This Christmas Red Velvet Cake Roll is the ultimate holiday dessert! Featuring a light and fluffy red velvet sponge cake rolled with a luscious cream cheese filling, this festive cake is as stunning as it is delicious. The vibrant red hue, soft texture, and creamy filling make it the perfect treat for Christmas parties, holiday gatherings, or gifting to loved ones.
Making a rolled cake might seem intimidating, but with the right technique, it’s easier than you think! With a few simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you’ll create a show-stopping dessert that will impress your family and friends. Whether dusted with powdered sugar, drizzled with chocolate, or decorated with holiday sprinkles, this red velvet cake roll is a must-have for your Christmas dessert table.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Servings: 8-10
Ingredients
For the Red Velvet Cake:
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- Powdered sugar (for rolling)
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ¼ cups powdered sugar
For Garnishing:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Chocolate ganache or melted white chocolate (optional)
- Holiday sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
Making the Red Velvet Cake:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Beat the eggs: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs on high speed for 3 minutes until thick and pale.
- Add sugar & wet ingredients: Gradually add sugar while beating, followed by vanilla extract, oil, buttermilk, vinegar, and red food coloring.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: Gently fold in the flour mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
Rolling the Cake:
- Prepare a towel: Lay a clean kitchen towel on a flat surface and dust it generously with powdered sugar.
- Transfer the cake: Once baked, immediately invert the cake onto the sugared towel and peel off the parchment paper.
- Roll while warm: Starting from the short end, roll the cake up in the towel while it’s still warm. Let it cool completely for about 1 hour.
Making the Cream Cheese Filling:
- Beat the cream cheese & butter: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add vanilla & sugar: Mix in vanilla extract and gradually add powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
Assembling the Cake Roll:
- Unroll the cake: Gently unroll the cooled cake and spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface.
- Re-roll the cake: Carefully roll the cake back up (without the towel) and place it seam-side down.
- Chill: Wrap the cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Serving:
- Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with chocolate ganache if desired.
- Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Christmas Red Velvet Cake Roll
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures a smooth batter and fluffy filling.
- Roll While Warm: Rolling the cake while warm prevents cracks.
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking makes the cake too dry to roll properly.
- Let It Chill: Chilling helps the filling set and makes slicing easier.
Creative Variations
- Chocolate Swirl: Add a thin layer of melted chocolate before rolling.
- Spiced Version: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon for a festive touch.
- Peppermint Twist: Mix crushed peppermint into the filling.
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes! It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze a red velvet cake roll? Absolutely! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Why did my cake crack? This usually happens if the cake wasn’t rolled while warm.
This Christmas Red Velvet Cake Roll is a show-stopping holiday dessert with its rich, creamy filling and festive red color. Whether for a family gathering or as a sweet gift, this cake is sure to impress. Try it this holiday season and enjoy a slice of festive delight!
