Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re searching for a unique and impressive dessert that combines all the best elements of classic baking, look no further than a Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting. This delightful dessert offers a modern twist on the traditional carrot cake, making it perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to festive celebrations. In this article, we’ll walk you through each step of creating this mouthwatering treat, share some valuable tips, and explain why it’s not only tasty but also a dessert with some hidden health benefits.

What is a Carrot Cake Roll?

A carrot cake roll is essentially a thin layer of carrot cake that’s been rolled up with a generous layer of cream cheese frosting inside. Unlike a typical cake, this rolled version offers an elegant presentation, with beautiful swirls of cake and frosting in every slice. The combination of warm spices, like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, paired with the creamy tanginess of the frosting, creates a harmonious blend of flavors that’s hard to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Carrot Cake Roll

There are many reasons to fall in love with this recipe. For starters, the Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting is easier to make than you might think, and it adds a creative flair to your dessert table. The cake stays moist and tender thanks to the finely grated carrots, and rolling it up with the frosting ensures every bite is perfectly balanced. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead dessert that actually tastes better after it’s had time to chill, making it ideal for entertaining.

Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Here’s a quick rundown of the ingredients you’ll need to create this delectable dessert:

For the Cake:

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cake.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Help the cake rise and stay light and fluffy.
• Spices: 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: These spices give the cake its classic flavor.
• Salt: A pinch to enhance all the flavors.
• 3 large eggs: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor.
• 2 cups finely grated carrots: The star ingredient! They add moisture, sweetness, and a beautiful orange color.
• Powdered sugar (for dusting): Prevents the cake from sticking to the towel when rolled.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The base for the frosting, providing a tangy and creamy texture.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting without making it gritty.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a nice vanilla flavor that complements the spices in the cake.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds creaminess and helps to smooth out the frosting.

Directions: Step-by-Step Guide to Make a Carrot Cake Roll

Step 1: Preparing the Batter

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper. Lightly grease the paper to prevent the cake from sticking. In a medium bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. This mix of spices is what gives the cake its warm, cozy flavor.

In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture is thick and pale, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This step incorporates air into the batter, helping the cake rise. Mix in the vanilla extract. Then, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter. Gently fold in the grated carrots until evenly distributed.

Step 2: Baking and Rolling

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 10-12 minutes. The cake is done when it springs back lightly when touched. While the cake bakes, prepare a clean kitchen towel by laying it flat and dusting it generously with powdered sugar. This will help prevent the cake from sticking to the towel when you roll it up.

As soon as the cake is done, immediately turn it out onto the prepared towel. Carefully peel off the parchment paper. Starting at one of the shorter ends, roll the cake and towel together into a tight log. This step must be done while the cake is still warm to prevent cracking. Let it cool completely on a wire rack, rolled up in the towel.

Step 3: Making the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake is cooling, make the cream cheese frosting. In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until everything is well combined. The frosting should be smooth, creamy, and easy to spread.

Step 4: Assembling the Cake Roll

Once the cake is completely cool, carefully unroll it. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the entire surface of the cake. Then, re-roll the cake, this time without the towel. Wrap the cake roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least an hour before serving. This chilling time allows the frosting to firm up and makes the cake easier to slice neatly.

Notes and Tips for Perfect Results

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated carrots provide the best moisture and texture. Avoid using pre-shredded carrots as they tend to be drier.
2. Roll While Warm: Rolling the cake while it’s still warm is crucial to prevent cracking. If the cake cools too much, it becomes more brittle and likely to break.
3. Chill Before Serving: Chilling the roll allows the frosting to set and the flavors to meld, making it easier to slice and enhancing the taste.
4. Serve with a Dusting of Powdered Sugar: For an elegant presentation, dust the top of the cake roll with powdered sugar just before serving.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

Carrots are known for their high beta-carotene content, which is good for vision and immune function. This carrot cake roll incorporates the goodness of carrots into a dessert form, offering some nutritional benefits along with indulgence.

Nutrition Details

• Serving: 1 slice
• Calories: 320
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 30g
• Vitamin A: 5000 IU
• Calcium: 50mg
• Iron: 1mg

How to Store and Freeze Carrot Cake Roll

To store, keep the carrot cake roll in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to make it ahead, you can freeze the roll by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Final Thoughts

Making a Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting is a rewarding baking experience that results in a visually stunning and delicious dessert. With a few simple ingredients and these step-by-step instructions, you can create a dessert that not only tastes great but also looks like it came from a professional bakery. Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful cake roll with your loved ones!

By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting. This dessert is sure to become a favorite, not just for its flavor but for its stunning presentation as well. Happy baking!

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