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Gorgeous cream cheese red velvet roll dessert on a white plate

Red Velvet Cake Roll

A delightful and visually stunning dessert that combines rich chocolate flavors with a tangy cream cheese filling, perfect for any celebration or family gathering.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 17 minutes
Total Time 37 minutes
Course Cake, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

Cake Ingredients

  • 1 cup minus 1 tbsp all-purpose flour Ensures a light and airy texture
  • 3 tbsp unsweetened natural cocoa powder Adds a rich chocolate flavor
  • 1 tsp baking powder For that perfect rise
  • 1/2 tsp salt Enhances all flavors
  • 4 large eggs At room temperature for structure and moisture
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the cake
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar Adds depth of flavor
  • 2 tbsp canola or vegetable oil Creates a moist crumb
  • 2 tbsp buttermilk Lends a touch of tang
  • 1 tsp white vinegar Activates the baking soda
  • 1 tbsp liquid red food coloring Ensures the classic red hue
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract Brings warmth to the flavors

Filling Ingredients

  • 6 oz full-fat brick cream cheese Perfectly softened and creamy
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter Softened for a rich filling
  • 1 3/4 cups confectioners’ sugar Sweetens the frosting
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract Ensures satisfying flavor

For Rolling

  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar For rolling to prevent sticking

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan by greasing it and lining it with parchment paper.
  • Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl.
  • In a large bowl, beat the eggs on high speed for about 5 minutes until they are pale and fluffy.
  • Add granulated sugar, light brown sugar, oil, buttermilk, vinegar, red food coloring, and vanilla extract to the eggs, mixing until fully blended.
  • Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just combined.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 17 minutes or until it springs back when lightly pressed.
  • Immediately invert the cake onto a clean, confectioners’ sugar-dusted towel and gently peel off the parchment paper.
  • Roll the warm cake with the towel and let it cool completely.

Filling and Assembly

  • For the filling, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually mix in confectioners' sugar and vanilla extract.
  • Once cooled, gently unroll the cake and spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over it.
  • Roll it back up carefully without the towel to encase the filling.
  • Chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes before slicing.

Notes

For an extra touch, consider adding almond extract to the cream cheese filling or use a chocolate ganache instead of cream cheese. Roll the cake tightly to avoid cracking.
Keyword Baking, Cake Roll, Cream Cheese Frosting, Dessert Recipe, Red Velvet Cake