Red Velvet Cake Roll Recipe

Red Velvet Cake Roll is a stunning and festive dessert that pairs soft, cocoa-kissed red velvet sponge with a rich cream cheese filling, all swirled into an eye-catching spiral. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays, Valentine’s Day, or just looking to impress guests, this cake roll delivers on both flavor and presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Eye-Catching: The bold red and white swirl makes a beautiful dessert centerpiece.
• Classic Flavor: Combines subtle chocolate notes with tangy cream cheese.
• Surprisingly Easy: Despite its look, it’s simple to make with basic techniques.
• Perfect for Holidays: Great for Christmas, Valentine’s, or birthdays.
• Make Ahead: Can be made in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

For the Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. Make Batter: In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar until thick and pale, about 3–4 minutes. Add oil, vanilla, and food coloring. Mix well. Fold in dry ingredients until just combined.
4. Bake: Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until cake springs back when lightly touched.
5. Roll While Warm: Immediately invert cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off parchment. Starting from the short end, roll the cake up with the towel and let it cool completely.
6. Make Filling: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla and powdered sugar; mix until fluffy.
7. Fill and Roll: Unroll cooled cake, spread filling evenly, then re-roll tightly (without towel). Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour.
8. Serve: Dust with powdered sugar, slice, and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10–12 slices
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
• Cooling/Chilling Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: About 1 hour 35 minutes

Variations

• Add Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips into the filling for texture.
• Swirl in Jam: Add a thin layer of raspberry jam under the cream cheese filling.
• Festive Touch: Top with crushed candy canes or red sprinkles during holidays.
• Use Whipped Cream: Replace cream cheese with stabilized whipped cream for a lighter roll.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store wrapped in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the cake roll (wrapped tightly) for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Serving: Best served chilled or slightly cool. No reheating needed.

FAQs

Can I make the cake roll ahead of time?

Yes, it’s ideal for making ahead. Prepare up to 1 day before serving.

What’s the best way to prevent cracking?

Roll the cake while it’s warm and use a kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar.

Can I use gel food coloring?

Yes, gel food coloring gives vibrant color with less liquid.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.

Can I add cocoa for more chocolate flavor?

Yes, increase cocoa by 1–2 tablespoons, reducing flour slightly to compensate.

Can I use a different filling?

Yes, try whipped cream, mascarpone, or even chocolate mousse.

What if I don’t have a jelly roll pan?

Use a rimmed baking sheet of similar size (10×15″). Adjust baking time if needed.

How do I keep the filling from oozing out?

Chill the roll after assembling and avoid overfilling.

Should I use natural or Dutch-processed cocoa?

Either works, but natural cocoa is traditional in red velvet recipes.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but use two pans and bake separately for even results.

Conclusion

Red Velvet Cake Roll is a gorgeous and delicious dessert that’s easier to make than it looks. With its soft sponge cake, luscious cream cheese filling, and beautiful presentation, it’s sure to impress for any special occasion or holiday table. Make it ahead and enjoy the rave reviews.

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