Irresistible Christmas Cake Roll Recipe for Holiday Delight

 

Ah, Christmas time! It’s that magical season when the air turns crisp, lights twinkle in every window, and the smell of baked goodies fills the kitchen. One of my fondest childhood memories is gathering around the table with family, sharing stories as my mom whipped up her delicious Christmas treats. Among the array of festive goodies, one particular dessert always stole the show: the Christmas Cake Roll. Soft, spongy, and filled with velvety cream, this delightful treat is a showstopper for any holiday gathering.

What I love most about a Christmas Cake Roll is its delightful blend of flavors—rich chocolate or vanilla cake wrapped around an airy cream filling, finished with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or festive toppings. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of togetherness and the joy of creating something beautiful in the kitchen. So, grab a cup of cocoa, and let’s get rolling with this Christmas Cake Roll recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressive Yet Easy: It looks show-stopping, but it’s surprisingly simple!
• Customizable: You can switch up flavors and fillings to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Gifting: Wrap it up nicely, and it makes a lovely holiday present.
• Holiday Tradition: It’s a wonderful way to start a new festive tradition!

Ingredients

You’ll need the following ingredients to whip up this delightful Christmas Cake Roll:

• Cake:
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for chocolate cake) or 1/2 cup flour (for vanilla cake)
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Filling:
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candy or festive sprinkles
• To Dust:
  • Powdered sugar (for finishing touches)

Tip: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for better volume when whipping!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper and lightly grease the paper, too. This ensures your beautiful cake comes out without any tears!
2. Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until thick and pale, about 5-7 minutes. This is essential for a light and airy cake, so don’t rush it!
3. Add Flavors: Gently fold in the vanilla extract. Then, in a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder (for chocolate version), baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be careful not to overmix; we want to keep that lovely volume!
4. Spread and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched. The aroma will fill your kitchen—it’s pure holiday magic!
5. Cool the Cake: While it’s baking, prepare a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Once the cake is done, immediately turn it out onto the towel. Peel off the parchment paper, and roll the cake up in the towel from the short end. Allow it to cool completely this way—this helps it hold its shape.
6. Make the Filling: In a clean bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. You want it to be fluffy and perfect for spreading.
7. Unroll and Fill: Once the cake has cooled, gently unroll it. Spread the whipped cream filling evenly over the surface (add crushed candy or sprinkles if you like!). Roll it back up carefully, but this time without the towel—use your hands instead.
8. Chill and Serve: Place the rolled cake seam-side down on a serving platter. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour to set. Just before serving, dust with powdered sugar for that beautiful snowy effect!

Watch Out: Don’t skip the chilling part; it’s key to achieving the perfect slices!

Pro Tips & Variations

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Christmas Cake Roll, let’s have some fun with it! Here are some playful twists and pro tips to make this dessert your own:

• Try flavored whipped cream: Add a tablespoon of your favorite liqueur, like Peppermint Schnapps or Irish Cream, to the filling for a festive kick!
• Mix up the cake flavors: Instead of chocolate or vanilla, how about a spice cake with cinnamon and nutmeg for a winter wonderland vibe?
• Top it off: Drizzle with melted chocolate or a glaze of white chocolate for extra indulgence!
• Add fruits: A layer of raspberry or strawberry preserves beneath the cream filling adds a delightful tartness.

Serving Suggestions

This Christmas Cake Roll is best served cold, and it pairs beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or a glass of mulled wine. Imagine slicing into the roll, seeing the beautiful spirals, and then serving it on a festive plate. You could even decorate your serving area with some holly or pine branches for that extra touch of holiday spirit! It’s creamy, soft, and has a hint of nostalgia, making it a cozy centerpiece for any holiday gathering.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which might be rare because this is just too good!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, you can wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to a month in the freezer; just remember to let them thaw in the fridge before enjoying again! Reheating isn’t necessary; it’s dreamy as it is. But if you must, a quick zap in the microwave will do, just be careful not to overheat, as we want to keep that fluffy texture intact!

FAQs

Can I use store-bought cake mix for this recipe?

Absolutely! For a quicker version, you can use a store-bought cake mix. Just follow the instructions on the box but remember to roll it up quickly after baking!

What can I use instead of heavy cream for the filling?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use whipped topping or Greek yogurt. Just keep in mind the flavor and texture will be a bit different!

How do I prevent my cake from cracking when rolling it?

The key is to roll the cake while it’s warm, with the towel, and roll it tightly but gently. Cooling it in the towel also helps it retain that roll shape without cracks.

Can I make this in advance for the holidays?

Definitely! You can prepare the cake a day ahead and fill it just before serving. It allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and keeps the cake moist!

Conclusion

I hope this Christmas Cake Roll becomes a beloved part of your holiday traditions, just like it is for me. It’s not just about the flavors but also about the memories you create while making it. Please share your experiences in the comments or let me know how you customized your roll! Wishing you a holiday season filled with delicious treats and warm memories—happy baking!