Christmas Cake Roll Recipe

Nothing beats the cozy charm of a homemade Christmas dessert, and this Christmas Cake Roll Recipe is exactly that warm hug on a chilly holiday evening. With a soft, spiced sponge cake rolled tightly around a luscious cream cheese filling, every bite bursts with festive flavors and creamy delight. It’s a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to make, perfect for sharing with family and friends while creating memories around the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Christmas Cake Roll Recipe shines because of its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each item brings its own magic — from the warming spices that scent the cake to the creamy filling that balances sweetness and tang.

• 3 large eggs: Provide structure and a fluffy texture to the sponge cake.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps with the light, airy crumb.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant warmth that deepens the cake’s flavor.
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour: The foundation for the sponge, giving it tender softness.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Ensures a light rise so the roll isn’t dense.
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon: Introduces a classic holiday spice note.
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg: A subtle nutty spice that complements the cinnamon.
• ¼ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
• ¼ cup milk: Keeps the batter moist and tender.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and a velvety crumb.
• Powdered sugar, for dusting: Adds festive sparkle and helps with rolling.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Whipped into peaks to create a fluffy filling.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Gives the filling a creamy tang and smooth texture.
• ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling delicately without graininess.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses the filling with warmth and aroma.
• 1 tbsp brandy or rum (optional): Adds a festive boozy depth to the cream.
• Sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or powdered sugar for garnish: Personalizes and decorates your roll with holiday cheer.

How to Make Christmas Cake Roll Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper to ensure your cake slides out easily without sticking. This early setup makes the rolling process much smoother later on.

Step 2: Beat the Eggs and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, vigorously beat the eggs and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy, about five minutes. This aeration step is crucial because it gives the sponge its lift and light texture. Then stir in the vanilla extract for that lovely aroma that immediately feels festive.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a separate bowl. These spices and the leavening agent come together to create the flavor profile and the delicate rise of the cake. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, taking care to keep the batter airy — no overmixing here!

Step 4: Add Milk and Melted Butter

Warm milk combined with melted butter is then folded into the batter, adding moisture and richness. This is the secret to that tender, melt-in-your-mouth cake crumb that will make your Christmas Cake Roll Recipe stand out.

Step 5: Bake the Sponge

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared jelly roll pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 10-12 minutes — keep a close eye to avoid overbaking. You’re looking for a cake that springs back when touched and passes the toothpick test with no wet batter clinging.

Step 6: Roll the Cake While Warm

As soon as it’s out of the oven, carefully invert the cake onto a powdered sugar-dusted kitchen towel. Peel off the parchment paper gently, then roll the cake up with the towel still inside. This technique helps the cake “remember” its rolled shape and prevents cracking once it cools completely.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

While the cake cools, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until silky smooth. Fold the whipped cream gently into the cream cheese mixture, and add brandy or rum if you want an extra festive touch of warmth.

Step 8: Unroll and Fill

Once your cake has cooled in its rolled shape, unroll it carefully. Spread the luscious cream filling evenly over the surface, smoothing it out so every bite includes that delightful filling. Roll the cake back up without the towel this time, keeping it tight and neat.

Step 9: Chill to Set

Place the rolled cake seam-side down on a serving platter and refrigerate for at least an hour. Chilling helps the filling set firmly, making slicing cleaner and the flavors more harmonious.

Step 10: Add Festive Garnishes

Just before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar and decorate with sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or any other holiday embellishments you love. This final touch brings a festive sparkle and makes your Christmas Cake Roll Recipe truly irresistible.

How to Serve Christmas Cake Roll Recipe

Garnishes

Simple powdered sugar is classic and elegant, but you can get creative with colorful sprinkles, crushed peppermint candies, or finely grated dark chocolate to add a pop of texture and taste. Fresh berries or edible gold leaf can elevate the presentation if you’re hosting a special holiday gathering.

Side Dishes

This cake roll pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot spiced tea, rich coffee, or a warming mug of hot chocolate. For a grown-up touch, a glass of mulled wine or a festive cocktail enhances the experience, complimenting the cake’s spiced flavor and creamy filling.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn this classic recipe into a centerpiece by placing it on a festive cake stand surrounded by holly sprigs or cinnamon sticks. Slice it into generous rounds to reveal the swirls of filling and cake in each piece — perfect for plating alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of cinnamon ice cream.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover Christmas Cake Roll Recipe tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh. It will stay delicious in the fridge for up to three days — giving you extra slices to enjoy without worry.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the cake roll tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can last up to a month frozen. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before unwrapping to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating

Because this is a chilled dessert, reheating is not typically necessary. However, if you prefer a slightly softened filling, allow it to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. This subtle warming brings out the creaminess without losing the cake’s integrity.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the milk with your favorite plant-based milk and swap the butter for a dairy-free margarine. For the filling, use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream whipped to stiff peaks for a similar texture and taste.

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

A rimmed baking sheet approximately 15×10 inches will work just as well. Just ensure it has low sides and line it properly with parchment paper to avoid sticking during the roll.

Can I prepare this cake a day ahead?

Absolutely! The cake can be assembled and chilled up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, the flavors deepen after some time in the fridge, making it even more delightful the next day.

Is the alcohol in the filling necessary?

No, it’s completely optional. The brandy or rum adds a nice festive note, but you can skip it or substitute with a splash of vanilla or orange extract for a non-alcoholic version.

How do I avoid cracks when rolling the cake?

Rolling the cake immediately after it bakes, while it’s still warm and flexible, is key. Using the powdered sugar-dusted towel keeps it from sticking and helps the cake “learn” to roll without breaking. Letting it cool rolled up prevents cracks during final assembly.

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Cake Roll Recipe is a true treasure for the holidays — offering that perfect balance of spiced goodness and creamy sweetness wrapped in a soft, tender cake. It’s a dessert that brings smiles, sparks memories, and invites everyone to gather ’round eagerly for just one more slice. Don’t hesitate to try it out this season; your celebration’s sweet centerpiece awaits!

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