Name: Irresistible Candy Cane Roll Cake for a Festive Holiday Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 90 g All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour.); 3 Tbsp Cornstarch (No direct substitution necessary.); 1/2 tsp Baking Powder (Baking soda could be used in a pinch.); 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt (Sea salt can be used as an alternative.); 9 Large Egg Whites (Essential for light and airy texture.); 1/2 tsp Cream of Tartar (Vinegar can be used as a substitute.); 200 g Granulated Sugar (Coconut sugar can be a substitute.); 1 tsp Peppermint Extract (Vanilla extract can be used for non-mint version.); 2 drops Red Gel Food Coloring (Optional.); 283 g Confectioners' Sugar (Granulated sugar can be blended into powdered form.); 3/4 cup Unsalted Butter (Softened; margarine can be substituted.); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Softened; goat cheese can be used for a different flavor.); Small Drop Red Gel Food Coloring (Optional for tinting frosting.); 1/2 cup Crushed Candy Canes (Crushed peppermint candies can be a substitute.)

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As I unwrapped the first candy cane of the season, a festive idea flickered in my mind. Why not transform this holiday classic into a show-stopping dessert? Enter the Candy Cane Striped Swiss Roll Cake—your new must-try masterpiece for holiday gatherings! This visually impressive treat not only delights the eyes with its cheerful stripes, but its soft, airy texture paired with a refreshing peppermint flavor is bound to spark joy around the table. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for impressing guests, making it an ideal addition to your festive repertoire. Curious to see how to create this holiday magic? Let’s get rolling!

Why is the Candy Cane Roll a Must-Try?

Festive Presentation: The striking red and white stripes transform any gathering into a holiday wonderland.

Light and Airy Texture: With fluffy layers and a creamy filling, each bite is a delightful treat that melts in your mouth.

Quick and Easy: You can whip this up in no time, leaving you more room to enjoy the holiday festivities!

Adaptability: Swap out peppermint for vanilla or chocolate, making it versatile for any occasion—much like our Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls that cater to sweet cravings.

Crowd-Pleaser: This cake is sure to impress family and friends, making it a perfect centerpiece for your holiday table.

Bring the joy of the season to life with this stunning Candy Cane Roll Cake!

Candy Cane Roll Ingredients

For the Cake
• All-Purpose Flour (90 g) – Provides structure and stability to the cake; can substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
• Cornstarch (3 Tbsp) – Helps create a tender crumb in the cake; no direct substitution is necessary.
• Baking Powder (1/2 tsp) – Aids in leavening for a light texture; baking soda could be used in a pinch, but adjust the quantity.
• Kosher Salt (1/2 tsp) – Enhances flavor; sea salt can be used as an alternative.
• Large Egg Whites (9) – Essential for the light and airy texture; they create volume when whipped and cannot be substituted with whole eggs.
• Cream of Tartar (1/2 tsp) – Stabilizes the whipped egg whites; vinegar can be used as a substitute if needed.
• Granulated Sugar (200 g) – Sweetens and adds moisture; coconut sugar can be a substitute but may alter the flavor.
• Peppermint Extract (1 tsp) – Adds minty flavor for that festive essence; vanilla extract can be used for a non-mint version.
• Red Gel Food Coloring (2 drops) – Provides the signature candy cane color; optional and can be left out for a non-colored cake.

For the Frosting
• Confectioners’ Sugar (283 g) – Gives a sweet, creamy texture; granulated sugar can be blended into a powdered form as an alternative.
• Unsalted Butter (3/4 cup, softened) – Contributes richness to the frosting; margarine can be substituted for a dairy-free option.
• Cream Cheese (8-oz. pkg, softened) – Creates a creamy texture in the frosting; goat cheese can be used for a different flavor.
• Small Drop Red Gel Food Coloring – For tinting the frosting; optional.

For Decoration
• Crushed Candy Canes (1/2 cup) – Provides crunch and festive decoration; crushed peppermint candies can be a substitute.

