Christmas Cake Roll Recipe

If you’re looking to wow your friends and family this holiday season, this Christmas Cake Roll Recipe is an absolute showstopper. Imagine a soft, spiced sponge cake rolled up and filled with a luxuriously creamy, lightly boozy filling that melts in your mouth. It’s festive, it’s indulgent, and it brings all the warmth of Christmas into a single, elegant dessert. You don’t have to be a baking expert to pull it off — this recipe strikes the perfect balance between impressive and totally achievable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Christmas Cake Roll Recipe starts with a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that come together beautifully. Each item was chosen not just for flavor, but for texture and that all-important festive touch.

• 3 large eggs: Provide structure and richness while helping the cake rise just right.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that tender crumb.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and a classic aromatic depth.
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour: The base for the sponge, ensuring a soft yet sturdy roll.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Gives the cake the perfect lift.
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon: Brings cozy holiday spice notes.
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg: Adds a gentle nutty spice that complements the cinnamon.
• ¼ tsp salt: Balances and enhances all the sweet flavors.
• ¼ cup milk: Keeps the batter moist and tender.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds decadence and richness while softening the crumb.
• Powdered sugar, for dusting: A delicate, snowy finish perfect for presentation.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Whipped to fluffy perfection for the filling.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates a tangy, smooth filling base.
• ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling without grittiness.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the cream’s flavor.
• 1 tbsp brandy or rum (optional): Adds a lovely festive spirit kick.
• Sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or powdered sugar for garnish: To give your cake that final festive flourish.

How to Make Christmas Cake Roll Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper. This ensures the cake won’t stick and makes rolling much easier later on.

Step 2: Whip Eggs and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with the granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale, about 5 minutes. This aeration is key for that springy sponge texture. Then add the vanilla extract and give it a quick mix to combine.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. These spices are subtle but vital, capturing the very essence of Christmas in every bite.

Step 4: Fold Dry Ingredients Into Wet Mixture

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture. The trick here is to be careful so you don’t deflate the batter — you want to preserve those air bubbles for a light sponge.

Step 5: Add Milk and Butter

Warm the milk and melted butter together in a small saucepan, then fold this into the batter until everything is smooth and cohesive. This blend adds moisture and richness that keeps the cake tender.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it — you want just the right amount of springiness.

Step 7: Roll While Warm

Once the cake is baked, immediately invert it onto a clean kitchen towel dusted lightly with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment gently. Roll the cake up with the towel inside and let it cool completely in this rolled shape — this step helps create the roll without cracking later on.

Step 8: Make the Cream Filling

While the cake cools, whip up the filling. Beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, giving you that airy factor. In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mix for a fluffy yet rich filling. If you love a boozy note, add a tablespoon of brandy or rum here.

Step 9: Assemble the Cake Roll

Carefully unroll the cooled cake. Spread the cream filling evenly across the surface, making sure to reach the edges. Then roll it back up (this time without the towel), maximizing even layers of sponge and filling.

Step 10: Chill and Garnish

Place the filled roll on a serving platter and refrigerate for at least one hour to let it set beautifully. Just before serving, dust with powdered sugar and drizzle or sprinkle your chosen festive decorations to make it look truly special.

How to Serve Christmas Cake Roll Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkling the cake roll with powdered sugar gives it a classic snowy look that’s charming and simple. For a more decadent touch, chocolate shavings add elegance and a bit of bittersweet contrast, while colorful sprinkles bring fun and festive cheer to the plate.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot spiced tea or rich coffee, which cuts through the creamy filling. You could also serve it alongside fresh berries to add bright, refreshing notes that balance the richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the roll into thick pinwheels arranged on a rustic wooden board, or place a single slice on a decorative plate with a drizzle of berry compote. For a real wow factor, dust with edible gold glitter or add a sprig of fresh rosemary to bring holiday vibes to your dessert table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Christmas Cake Roll wrapped tightly with plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator. It will stay moist and fresh for up to 3 days, making it a great make-ahead dessert option during the busy holidays.

Freezing

If you want to save the cake for longer, wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Properly stored, it keeps its flavor and texture for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. If you prefer a slightly warmer slice, leave it out for 15-20 minutes to take the chill off before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this Christmas Cake Roll Recipe without alcohol?

Absolutely! The brandy or rum is optional and can be omitted if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. The filling will still be rich, creamy, and delicious without it.

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

A rimmed baking sheet or a regular baking pan of similar size will work just fine—just make sure it’s rimmed to hold the batter and line it well with parchment paper for easy removal.

How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?

Rolling the cake while it’s still warm, with a powdered sugar-dusted towel, helps set its shape gently, so it won’t crack when you add the filling.

Can I use different spices in the cake?

Definitely! You can experiment with cloves, ginger, or allspice to suit your taste, but the cinnamon and nutmeg provide the classic Christmas flavor that balances perfectly here.

How far in advance can I prepare this cake?

You can bake and fill the cake up to a day before serving. Keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve, letting it chill for at least an hour after assembly to hold its shape well.

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Cake Roll Recipe is one of those holiday treasures you’ll want to bake again and again because it’s just that wonderful. The cozy spices, fluffy sponge, and rich filling come together like a warm festive hug. Give it a try this season — I promise you’ll delight your guests and feel proud showing off this gorgeous, tasty creation.

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