Why Make This Christmas Cake Roll
The Christmas Cake Roll is a delightful dessert that captures the festive spirit in every slice. It’s not only visually stunning with its beautiful swirl and colorful sprinkles, but it also offers a light, airy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. Perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holidays, this cake roll embodies the warmth and joy of the season. It’s easy to make and can be a fun project for bakers of all levels. Every bite delivers a sweet vanilla flavor, evoking the essence of holiday gatherings and cozy celebrations.
How to Make Christmas Cake Roll
Making a Christmas Cake Roll might sound intimidating at first, but it’s quite straightforward. The key is in the preparation and the gentle handling of the cake when it comes out of the oven. By following the steps carefully, you can create a stunning dessert that’s sure to impress. Plus, the recipe allows for some creativity with fillings and decorations, making it a versatile treat for various occasions beyond just Christmas.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
- Festive sprinkles (for decoration)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and line a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until thick and pale. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gently fold in the flour mixture until combined, taking care not to deflate the airy batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden and springs back when touched.
- Remove from the oven and immediately invert onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Roll up the cake and towel together and let it cool completely.
- Meanwhile, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Once the cake is cool, unroll it gently and spread the whipped cream over the surface, then carefully re-roll the cake.
- Place seam-side down on a serving platter and decorate with festive sprinkles. Chill before serving.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 slice, approximately 1/10 of the cake roll):
- Calories: 198
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 82mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 3g
How to Serve Christmas Cake Roll
Serve this delightful cake roll chilled as a dessert after a festive meal, or slice it for an afternoon treat with coffee or tea. It’s great for holiday parties, potlucks, or family gatherings. You can also elevate the presentation by serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzling with chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
How to Store Christmas Cake Roll
Store any leftover Christmas Cake Roll in the refrigerator. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. It should stay delicious for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake roll. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container; it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Expert Tips for Perfect Christmas Cake Roll
- Don’t Overmix: Folding the flour mixture gently into the egg batter keeps the cake light and fluffy.
- Cooling Technique: Allow the cake to cool in the rolled form to help retain its shape.
- Use Parchment Paper: This ensures easy release from the pan and helps avoid sticking.
- Experiment with Fillings: Try adding flavored extracts, fruit preserves, or even a layer of chocolate ganache for a different twist.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Cake Roll: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with cocoa powder for a rich chocolate version.
- Fruit-Filled Roll: Fold in fresh fruit like berries with the whipped cream for a fresh flavor.
- Nutty Twist: Add finely chopped nuts to the batter or use them as a garnish for added texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different size pan?
Yes, you can use a different size, but you will need to adjust the baking time. Smaller pans will bake faster, while larger pans will take longer. Always check for doneness.What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use whipped topping if you want a lighter option, or make your own whipped cream by substituting with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.How do I prevent cracking when rolling?
Make sure not to overbake the cake. If you find it cracks a little, you can use frosting to cover the cracks when decorating!
Conclusion
The Christmas Cake Roll is a festive and fun dessert that brings joy and sweetness to your holiday celebrations. It’s easy to whip up for both seasoned bakers and novices alike. With its airy texture and creamy filling, this cake roll is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and create this delightful treat for your loved ones. Don’t forget to share your experiences and variations—happy baking!
Christmas Cake Roll
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and line a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until thick and pale. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gently fold in the flour mixture until combined, taking care not to deflate the airy batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden and springs back when touched.
- Remove from the oven and immediately invert onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar.
- Roll up the cake and towel together and let it cool completely.
- Meanwhile, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Once the cake is cool, unroll it gently and spread the whipped cream over the surface, then carefully re-roll the cake.
- Place seam-side down on a serving platter and decorate with festive sprinkles. Chill before serving.