Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that’s both cozy and show-stopping, this Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is exactly what you need. I’ve always loved the balance of spices and moistness in a classic carrot cake, but rolling it up with smooth cream cheese frosting inside adds an extra layer of fun and flavor that just melts in your mouth. Whether it’s for a family gathering or just treating yourself on a lazy Sunday, this cake roll hits all the right notes.

What really makes this Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe special is how it brings together simplicity and elegance. I’ve found that the light spice blend paired with the sweet, tangy cream cheese makes every bite comforting yet delightful, and the roll format is fantastic for portion control and presentation. Trust me, once you try making it, you’ll love the wow factor it brings to your dessert table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient here plays a key role, whether it’s building that tender carrot cake base or making the frosting creamy and dreamy. I always recommend choosing fresh spices and good-quality cream cheese if you want to take this recipe to the next level.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure without weighing down your cake.
• Baking powder: Helps your cake rise and stay light—freshness is key here.
• Baking soda: Works with the acidic ingredients for that tender crumb.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds warm aromatic notes essential to carrot cake flavor.
• Ground ginger: Gives a subtle spicy kick.
• Ground nutmeg: Just a pinch lifts the cake’s complexity without overpowering.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and add moisture—use large ones for best results.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps with cake rise and texture.
• Light brown sugar: Adds moisture and a slight caramel depth.
• Vanilla extract: A little magic that rounds out the flavor.
• Finely grated carrots: The star ingredient—make sure to grate finely for even baking.
• Chopped walnuts (optional): Give a nice crunch if you’re into some texture contrast.
• Cream cheese (softened): Base of your luscious frosting—room temp is key.
• Powdered sugar: For that smooth, sweet frosting texture.
• Unsalted butter (softened): Keeps the frosting rich and silky.

Variations

I love how versatile this Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe can be. Depending on your mood or what’s in your pantry, you can easily switch things up without losing the essence of the cake. Mixing it up is part of the fun!

• Nut-Free Version: I made this once for a friend with nut allergies and simply left out the walnuts—they’re definitely optional, and the cake stays just as moist and delicious.
• Orange Zest Addition: Adding a teaspoon of fresh orange zest to the batter brightens the flavors and pairs beautifully with the cream cheese frosting.
• Mini Rolls: For parties, I like making mini carrot cake rolls using a quarter sheet pan—it makes for perfect finger food and looks adorable on a dessert platter.
• Gluten-Free: Swapping the flour for a gluten-free blend worked perfectly the last time I tried it; just be mindful to check the blend includes xanthan gum for structure.

How to Make Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Mix Your Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven and greasing a jelly roll pan—this helps the cake release easily later on. In a medium bowl, whisk together all the dry spices, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until they’re well combined. Mixing these first ensures your spices are evenly distributed so every bite is consistently flavorful.

Step 2: Beat the Eggs and Sugars

In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs together with both sugars until the mixture is thick and pale—this usually takes a few minutes and is worth the effort for a light, fluffy cake base. Next, add the vanilla extract for that warm, inviting scent that will fill your kitchen.

Step 3: Combine and Fold in Carrots and Nuts

Gently fold your dry ingredients into the egg mixture, being careful not to overmix—this keeps the batter tender and helps it rise beautifully. Then, fold in the finely grated carrots and walnuts if you’re using them. The carrots bring moisture and sweetness, while walnuts add texture and a nutty depth.

Step 4: Bake and Roll While Warm

Spread your batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back lightly when touched. Here’s a tip from me: as soon as it’s out of the oven, flip it onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar, then carefully peel off the parchment paper. Roll the cake up with the towel inside while it’s still warm—this prevents cracking and sets the shape for your roll.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth. Then sift in the powdered sugar gradually while mixing until you reach a fluffy consistency. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract. This frosting is rich but light and pairs perfectly with the mildly spiced carrot cake.

Step 6: Roll Up with the Frosting

Once the cake is completely cool, gently unroll it and spread the cream cheese frosting evenly all over. Then, carefully roll it back up without the towel this time. If the frosting squeezes out a little, that’s a good sign you’ve got enough—just wipe the edges clean if needed.

How to Serve Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

I personally love to sprinkle a little toasted walnut on top for a crunchy contrast and a light dusting of powdered sugar for a pretty finish. Sometimes, I add a few edible flowers or a drizzle of honey for extra flair, especially if it’s for a celebration.

Side Dishes

For a simple but inviting spread, pair this carrot cake roll with a cup of spiced chai tea or fresh coffee. If you want to serve it for brunch, little fruit salads or fresh berries on the side bring a fresh balance to the richness of the frosting.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday brunches, I like slicing the roll into thick rounds and arranging them on a long platter with small dollops of whipped cream and extra walnuts sprinkled around. It makes each slice feel like a special little cake, and it’s a real conversation starter when guests see it.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually keep leftovers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps the cake moist and prevents it from drying out for up to 3 days. Just bring it to room temp before slicing again for the best texture.

Freezing

Whenever I have extra, I slice the roll and freeze individual pieces wrapped well in plastic wrap and foil. When you want a treat, just thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours—easy and convenient without sacrificing flavor.

Reheating

If you like your carrot cake roll a little warm, I recommend microwaving a slice for 10-15 seconds. It makes the cream cheese frosting slightly gooey and the cake soft again, kind of like a fresh-baked feel. Just watch closely so it doesn’t melt too much.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe has become my go-to when I want something a bit fancy without fuss. It’s such a rewarding bake that feels special, but it’s straightforward enough to make even on a weeknight. I hope you enjoy making it and that it becomes a favorite in your home, just like it has in mine!

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