Red Velvet Cake Roll Recipe

ByEmma

Indulge in the perfect combination of rich, velvety chocolate and creamy frosting with this stunning Red Velvet Cake Roll. Not only does it make for an impressive dessert centerpiece, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make if you follow these step-by-step instructions. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp white vinegar
  • 1 tbsp red food coloring

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment Needed

  • A jelly roll pan (15×10 inches)
  • Parchment paper
  • A clean kitchen towel
  • Mixer (hand or stand)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Pro Tip: Use binder clips to secure the parchment paper edges to the pan for a smooth, flat surface.

2. Make the Cake Batter

  1. In a bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  2. In another large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until the mixture triples in volume and becomes pale.
  3. Slowly add the vegetable oil, vanilla extract, vinegar, and red food coloring. Mix until combined.
  4. Gently fold in the dry ingredients, ensuring no lumps remain. Avoid overmixing.

3. Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan, spreading it out with a spatula. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the top springs back when touched gently.

Pro Tip: Do not overbake, as this will make the cake difficult to roll.

4. Roll the Cake

  1. While the cake is still hot, turn it out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment paper carefully.
  2. Starting from one short end, roll the cake up tightly with the towel. Let it cool completely.

Important: Rolling the cake while warm prevents cracking later.

5. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

  1. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy.

6. Assemble the Cake Roll

  1. Carefully unroll the cooled cake. Spread the filling evenly over the surface, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
  2. Gently roll the cake back up (without the towel) and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Chill for at least 1 hour to set.

7. Garnish and Serve

Unwrap the cake roll and place it on a serving platter. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for a finishing touch. Slice and serve chilled.

Pro Tips for Success

  • Use Gel Food Coloring: For a vibrant red hue, opt for gel-based food coloring instead of liquid.
  • Chill for Clean Slices: A cold cake roll slices much cleaner than one at room temperature.
  • Double the Recipe: If serving a crowd, this recipe doubles beautifully. Just bake in two pans.

Enjoy this show-stopping Red Velvet Cake Roll at your next gathering or treat yourself to a slice of heaven. It’s guaranteed to impress with its balance of flavors and stunning presentation!

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