Red Velvet Cake Roll

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A Red Velvet Cake Roll is the show-stopping dessert that combines the elegance of a rolled cake with the indulgent flavors of rich cocoa and tangy cream cheese filling. Its stunning red hue and spiral of creamy goodness make it perfect for holidays, special occasions, or when you just want to treat yourself to something extraordinary. The soft, moist sponge rolls up beautifully without cracking, making it as impressive to look at as it is to eat.

What sets this dessert apart is how it balances flavor and texture. The red velvet sponge is tender with a subtle hint of chocolate, while the whipped cream cheese filling adds richness and a touch of tang that perfectly complements the cake. Once chilled and sliced, each piece is a beautiful swirl of color and taste that’s hard to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Cake Roll

This dessert is a hit for so many reasons. First, it’s visually striking, with its bright red cake and creamy white filling creating an irresistible swirl. It also brings the classic red velvet and cream cheese combo into a lighter, more elegant form. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly—perfect for when you need to prep dessert a day early. And despite its fancy appearance, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

What Kind of Cream Cheese Should I Use?

Always go for full-fat block-style cream cheese when making the filling. Tub-style or whipped varieties often have more moisture, which can make the filling runny or less stable. For the creamiest texture and most flavor-packed result, stick to the classic brick cream cheese and make sure it’s softened before beating.

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Ingredients for the Red Velvet Cake Roll

Each ingredient in this Red Velvet Cake Roll plays a vital role in building structure, flavor, and the iconic look of this dessert.

• All-purpose flour – Gives structure to the sponge cake and helps it hold the roll shape.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake and helps create a tender crumb.
• Eggs – Provide richness and help the cake rise while keeping it flexible enough to roll.
• Cocoa powder – Adds a subtle chocolate flavor that gives red velvet its signature taste.
• Buttermilk – Keeps the sponge moist and adds a slight tang that complements the cocoa.
• Baking powder & baking soda – Help the sponge rise and stay fluffy.
• Red food coloring – Essential for that deep red color that makes this cake visually stunning.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances all the other flavors in the cake.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and intensifies the flavor.
• Cream cheese – The heart of the filling, creamy and tangy.
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes the filling.
• Butter – Adds richness to the filling and helps it whip up smoothly.

How To Make the Red Velvet Cake Roll

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat the oven and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper. Beat the eggs until thick and frothy, then slowly add sugar and beat until light in color. Mix in vanilla, food coloring, and buttermilk. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa, salt, baking powder, and baking soda, then fold it into the wet mixture.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top. Bake just until the top springs back when gently pressed—about 10 to 12 minutes.

Step 3: Roll the Cake

While still warm, turn the cake out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Carefully roll the cake (with the towel) into a log. Let it cool completely in this shape to prevent cracking later.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

Beat together softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until fluffy and smooth. This creates a luscious, spreadable filling.

Step 5: Fill and Re-roll

Unroll the cooled cake gently. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly, then roll it back up without the towel. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.

Step 6: Serve

Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted white chocolate. Slice and serve chilled for clean, beautiful swirls in every slice.

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Serving and Storing the Red Velvet Cake Roll

This cake roll is a dream to serve—it slices beautifully and holds its shape well, making it a showstopper on any dessert table. It’s best served chilled, which helps maintain the clean, elegant swirls. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate on top can take it over the top.

This recipe yields about 10 to 12 servings, depending on how thick you slice each piece. It’s a fantastic dessert for gatherings, holidays, or any special occasion where you want to impress.

To store, wrap the cake roll tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it (wrapped in plastic and foil) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

What to Serve With Red Velvet Cake Roll?

Hot Coffee or Espresso

The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the cream cheese filling beautifully.

Fresh Berries

Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries make a lovely, fresh contrast to the richness of the cake.

Whipped Cream

A dollop of unsweetened or lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a soft, airy complement.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Serve a slice with a scoop of ice cream for the ultimate indulgent dessert.

Sparkling Wine or Champagne

The light bubbles and crisp flavor pair well with the tangy-sweet filling.

Chocolate Sauce

Drizzle some warm chocolate sauce over the top for extra decadence.

Mint Leaves

Add a few mint leaves for a pop of freshness and a touch of green contrast on the plate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the cake roll ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it’s even better when made ahead. You can refrigerate it for up to 4 days or freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure it’s wrapped tightly to keep it fresh.

Why did my cake crack when rolling?
Cracks usually happen if the cake cools too much before rolling. Roll it while it’s still warm and pliable. Using a towel dusted with powdered sugar also helps prevent sticking and tearing.

Can I use natural food coloring instead of red dye?
Absolutely. Beetroot powder or a natural red coloring can work, though the color may not be as vibrant. Always test a small batch to see the results.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Be sure your baking powder and cocoa are also gluten-free.

Save This Pin 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 go for a traditional roll or try something new? Maybe added chocolate chips or a dusting of cocoa?

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

You can find more dessert inspiration on my Pinterest page: Meals We Share By Sally.

Conclusion

The Red Velvet Cake Roll is a perfect blend of elegance and comfort. Its smooth cream cheese filling, paired with soft cocoa-kissed sponge, creates a dessert that’s as delightful to eat as it is to present. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just because, this treat promises to bring smiles and compliments every time.

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