Christmas Cake Roll Recipe

There’s just something magical about gathering around the table and unveiling a gorgeously swirled Christmas Cake Roll. With a tender chocolate sponge, pillowy whipped cream filling, and a glossy chocolate ganache, this dessert serves holiday cheer in every slice. The colorful sprinkles or a dash of peppermint on top bring festive joy, making it a showstopper that’s as delightful to eat as it is to present. Whether you’re hosting a big celebration or a cozy family night, this Christmas Cake Roll will have everyone reaching for seconds—and maybe even the recipe, too.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Christmas Cake Roll recipe is a lesson in how a few pantry staples, when combined just right, can create a dessert that feels utterly special. Each ingredient plays its own star role—bringing softness, sweetness, color, and a little holiday magic to your table.

• All-purpose flour: Forms the backbone of the cake roll, providing just enough structure for that signature swirl.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Pumps up the chocolate flavor and gives the sponge its rich, festive color.
• Baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully, keeping the texture light and airy.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances every other flavor—never skip it!
• Large eggs: Whipped for volume, the eggs make the roll soft and flexible for rolling without cracks.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake batter perfectly, balancing the cocoa’s natural bitterness.
• Vanilla extract: Infuses both cake and filling with warm, comforting notes.
• Milk: Adds moisture and helps give the cake a gentle, tender crumb.
• Powdered sugar (for dusting): Prevents the cake from sticking to the towel and adds a touch of snowy sweetness.
• Heavy whipping cream: Whips into dreamy peaks for the filling and adds richness to the chocolate ganache topping.
• Powdered sugar (for filling): Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream for an irresistible center.
• Semisweet chocolate chips: Melts smoothly to create a luscious, pourable ganache.
• Festive sprinkles or crushed peppermint (optional): For that joyful finishing touch that makes the Christmas Cake Roll so pretty and merry!

How to Make Christmas Cake Roll

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, making sure there’s some overhang for easier removal later. Lightly grease the parchment to guarantee the cake pops out without a fuss. This first step sets you up for rolling success!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Sifting ensures your cake is lump-free and perfectly fluffy—don’t rush this tiny luxury!

Step 3: Whip the Eggs and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on high speed for 4 to 5 minutes. You’re looking for a pale, thick, and almost ribbon-like mixture. The volume here is what keeps the Christmas Cake Roll soft and flexible, so don’t skimp on the beating!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Add the vanilla extract and milk to the egg mixture, mixing just until combined. Using a spatula, gently fold in the sifted dry ingredients, taking care not to deflate the batter. The less you stir, the lighter and spongier your cake will be.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly to the edges. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the surface springs back when touched lightly in the center. A quick bake keeps the cake moist and just right for rolling.

Step 6: Roll While Warm

Right after removing from the oven, turn the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted liberally with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment, then gently roll up the cake from the short end, towel and all. Rolling while warm sets the shape and prevents cracks. Let it cool completely, seam side down.

Step 7: Make the Cream Filling

In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Cold cream and a cold bowl make for the fluffiest filling—no shortcuts here!

Step 8: Fill and Re-Roll

Carefully unroll the cooled cake and spread the whipped cream filling evenly across the surface, leaving a small border. Gently roll the cake up tightly, but without the towel this time, forming that lovely swirl we all adore.

Step 9: Top with Ganache

To make the ganache, heat heavy cream until just steaming, then pour it over the semisweet chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit for 1–2 minutes, then stir until silky smooth. Pour or drizzle the ganache over the rolled cake, letting it cascade down the sides for extra drama.

Step 10: Decorate and Chill

If you’d like, sprinkle the top with festive sprinkles or a dusting of crushed peppermint. Refrigerate the Christmas Cake Roll for at least 30 minutes so it slices beautifully.

How to Serve Christmas Cake Roll

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar can mimic freshly fallen snow, while festive sprinkles or crushed peppermint add sparkle and crunch. Consider chocolate curls or even a drizzle of contrasting white chocolate for an extra touch of elegance. Garnishing isn’t just for looks—it adds texture and highlights the holidays’ playful spirit!

Side Dishes

Pairing the Christmas Cake Roll with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of softly whipped cream is a sure way to wow your guests. For a cozy touch, serve with mugs of hot cocoa, peppermint tea, or coffee. Fresh berries and orange slices also add a refreshing contrast to the cake’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Let your creativity shine! Slice the roll and arrange on a platter with sugared rosemary and cranberries for woodland magic. Present the uncut roll on a lovely board dusted with powdered sugar and accented with mini ornaments. For parties, serve individual slices in cupcake liners, complete with festive picks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Christmas Cake Roll keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Simply wrap it snugly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out and absorbing other fridge flavors. If you’re prepping ahead, assemble the roll with filling and ganache, then chill until party time for stress-free serving.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze your Christmas Cake Roll! Place the uncut, fully assembled cake (without sprinkles or fresh garnishes) on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then wrap tightly in plastic followed by foil. It keeps well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before unwrapping to avoid condensation on the ganache.

Reheating

To bring a chilled roll back to its best, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving. This softens the ganache and cream just enough without melting them. If you’ve frozen the cake, always thaw in the fridge first for even, gentle defrosting. Avoid microwaving—the charm of the Christmas Cake Roll is all about its cool, creamy center!

FAQs

How do I prevent my Christmas Cake Roll from cracking?

The trick is to roll the cake in a kitchen towel while it’s still warm out of the oven. This sets the shape and prevents cracks later. Also, don’t overbake—overcooked cake is more likely to split when rolled.

Can I use a different filling instead of whipped cream?

Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting or a light chocolate mousse are both delicious options. Get creative with peppermint or orange zest for a personalized holiday flavor.

Why do I need to use parchment paper and a towel?

Parchment paper guarantees an easy release from the pan, and rolling the warm cake in a powdered sugar-dusted towel shapes it without sticking. This smart step is the secret to a perfectly swirled Christmas Cake Roll!

Can I make the Christmas Cake Roll gluten-free?

Yes—swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Just keep an eye on the cake during baking, as gluten-free versions can cook slightly faster.

What’s the best way to slice the cake cleanly?

Use a long, sharp serrated knife and wipe it clean between slices. Chilling the roll before cutting also helps keep the swirl intact for picture-perfect slices every time.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like seeing the faces light up when you present a homemade Christmas Cake Roll at the holiday table. If you haven’t tried baking one yet, this is your year—trust me, it’s both delightful and deeply satisfying to make. Your friends and family will remember the love and care wrapped up in every swirl, so go ahead and treat yourself to this festive classic!

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