Description
A Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting is an elegant twist on the classic dessert. This moist, spiced carrot cake is rolled around a luscious cream cheese filling, creating a show-stopping treat perfect for any occasion. Don’t worry—it’s easier to make than it looks, and the result is absolutely worth it!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups finely grated carrots (about 2–3 medium carrots)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
For Dusting:
- Powdered sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare for Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line the jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another large bowl, beat the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until thick and pale. Add the vanilla extract and mix.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir in the grated carrots until well combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
Step 4: Roll the Cake
- While the cake is still hot, invert it onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar.
- Carefully peel off the parchment paper. Starting at the short end, roll the cake and towel together into a log. Let it cool completely.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Add vanilla extract and powdered sugar, beating until fluffy and well combined.
Step 6: Assemble the Roll
- Once the cake is completely cool, gently unroll it and spread the frosting evenly over the surface.
- Roll the cake back up (without the towel) and place seam-side down on a serving platter.
Step 7: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the cake roll for at least 1 hour to set. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use Fresh Carrots: Freshly grated carrots are key to the cake’s moisture and flavor.
- Don’t Overfill: Avoid spreading too much frosting to ensure a clean roll.
- Roll While Warm: Rolling the cake while it’s hot prevents cracking.
- Chill Before Slicing: This helps the roll hold its shape when cut.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Chilling Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Cuisine: American