As the holiday season approaches and the air fills with the scent of pine, my thoughts drift to the joy of baking. There’s something utterly delightful about transforming simple ingredients into a show-stopping Festive Christmas Cake Roll that brings a smile to everyone’s face. I discovered this charming dessert a few years ago while searching for something that would impress my family without consuming an entire day in the kitchen.
With its airy sponge and light, creamy filling, this cake roll is not only a feast for the eyes but also a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Just picture it: a beautifully rolled cake dusted with powdered sugar and adorned with festive berries and sprinkles that catch the eye! Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or looking for the perfect gift from your kitchen, this recipe promises to bring warmth and sweetness to any occasion. Let’s roll up our sleeves and create a holiday masterpiece that’s as easy as it is delicious!
Why You'll Love This Festive Christmas Cake Roll
- This Festive Christmas Cake Roll is remarkably easy to make, perfect for those who want dessert without the stress.
- The flavor profiles meld beautifully, offering a delicious combination of light sponge and rich cream that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- You can personalize it with various decorations and fillings, making it versatile for any holiday celebration.
- Its stunning visual appeal will impress your guests and make for a beautiful centerpiece on your dessert table.
Festive Christmas Cake Roll Ingredients
• Get ready to bake this delightful Festive Christmas Cake Roll!
For the Cake
- Large eggs – vital for the airy texture that makes the cake light and fluffy.
- Granulated sugar – sweetens the cake while helping it rise beautifully.
- Vanilla extract – adds a warm, inviting flavor that complements the cake’s sweetness.
- All-purpose flour – provides structure; make sure to sift for a lighter sponge.
- Baking powder – ensures the cake rises perfectly, achieving that dreamy fluffiness.
- Salt – balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- Milk – keeps the batter moist and adds richness.
- Melted butter – brings moisture and a hint of richness to the sponge.
For the Filling
- Heavy whipping cream – turns fluffy for a luscious filling everyone will love.
- Powdered sugar – sweetens the cream while preventing it from becoming too watery.
- Vanilla extract (for filling) – enhances the cream flavor, offering a deliciously sweet surprise.
- Cream cheese (optional) – for a thicker, richer filling that adds creaminess.
For Decoration
- Powdered sugar – a light dusting enhances the cake’s festive look.
- Sprinkles – add a fun, colorful touch to your holiday dessert.
- Fresh berries – provide a burst of color and a tangy contrast to the sweetness.
- Whipped cream rosettes – for that elegant, bakery-style finish.
- Holiday sugar decorations – to further elevate the festive spirit of your cake.
How to Make Festive Christmas Cake Roll
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, ensuring the edges are covered for easy removal later.
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Beat 4 large eggs and 3/4 cup granulated sugar together for about 4–6 minutes until the mixture is pale, thick, and airy—a perfect base for a light sponge.
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Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/4 cup milk gently with a spatula to maintain the airy texture of the egg mixture.
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Sift together 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a separate bowl. Then, fold this into the egg mixture gently until just combined, being careful not to deflate it.
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Carefully fold in 2 tablespoons melted butter, taking your time to keep that lovely airy consistency while combining.
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Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 10–12 minutes until the cake springs back lightly when touched.
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Turn the cake onto a clean towel dusted with powdered sugar. Remove the parchment paper, and roll the cake with the towel inside while it’s still warm, letting it cool completely in this shape.
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Beat 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, 1/4 cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup softened cream cheese (if using) until fluffy and well combined.
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Unroll the cooled cake gently, spread the filling evenly over the surface, and carefully roll the cake back up without the towel.
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Dust the outside with powdered sugar or add your festive toppings before serving for a dazzling presentation.
Optional: Garnish with fresh berries for a colorful touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
This Festive Christmas Cake Roll is a fantastic option for meal prep, making it super convenient for your holiday gatherings! You can bake the cake up to 24 hours in advance. Just prepare it following the recipe, then let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating. The filling can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; simply mix it before spreading to regain its fluffiness. When you’re ready to serve, unroll the chilled cake, spread the previously prepared filling, roll it back up, and dust with powdered sugar. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious dessert that tastes just as fresh as if it were made that day, saving you precious time during the festive hustle!
Festive Christmas Cake Roll Variations
Feel free to add a personal twist to your Festive Christmas Cake Roll and make it your own!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a lighter, equally delicious roll that everyone can enjoy.
- Chocolate Delight: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the flour mixture for a rich chocolate cake base that pairs delightfully with the cream filling.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts or crushed hazelnuts into the filling for an added crunch and depth of flavor.
- Fruit-Filled: Swap out heavy cream for 1 cup of fruit puree (like raspberry or strawberry) to create a refreshing, fruity filling that bursts with flavor.
- Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or ginger to the batter for a warm spice note that will cozy up your cake roll during the holidays.
- Lemon Zest: Incorporate a tablespoon of lemon zest in the cake batter to infuse a bright citrus flavor that cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
- Minty Fresh: Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract in the cream filling to give your roll a festive minty surprise that’s perfect for winter celebrations.