Embrace the spirit of the season with this delightful Candy Cane Roll!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Candy Cane Roll

Step 1: Prepare Baking Sheet
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet, typically 13×18 inches, with parchment paper and lightly spritz it with cooking spray to ensure easy release of the cake later. This step is crucial for a smooth baking process, setting the stage for your beautiful Candy Cane Roll.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 90 grams of all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons of cornstarch, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. This mixture provides the structure for your cake, ensuring a light, fluffy texture. Set it aside, allowing the ingredients to blend seamlessly while you move on to the next step.

Step 3: Whip Egg Whites
In a separate mixing bowl, combine 9 large egg whites with ½ teaspoon of cream of tartar. Using an electric mixer, whip them on high speed until stiff peaks form—this should take about 4-5 minutes. At this point, the egg whites should be fluffy and glossy, creating the airy texture essential for the Candy Cane Roll.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gently add the whipped egg whites to your dry ingredients. Using a spatula, fold the mixture with care to retain the volume of the egg whites. This delicate process is key to achieving the light, airy cake texture. You want to combine the ingredients until just incorporated, avoiding over-mixing.

Step 5: Add Color & Flavor
Divide the batter in half, transferring one portion to another bowl. Tint the second half with two drops of red gel food coloring, achieving a vibrant hue reminiscent of candy canes. Additionally, stir in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract for that refreshing holiday flavor, ensuring a festive essence throughout your Candy Cane Roll.

Step 6: Pipe Batter
Prepare a piping bag fitted with a round tip, and fill it with alternating colors of the batter. Pipe distinct stripes onto the lined baking sheet, starting from one end to the other. This creative method will create that signature candy cane effect, so take your time to achieve an appealing design that will make your roll eye-catching.

Step 7: Bake
Carefully place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cake has puffed up and springs back when lightly touched. The edges should start to gently pull away from the sides of the pan, signaling that your Candy Cane Roll is ready to come out of the oven.

Step 8: Cool and Roll
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and quickly invert it onto a kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Gently roll the cake along with the towel while it’s still warm, creating a log shape. This technique prevents cracking and helps maintain the roll’s perfect form as it cools, setting the stage for a delightful filling.

Step 9: Prepare Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter, 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, and 283 grams of confectioners’ sugar until smooth and creamy. This luscious frosting will provide that rich, joyful touch to your Candy Cane Roll, so incorporate any additional flavorings or colorings as desired.

Step 10: Assemble
Unroll the cooled cake carefully and spread an even layer of your prepared frosting across the surface, ensuring a thorough coverage. Roll the cake back up gently, removing the towel as you go. For a festive finish, sprinkle the top with approximately ½ cup of crushed candy canes, adding a delightful crunch to your holiday masterpiece.

How to Store and Freeze Candy Cane Roll

Fridge: Store your Candy Cane Roll in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its fresh flavor and texture.

Freezer: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months if you want to prepare it ahead of time. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating: No need to reheat; serve the cake chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor experience. If frozen, once thawed, it’s best consumed within 3 days for optimal taste.

Serving Suggestion: Enhance the presentation by slicing and serving with a drizzle of chocolate sauce on the side for an extra festive touch.

Expert Tips for Candy Cane Roll

Warm Rolling: Always roll the cake while it’s warm; this prevents cracking and ensures a nice, tight shape when you create the roll.
Egg Whites Matter: Make sure there’s no yolk in your egg whites; even a tiny bit can ruin the volume you need for that airy texture in the Candy Cane Roll.
Gentle Folding: Be careful when folding the egg whites into the dry ingredients—overmixing will deflate the batter, leading to a denser cake.
Piping Technique: Use a cold piping tip for better control while piping; this helps avoid spills and gives you those perfect striped patterns.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to use different extracts like vanilla instead of peppermint; this allows you to tailor the flavor profile for any occasion.

What to Serve with Candy Cane Striped Swiss Roll Cake

Transform your holiday gathering into a festive feast with delightful pairings that enhance this magical dessert.

