This Red Velvet Cake Roll combines the classic flavors of red velvet cake with a rich cream cheese filling, all wrapped in an elegant spiral. It's a delightful dessert that's both visually stunning and delicious, making it perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat any time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Elegant Presentation: The swirl design of the cake roll adds a touch of sophistication to your dessert table.
Perfect Balance of Flavors: The slight cocoa undertones of the red velvet cake complement the tangy sweetness of the cream cheese filling.
Make-Ahead Convenience: This cake can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, allowing the flavors to meld and making it a stress-free option for entertaining.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

¾ cup (90 g) all-purpose flour
¼ cup (20 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
4 large eggs
¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
1 tablespoon canola or vegetable oil
2 tablespoons buttermilk
1 teaspoon white vinegar
1 tablespoon liquid red food coloring
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

6 ounces (170 g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
¼ cup (4 tablespoons; 56 g) unsalted butter, softened
1¾ cups (210 g) confectioners’ sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Grease a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs until light and frothy.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to beat until combined.
- Mix in the oil, buttermilk, vinegar, food coloring, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 3 minutes.
Roll the Cake:
- Lay a clean kitchen towel on a flat surface and generously sprinkle it with powdered sugar.
- Carefully invert the warm cake onto the prepared towel, peeling off the parchment paper.
- Starting from the short end, gently roll the cake and towel together into a log.
- Allow the rolled cake to cool completely on a wire rack.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, mixing until combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
Assemble the Cake Roll:
- Once the cake has cooled, carefully unroll it.
- Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface of the cake, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Re-roll the cake without the towel, wrapping it tightly.
- Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours before slicing.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields approximately 12 slices.
Preparation Time: Approximately 15 minutes.
Baking Time: 13-15 minutes.
Cooling Time: 1-2 hours (refrigeration).
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Variations

Filling Options: For a different flavor, consider using whipped cream cheese frosting or adding a layer of raspberry jam beneath the cream cheese filling.
Decoration: Dust the finished roll with cocoa powder or confectioners' sugar, or drizzle with melted chocolate for added flair.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep the cake roll refrigerated in an airtight container.
Shelf Life: Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

FAQs

How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?

To minimize cracking, avoid overbaking the cake, as a dry cake is more prone to cracking. Rolling the cake while it's warm helps maintain its elasticity.

Can I use a different type of flour?

All-purpose flour is recommended for this recipe. Using cake flour may result in a different texture, and using bread flour is not advisable due to its higher gluten content.

Can I make the cake roll without food coloring?

Yes, you can skip the food coloring, but the traditional red color will be missing. The flavor will remain the same.

Can I make this cake roll gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the other ingredients for gluten content as well.

How can I prevent the cake from sticking to the towel?

Ensure you generously dust the towel with powdered sugar before rolling the cake. This will help prevent sticking.

Can I use a different type of frosting for the filling?

Yes, you can try buttercream or whipped cream as an alternative to cream cheese frosting for a lighter option.

Can this cake be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the cake roll before filling or after it has been filled. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.

How do I thaw a frozen cake roll?

Thaw the cake roll in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Allow it to come to room temperature for the best texture.

Can I make this cake without a towel for rolling?

If you don't have a towel, you can roll the cake using parchment paper, but a towel helps absorb moisture and makes it easier to unroll later.

How do I slice the cake roll cleanly?

Use a serrated knife to slice the cake roll. Make sure the knife is clean to prevent tearing the delicate cake.

Conclusion

This Red Velvet Cake Roll with cream cheese filling is a perfect combination of rich flavors and stunning presentation. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this dessert is sure to impress. Its balance of tangy, sweet, and chocolaty flavors will leave everyone coming back for more.

Red Velvet Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Emmily
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Yield: 12 slices
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Red Velvet Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting is a show-stopping dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Combining the iconic red velvet flavor with a creamy, tangy filling, this cake roll is both delicious and visually stunning. Its elegant spiral design makes it ideal for holiday parties, birthdays, or just a special treat. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe is easy to follow and will surely impress.

Instructions

Instructions:

Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Grease a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan and line with parchment paper.
- Sift the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt into a medium bowl. Set aside.
- Beat the eggs in a large bowl until light and frothy.
- Gradually add granulated sugar and continue beating until combined.
- Mix in the oil, buttermilk, vinegar, food coloring, and vanilla extract.
- Add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly.
- Bake for 13-15 minutes or until the cake springs back when touched.
- Let it cool for 3 minutes.
Roll the Cake:
- Lay a clean kitchen towel flat and dust generously with powdered sugar.
- Invert the warm cake onto the towel, peeling off the parchment paper.
- Starting at the short end, gently roll the cake and towel together.
- Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
- Beat softened cream cheese and butter in a medium bowl until smooth.
- Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and mix until combined.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
Assemble the Cake Roll:
- Once cooled, unroll the cake carefully.
- Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the cake, leaving a small border.
- Re-roll the cake without the towel and wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours before slicing.

Notes

Storage: Store the cake roll in an airtight container in the fridge. Best consumed within 3-4 days.
Variations: You can use whipped cream cheese frosting or add raspberry jam under the filling for a different twist.
Decoration: Dust with cocoa powder, powdered sugar, or drizzle with melted chocolate.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 13-15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American