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Red Velvet Cake Roll

A soft sponge cake flavored with cocoa and colored red, filled with a smooth cream cheese frosting. Perfect for holidays, birthdays, and family gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 11 minutes
Total Time 12 hours
Course Dessert, Treat
Cuisine American
Servings 10 servings
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

Cake Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free 1:1 flour Provides structure to the cake.
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder Adds a rich chocolate flavor to balance the sweetness.
  • 1 tsp baking powder Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda Activates the acidity in the recipe for a lighter texture.
  • 1/4 tsp salt Enhances the flavors of the cake.
  • 3 large whole eggs Binds the ingredients and gives moisture.
  • 1 cup sugar Sweetens the cake and contributes to its moist texture.
  • 1/4 cup melted butter or coconut oil Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
  • 1 tbsp white vinegar (to mix with milk) Reacts with baking soda to create a fluffy cake.
  • 1/2 cup milk or buttermilk Adds creaminess to the batter.
  • 1 tbsp red food coloring Gives the cake its signature vibrant color.
  • 1 tsp vanilla Enhances the overall flavor profile.

Filling Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese Provides a rich, tangy filling.
  • 1/4 cup butter Adds smoothness and flavor to the cream cheese filling.
  • 2 cups powdered sugar Sweetens the filling and helps create a smooth texture.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract Enhances the flavor of the filling.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Mix the melted butter and sugar in a bowl until well combined.
  • Incorporate the eggs one at a time while mixing until fully incorporated.
  • Mix in buttermilk, red food coloring, and white vinegar, ensuring everything is well blended.
  • In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; then mix through.
  • Pour the batter into a lined 10x15 jelly roll pan, spreading it evenly.
  • Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-11 minutes until it springs back when touched.
  • Once out of the oven, cover the cake immediately with another baking pan or tin foil to keep it moist.
  • While still warm, gently roll the cake from the short edge and wrap it to maintain shape.

Making the Filling

  • In a bowl, whip together cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and butter until smooth.

Assembly

  • Once cooled, gently unroll the cake and spread the cream cheese filling evenly, leaving a bit around the edge.
  • Carefully roll the cake back, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight to set.
  • When ready, sprinkle powdered sugar, slice, and enjoy this lovely dessert.

Notes

Use room temperature eggs and cream cheese for a smoother batter and filling. Chill overnight for flavors to meld and enhance the overall taste.
Keyword Cake Roll, Cream Cheese Filling, Dessert Recipe, Holiday Dessert, Red Velvet Cake