- Coffee Infusion: Blend 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules into the cream filling for a mocha twist that coffee lovers will adore.
With these variations, you can create a unique cake roll that reflects your personal taste—have fun experimenting!
What to Serve with Festive Christmas Cake Roll?
As you prepare to delight your family with this charming dessert, consider the perfect accompaniments that will elevate your holiday feast.
- Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm cup with whipped cream adds a cozy touch, perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Its creamy texture balances the sponge’s sweetness and makes for a delightful contrast.
- Chocolate Covered Strawberries: The sweetness and slight acidity of the berries enhance the cake’s flavors while adding a festive flair.
- Spiced Apple Cider: A warm, spiced drink that mirrors the holiday season, adding warmth with every sip.
- Gingerbread Cookies: Their spiced crunch offers a lovely textural contrast, creating a delightful dessert spread.
- Holiday Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits brightened with festive colors provide a refreshing bite that cuts through sweetness.
- Peppermint Bark: This seasonal treat contributes a crunchy texture and a refreshing minty flavor, making it irresistible.
- Festive Eggnog: Creamy and rich, it pairs perfectly with dessert, bringing a traditional holiday essence to your table.
- Pumpkin Pie Bars: Their warming spices tie together the festive spirit while offering another layer of indulgence.
How to Store and Freeze Festive Christmas Cake Roll
Room Temperature: The cake roll can be stored at room temperature for up to 1 day if covered with a kitchen towel to prevent it from drying out.
Fridge: To keep your Festive Christmas Cake Roll fresh for up to 3 days, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake roll for up to 2 months. Wrap it in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. You can serve it chilled or at room temperature—it’s delightful either way!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Festive Christmas Cake Roll, ensure your eggs are at room temperature for optimal volume when beaten.
- A common mistake is overmixing the batter after folding in the flour; be gentle to maintain the airy texture.
- When rolling the cake into the towel, do so while the cake is warm to prevent cracking later.
- Always let the cake cool completely before adding the filling to avoid melting the cream and altering the texture.
Festive Christmas Cake Roll Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best eggs for my cake?
When selecting eggs for your Festive Christmas Cake Roll, look for large eggs that are fresh. You can do a quick freshness test by placing them in a bowl of water; fresh eggs will sink while older eggs will float. Always check the label for the pack date and choose eggs without cracks to ensure the best quality for your cake.
How should I store my cake roll, and how long will it last?
To store your Festive Christmas Cake Roll, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it moist and fresh. It can last in the refrigerator for about 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. For the best results, wrap it again in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn and it will keep well for up to 2 months!
What’s the best way to freeze a cake roll?
Absolutely! To freeze your Festive Christmas Cake Roll, remember to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap after it cools completely. For maximum protection, cover it again in aluminum foil. Label the outside with the date, and it will stay fresh for around 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Why did my cake roll crack when I was rolling it?
Very! A common issue with cake rolls is cracking, often due to rolling it while it’s too cool or not warm enough. When you remove it from the oven, roll it in a towel while it’s still warm; this helps the cake maintain its shape. If it still cracks, don’t worry! You can cover any imperfections with whipped cream, berries, or festive decorations!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
I recommend it! You can easily adapt the Festive Christmas Cake Roll by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Just be sure it contains xanthan gum or add a bit to help with the cake’s structure. Your family won’t be able to tell the difference, and everyone can join in on the festive cheer!
Is it safe to give this cake to my pets?
No, it’s best to avoid sharing this cake roll with your pets. The sugar content, along with other ingredients like chocolate (if used in the filling or decor), can be harmful to them. Instead, consider making a pet-friendly treat to include them in the festivities!
Equipment
- 10x15-inch jelly roll pan
- Mixing bowls
- spatula
- Hand mixer
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 4 large eggs vital for airy texture
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar sweetens and helps rise
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract adds warm flavor
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour sift for lighter sponge
- 1 teaspoon baking powder ensures perfect rise
- 1/4 teaspoon salt balances sweetness
- 1/4 cup milk adds richness
- 2 tablespoons melted butter adds moisture
For the Filling
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream for a luscious filling
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar sweetens the cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling) enhances flavor
- 1/2 cup cream cheese optional for richness
For Decoration
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar for dusting
- sprinkles for a fun touch
- fresh berries for color contrast
- whipped cream rosettes for elegant finish
- holiday sugar decorations to elevate festive spirit
Instructions
How to Make Festive Christmas Cake Roll
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- Beat 4 large eggs and 3/4 cup granulated sugar together for about 4–6 minutes until pale and airy.
- Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/4 cup milk gently.
- Sift together 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt, then fold into the egg mixture.
- Carefully fold in 2 tablespoons melted butter.
- Spread the batter in the prepared pan and bake for 10–12 minutes until it springs back when touched.
- Turn the cake onto a clean towel dusted with powdered sugar and roll while still warm, letting it cool completely.
- Beat 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, 1/4 cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and optional cream cheese until fluffy.
- Unroll the cooled cake, spread the filling, and roll the cake back up without the towel.
- Dust the outside with powdered sugar or festive toppings before serving.
