Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling

Posted by My Name is Alice on


If you love classic carrot cake but want a fun and elegant twist, this Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling is the perfect dessert! It features a moist, spiced carrot cake rolled around a luscious cream cheese filling, creating a beautiful spiral of flavor in every bite. Whether you're making it for a holiday gathering, birthday, or just because, this cake roll is sure to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Light and fluffy texture with the perfect balance of warm spices.
  • Decadent cream cheese filling that melts in your mouth.
  • Eye-catching presentation that looks fancy but is easy to make.
  • Make-ahead friendly—perfect for entertaining!

Yields: 8-10 servings

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

Ingredients

For the Carrot Cake:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour – Provides the structure for the cake.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder & 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cake rise and stay fluffy.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon & 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg – Adds warmth and depth to the cake.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar & 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar – Creates a balanced sweetness and keeps the cake moist.
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil – Ensures a tender, soft texture.
  • 2 large eggs – Helps bind the ingredients and add richness.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor.
  • 1 cup grated carrots (about 2 medium carrots) – The star ingredient, adding natural sweetness and moisture.
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) – Adds crunch and nutty flavor.

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened – The base for the creamy, tangy filling.
  • 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened – Adds smoothness and richness.
  • 2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the filling.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan, then line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Carrot Cake

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until well blended.
  3. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
  4. Stir in the grated carrots and nuts (if using).
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly using a spatula.
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 3: Roll the Cake While Warm

  1. While the cake is baking, lay a clean kitchen towel on a flat surface and dust it lightly with powdered sugar.
  2. Once the cake is done, immediately loosen the edges from the pan and invert it onto the towel.
  3. Gently peel off the parchment paper from the cake.
  4. While the cake is still warm, roll it up tightly in the towel, starting from one of the shorter ends.
  5. Set the rolled cake aside to cool completely at room temperature.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
  3. Increase to medium speed and beat until light and fluffy.
  4. Stir in the vanilla extract for extra flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake Roll

  1. Carefully unroll the cooled cake and spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
  2. Reroll the cake tightly, this time without the towel.
  3. Wrap the cake roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Remove from the fridge and trim the ends for a clean, professional presentation.
  2. Slice into 1-inch thick pieces and arrange on a serving plate.
  3. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze for an extra touch.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Carrot Cake Roll

✔ Roll the cake while warm – This prevents cracks and ensures a perfect shape.
✔ Use freshly grated carrots – Pre-shredded store-bought carrots are too dry.
✔ Chill before slicing – A cold cake roll is easier to cut and holds its shape better.
✔ Make ahead – This cake roll can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a warm cup of chai tea, coffee, or spiced cider for a cozy dessert.
  • Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra indulgent touch.
  • Serve with vanilla or caramel ice cream for a delicious contrast in textures.

Recipe Variations

  • More carrot flavor: Increase to 1 1/2 cups of grated carrots.
  • Spicier version: Add 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger for extra warmth.
  • Nutty twist: Swap walnuts for pecans, hazelnuts, or macadamia nuts.
  • Fruity addition: Fold in 1/2 cup of raisins or finely chopped dried pineapple to the batter.
  • Extra sweetness: Drizzle with a maple glaze or caramel sauce before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling is a show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make! The spiced, tender cake combined with the rich, tangy cream cheese filling creates a dessert that is both delicious and visually stunning. Whether for Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, this cake roll is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Make this today and enjoy a slice of pure indulgence! Don't forget to refrigerate leftovers—if there are any!