Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Filling Recipe

This Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect dessert for any occasion! Soft, spiced carrot cake is rolled around a creamy, tangy cream cheese filling, then drizzled with a sweet glaze for the ultimate treat. A showstopper dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make, this carrot cake roll is ideal for holidays, parties, or special celebrations. The light texture and delicious combination of flavors will have everyone asking for the recipe! Try this copycat dessert that rivals your favorite bakery version.

Ingredients

For the Carrot Cake:

• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 medium carrots, shredded

For the Cream Cheese Frosting Filling:

• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 6 tbsp salted butter, softened
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Glaze:

• 3 cups confectioners’ sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 10-11 tbsp milk

Instructions

For the Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan by lightly greasing it and lining it with parchment paper. Leave a little parchment paper hanging over the sides for easy removal.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, baking powder, salt, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and granulated sugar until well combined. Add vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and shredded carrots. Whisk again until everything is incorporated.
5. Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula until just combined—be careful not to overmix.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly into a single layer.
7. Bake for 12 minutes in the preheated oven. Once done, remove the cake from the oven and carefully transfer it onto a clean tea towel using the parchment paper.
8. Gently remove the parchment paper and roll the cake up lengthwise into a tight log (be sure to roll the tea towel with it).
9. Transfer the rolled cake to a cooling rack and let it cool completely.

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together softened cream cheese and softened butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract, whisking until fully combined and smooth.
3. Once the cake is fully cooled, carefully unroll it. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the cake, leaving about 1 inch from each edge.
4. Re-roll the cake tightly into a log and wrap it in plastic wrap.
5. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

For the Glaze:

1. In a small bowl, combine confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
2. When ready to serve, drizzle the glaze over the rolled carrot cake. Slice and enjoy!

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Tips

• Ensure the cake is fully cooled: Before spreading the cream cheese filling, make sure the cake has cooled completely. This helps prevent the filling from melting and ensures a clean roll.
• Use a kitchen towel: The tea towel helps when rolling the cake. It absorbs moisture and prevents the cake from sticking.
• Sift the dry ingredients: Sifting the flour and spices ensures a smooth batter and even distribution of the ingredients.

Variations and Substitutions

• Nut options: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added texture and flavor.
• Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices based on your preferences. For a deeper flavor, increase the cinnamon or ginger.
• Frosting: You can substitute the cream cheese filling with whipped cream cheese or mascarpone for a different taste and texture.
• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version of this carrot cake roll.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cake ahead of time. It can be stored in the refrigerator wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2-3 days. The glaze can be added just before serving.

How do I prevent the cake from cracking?
Rolling the cake while it’s still warm (but not hot) helps it maintain its shape without cracking. Be gentle when unrolling and re-rolling to avoid breakage.

Can I freeze the carrot cake roll?
Yes, you can freeze the carrot cake roll without the glaze. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and add the glaze just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Add some nuts: Serve with crushed walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Pair with a hot drink: This carrot cake roll pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making it the perfect treat for afternoon gatherings.
• Serve with whipped cream: If you like, top each slice with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for an added indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Filling is the perfect balance of spiced, moist cake and rich, creamy filling. It’s a showstopper dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness, while the soft, light texture of the rolled cake makes every bite irresistible. Whether for a holiday dessert or a special treat, this carrot cake roll will be a hit with everyone!