Description
Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients:
3 eggs
2/3 cup sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups shredded carrots
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar until thick and pale. Mix in oil and vanilla.
In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Gradually add to the egg mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in shredded carrots.
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cake springs back when touched.
Immediately turn the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Roll up the cake and towel together, starting with the narrow end. Cool on a wire rack.
For the frosting, beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
Unroll the cake, spread the frosting over the top, then re-roll without the towel. Chill before serving.
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect roll every time. First, ensure your eggs are at room temperature for maximum volume when beating. Beat the eggs and sugar for a full 5-7 minutes until the mixture is very thick, pale, and forms a ribbon when the beaters are lifted. This aeration is crucial for a light, flexible cake. When folding in the dry ingredients and carrots, use a gentle hand to avoid deflating the batter. After baking, the immediate roll-up is critical. Do not let the cake cool first. Roll it snugly, but not tightly, within the powdered sugar-dusted towel. This trains the cake’s “muscle memory” to prevent cracking when filled. Let it cool completely in this rolled shape for at least an hour.
Serving Suggestions
This elegant dessert is versatile. For a beautiful presentation, dust the finished roll with a light snowfall of powdered sugar or finely chopped pecans. Slice into 1-inch rounds and serve on a platter garnished with edible flowers or mint sprigs. For a decadent touch, drizzle each plate with a caramel or butterscotch sauce before placing a slice. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee, chai tea, or a glass of dessert wine. For a festive twist, add a small dollop of whipped cream on the side.
How-to Summary
In brief: Whip eggs and sugar until thick. Fold in dry ingredients and carrots. Bake in a lined jelly roll pan. Immediately turn out onto a sugared towel and roll up to cool. Unroll, spread with cream cheese frosting, and re-roll. Chill to set before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely. The unfilled, rolled cake can be wrapped tightly and stored at room temperature for a day. The frosted roll can be refrigerated, well-wrapped, for up to 3 days.
My cake cracked when I unrolled it. What happened? The cake was likely overbaked, making it dry and brittle. Next time, check a minute earlier. Small surface cracks can often be covered with frosting.
Can I use pre-shredded carrots? It’s not recommended. Pre-shredded carrots are often too thick and dry. Freshly grated carrots are finer, moister, and integrate better into the batter.
How do I prevent the towel from sticking? Generously dust the towel with powdered sugar. This creates a non-stick barrier and adds a slight sweetness.
Can I freeze the carrot cake roll? Yes. Wrap the unfrosted, cooled roll tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before filling and serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbeating after adding flour: This develops gluten, leading to a tough cake that cracks.
- Skipping the “training roll”: Cooling the cake flat makes it impossible to roll later without breaking.
- Using cold filling ingredients: Ensure cream cheese and butter are very soft to achieve a smooth, spreadable frosting.
- Spreading frosting on a warm cake: The warmth will melt the frosting, creating a messy, runny interior.
- Rushing the chill time: Slicing before the roll is firmly set will cause it to squish and lose its shape.
Conclusion
This Carrot Cake Roll is a stunning and delicious twist on a classic dessert. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create an impressive, bakery-worthy treat that is sure to delight. The combination of moist, spiced cake and rich cream cheese frosting is irresistible. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply satisfying a sweet craving, this roll proves that elegant desserts can be made right in your own kitchen.