Name: Deliciously Decadent Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 105 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Eggs (Room temperature); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1/2 cup Brown Sugar; 1/3 cup Vegetable Oil; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 cup All-Purpose Flour; 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon; 1 teaspoon Nutmeg; 1 teaspoon Ginger; 1/4 teaspoon Salt; 1 1/2 cups Grated Carrots (Pre-shredded works perfectly); 8 ounces Cream Cheese (Softened); 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter (Softened); 2 cups Powdered Sugar

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I stood in my kitchen, the heavenly aroma of warm spices filled the air, instantly whisking me back to family gatherings and festive feasts. Today, I’m excited to share my go-to recipe for a Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting—a delightful twist on the classic dessert that not only dazzles the eye but also pleases the palate. This recipe is a fantastic way to wow your guests with minimal effort, as it’s both quick to prepare and embraces the cozy flavors of home baking. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in a sweet treat for yourself, this rolled dessert adds a touch of elegance to any table. Curious about how to roll with it? Let’s dive in!

Why is This Carrot Cake Roll Irresistible?

Delectable Flavor Explosion: The fusion of warm spices and rich cream cheese frosting creates an unforgettable taste experience that keeps you coming back for more.
Effortless Elegance: Impress your guests with stunning dessert presentation—this roll looks like a fancy treat but is simple to make!
Versatile Variations: Feel free to customize! Add coconut or citrus for a twist, or try sugar substitutes to suit your dietary needs.
Make Ahead Magic: Prepare this cake in advance for easy entertaining. Just frost it and pop it in the fridge until it’s time to serve.
Pair it with a cup of coffee or some spiced cider, and you’ve got a winning dessert that matches perfectly with any of your favorite dishes like Moist Strawberry Shortcake or Blueberry Cream Cheese. Enjoy every slice!

Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

Get ready to bake this delightful dessert!

For the Cake
• Eggs – Essential for structure and leavening, giving the cake a light texture.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture, making the cake irresistible.
• Brown Sugar – Enhances flavor depth with its rich molasses notes.
• Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cake tender and moist, preventing it from drying out.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates the overall flavor profile with a sweet touch.
• All-Purpose Flour – The backbone of the cake, providing necessary structure.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to ensure a fluffy rise.
• Ground Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger) – Infuse the cake with warm, aromatic flavors typical of a classic carrot cake.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Grated Carrots – Adds moisture, sweetness, and texture; pre-shredded carrots work perfectly.

For the Frosting
• Cream Cheese – The star of the frosting, offering a creamy and tangy flavor that complements the cake.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and helps achieve a smooth frosting texture.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; mix gently for the best consistency.

Dive into the deliciousness of this Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting, and enjoy a taste that’s sure to impress!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, line a jelly roll pan (about 15×10 inches) with parchment paper, ensuring it fits snugly. This preparation is crucial for the Carrot Cake Roll to bake evenly and release effortlessly later.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat together four eggs with both granulated and brown sugars using an electric mixer on medium speed for 3-5 minutes until the mixture turns pale and fluffy. Slowly add in ⅓ cup of vegetable oil and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until combined; this will enhance the moistness and flavor of your cake.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon each of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, plus a pinch of salt. This blend of spices forms the base for the Carrot Cake Roll, infusing it with warmth and aroma. Once combined, gently fold it into the wet mixture, ensuring no pockets of flour remain.

Step 4: Add the Carrots
Fold in 1 ½ cups of grated carrots into the batter with a spatula, mixing until just combined. The grated carrots add moisture and texture to the cake, making it flavorful and tender. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cake light and fluffy, crucial for a successful roll.

Step 5: Bake the Cake
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared jelly roll pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly pressed and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This will ensure your Carrot Cake Roll has the perfect texture.

Step 6: Cool and Roll the Cake
As soon as you remove it from the oven, run a knife around the edges to loosen it. Carefully invert the cake onto a clean, powdered sugar-dusted kitchen towel, peeling off the parchment paper. Gently roll the cake up in the towel while it’s still warm, which helps prevent cracking. Set it aside to cool completely in this rolled shape.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake cools, prepare your cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and ¼ cup of unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in 2 cups of powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined and fluffy. This rich frosting will beautifully complement your Carrot Cake Roll.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake Roll
Once the cake has cooled thoroughly, gently unroll it from the towel. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the surface, right up to the edges. This will ensure every slice of your Carrot Cake Roll has that delightful creamy layer.

Step 9: Roll and Slice
Carefully re-roll the cake without the towel, shaping it tightly yet gently. Place the cake seam-side down on a serving platter. Slice the Carrot Cake Roll into neat pieces and serve, revealing the beautiful swirl of cake and creamy frosting inside.

Step 10: Enjoy Your Creation
Now that your Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting is complete, it’s time to relish your hard work! The moist cake wrapped around the tangy frosting creates a delightful treat just waiting to be savored.

Expert Tips for Carrot Cake Roll

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room-temperature eggs, cream cheese, and butter ensures smooth mixing and a creamy frosting for your Carrot Cake Roll.

