Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting

Introduction

Are you looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s both impressive and delicious? Look no further than this Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting. This elegant treat combines the classic flavors of carrot cake with a soft, rolled sponge and a creamy, tangy frosting. Perfect for special occasions or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients

For the Carrot Cake Roll:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup finely grated carrots
• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Carrot Cake Roll:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped nuts (if using).
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

2. Roll the Cake:

1. While the cake is baking, prepare a clean kitchen towel by dusting it with powdered sugar.
2. As soon as the cake is done, remove it from the oven and invert it onto the prepared towel. Carefully peel off the parchment paper.
3. Starting from one end, roll the cake up with the towel, jelly roll style. Let it cool completely in the rolled position.

3. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Assemble the Carrot Cake Roll:

1. Once the cake has cooled, unroll it gently and spread an even layer of cream cheese frosting over the surface.
2. Carefully re-roll the cake without the towel.
3. Transfer the rolled cake to a serving platter and frost the outside with the remaining cream cheese frosting.

5. Chill and Serve:

1. Chill the carrot cake roll in the refrigerator for at least an hour before slicing.
2. Garnish with additional chopped nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar, if desired.

Tips for Success

• Grating Carrots: Make sure the carrots are finely grated to ensure a smooth texture in the cake.
• Rolling the Cake: Roll the cake while it’s still warm but not hot to prevent it from cracking.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: For a smoother frosting, make sure the cream cheese and butter are well-softened.

Conclusion

This Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting is a perfect combination of rich carrot cake flavors and creamy frosting, all wrapped up in a beautiful, elegant roll. It’s a great way to impress guests or simply indulge in a delightful dessert. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every slice of this scrumptious cake roll!

Serving and Storage Tips for Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving Tips

1. Presentation: To serve the Carrot Cake Roll elegantly, place it on a decorative cake platter. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a few extra chopped nuts, or even a light drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for added flair.
2. Slicing: Use a serrated knife to slice the roll. This will help you achieve clean cuts without squishing the cake. If the frosting starts to stick to the knife, wipe it clean between slices.
3. Accompaniments: This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. You might also consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
4. Portion Size: Depending on the occasion, you can slice the cake into smaller, more delicate pieces for a sophisticated dessert or into larger slices for a hearty treat.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover Carrot Cake Roll in the refrigerator. Place it in an airtight container or cover it with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. The cake is best enjoyed within 3-4 days of baking.
2. Freezing: If you want to store the cake for a longer period, you can freeze it. Wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. The cake can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
3. Frosting: If you prefer to freeze the cake without frosting, you can do so. Frost the cake after thawing to ensure the cream cheese frosting stays fresh and creamy.
4. Serving After Freezing: When ready to enjoy, let the cake roll come to room temperature after thawing. This will ensure the frosting is soft and the cake has its optimal texture.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting at its freshest and most delicious.

1. Can I use pre-grated carrots for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-grated carrots, but make sure they are finely grated to achieve the best texture in the cake. Freshly grated carrots generally offer a better flavor and texture, but pre-grated ones can save time if you’re in a pinch.

2. How can I prevent the carrot cake from cracking when rolling?

To prevent cracking, make sure to roll the cake while it is still warm but not hot. Using a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar helps, as it prevents the cake from sticking. Roll the cake gently and slowly, and avoid rolling it too tightly.

3. Can I make the carrot cake roll ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the carrot cake roll ahead of time. It can be baked and rolled a day in advance, then stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to add the frosting. The frosted cake can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or frozen for longer storage.

4. What can I do if my cream cheese frosting is too runny?

If your cream cheese frosting is too runny, it may be due to overmixing or the cream cheese and butter being too soft. To fix it, gradually add more powdered sugar until the frosting reaches the desired consistency. You can also chill the frosting briefly to help it firm up before applying it to the cake.