Red Velvet Cake Roll Recipe

Red Velvet Cake Roll Recipe Divine Indulgence

Indulging in a red velvet cake roll sparks pure culinary magic that dances between decadence and artistry.

Soft crimson swirls promise an elegant dessert experience waiting to unfold.

Sweet cocoa nuances blend seamlessly with cream cheese frosting, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors.

Rich texture and vibrant color make this treat a showstopper at any gathering.

Delicate yet impressive, this dessert requires minimal baking expertise but delivers maximum visual appeal.

Smooth rolling techniques ensure a picture-perfect presentation that will amaze everyone at the table.

You’ll want to savor each delightful bite of this classic Southern-inspired delicacy.

Why Everyone Loves a Red Velvet Cake Roll

  • Savor the Delightful Red Velvet Cake Roll
  • Perfect for novice bakers seeking a showstopping dessert without complex techniques. The step-by-step instructions make rolling and filling the cake a breeze, boosting confidence in the kitchen.
  • Whips up in under an hour of active preparation, making it ideal for spontaneous sweet cravings or last-minute gatherings. The 12-15 minute bake time and simple assembly process mean you'll have a stunning dessert ready quickly.
  • Impresses guests with its elegant spiral design and rich red velvet flavor. The cream cheese filling adds a luxurious touch that transforms an ordinary cake into a spectacular centerpiece for parties, holidays, or special celebrations.
  • Works beautifully as a make-ahead dessert that can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Easily adaptable for birthdays, potlucks, or a delightful weekend treat that everyone will love.

What You’ll Need to Make Red Velvet Cake Roll

Cake Base Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour, Cocoa Powder: Provide structure and rich chocolate flavor for the cake, with natural cocoa powder giving deep color and taste.
  • Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise and creates a light, soft texture.
  • Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Eggs: Create volume and provide richness to the cake structure.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with cake's texture.
  • Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
  • Buttermilk: Adds tanginess and helps activate baking powder.
  • White Vinegar: Helps create tender crumb and supports chemical reaction.
Color and Flavor Ingredients:
  • Red Food Coloring: Gives signature red velvet color.
  • Vanilla Extract: Provides warm, classic background flavor.
Cream Cheese Filling Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese, Butter: Create smooth, rich filling base with creamy texture.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the filling.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds subtle flavor to the filling.
Finishing Ingredients:
  • Powdered Sugar: Used for dusting and decorative touch.

Directions for Rolling Up a Red Velvet Cake

Step 1: Prepare Baking Surface

Preheat oven to 350F. Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper and coat with cooking spray. Ensure the entire surface is well-greased for easy cake removal.

Step 2: Create Dry Mixture

Combine in a bowl:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Cocoa powder
  • Baking powder
  • Salt

Sift ingredients together thoroughly to remove any lumps.

Step 3: Whip Egg Base

Use an electric mixer to beat eggs on high speed until they become fluffy and pale. Slowly incorporate granulated sugar while continuing to mix. The mixture should become thick and ribbon-like.

Step 4: Blend Liquid Ingredients

Gently mix into egg mixture:
  • Vegetable oil
  • Buttermilk
  • White vinegar
  • Red food coloring
  • Vanilla extract

Stir until ingredients are just combined.

Step 5: Merge Mixtures

Fold dry ingredients into wet mixture carefully. Use gentle circular motions to prevent deflating the batter. Stop mixing once no flour streaks remain.

Step 6: Bake Cake Layer

Pour batter into prepared pan. Spread evenly to all edges. Bake for 12-15 minutes until cake surface springs back when lightly touched.

Step 7: Initial Cake Rolling

Dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar. Immediately after baking, flip cake onto towel. Remove parchment paper. Roll cake with towel from short end, creating a spiral shape. Allow to cool completely.

Step 8: Create Cream Cheese Filling

Beat together:
  • Cream cheese
  • Butter

Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 9: Final Assembly

Unroll cooled cake carefully. Spread cream cheese filling evenly, leaving small edges uncovered. Gently re-roll cake without towel. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for one hour.

Step 10: Serve and Garnish

Dust with additional powdered sugar. Slice into elegant portions. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cake Roll Texture

  • Prevent Cake Cracking: Roll the warm cake with the towel immediately after baking to help maintain moisture and prevent cracking during cooling.
  • Smooth Filling Application: Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for easier spreading and a smoother, lump-free filling consistency.
  • Control Color Intensity: Adjust red food coloring amount to achieve desired deep red or lighter red velvet color without affecting cake texture.
  • Slice Perfectly: Use a sharp, clean knife wiped between cuts to create neat, precise slices without smearing the cream cheese filling.
  • Store Smartly: Wrap the cake roll tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage, maintaining its fresh texture and flavor.

Red Velvet Cake Roll Storage and Reheat Guide

  • Store the cake roll wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain moisture and prevent absorbing other food odors.
  • Wrap the cake roll securely in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Cut the cake roll into individual portions before refrigerating for easier serving and to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Enjoy the cake roll directly from the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor. Let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes if you prefer a softer consistency.

