Welcome to a delightful dessert that will charm your taste buds and impress your guests: the Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Filling! This whimsical treat takes the beloved flavors of traditional carrot cake and transforms them into a stunning rolled cake, making it perfect for celebrations or cozy gatherings. The tender, spiced carrot cake pairs beautifully with a creamy, rich filling, creating a dessert that's both visually appealing and utterly delicious. With each slice, you’ll experience a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making this cake a true showstopper at any occasion!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Carrot Cake Roll is not only delicious but also simple to prepare. It's a fantastic way to showcase your baking skills, and it's sure to become a family favorite. The moist cake is enhanced with warm spices and shredded carrots, while the cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness that elevates each bite. Plus, the cake can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy bakers.
Ingredients
For the Carrot Cake
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Adds warm, comforting flavor and aroma to the cake.
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the cake, ensuring it holds together when rolled.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise, creating a light and fluffy texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a warm, spicy note that complements the cinnamon.
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg: Provides a warm and slightly sweet undertone.
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves: Infuses the cake with a rich, aromatic flavor.
- 3 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while contributing to its moist texture.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a sweet and aromatic depth to the flavor.
- 3 medium carrots, finely shredded: The star ingredient, adding natural sweetness, moisture, and nutrition.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting Filling
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar: Provides sweetness and a smooth texture for the frosting.
- 1 package (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened: Creates a rich and tangy filling that perfectly complements the cake.
- 6 tablespoons salted butter, softened: Adds creaminess and a slight saltiness that balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the frosting.
For the Glaze
- 3 cups confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens and thickens the glaze for a beautiful finish.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds flavor to the glaze.
- 10-11 tablespoons milk: Adjusts the consistency of the glaze, making it pourable.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 15 x 10-inch jelly roll pan by lightly greasing it and lining it with parchment paper, allowing the paper to extend over the sides for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, salt, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves until well combined.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar until well combined. Add the vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and shredded carrots, mixing thoroughly.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Fold Ingredients Together: Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could lead to a denser cake.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it into an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 minutes, or until the cake is set.
Step 6: Roll the Cake
- Cool and Roll: Immediately after removing the cake from the oven, invert it onto a clean tea towel. Carefully peel off the parchment paper. While the cake is still warm, roll it lengthwise into a tight log using the tea towel. Allow it to cool completely on a cooling rack.
Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the confectioners' sugar and vanilla extract, whisking until creamy and smooth.
Step 8: Assemble the Cake
- Unroll and Fill: Carefully unroll the cooled cake. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cake, leaving a 1-inch margin on all sides. Re-roll the cake tightly without the towel, then wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up the frosting.
Step 9: Make the Glaze
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, combine the confectioners' sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Adjust the milk quantity to achieve your desired consistency for drizzling.
Step 10: Final Touches
- Drizzle and Serve: Once the cake is chilled and firm, remove the plastic wrap. Drizzle the glaze over the cake and slice before serving.
Pro Tips for Perfection
- Grate Carrots Finely: For a smooth texture, ensure the carrots are finely shredded.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cake to avoid drying it out; it should spring back lightly when touched.
- Chill Before Slicing: Allowing the rolled cake to chill will make it easier to slice and serve.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Carrot Cake Roll with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted walnuts for added texture and flavor. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Conclusion
In summary, this Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Filling is a simple yet elegant dessert that combines the rich flavors of traditional carrot cake with the fun twist of a roll. Whether for a birthday, holiday, or any special occasion, this cake is sure to impress with its moist texture and delicious filling. Easy to make and irresistibly tasty, it’s a recipe that will become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Try it today and experience the joy of baking this delightful treat!