A light, tender carrot-spiced cake rolled around a silky cream cheese filling, this dessert is beautifully festive and surprisingly easy to make. Its swirl presentation makes it perfect for gatherings, holidays, or whenever you want an elegant sweet treat with comforting flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This carrot cake roll offers all the warm spice and moist texture of classic carrot cake but in an eye-catching rolled form. The thin sponge bakes quickly, the filling is rich yet balanced, and the rolling technique keeps the cake incredibly soft. It chills well, slices cleanly, and brings a delightful blend of sweetness, spice, and creamy smoothness.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the carrot cake:
3/4 cup (90 g) flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/8 tsp cloves
3 large eggs
1/2 cup (100 g) sugar
2 tbsp brown sugar (optional, enhances flavor)
2/3 cup (approx. 70 g) finely grated carrot
1 tsp vanilla
Powdered sugar for rolling

For the cream filling:
225 g cream cheese (room temperature)
1/4 cup (55 g) butter (room temperature)
1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 175°C. Grease a 25×38 cm jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs with sugar for 2–3 minutes until pale and thick.
4. Add vanilla and grated carrot, mixing to combine.
5. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula.
6. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
7. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
8. Dust a clean kitchen towel generously with powdered sugar.
9. Invert the hot cake onto the towel. Peel off the parchment paper carefully.
10. Roll the cake with the towel while it is still hot. Allow it to cool completely.
11. For the filling, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy.
12. Unroll the cooled cake gently. Spread the cream filling evenly over the surface.
13. Roll the cake again, this time without the towel.
14. Wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing.
15. Dust with powdered sugar if desired, slice, and serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8–10 slices.
Preparation time: about 20 minutes
Baking time: 10–12 minutes
Cooling and chilling time: about 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Add 1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts for a nutty texture.
• Replace vanilla in the filling with a splash of orange zest for a citrus twist.
• Add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the filling for deeper sweetness.
• Incorporate a pinch of cardamom for a slightly floral spice profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store the carrot cake roll tightly wrapped or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the roll (whole or sliced) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. This dessert does not require reheating; it is best enjoyed chilled.

FAQs

How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?

Rolling the cake while it is still hot and flexible is the key to preventing cracks.

Can I make this cake roll a day ahead?

Yes, it actually slices better after chilling overnight.

Do I need to peel the carrots?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture and cleaner taste.

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

Use the closest size you have, ensuring the batter spreads in a thin, even layer.

Can I reduce the sugar?

You may slightly reduce the granulated sugar, but it can affect texture. Avoid reducing the powdered sugar in the filling too much as it provides structure.

How finely should the carrots be grated?

Very finely—this allows them to integrate smoothly into the thin sponge.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Using more than 25% whole wheat flour may make the cake denser and harder to roll.

Why is powdered sugar needed for rolling?

It prevents the cake from sticking to the towel and adds a hint of sweetness.

Can I freeze the cake roll with the filling?

Yes, it freezes well fully assembled.

How do I get clean slices?

Use a sharp knife wiped clean between each cut.

Conclusion

This carrot cake roll transforms a classic dessert into an elegant, beautifully swirled treat that’s ideal for celebrations or everyday enjoyment. With its soft spiced cake and creamy filling, it brings both simplicity and sophistication to the table. Enjoy it chilled, neatly sliced, and irresistibly delicious.

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