This Red Velvet Cake Roll brings a festive twist to a beloved classic. With its deep crimson hue and creamy white swirl, it’s not just delicious—it’s a visual treat. The cake is light, moist, and balanced perfectly by the tangy-sweet filling of whipped cream cheese.
Ideal for holidays, dinner parties, or anytime you want to impress your guests, this dessert rolls up everything you love about red velvet into one sliceable masterpiece. Whether you dust it with powdered sugar or top it with fresh berries, it’s guaranteed to steal the spotlight on your dessert table.
Full Recipe
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
-
3/4 cup granulated sugar
-
2 tbsp buttermilk
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
1 tsp white vinegar
-
1 tbsp red food coloring
-
Powdered sugar for rolling
For the Filling:
-
8 oz cream cheese, softened
-
1 cup powdered sugar
-
6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions:
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
-
In a bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
-
In a large mixing bowl, beat eggs until thick and pale, about 3-4 minutes. Add granulated sugar and beat until combined.
-
Mix in buttermilk, vanilla extract, vinegar, and red food coloring.
-
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding gently until no streaks remain.
-
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cake springs back when touched.
-
Dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar. Immediately turn the cake out onto the towel. Peel off the parchment paper and gently roll the cake up in the towel from the short end. Let it cool completely.
-
For the filling, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy.
-
Once the cake has cooled, unroll it carefully and spread the filling evenly. Reroll the cake without the towel.
-
Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing. Dust with more powdered sugar if desired.
Prep Time: 25 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (including cooling time)
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 10 slices
The Elegance of a Red Velvet Cake Roll
The Red Velvet Cake Roll is a refined twist on the iconic red velvet cake, transforming the beloved flavor and texture into a compact, elegant dessert roll. Its vibrant red hue and lush cream cheese swirl create an irresistible treat that pleases both the eye and the palate. The rolled presentation gives it a bakery-level finish, yet it remains approachable enough to make at home, even for casual bakers. This cake roll is perfect for special occasions such as Valentine’s Day, Christmas, birthdays, or anniversaries—but its universal appeal makes it a welcome dessert any time of the year.
A Brief History of Red Velvet Cake
To appreciate the beauty of the Red Velvet Cake Roll, it’s important to understand its roots. Red velvet cake emerged in the early 20th century in the American South, where cocoa powder was introduced into cake recipes to enhance texture and flavor. Originally, the red color came from the natural chemical reaction between acidic ingredients like vinegar and buttermilk and cocoa powder. Over time, food coloring became a popular addition to intensify the cake’s dramatic appearance. Red velvet quickly gained a cult following, and its rich, moist crumb and mild cocoa taste earned it a permanent place in American baking tradition.
Why Make a Cake Roll Instead of a Layered Cake?
A cake roll, or roulade, offers a fresh and elegant way to serve cake. While layered cakes can be heavier and more labor-intensive, a rolled cake uses fewer tools and ingredients while still delivering wow factor. The cake itself is thinner, which gives it a lighter feel. When combined with a creamy filling and rolled into a spiral, each slice showcases the beautiful swirl pattern that adds both visual charm and taste balance. It’s also easier to portion and transport than a traditional tiered cake, making it ideal for gatherings and potlucks.
Texture and Flavor Profile
One of the standout features of the Red Velvet Cake Roll is its texture. The sponge cake used in this recipe is soft, airy, and slightly springy to the touch, making it ideal for rolling without cracking. It offers just enough cocoa flavor to be interesting but not overwhelming. The cream cheese filling is rich, smooth, and slightly tangy, providing the perfect counterbalance to the subtly sweet cake. Together, they create a harmonious blend of flavors that keeps people coming back for more.
The Importance of Rolling Technique
Rolling a cake may seem intimidating at first, but with a little care, it becomes a straightforward task. The key is to roll the cake while it’s still warm, using a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Rolling it early helps the sponge “remember” its shape, which prevents cracking when it’s filled and rerolled. Once filled, the cake is gently rolled back into shape and chilled to firm it up before serving. This technique not only gives the dessert its signature swirl but also ensures a smooth, clean appearance when sliced.
Tips for Perfecting the Cake Roll
Success with a Red Velvet Cake Roll depends on attention to detail. Using room-temperature eggs helps achieve maximum volume when whipping the batter, while sifting dry ingredients prevents clumps and ensures a uniform texture. Adding vinegar and buttermilk gives the cake its signature tang and softness, and the red food coloring makes it visually striking. It’s essential to avoid overbaking, as a dry cake will crack during rolling. A moist sponge is forgiving and pliable. Lastly, chilling the roll after assembly helps the filling set and enhances the flavor.
Customizing Your Red Velvet Cake Roll
This cake roll offers flexibility for customization based on your preferences. You can adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the cream cheese filling by adding a bit more vanilla or a touch of lemon zest. For added texture, sprinkle crushed pecans or mini chocolate chips over the filling before rolling. If you want to take it up a notch visually, drizzle melted chocolate or white chocolate over the top before serving. Dusting with powdered sugar or decorating with festive sprinkles can also give it a seasonal flair.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Serve this Red Velvet Cake Roll chilled for the cleanest slices and optimal flavor. Pair it with a cup of rich coffee or a glass of cold milk for a cozy treat. For special occasions, it pairs beautifully with champagne or a lightly sweet dessert wine. Fresh berries on the side can provide a pop of color and a burst of freshness to complement the rich, creamy filling. This dessert works well as a showstopper centerpiece on a dessert table or as an elegant individual treat plated with flair.
Storing and Make-Ahead Tips
This cake roll is an excellent make-ahead dessert. Once rolled and chilled, it can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. It’s even freezer-friendly—wrap the roll tightly and store in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. Just allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before slicing. This makes it perfect for busy hosts who want to prepare a dessert in advance without compromising on quality.
Why This Dessert Works for Every Occasion
The Red Velvet Cake Roll is both elegant and approachable, making it suitable for a variety of occasions. Its vibrant red color and creamy swirl make it visually festive, while its flavor is sophisticated yet familiar. It’s perfect for holidays when you’re looking for something showy but not overly complicated. It also makes a fantastic addition to bridal showers, office parties, or birthday celebrations. Because it’s easy to slice and serve, it also works well for buffet-style gatherings where guests are serving themselves.
Health Considerations and Substitutions
While this dessert is indulgent, it can be modified for dietary preferences. You can use gluten-free flour for a celiac-friendly version or substitute a dairy-free cream cheese and butter to make it suitable for lactose-intolerant guests. Reduce the sugar in the filling or cake if you’re looking to cut back on sweetness. Using natural red food coloring or beet powder is another way to make the dish a little cleaner while maintaining the signature color.
Conclusion
The Red Velvet Cake Roll is a timeless dessert that brings both flavor and elegance to the table. Its soft, moist sponge and rich, creamy filling make it a decadent treat, while its rolled shape offers a fresh alternative to traditional cakes. Whether you’re hosting a formal dinner, celebrating a holiday, or simply indulging in a weekend baking project, this dessert is sure to leave a lasting impression. It’s proof that with a few simple techniques and quality ingredients, you can create a stunning, bakery-style treat right from your own kitchen. Add it to your recipe collection—you’ll be glad you did.
