Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you adore the warm, comforting flavors of carrot cake but want a show-stopping dessert for your next gathering, this Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines a tender, spiced carrot cake baked into a delicate sheet, then rolled with luscious cream cheese frosting, creating an irresistible swirl of flavor and texture that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. This dessert is perfect for celebrations or whenever you’re craving a sweet treat that’s a little bit special but utterly approachable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to create a moist, flavorful carrot cake and a rich cream cheese frosting. Each component plays a vital role in making this roll tender, fluffy, and perfectly spiced.

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the cake, keeping it tender yet sturdy enough to roll.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Gives just the right rise without making the cake too puffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake become light and airy while enhancing browning.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm spice that’s synonymous with carrot cake’s comforting flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Brings a subtle depth and fragrant hint to the batter.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Offers a gentle zing that livens up the spices.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and draws out the spices.
• 3 large eggs: Provide richness and structure, helping the cake hold together when rolled.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while contributing to its delicate crumb.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel note to the cake.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with warm vanilla undertones.
• 2/3 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist, tender, and soft.
• 1 1/2 cups finely grated carrots: The star ingredient that adds sweetness, moisture, and vibrant color.
• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened): Forms the creamy base of the frosting with a tangy contrast to the sweet cake.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened): Blends with the cream cheese to give the frosting a silky texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Elevates the cream cheese frosting’s flavor with a hint of vanilla.
• 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar (for frosting): Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect spreadable consistency.
• Extra powdered sugar for rolling and topping: Prevents sticking during rolling and adds a pretty finish.

How to Make Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it. This preparation helps ensure your cake doesn’t stick when it’s time to roll, making the entire process smooth and stress-free.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. This dry spice blend is what gives the carrot cake its signature warm and fragrant flavor. Mixing these well upfront ensures every bite has a consistent, delicious spice profile.

Step 3: Beat Eggs and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until thick and creamy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step adds air to your batter, creating a light texture. Then mix in the vanilla extract and vegetable oil, combining smooth richness and flavor before folding in the grated carrots.

Step 4: Combine and Spread Batter

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and gently fold until just combined—avoiding overmixing is key to keeping your cake tender. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared jelly roll pan, creating a smooth layer that will bake into a perfect flexible cake sheet.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cake for 12 to 14 minutes or until it springs back lightly when touched. The cake should be just set and golden but still soft enough to roll when warm. Keeping a close eye here guarantees the ideal texture for rolling without cracks.

Step 6: Roll the Cake While Warm

Once out of the oven, turn the cake onto a kitchen towel generously dusted with powdered sugar. Carefully peel off the parchment paper, then immediately roll the cake and towel together starting from the shorter end. Allow it to cool completely in this rolled shape—this prevents cracking later and trains the cake to hold the roll beautifully.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake cools, beat the softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar together until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. This luscious frosting adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the spiced carrot cake.

Step 8: Frost and Re-Roll

Gently unroll the cooled cake and spread the cream cheese frosting evenly across the surface. Then carefully reroll the cake without the towel, forming that iconic swirl filled with creamy goodness. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the frosting set.

Step 9: Finish and Serve

Before serving, dust your carrot cake roll with powdered sugar or decorate as you like for an inviting presentation. Slice into generous rounds that reveal the beautiful spiral of cake and frosting—each bite is a delight!

How to Serve Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance your presentation with simple garnishes like additional powdered sugar, a sprinkle of chopped toasted walnuts or pecans, or even an edible flower. These touches add texture, flavor contrast, and visual charm, making your carrot cake roll even more irresistible.

Side Dishes

This carrot cake roll pairs wonderfully with light, fresh accompaniments like a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For something a little more indulgent, a small handful of candied ginger or a cup of spiced chai tea makes an excellent match.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices on pretty dessert plates with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a few fresh berries for color contrast. You could also create mini carrot cake rolls by baking in smaller pans and turning them into delightful party treats—perfect for sharing and showing off this amazing Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover carrot cake roll should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container and refrigerated. This keeps it fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days, so you can enjoy this treat even after your initial celebration.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the cake roll. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It keeps well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

To enjoy the Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe at its best after refrigeration or freezing, allow it to come to room temperature before serving. If desired, warm slices gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to soften the cream cheese frosting slightly—just be careful not to melt it completely.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of vegetable oil for this recipe?

Yes, mild oils like canola or sunflower oil work wonderfully as substitutes. Avoid olive oil as it may overpower the delicate spiced flavors.

Is it necessary to roll the cake while it’s still warm?

Rolling the cake while warm is crucial because it helps shape the cake into a roll without cracking. If it cools first, the cake becomes less pliable and more likely to break.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the cake batter?

Absolutely! Adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins is a delicious way to add extra texture and traditional carrot cake flavors, just fold them into the batter before spreading.

What if my cake cracks when I roll it?

Don’t worry if small cracks appear—they add rustic charm and taste just as great. To prevent cracks, make sure the cake is rolled tightly but gently while warm and use a well-dusted towel to avoid sticking.

How thick should I spread the cream cheese frosting?

A nice even layer about 1/4 inch thick works perfectly. Too thin and it may not provide enough creaminess; too thick and the roll may be tricky to slice.

Final Thoughts

This Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is truly a gem in any baker’s repertoire. With vibrant spices, tender cake, and rich frosting, it’s a dessert that brings joy with every bite. I encourage you to try making this at home—it’s simpler than you might think and is sure to impress everyone lucky enough to taste it. Bake it for a special occasion or just because you deserve something wonderful today!

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