Flavors That Complement a Red Velvet Cake Roll

  • Rich, bold espresso cuts through the cake's sweetness, creating a perfect balance. Its intense coffee notes complement the creamy cream cheese filling, elevating each bite with a sophisticated flavor contrast.
  • Aged bourbon's smooth caramel undertones blend beautifully with the cake's deep red color and velvety texture. The whiskey's warmth enhances the dessert's richness, creating a decadent tasting experience.
  • Tart, bright raspberries provide a refreshing counterpoint to the cake's dense cream cheese filling. Their natural acidity cleanses the palate and adds a vibrant burst of color to the dessert plate.
  • Delicate bubbles and subtle berry notes in rosé champagne dance perfectly with the cake's luxurious profile. The wine's elegant crispness cuts through the dessert's creamy richness, creating an indulgent and sophisticated pairing.

How to Add a Twist to Red Velvet Cake Roll

  • Gluten-Free Red Velvet Roll: Replace wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the same soft texture while accommodating celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Swap cream cheese with coconut cream cheese and use plant-based butter alternatives to create a lactose-free version that maintains the classic red velvet flavor profile.
  • Reduced Sugar Option: Substitute granulated sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia to lower overall sugar content, perfect for diabetic-friendly or low-carb dietary needs.
  • Vegan Red Velvet Roll: Use egg replacer or aquafaba, replace dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut cream, creating a completely plant-based dessert that doesn't compromise on taste or texture.

Questions on Red Velvet Cake Roll? Get Answers

  • Is red velvet cake roll difficult to make?

No, it’s surprisingly straightforward! With careful following of steps and some patience, even beginner bakers can successfully create this elegant dessert.

  • Why do I need to roll the cake while it's warm?

Rolling the cake immediately after baking prevents cracking and helps create the smooth, flexible texture needed for a perfect cake roll. The warm cake is more pliable and will hold its shape better.

  • Can I make this cake roll ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cake roll up to 2-3 days in advance. After assembling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

  • What makes the cake's texture so special?

The combination of beaten eggs, oil, and buttermilk creates a light, soft, and moist cake that’s perfect for rolling without breaking. The technique of beating eggs until thick and pale is key to achieving the right texture.

Print
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Red Velvet Cake Roll Recipe

Red Velvet Cake Roll Recipe


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4.9 from 13 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Indulgent red velvet cake roll brings Southern charm to dessert tables with its crimson swirl and creamy filling. Cream cheese frosting nestled inside this elegant Swiss roll promises a delightful experience that will charm guests and satisfy sweet cravings.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 large eggs, at room temperature
  • ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour

Cake Dry Ingredients:

  • 3 tablespoons (15g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon red food coloring

Cake Liquid Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Cream Cheese Filling Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces (226g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 ¾ cups (210g) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Meticulously prepare a jelly roll pan by heating the oven to 350F (175C). Coat the pan with grease, layer with parchment paper, and apply additional grease to ensure effortless cake release.
  2. Sift dry ingredients in a medium bowl, combining flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Reserve the mixture to the side.
  3. Utilize an electric mixer to whip eggs on high velocity for approximately 5 minutes until achieving a thick, pale consistency. Introduce granulated sugar gradually while continuing to beat until thoroughly integrated.
  4. Transition mixer to low speed, incorporating vegetable oil, buttermilk, vinegar, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Mix until ingredients are harmoniously blended.
  5. Delicately fold dry ingredients into wet mixture, ensuring no flour streaks remain. Exercise caution to prevent overmixing.
  6. Transfer batter into prepared pan, distributing evenly to reach all edges. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the cake’s center responds with resilience when gently pressed.
  7. Simultaneously, arrange a thin kitchen towel on a flat surface, generously dusting with powdered sugar. Upon cake completion, swiftly loosen edges with a knife and invert onto prepared towel. Carefully remove parchment paper.
  8. Initiate rolling from a short end, tightly spiraling cake with towel. Position rolled cake on a wire rack for complete cooling.
  9. Craft cream cheese filling by whipping softened cream cheese and butter until achieving a silky texture. Gradually integrate powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and spreadable.
  10. After cake reaches room temperature, carefully unroll and spread cream cheese filling evenly, maintaining a small perimeter. Gently re-roll into a compact spiral without the towel.
  11. Encase cake roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for minimal one hour to solidify. Prior to serving, optionally dust with powdered sugar and slice into delicate 1-inch portions.

Notes

  • Preserve cake’s moisture by rolling while warm, preventing cracking and ensuring a soft, pliable texture.
  • Dust towel generously with powdered sugar to prevent sticking and create a clean, smooth cake surface.
  • Use room temperature ingredients for smoother batter and more consistent mixing, especially eggs and cream cheese.
  • Adapt recipe for dietary needs by substituting gluten-free flour, using dairy-free cream cheese, or reducing sugar content.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 263
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 31g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 97mg
Jamie Granger

Jamie Granger

Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

  • Fusion Cuisine Development
  • Recipe Development and Food Styling
  • Culinary Writing and Content Creation
  • Nutrition and Healthy Cooking​

Education

Culinary Institute of America

  • Degree: Associate in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Emphasis on flavor development, classic and contemporary culinary techniques, menu design, and global cuisine preparation; combined with food-service management, communication, and finance training; and immersive hands‑on restaurant operations through paid industry internships.

Jamie Granger turns ingredients into memories. With her recipes, she brings a fusion-forward flair to every creation. 

Her dishes reflect the places she’s explored, the chefs she’s learned from, and the deep connection she has to food as a form of expression. 

At Pass and Provision, Jamie develops recipes that balance flavor, health, and beauty, meals that don’t just satisfy your appetite but speak to your curiosity.

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