• Gentle Folding: Carefully fold in the dry ingredients and grated carrots to maintain a light texture. Avoid over-mixing, as this can result in a dense cake.

• Towel Technique: When rolling the hot cake, use a powdered sugar-dusted towel to prevent sticking. This helps to avoid cracking, allowing for a beautiful presentation.

• Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool completely in its rolled shape to set the structure, which makes unrolling and frosting easier.

• Frosting Consistency: Gradually add powdered sugar to the cream cheese and butter mix. Be careful not to over-mix, as it can make the frosting grainy.

What to Serve with Irresistible Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting

As you prepare to delight your guests with this stunning dessert, consider what flavors and textures can elevate your dining experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the spiced sweetness of your cake roll, enhancing every bite.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth, cold ice cream perfectly balances the warm spices and rich cream cheese frosting, creating an indulgent treat.
Spiced Chai Latte: This warm, aromatic drink imbued with spices complements the flavors of the carrot cake, offering comfort and a cozy vibe.
Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of crunchy granola on the side provides a delightful contrast in texture, giving an exciting bite alongside the soft cake.
Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: Add a decadent touch by drizzling chocolate ganache over the slices, marrying sweet and rich flavors beautifully.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusted Whipped Cream: Whipped cream with a hint of cinnamon enhances the dessert’s warmth while adding a light, airy element.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp white wine or sparkling wine can elevate the evening, providing a celebratory note that pairs well with cake.

By incorporating these delightful pairings, your Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting will shine even brighter as the star of the meal!

How to Store and Freeze Carrot Cake Roll

Fridge: Store the wrapped Carrot Cake Roll in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ensuring it’s covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness and moisture.

Freezer: An unfrosted Carrot Cake Roll can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, then label with the date.

Leftovers: If you have leftover frosted slices, they can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container. Enjoy them chilled for a delightful treat!

Reheating: For a warm indulgence, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or until just warm. Enjoy the rich flavors fresh out of the microwave!

Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Variations

Feel free to play around with this delightful recipe to make it your own!

Coconut Bliss: Add ½ cup of shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical twist that enhances texture and flavor. The extra chewiness of the coconut pairs beautifully with the creamy frosting!
Citrus Zest: Incorporate 2 teaspoons of freshly grated orange or lemon zest into the cake batter for a bright, citrusy brightness that elevates every bite. It’s a fresh twist that brings a sunny flavor to the party!
Sugar-Free Swap: Replace granulated sugar with a sugar substitute like erythritol or use unsweetened applesauce instead of vegetable oil for a guilt-free version. This allows you to enjoy all the deliciousness while cutting back on sugar!
Nutty Addition: Mix in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a satisfying crunch and extra nuttiness. Nuts add a delightful texture and complexity, giving your cake roll a homemade touch.
Spiced to Perfection: Enhance the spiciness by adding 1 teaspoon of ground cloves or allspice to the dry ingredients. This will deepen the warmth of your cake, creating an even cozier dessert.
Flavorful Frosting Twist: Switch up the cream cheese frosting by mixing in a tablespoon of maple syrup or a shot of coffee to create unique flavor profiles. It’s like giving your frosting a whole new personality!
Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent touch, drizzle melted chocolate or a rich ganache over the top of the rolled cake before slicing. Combining flavors will take your cake to the next level of indulgence!

Don’t forget to savor your creation alongside a cozy cup of tea or maybe some delightful spiced cider. And if you’re looking for more delicious dessert ideas, check out this Moist Strawberry Shortcake or a slice of Caramelized Banana Cheesecake. Enjoy customizing your Carrot Cake Roll!

Make Ahead Options

These Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting components are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can bake and cool the cake up to 24 hours in advance; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it moist. The cream cheese frosting can be made ahead too—store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply frost the unrolled cake, roll it up gently, and slice it into beautiful pieces. This strategy allows you to delight your guests with a stunning dessert while minimizing last-minute efforts and ensuring your rolled treat tastes just as delicious!

Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best carrots for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting carrots, look for firm, bright orange ones without dark spots or soft spots. Fresh, crunchy carrots will yield the best flavor and texture for your cake. For convenience, I often use pre-shredded carrots, but be sure they’re fresh to maintain quality.

What’s the best way to store leftover Carrot Cake Roll?
To keep your delicious Carrot Cake Roll fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This will maintain its moisture and flavor. If it’s frosted, keep it in an airtight container to protect the frosting.

Can I freeze the Carrot Cake Roll for later use?
Absolutely! An unfrosted Carrot Cake Roll can be frozen for up to 2 months. To do this, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Label the package with the date so you can enjoy it whenever a craving strikes!

What should I do if my cake cracks while rolling?
If your cake cracks while rolling, don’t worry! This can happen if it’s not rolled gently or if it’s not warm enough. Make sure to roll your cake while it’s still warm in a powdered sugar-dusted towel—this helps maintain flexibility. If cracks occur, you can patch them with frosting when assembling.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt the Carrot Cake Roll. Substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie version. Using unsweetened applesauce instead of vegetable oil is a fantastic way to cut down on calories. Plus, the filling can be customized by adding nuts or choosing a gluten-free flour alternative!