The holidays have a way of stirring up the senses, and nothing captures that festive spirit quite like the vibrant color of a Christmas Red Velvet Cake Roll. Picture this: the moment you walk into a cozy kitchen filled with the rich aroma of cocoa mingling with hints of vanilla, all while soft music plays in the background. This delightful dessert isn’t just easy on the eyes; it’s a deliciously decadent treat that rolls out celebration in every bite.
I stumbled upon this enchanting recipe when searching for a showstopper that wouldn’t take all day to prepare. With its alluring red hue and creamy filling, this cake roll is bound to steal the spotlight at any holiday gathering. Imagine surprising your friends and family with a dessert that looks fancy yet is surprisingly simple to whip up. In just 40 minutes, you’ll have a beautiful dessert that is sure to impress even the most discerning of guests. So, let’s gather our ingredients and roll into the joyful season with this exquisite Christmas Red Velvet Cake Roll!
Why You'll Love This Christmas Red Velvet Cake Roll
- This Christmas Red Velvet Cake Roll is a showstopper that combines stunning presentation with ease of preparation.
- The vibrant red color not only brightens up your holiday table but also gives an impressive flair that will leave your guests in awe.
- With a total time of just 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy holiday hosts who want to create something delicious without spending all day in the kitchen.
- Its creamy filling adds a luxurious layer of flavor, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s sure to delight everyone at the celebration.
- You’ll love how versatile this dessert is, as it can be customized with different fillings or toppings to suit your taste.
Christmas Red Velvet Cake Roll Ingredients
Get ready to create something magical with these ingredients!
For the Cake
- All-purpose flour – Essential for the structure of your cake roll; sifted for a lighter texture.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds a rich chocolate flavor that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake and contributes to its moistness.
- Baking powder – Helps the cake rise, giving it a fluffy texture.
- Large eggs – They provide moisture and binding; room temperature eggs work best.
- Vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist; you can substitute it with melted butter if desired.
- Red food coloring (gel) – Ensures that vibrant festive look; gel colors provide a richer hue without affecting the consistency.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile; always use pure extract for the best results.
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- Cream cheese – This creamy base adds a luxurious taste; make sure it’s softened for easy whipping.
- Powdered sugar – Offers sweetness and helps stabilize the filling.
- Heavy cream – Whipped into the filling for extra richness and fluffiness.
Feel free to get creative with the ingredients, but keep in mind that this Christmas Red Velvet Cake Roll truly shines when made with the listed essentials. Happy baking!
How to Make Christmas Red Velvet Cake Roll
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Preheat oven: Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial to ensure your cake rolls rise perfectly as it bakes. Grab your jelly roll pan, line it with parchment paper, and give it a light grease for easy removal later.
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Mix dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 tsp of baking powder, and a pinch of salt until well combined. This mixture will be the foundation of your fluffy cake.
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Beat wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat 1 cup of granulated sugar and 3 large eggs together until the mixture is pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Then mix in 2 tbsp of vegetable oil, 1 tsp of vanilla extract, and 1 oz of red food coloring. This vibrant color is a holiday must!
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Combine mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be gentle to keep that fluffy texture! Once done, pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
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Bake cake: Slide your cake into the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. When baked, invert the cake onto a kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. This prevents sticking while rolling.
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Prepare filling: For the filling, whip together 8 oz of softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup of heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add in 1 cup of powdered sugar, mixing until your filling is smooth and creamy.
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Assemble cake roll: Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the cooled cake. Now, using the kitchen towel, roll the cake tightly, starting from one of the short ends. This will help achieve that beautiful spiral.
Optional: Dust with extra powdered sugar before serving for a winter wonderland effect!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Red Velvet Cake Rolls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during holiday festivities! You can prepare the cake base up to 24 hours in advance by baking it and allowing it to cool completely. Once cool, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain its moisture and prevent drying out. The cream cheese filling can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your cake roll, simply spread the filling over the chilled cake, roll it up, and serve for a delightful dessert that tastes just as fresh as the day it was made!
What to Serve with Christmas Red Velvet Cake Roll?
Imagine the festive cheer your table will radiate when you pair this beautiful dessert with the perfect accompaniments. Bring joy to your holiday gathering with these delightful ideas!
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Velvety Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla or peppermint ice cream beautifully contrasts the moist cake, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
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Fresh Berries: A medley of tart raspberries and sweet strawberries adds a vibrant, fresh touch, balancing the sweetness of the cake roll perfectly.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream provides extra fluffiness tied together with hints of vanilla, creating a luscious mouthfeel.
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Coffee or Espresso: Brewed coffee’s rich bitterness complements the sweetness of the red velvet cake, making each bite even more indulgent.
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Peppermint Hot Cocoa: For a cozy touch, serve with a mug of rich hot cocoa flavored with peppermint—the warm drink resonates with holiday nostalgia.
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Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy almond or hazelnut biscotti brings texture, offering a delightful contrast alongside the smooth cake roll.
