Cake Roll, featuring a light and spiced sponge cake filled with tangy cream cheese frosting. This elegant dessert is easy to slice, serve, and enjoy, making it the perfect centerpiece for any spring gathering.
Ingredients
For the Cake Batter:
- 3 eggs
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 3/4 cup flour
- 2 cups shredded carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
- Powdered sugar (for rolling)
For the Filling:
- 6 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 4 tablespoons butter, room temperature
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs for 5 minutes until frothy and pale.
- Gradually beat in granulated sugar and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together salt, baking powder, ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon, and flour.
- Gradually fold the dry mixture into the egg mixture until smooth. Gently fold in shredded carrots.
2. Bake the Cake:
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan to create a thin layer.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched in the center.
3. Roll the Cake:
- Lay a clean kitchen towel flat and sprinkle generously with powdered sugar.
- Turn the hot cake onto the prepared towel, peeling off the foil.
- Starting from the short end, roll the cake and towel together into a tight spiral. Let cool completely for about 1 hour.
4. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fluffy.
5. Assemble the Cake Roll:
- Carefully unroll the cooled cake and remove the towel.
- Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface of the cake.
- Re-roll the cake tightly, ensuring the filling stays in place. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 30-60 minutes.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Dust the top of the chilled cake roll with powdered sugar.
- Slice into even pieces and serve.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American