The holiday season always brings a wave of nostalgia, doesn’t it? As soon as the first hints of winter chill the air, I find myself craving the comforting flavors of Christmas. This year, I decided to escape the cookie-cutter treats, seeking instead a dazzling yet simple dessert that promises to impress. Enter the luscious Christmas Roll Cake—a beautiful twist on traditional sweets that encapsulates both celebration and warmth.
With its fluffy sponge cake enveloping a tart cranberry filling, this festive roll is a delightful surprise at any holiday gathering. As I whipped up the fluffy cream and watched the cranberries burst, the kitchen filled with scents that danced through my home, wrapping everyone in both flavor and spirit. You’d never guess this elegant treat requires just a handful of ingredients and a little patience.
Whether you’re looking to wow guests or treat yourself, this recipe is a festive must-try. Let’s roll right into the simple steps that will have you creating your masterpiece in no time!
Why is the Christmas Roll Cake a must-try?
Festive Flavors: This cake showcases the perfect blend of seasonal tastes, with tart cranberries complementing the sweet whipped cream.
Easy to Make: Even beginner bakers will find this recipe straightforward, requiring just basic techniques to create something stunning.
Impressive Presentation: Serve this eye-catching roll cake at gatherings, and watch guests marvel at your culinary skills!
Perfect for Sharing: With 8-10 servings, it’s an ideal dessert to bring to holiday parties or intimate family dinners.
Versatile Options: Feel free to mix in additional flavors or toppings, making it customizable for different palates.
As you dive into this recipe, you’ll experience the joy of creating a dessert that brings festive cheer to your table!
Christmas Roll Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• 4 large eggs – ensure they are at room temperature for better volume.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – this creates the sweetness and helps the cake rise.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – adds a warm, inviting flavor to your sponge.
• ½ cup all-purpose flour – use sifted for a lighter cake texture.
• 1 tsp baking powder – helps the cake achieve a lovely lift.
• ¼ tsp salt – enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
For the Cranberry Filling
• 1 cup fresh cranberries – the star of the show, offering a tart contrast to the sweetness.
• ½ cup sugar – balances the tartness of the cranberries.
• ¼ cup water – helps cook down the cranberries into a delicious filling.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice – brightens the filling, enhancing the cranberry flavor.
For the Whipped Cream
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream – use cold for the best texture when whipped.
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar – sweetens the cream without the graininess of granulated sugar.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – complements the cream and offers a hint of sweetness.
For the Decoration
• Extra whipped cream – for topping, making it lavish and festive!
• Red and green edible decorations – think holly, berries, or gold stars for a beautiful finish.
• Powdered sugar – a light dusting adds an elegant touch to the final presentation.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to create an enchanting Christmas Roll Cake that will delight everyone around your holiday table!
How to Make Christmas Roll Cake
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 15×10-inch baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease it to ensure an easy release after baking.
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Beat eggs and sugar together in a mixing bowl until the mixture is pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This will create a light texture which is key for the sponge cake. Mix in the vanilla extract.
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Sift flour, baking powder, and salt together in a separate bowl. Fold the dry ingredients gently into the egg mixture, being careful not to deflate the fluffy texture you’ve just built.
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Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking sheet, smoothing the top. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched, indicating it’s done.
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Prepare the cranberry filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, cook the cranberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, which should take about 10-12 minutes. Let it cool completely.
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Whip the heavy cream in a chilled bowl with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This is your delightful whipped cream, adding creaminess to the roll.
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Turn the baked cake onto a kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar while it’s still warm. Peel off the parchment paper gently to avoid tearing.
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Spread the whipped cream over the cake, making sure to leave a 1-inch border all around. Carefully add the cranberry filling on top of the whipped cream, ensuring an even layer.
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Roll the cake tightly, using the towel to help guide and shape it. Once rolled, chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour to set the shape before serving.
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Decorate the cooled cake with a dusting of powdered sugar, additional whipped cream, and your choice of festive edible decorations. Serve and enjoy this holiday delight!
Optional: Garnish with extra cranberries for a festive touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Roll Cake
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the Christmas Roll Cake in the fridge overnight before serving. This keeps it moist and delicious!
Reheating: If desired, you can warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a cozy treat.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Roll Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cake itself up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake it, allow it to cool, and then tightly wrap it in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. The cranberry filling can also be made ahead and will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just store it in an airtight container. When it’s time to serve, simply whip the cream (which is best made fresh for optimal fluffiness) and assemble the cake with the prepped components. This way, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready at a moment’s notice, all without compromising on taste or texture!
Expert Tips for the Christmas Roll Cake
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Room Temperature Eggs: Use eggs at room temperature to help them whip up fluffier, resulting in a lighter cake.
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Gentle Folding: When incorporating the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, fold gently to prevent deflating the batter, which keeps your Christmas Roll Cake light.
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Check for Doneness: Be attentive when baking—if it springs back when touched, it’s perfect! Overbaking can lead to a dry cake.
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Cool Completely: Ensure the cranberry filling is fully cooled before spreading; warm filling can melt the whipped cream, leading to a messy roll.
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Chill for Best Results: Let the rolled cake chill for at least one hour. This helps the filling set and makes slicing easier later.