Spiced Hot Cocoa: A warm drink that captures the essence of winter, this cocoa complements the cake’s peppermint flavor beautifully.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and rich, ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the lightness of the cake. A scoop alongside creates a perfect balance.
Pecan Pie Bites: These sweet, nutty treats provide a hearty structure to your dessert table, echoing the holiday spirit and crunchiness of candy canes.
Gingerbread Cookies: The spiced flavor of gingerbread pairs perfectly with the minty sweetness of the cake. These classic cookies evoke warm holiday memories and enjoyable contrasts.
Fresh Berry Salad: Juicy berries add a refreshing brightness, cutting through the sweetness of the cake and providing a pop of color on your dessert table.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: A palate-cleansing drink that refreshes between bites. The zesty lemon elevates the cake’s flavors while maintaining festivity.
Chocolate Truffles: Rich, decadent, and flavorful, these truffles complement the dessert’s elegant look while satisfying your sweet tooth in luxurious bites.
Peppermint Bark: Enhance the holiday theme with these sweet, crunchy layers. Their extra peppermint punch makes for a delightful dessert complement.
Cinnamon Whipped Cream: A dollop of this spiced topping adds warmth and enhances the cake’s flavor profile, inviting everyone for a second slice.
Red Wine or Prosecco: A glass of fruity red wine or bubbly Prosecco brings sophistication to your celebration, pairing well with sweet desserts like this stunning cake.

Make Ahead Options

This Candy Cane Striped Swiss Roll Cake is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the cake base up to 24 hours in advance and store it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator to maintain its moisture. The frosting can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply unroll the cooled cake, spread the frosting, roll it back up, and decorate it with crushed candy canes. This way, you’ll enjoy a beautiful and festive dessert that’s just as delicious as if it were made fresh on the day of your gathering!

Candy Cane Roll Customizations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and make this magical roll cake uniquely yours with some delightful twists.

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour to accommodate gluten-sensitive guests without sacrificing texture.
Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Add 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the batter for a rich chocolate-flavored cake, beautifully complementing the festive peppermint.
Vanilla Variation: Swap peppermint extract with vanilla extract for a warm, cozy flavor that works beautifully for any gathering, holiday or not.
Colorful Options: Use different gel food coloring shades to create vibrant stripes; consider spring colors for a delightful Easter treat, or pastel shades for baby showers.
Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with margarine and cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, perfect for vegan or lactose-intolerant friends.
Fruity Twist: Mix in some finely chopped strawberries or raspberries to the frosting for a fruity surprise that pairs wonderfully with the minty notes.
Spicy Surprise: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the frosting for a unique spicy-sweet contrast that will tantalize adventurous taste buds.
Serving Suggestions: Try serving slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce paired to elevate your dessert experience.

Looking to expand your holiday dessert repertoire? Consider making a batch of these delightful Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls alongside your Candy Cane Roll for a cheerful and indulgent spread!

Candy Cane Striped Swiss Roll Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for the Candy Cane Roll?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for the best structure and texture. However, if you’re looking for a gluten-sensitive option, gluten-free all-purpose flour works great as a substitute! Just make sure to check the packaging for any specific ratios.

How should I store the Candy Cane Roll, and how long will it last?
Your Candy Cane Roll can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh while maintaining its delightful texture. If you have leftovers, make sure to check it for any dark spots before serving!

Can I freeze the Candy Cane Roll?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This will keep it fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight for the best flavor and texture.

What should I do if my cake cracks while rolling it up?
If your Candy Cane Roll cracks, don’t worry! It happens to the best of us. To avoid this, always roll the cake while it’s warm, as this helps maintain flexibility. If cracks do occur, simply embrace them; icing the top well can cover any imperfections!

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! To create a dairy-free version of the Candy Cane Roll, substitute the unsalted butter with a vegan margarine and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Ensure your powdered sugar is free from any dairy additives, and you’re good to go!

Can I adapt the flavor of the Candy Cane Roll for different occasions?
Very! You can easily swap peppermint extract for vanilla or even chocolate, tailoring the flavor to suit your gathering. For instance, using dark cocoa powder could give you a delicious chocolate version that’s just as festive and enjoyable!