If you love the rich flavors of classic carrot cake but want something a little more elegant and unique, the Carrot Cake Roll is the dessert you’ve been waiting for. This show-stopping treat takes everything we adore about moist, spiced carrot cake and creamy cream cheese frosting, then transforms it into a beautifully rolled log that looks as impressive as it tastes. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or when you simply want to wow your guests, this dessert is as irresistible as it is easy to make.
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Why You’ll Love This Carrot Cake Roll
Visually stunning: Its swirl of frosting inside the spiced cake makes for a gorgeous presentation.
Perfectly balanced flavors: The warm cinnamon and nutmeg pair beautifully with the tangy cream cheese filling.
Make-ahead friendly: This roll can be prepared in advance, making it ideal for entertaining.
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Ingredients for Carrot Cake Roll
For the Cake:
Eggs (3 large) – Provide structure and help the cake stay light yet flexible for rolling.
Granulated sugar (¾ cup) – Sweetens the cake and balances the spices.
Brown sugar (¼ cup) – Adds a rich, caramel-like flavor and moisture.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – Deepens the overall flavor profile.
All-purpose flour (¾ cup) – The foundation of the cake, giving it body.
Baking powder (1 tsp) – Ensures the cake rises properly.
Ground cinnamon (1 tsp) – Brings that warm, comforting spice we associate with carrot cake.
Ground nutmeg (½ tsp) – Enhances the spiced flavor without overpowering.
Salt (¼ tsp) – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
Carrots (2 cups, finely grated) – The star ingredient, adding moisture, sweetness, and a tender crumb.
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
Cream cheese (8 oz, softened) – The base of the filling, tangy and creamy.
Butter (4 tbsp, softened) – Adds richness and smoothness.
Powdered sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens the filling while keeping it silky.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – Complements the tangy cream cheese with warmth.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Towel
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a 15x10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving extra on the sides for easy lifting.
3. Lightly grease the paper and dust with flour.
4. Lay out a clean kitchen towel and sprinkle generously with powdered sugar (this prevents sticking later).
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla until pale and fluffy.
2. In another bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
4. Stir in the grated carrots until evenly combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
1. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
2. Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched.
3. Immediately invert the cake onto the prepared towel, carefully peel off the parchment paper, and roll it up (cake and towel together) starting at the short end. Let cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Filling
1. Beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and spreadable.
Step 5: Assemble the Roll
1. Once the cake has cooled, gently unroll it.
2. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly across the surface.
3. Roll it back up tightly (without the towel this time).
4. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing for best results.
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Pro Tips for the Perfect Carrot Cake Roll
Grate carrots finely – This ensures even moisture and a smoother cake texture.
Don’t overbake – A dry cake will crack when rolling. Keep a close eye in the last minutes of baking.
Roll while warm – Rolling the cake in the towel while it’s hot “teaches” it to hold its shape without cracking.
Chill before slicing – Refrigerating makes for cleaner cuts and better presentation.
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Serving Suggestions
This Carrot Cake Roll pairs wonderfully with:
A cup of coffee or spiced chai for an afternoon treat.
A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence.
Fresh berries or candied pecans on the side for a festive touch.
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Final Thoughts
The Carrot Cake Roll is proof that you don’t need complicated techniques to create a dessert that’s both beautiful and delicious. With its moist, spiced cake wrapped around a luscious cream cheese filling, it offers the nostalgic comfort of carrot cake with a modern twist. Whether you’re preparing it for Easter, Thanksgiving, or a casual family dinner, this recipe guarantee
s rave reviews. Simple to make, stunning to serve, and absolutely irresistible—this Carrot Cake Roll is destined to become a favorite in your dessert rotation.
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