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Festive Decor: Get creative with edible decorations! Not only do they add color, but they also personalize your Christmas Roll Cake for festive gatherings.
What to Serve with Christmas Roll Cake?
Looking to elevate your festive dessert experience? Here are some perfect pairings that will complement your holiday treat.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery flavor of creamy mashed potatoes adds a savory balance to the sweet, tangy cake.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized veggies bring a delightful crunch and a touch of bitterness that perfectly contrasts the sweetness.
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Homemade Hot Chocolate: Warm and velvety hot chocolate provides a comforting drink option to enjoy alongside the cake, enhancing the festive vibe.
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Spiced Apple Cider: The warmth of spiced apple cider with its aromatic notes makes for a cozy drink that echoes the flavors of the holiday season.
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Chocolate Fondue: Dip fresh fruits or marshmallows into a rich, melted chocolate for a fun and interactive dessert experience alongside your roll cake.
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Pecan Pie: The earthy sweetness of a classic pecan pie pairs wonderfully, offering a union of textures and flavors that everyone will love.
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Cranberry Walnut Salad: This refreshing salad introduces a burst of freshness and crunch that beautifully balances the richness of the cake.
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Gingerbread Cookies: Serve up some gingerbread cookies as a delightful side treat, adding the familiar taste of Christmas spices to your dessert table.
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Whipped Cream Topping: Don’t forget extra whipped cream! A dollop on top of your slice further enhances the indulgent experience of your Christmas Roll Cake.
Christmas Roll Cake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and customize your Christmas Roll Cake to suit your taste and dietary preferences!
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Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to enjoy a delightful gluten-free treat.
Switching to gluten-free flour can be just as rewarding! Just ensure that your blend contains xanthan gum for the right texture. -
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or any non-dairy whipped topping in place of heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative.
This swap not only keeps it dairy-free but adds a subtle tropical flavor to the cake, making it even more exciting! -
Fruit Variations: Substitute fresh cranberries with raspberries or strawberries for a deliciously sweet twist.
Raspberries bring a sweeter note, while strawberries can enhance the visual appeal with their vibrant color. -
Less Sugar: Cut down the granulated and powdered sugar by up to 50% without losing flavor.
With the tartness of cranberries, you’ll be surprised at how delicious it remains with less sweetness. -
Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, into the whipped cream or filling for a crunchy texture.
Adding nuts not only enhances the flavor but also brings a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake. -
Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor that screams holiday comfort.
These spices will evoke the cozy atmosphere of holiday gatherings, enveloping each bite with festive warmth. -
Chocolate Twist: Drizzle melted chocolate or cocoa powder over the whipped cream for a rich chocolatey layer.
Chocolate complements the tart cranberries exceptionally well, making for an indulgent blend of flavors. -
Fiery Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger to the cranberry filling for a surprising heat that tantalizes the taste buds.
A hint of spice can elevate the whole experience, adding an unexpected and exciting twist to your roll cake!
Christmas Roll Cake Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting cranberries?
Absolutely! When choosing cranberries, opt for fresh, firm berries that are bright red in color. Avoid any that have dark spots or appear soft. Fresh cranberries will yield the tangy flavor that beautifully balances the sweetness of the cake.
How do I store leftovers of the Christmas Roll Cake?
Very! To keep your Christmas Roll Cake fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent it from absorbing other odors, which could affect its lovely flavor.
Can I freeze the Christmas Roll Cake?
Definitely! To freeze your cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to keep out air. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.
What if my cake cracks while rolling?
No worries—this can happen! If your cake cracks, you can still salvage it. Try rolling it gently and don’t worry about the appearance. Once decorated, the filling and toppings will cover any imperfections. Also, ensure your cake is not overbaked, as this makes it more prone to cracking.
Is this recipe safe for individuals with egg allergies?
Not directly. The Christmas Roll Cake contains eggs, which is crucial for its texture. If you’re looking for an egg-free option, you might consider using a substitute like unsweetened applesauce or a commercial egg replacer, but the results will differ in texture. Always check for allergies with all ingredients used, especially if serving visitors.
How should I reheat the Christmas Roll Cake?
Certainly! If you’d like a warm treat, slice individual pieces and warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This quick heating helps to refresh the flavors without drying out the cake, making it cozy and inviting for enjoying the festive season!
Delightful Christmas Roll Cake with Cranberry Whipped Cream
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15×10-inch baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- Beat together the eggs and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add in the vanilla extract.
- Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together. Gently fold into the egg mixture.
- Spread the batter evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the cake springs back when touched.
- Prepare the cranberry filling: In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Cook until the cranberries burst, about 10-12 minutes.
- Whip the heavy cream in a chilled bowl. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until soft peaks form.
- Turn the warm cake onto a powdered sugar-dusted kitchen towel, peeling away the parchment paper.
- Spread the whipped cream evenly over the cake, leaving a 1-inch border. Then, distribute the cooled cranberry filling on top.
- Roll the cake tightly from the shorter side using the towel as a guide. Chill for at least 1 hour.
- Decorate your rolled cake with powdered sugar, extra whipped cream, and festive decorations.