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Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle a silky chocolate ganache over the cake roll for an extra touch of decadence that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Cinnamon Sugar Cookies: These cozy cookies echo the holiday spirit and create a delightful variety for your guests to munch on.
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Sparkling Cider: A glass of bubbly cider adds refreshing effervescence, elevating the festive vibe without the need for alcohol.
Indulge your guests and create a magical holiday experience with these thoughtful pairings!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Red Velvet Cake Roll
Room Temperature: Keep the rolled cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days. If it’s unfilled, it can sit at room temperature without a worry.
Fridge: Store the filled Christmas Red Velvet Cake Roll wrapped in plastic wrap or in a sealed container. It stays fresh for up to 5 days, ensuring that each slice remains delectable.
Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap the filled roll tightly in plastic wrap and foil. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: If you prefer a warm treat, gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Enjoy the delightful flavors freshening up as you savor each bite!
Christmas Red Velvet Cake Roll Variations
Feel free to let your imagination run wild and customize this delicious dessert to fit your tastes and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to enjoy the same delightful texture without gluten.
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Nut-Free: Replace any added nuts or toppings with extra whipped cream or fresh fruit to keep it nut-free while adding delightful freshness.
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Lower Sugar: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener in equal amounts to cut down on sugar without sacrificing flavor.
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Vegan: Swap eggs for flaxseed meal (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg) and use a vegan cream cheese alternative for a delightful plant-based version. The flavors will still shine through!
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Chocolate Boost: Elevate the cocoa flavor by incorporating chocolate chips or a layer of ganache for that extra decadence.
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Spice It Up: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter for a warm, spiced flavor that echoes the cozy vibes of the holiday season.
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Minty Fresh: Mix in peppermint extract into the filling for a refreshing twist that complements the chocolate and red velvet beautifully.
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Fruit Infusion: Fold in a puree of berries or citrus zest into the cream cheese filling for a fruity tang that brightens up each slice. The contrast of flavors will awaken your taste buds!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making the Christmas Red Velvet Cake Roll, ensure your eggs are at room temperature to achieve a better volume when beating them.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, as this can lead to a denser cake.
- For a smoother filling, make sure your cream cheese is sufficiently softened before whipping to avoid lumps.
- Lastly, keep a close eye on the baking time and check your cake a few minutes early, as ovens can vary in temperature.
Christmas Red Velvet Cake Roll Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select ripe ingredients for this cake?
Absolutely! When choosing your ingredients, look for all-purpose flour that is fresh and free of clumps. For the best results, use unsweetened cocoa powder that appears rich in color and has a pleasant aroma. Ensure your eggs are fresh; a quick sniff will help you confirm they’re good to use. Lastly, when picking your red food coloring, opt for gel rather than liquid for a more vibrant color without compromising the batter’s texture.
How should I store the Christmas Red Velvet Cake Roll?
To preserve the freshness of your cake roll, process it with care! For room temperature storage, place it in an airtight container where it can stay for up to 2 days. If it’s filled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in a sealed container in the fridge where it will maintain its deliciousness for up to 5 days. Trust me, it’s still just as delightful days later!
Can I freeze the Christmas Red Velvet Cake Roll?
Yes, you can! Freezing your cake roll is a great way to keep it for longer. Begin by allowing the filled cake roll to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, and savor that freshly baked taste!
What should I do if my cake cracks while rolling?
Very! If your cake cracks while rolling, don’t panic. Here’s a fix: First, make sure your cake is completely cooled before attempting to roll it. If you find it’s still cracking, you can apply a bit more filling to the cracks and roll gently right up to the edge without squeezing too tightly. Additionally, using a damp kitchen towel during the rolling process can help retain moisture and prevent cracks.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! This Christmas Red Velvet Cake Roll is generally gluten-containing because of the all-purpose flour. For those with gluten sensitivities, consider substituting it with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Also, ensure your cream cheese and heavy cream are suitable for any dietary restrictions; many brands offer lactose-free options. As for pets, chocolate can be toxic to dogs, so keep any leftovers safely stored away!
Can I make substitutions in the ingredients for this recipe?
Of course! You can easily swap the vegetable oil for melted butter to add a richer flavor to the cake. If you’re looking for a lighter option, unsweetened applesauce can be a fantastic replacement for oil. For the filling, consider using mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese for a unique twist that still complements the festive flavors deliciously!
Equipment
- jelly roll pan
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- parchment paper
- kitchen towel
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 cup all-purpose flour sifted
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 3 large eggs room temperature
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 oz red food coloring (gel)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract preferably pure
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
How to Make Christmas Red Velvet Cake Roll
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- In another bowl, beat sugar and eggs until pale and fluffy, then add oil, vanilla, and red food coloring.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gently until just combined. Pour into prepared pan.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Invert onto powdered sugar-dusted towel.
- Whip cream cheese and heavy cream until soft peaks form, then mix in powdered sugar until smooth.
- Spread filling over the cooled cake and roll tightly using the kitchen towel. Chill before serving.
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