Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Imagine all the comfort and coziness of a traditional carrot cake wrapped up in a neat, swirled roll that slices into picture-perfect spirals. The moist, warmly spiced sponge pairs beautifully with rich, tangy cream cheese frosting. It’s like your favorite holiday dessert got a chic makeover and became the star of any brunch or dessert table.

Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting isn’t just easy on the eyes—it’s also surprisingly easy to make. With a light, flexible sponge that doesn’t crack and a filling that spreads like a dream, it’s a no-fuss recipe with wow-factor. Whether you’re serving it for Easter, a fall gathering, or simply because you’re craving something sweet and spiced, this roll always delivers.

Why You’ll Love This Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting

This dessert hits all the right notes—sweet, slightly tangy, moist, and bursting with warm spices. It gives you the carrot cake flavors you crave without the commitment of frosting a whole cake. Plus, it’s a fun and elegant alternative to the classic sheet or layered cake. You get all the flavor and none of the hassle.

If you’re someone who loves a make-ahead dessert, this one’s a keeper. It chills beautifully in the fridge, and in fact, it gets even better after a few hours as the flavors meld together. Slice it up just before serving and watch it disappear!

What Kind of Carrots Should I Use?

Freshly grated carrots are key for both flavor and texture. Pre-shredded carrots might seem like a time-saver, but they tend to be dry and don’t integrate as well into the batter. Use the small holes on a box grater or food processor for the best results. This ensures the carrots bake up tender and evenly distributed, giving your cake the perfect moist crumb in every bite.

Ingredients for the Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting

To get the perfect texture and flavor for your carrot cake roll, choosing the right ingredients is everything. This recipe relies on a simple mix of pantry staples and a few fresh additions to keep it light, moist, and flavorful. Each component plays an important role in building that classic carrot cake taste with the added charm of a roll.

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg
• Salt
• Large eggs
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil
• Freshly grated carrots
• Powdered sugar (for dusting and in the frosting)
• Cream cheese
• Unsalted butter

Each spice and sweetener deepens the warmth and richness of the cake, while the carrots bring in moisture and a touch of earthiness. The frosting, made with cream cheese and butter, is the velvety layer that ties everything together.

How To Make the Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang for easy lifting. Lightly grease the paper to ensure the cake releases smoothly after baking.

Step 2: Make the Carrot Cake Batter

Whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, sugars, vanilla, and oil until smooth. Fold in the dry mixture and then the freshly grated carrots until just combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes or until the cake springs back lightly when touched. Don’t overbake; it should stay soft and pliable.

Step 4: Roll the Cake While Warm

Once out of the oven, immediately lift the cake using the parchment overhang and gently roll it (with the parchment inside) from the short end. Let it cool completely while rolled to set the shape.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add in the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until smooth and fluffy. Adjust sweetness to taste.

Step 6: Assemble the Roll

Carefully unroll the cooled cake and remove the parchment. Spread an even layer of cream cheese frosting, then re-roll it tightly. Chill in the fridge for at least an hour before slicing.

Step 7: Dust and Serve

Right before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar for a delicate finish. Slice and enjoy those beautiful swirls!

Serving and Storing Your Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting

This Carrot Cake Roll makes about 10 to 12 generous slices, perfect for sharing at gatherings or savoring over a few days. It’s an ideal dessert to serve chilled, as the cool cream cheese frosting offers a refreshing contrast to the warmly spiced cake. You can garnish each slice with a dusting of powdered sugar or even a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

To store, wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. It keeps well for up to 5 days without drying out. If you want to make it ahead, you can even freeze the frosted roll. Just be sure to wrap it in plastic and then in foil. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

What to Serve With Carrot Cake Roll?

Coffee or Espresso

The warm spice of the cake pairs beautifully with the bitterness of a strong cup of coffee or a rich espresso shot.

Chai Latte

If you want to match the spices, a creamy chai latte echoes the cinnamon and nutmeg notes perfectly.

Fresh Berries

Serve alongside raspberries or blueberries for a tart contrast that brightens every bite.

Vanilla Ice Cream

A cold scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess and balances the tang of the cream cheese.

Spiced Whipped Cream

Make whipped cream with a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to add another layer of spice.

Orange Segments

Bright citrus notes cut through the richness of the cake and frosting.

Candied Pecans

Add a crunchy, nutty texture with sweet-spiced pecans sprinkled on the side or even on top.

Want More Cake Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved this Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll definitely want to explore more unique cake recipes that bring a touch of fun and flavor to traditional favorites:

• Pumpkin Bread with Maple Cream Cheese Filling for an autumn-inspired cozy treat.
• Butter Pecan Cheesecake if you’re craving rich, nutty indulgence.
• Delightful Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake for something fruity, creamy, and nostalgic.
• Mama Seward’s Iconic Strawberry Cake for a bold burst of berry flavor.
• Warm and Cozy Apple Crisp when you’re in the mood for comfort in a bowl.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add walnuts or raisins to the filling? Did you spice it up even more?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great! Zoe Recipes on Pinterest

Conclusion

The Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting is one of those desserts that looks impressive but comes together with just a bit of care and love. The spiral presentation gives it a festive feel, while the flavor is all about comfort and spice. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, it’s bound to bring smiles all around.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?