Easy Carrot Cake Roll Recipe

This Easy Carrot Cake Roll is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of carrot cake with the smooth texture of cream cheese frosting, all rolled into a beautiful, easy-to-make dessert. Perfect for gatherings, this cake is as visually impressive as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cups grated carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a 15×10-inch jelly-roll pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, and salt. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until thick and pale. Gradually beat in the dry flour mixture.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the vegetable oil, grated carrots, and chopped walnuts until well combined.
5. Spread the Batter: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared jelly-roll pan.
6. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
7. Roll the Cake: Loosen the cake from the edges of the pan and turn it out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Carefully roll up the cake and towel together from the narrow end. Let it cool on a wire rack.
8. Fill and Roll Again: Once the cake has cooled, unroll it and remove the towel. Spread with cream cheese frosting, then roll it up again.
9. Refrigerate: Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 slices
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Nuts: If you don’t like walnuts, feel free to use pecans or leave them out entirely.
• Spices: Add extra spices like cloves or nutmeg for a more intense flavor.
• Frosting: For a lighter frosting, you can substitute part of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
• Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use a non-dairy cream cheese substitute for a vegan version.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store the carrot cake roll in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: It’s best served chilled or at room temperature. You can slice it and let it sit for a few minutes before serving for optimal flavor.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make this cake in advance? Yes, you can prepare the carrot cake roll a day ahead. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
2. Can I freeze this carrot cake roll? Yes, you can freeze the unfilled carrot cake roll before adding the frosting. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before frosting and serving.
3. Can I skip the walnuts? Yes, you can leave the walnuts out or substitute them with another nut or dried fruit if desired.
4. How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling it? Make sure the cake is fully cooled before unrolling it. If it cracks, it may have been rolled while still warm, so be patient and let it cool completely.
5. Can I use pre-grated carrots? Yes, but freshly grated carrots will yield a better texture and flavor. If using pre-grated carrots, ensure they’re finely grated.
6. Can I make this without the cream cheese frosting? Yes, you can use a simple whipped cream or buttercream frosting instead.
7. How do I know when the cake is done baking? The cake should spring back when lightly touched, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
8. Can I use a different type of pan? While this recipe is for a jelly-roll pan, you can use a similar-sized baking sheet, as long as it has shallow sides.
9. Can I double this recipe? Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake it in a larger pan. Adjust the baking time as needed.
10. Can I add raisins to the cake? Yes, raisins are a great addition. Add about 1/2 cup to the batter for extra flavor and texture.

Conclusion

This Easy Carrot Cake Roll is the perfect balance of light, spiced cake and rich, creamy frosting. Whether you serve it for a holiday or a casual gathering, it’s sure to impress. With its easy preparation and delicious flavors, this dessert is a must-try for carrot cake lovers and anyone looking for a fresh take on a classic treat.

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