Are you looking for a scrumptious dessert that combines the rich flavors of carrot cake with the smooth decadence of cream cheese frosting? Look no further! This Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting is a perfect way to impress your guests at any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in a sweet treat, this recipe offers a delightful twist on the traditional carrot cake.
What Makes This Carrot Cake Roll Special?
A carrot cake roll, also known as a carrot cake roulade, is a visually stunning dessert that features a light and airy carrot cake sponge filled with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Unlike traditional carrot cakes, which are often baked in a round or rectangular pan, the roll is baked as a thin layer, then carefully rolled into a log and filled with frosting. This method not only makes for a beautiful presentation but also allows for a greater ratio of frosting to cake in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Carrot Cake Sponge:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup finely grated carrots
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- Prepare the Carrot Cake Sponge: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. In a large bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots and crushed pineapple.
- Bake the Sponge: Pour the batter onto the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Roll the Cake: While the cake is still warm, carefully invert it onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Remove the parchment paper and gently roll the cake, using the towel to help, into a log shape. Allow it to cool completely.
- Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Assemble the Cake Roll: Once the cake is completely cooled, unroll it and spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the surface. Roll the cake back up, without the towel, and place it seam-side down on a serving platter.
- Finish and Serve: Spread a thin layer of frosting over the outside of the roll. Garnish with additional grated carrots, nuts, or a dusting of cinnamon if desired. Slice and serve.
Tips for Success
- Prepping the Pan: Make sure to grease the parchment paper well to prevent sticking.
- Cooling Properly: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the cream cheese from melting and sliding off.
- Rolling Technique: Roll the cake gently but firmly to avoid cracks. The towel helps to create a tight roll with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also a visual delight. The combination of spiced carrot cake with rich, creamy frosting creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s a fun twist on a traditional favorite that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Serving and Storage Tips for Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting
Serving Tips
- Slice Carefully: Use a serrated knife to slice the carrot cake roll. This will help you achieve clean cuts without squishing the cake. For best results, use a gentle sawing motion.
- Garnish for Presentation: Before serving, consider garnishing the roll with additional grated carrots, chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans), or a light dusting of ground cinnamon. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a bit of extra flavor and texture.
- Serve at the Right Temperature: Carrot cake roll is best served at room temperature. If it has been refrigerated, let it sit out for about 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving to allow the frosting to soften slightly.
- Accompaniments: Pair the carrot cake roll with a dollop of extra cream cheese frosting or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. A cup of coffee or tea also complements the flavors beautifully.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store the carrot cake roll in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 5-7 days. If you have leftover slices, you can also wrap them individually in plastic wrap to keep them fresh.
- Freezing: To freeze the carrot cake roll, first wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the roll in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Storage of Leftover Frosting: If you have extra cream cheese frosting, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can use it to frost additional baked goods or enjoy it as a dip for fruits.
- Preventing Soggy Cake: To avoid the cake becoming soggy, make sure the cream cheese frosting is completely set before storing the roll. This helps to maintain the texture of the cake and frosting.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting remains fresh, delicious, and ready to impress at any time!
1. Can I make the Carrot Cake Roll in advance?
Yes, you can make the Carrot Cake Roll in advance. To do so, prepare the roll up to 1-2 days before serving. After rolling and frosting, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you want to make it even earlier, you can freeze the unfrosted roll. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.
2. How can I prevent the Carrot Cake Roll from cracking?
To prevent cracking, ensure that you roll the cake while it’s still warm but not hot. Use a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar to help with rolling, which reduces sticking and tearing. Rolling the cake tightly but gently will also help avoid cracks. If cracks do appear, simply cover them with extra frosting.
3. Can I substitute ingredients in the Carrot Cake Roll recipe?
Yes, you can make some substitutions based on your preferences or dietary needs. For instance, you can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, or substitute coconut oil for vegetable oil. For a dairy-free version, try using dairy-free cream cheese and butter. Keep in mind that substitutions may slightly alter the texture and flavor of the cake.
4. How should I store leftover Carrot Cake Roll?
Store leftover Carrot Cake Roll in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. For longer storage, wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw the frozen roll in the refrigerator before serving to maintain its texture and flavor.