Want a showstopping dessert for weeknight dinner? Try this easy carrot roll cake made with homemade cream cheese frosting and fresh carrots, a family favorite, save for later

Carrot Roll Cake

Name: Carrot Roll Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8-10 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups grated carrots; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups powdered sugar

Introduction

The Carrot Roll Cake is a delightful and creative dessert that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the warmth of spices, all wrapped up in a beautiful roll. This cake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making it perfect for special occasions or everyday baking. What’s more, it’s surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for such an impressive result. By using everyday ingredients and a few clever tricks, you can create a masterpiece that will leave everyone wanting more. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making this stunning Carrot Roll Cake, from preparation to presentation, and share some valuable tips and variations to make it truly yours.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of carrots, spices, and cream cheese frosting creates a perfectly balanced flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting.
Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive appearance, the Carrot Roll Cake is relatively simple to prepare, with straightforward steps that don’t require advanced baking skills.
Impressive results with minimal effort: The roll design and vibrant orange color of the cake make it a showstopper, perfect for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for the Carrot Roll Cake include grated carrots, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, large eggs, unsalted butter, cream cheese, and a blend of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. For the frosting, you’ll need cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar. Practical substitutions can be made, such as using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper flavor or replacing some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste. Additionally, ensuring your ingredients are at room temperature will help in achieving a smooth and even cake batter.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan by lining it with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and spices. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, butter, and vanilla extract. Add the grated carrots to the egg mixture and whisk until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Step 2: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. While the cake is baking, prepare a clean tea towel by dusting it with powdered sugar.
Step 3: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, invert the cake onto the prepared tea towel, peel off the parchment paper, and roll the cake up tightly but gently, starting from one of the short ends. Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 4: For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and powdered sugar, beating until creamy and well combined. Once the cake is completely cool, unroll it and spread the frosting evenly over the cake, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Roll the cake up again and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set before slicing and serving.

Handy Tips

To ensure the cake rolls evenly and doesn’t crack, it’s crucial to not overbake it and to roll it while it’s still warm. Also, dusting the tea towel with powdered sugar prevents the cake from sticking to it.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for baking the Carrot Roll Cake is 375°F (190°C), and the baking time should be around 12-15 minutes. It’s essential to keep an eye on the cake, as oven temperatures can vary. The cake is done when it springs back to the touch and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Overbaking can lead to a dry cake that’s prone to cracking when rolled.

Crunch Factor

The Carrot Roll Cake should be moist and tender, with a smooth cream cheese frosting. To achieve this, it’s crucial to not overmix the batter and to not overbake the cake. The addition of chopped nuts or toasted coconut flakes to the batter or frosting can add a delightful crunch and texture contrast to the cake.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

Storage Tips

The Carrot Roll Cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out. For longer storage, the cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, place the rolled cake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and put it in the freezer until frozen solid, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in a freezer-safe bag.

Gift Packaging Ideas

The Carrot Roll Cake makes a wonderful gift, especially when packaged beautifully. Consider wrapping the cake in decorative paper or cloth, and tying it with a ribbon. You could also add a personal touch by including a handwritten note or a small bag of homemade spices. For a more rustic look, the cake can be placed on a wooden board or a decorative plate and wrapped in a burlap sack or a linen cloth.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Different spices: Adding a pinch of cardamom or a teaspoon of espresso powder can give the cake a unique and intriguing flavor.
🌟 Creative toppings: Chopped nuts, toasted coconut flakes, or dried cranberries can add a nice texture and flavor contrast to the cake.
🌟 Ingredient swaps: Replacing some of the granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup can add a deeper flavor, while using browned butter instead of regular butter can add a nutty taste.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If the cake turns out too dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. If it’s too dry, it could be because of overbaking.
Ingredient replacements: If you’re out of a specific ingredient, consider what you can substitute with. For example, you can use applesauce instead of some of the oil for added moisture.
Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the cake while it’s baking, and check it frequently towards the end of the baking time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, and the cake should spring back when touched.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, the Carrot Roll Cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in a freezer-safe bag.
Is it gluten-free? The traditional recipe includes all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can make a gluten-free version by substituting the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger cake. Just ensure you have a large enough pan and adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Making a Carrot Roll Cake is a fun and rewarding baking project that yields a delicious and visually stunning dessert. With its moist and flavorful cake, creamy frosting, and beautiful roll design, it’s perfect for special occasions or everyday treats. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices, toppings, and ingredient swaps to make the recipe your own. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this cake is sure to impress and delight. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the process of creating something truly special.

Moist Carrot Roll Cake with Cream