This showstopping cake roll features a velvety soft red sponge, a luxurious cream cheese filling, and an elegant swirl design—perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Dramatic presentation – Looks like it came from a bakery
✅ Light yet rich – Fluffy sponge + creamy filling
✅ Make-ahead friendly – Chill overnight for perfect slices
✅ Customizable – Add chocolate shavings or berries
Ingredients & Substitutions
For the Red Velvet Sponge
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp red food coloring
- ¾ cup cake flour
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
For Decoration (Optional)
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh raspberries
- White chocolate curls
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Sponge
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment.
- Beat eggs and sugar for 5 minutes until pale and thick.
- Mix in vanilla and food coloring.
- Sift in flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt, folding gently.
- Spread evenly in pan. Bake 12-15 minutes until springy.
2. Roll & Cool
- Dust a towel with powdered sugar.
- Invert warm cake onto towel, peel off parchment.
- Roll up with towel inside. Cool completely.
3. Prepare Filling
- Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Fold in whipped cream.
4. Assemble
- Unroll cake, spread filling evenly.
- Re-roll without towel. Chill 2+ hours.
5. Decorate & Serve
- Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate.
- Slice with a warmed knife for clean cuts.
Pro Tips
🎂 Cake flour secret: Substitute with ¾ cup AP flour + 2 tbsp cornstarch.
🔥 Prevent cracks: Roll while warm and don’t overbake.
🍫 Decadent twist: Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips to filling.
Variations
🍓 Berry Bliss: Layer with sliced strawberries before rolling.
☕ Mocha: Add 1 tsp espresso powder to batter.
🌰 Nutty: Sprinkle chopped pecans in filling.
FAQs
Can I use liquid food coloring?
Yes, but gel provides more vibrant color.
How to store?
Fridge for 3 days or freeze unfrosted for 1 month.
Why did my cake crack?
Overbaking or rolling too tightly.
Final Thoughts
This Red Velvet Cake Roll is elegance and flavor in every slice—soft, creamy, and utterly irresistible. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, Christmas, or when you want to impress!
Tip: Serve with coffee for a perfect pairing! ☕❤️
(Tag your creations #RedVelvetCakeRoll!)