If you’re searching for a delightful dessert that combines light, fluffy cake with a rich, creamy filling, then this Easter Cake Roll Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s an irresistible celebration of textures and flavors, perfectly suited to spring festivities or any time you want to spread a little joy with a sweet treat. This cake roll is not only stunning to look at but comes together with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand, making it a truly accessible centerpiece for your Easter table or festive gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Easter Cake Roll Recipe plays a vital role in achieving the perfect balance of lightness, flavor, and visual appeal. These essentials are straightforward yet each adds its own magic to bring this dessert to life.
- 3 large eggs: The backbone of the cake’s structure and fluffy texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps create that tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic depth of flavor to the cake and filling.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the necessary body and stability for the roll.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the cake a light rise without making it heavy.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor overall.
- Powdered sugar, for dusting: Keeps the roll from sticking and adds a pretty finishing touch.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates a luscious, tangy filling that contrasts beautifully with the cake.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds creaminess and richness to the filling.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting for the perfect smooth consistency.
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (optional): Helps adjust the filling’s texture for easier spreading.
- Colored sprinkles or candy: Brings playful bursts of color and festive flair.
- Fresh flowers (optional): Elevate the presentation with a natural, elegant touch.
How to Make Easter Cake Roll Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, then lightly grease it to ensure the cake peels away effortlessly later. A sprinkling of powdered sugar on the parchment prevents sticking and helps give the cake that necessary slick surface for rolling.
Step 2: Whip the Eggs and Sugar
Using an electric mixer, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until pale, light, and fluffy—around three to four minutes. This step is crucial because the air you whip in here becomes the cake’s lift and softness. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with lovely aroma and flavor.
Step 3: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt to remove any lumps, making a smoother batter possible. Gently fold these dry ingredients into the egg mixture using a spatula, taking care not to deflate the air bubbles you created. This technique keeps the cake delightfully light and tender.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour your batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface. Pop it into the oven for 10 to 12 minutes until the cake turns a delicate golden and springs back slightly when pressed—signs it is perfectly baked and ready for the next step.
Step 5: Roll the Cake While Warm
As soon as you remove the cake from the oven, invert it onto a clean kitchen towel dusted generously with powdered sugar. Peeling off the parchment paper immediately helps avoid cracking. Roll the cake gently up in the towel from one short edge, ensuring the towel is inside the roll. Let it cool completely in this shape to develop the classic spiral texture.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
While the cake cools, whip together softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth. Slowly beat in powdered sugar for sweetness, then add vanilla extract. If needed, stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk for a spreadable, luscious filling perfect for smearing on the cake.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake Roll
Once your cake is fully cooled, carefully unroll it. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface, maintaining about a one-inch border to prevent overflow when rolled back up. Gently and tightly re-roll the cake without the towel this time, sealing in that delicious filling.
Step 8: Decorate and Serve
Dust the finished roll with powdered sugar for a snowy, festive look. Top with colorful sprinkles, pastel candies like M&Ms or jelly beans, or even fresh edible flowers for an elegant springtime touch. Slice into generous portions and watch this Easter Cake Roll Recipe become everyone’s favorite showstopper.
How to Serve Easter Cake Roll Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes such as delicate fresh flowers or a sprinkle of pastel-colored candies transforms this cake roll into a feast for the eyes as much as the tastebuds. These little extras make the dessert feel even more special and festive.
Side Dishes
This cake roll pairs beautifully with light, refreshing sides like a crisp green salad or a bowl of fresh berries. The contrast between rich dessert and fresh fruits or greens keeps your meal balanced and exciting.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving individual slices on pretty plates with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of fruit coulis for added flair. Wrapping slices with pastel ribbons or presenting on a decorated cake stand will WOW guests and elevate your Easter dessert experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover cake roll tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the cake moist and the cream cheese filling fresh while preventing it from absorbing other fridge odors.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake roll wrapped securely in plastic and then foil for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Because the cake is rich and creamy, reheating isn’t recommended. Instead, serve it chilled or at room temperature for the best taste and texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different filling for the Easter Cake Roll Recipe?
Absolutely! While the cream cheese filling is classic, you can experiment with whipped cream mixed with fresh fruit, chocolate ganache, or even lemon curd for a tangy twist. Just ensure the filling is spreadable and complements the light cake.
How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?
Rolling the cake while it’s still warm and pliable is key to avoiding cracks. Make sure to use a powdered sugar-dusted towel to roll it gently and don’t force it. Cooling it in the rolled shape also helps set the form.
Can I make the cake gluten-free?
Yes, swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum to maintain structure. The texture might be slightly different, but the cake roll can still turn out delicious.
Do I have to use fresh flowers for garnish?
Fresh flowers are optional and add a charming touch but are not necessary. If you do use them, make sure they are edible and pesticide-free to keep your dessert safe and beautiful.
How long does this Easter Cake Roll Recipe take to make?
While the active preparation is fairly quick—about 30 minutes—the cake needs time to cool completely before assembling, so plan for about 1 to 1.5 hours from start to finish for the best results.
Final Thoughts
This Easter Cake Roll Recipe is such a joy to make and share with loved ones—it’s a stunning centerpiece filled with scrumptious flavor and perfect for celebrating the season. Don’t hesitate to roll up your sleeves and give it a try; it’s guaranteed to become one of your favorite festive treats that everyone will ask for again and again.
Print
Easter Cake Roll Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This delightful Easter Cake Roll recipe features a light and fluffy sponge cake rolled with a creamy, sweetened cream cheese filling. Perfectly spiced with vanilla and beautifully decorated with pastel sprinkles or candy, this festive dessert is an elegant and crowd-pleasing centerpiece for your spring celebrations.
Ingredients
Cake
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (optional for consistency)
Decoration
- Colored sprinkles or candy (e.g., pastel M&Ms, jelly beans)
- Fresh flowers (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it. Sprinkle a small amount of powdered sugar over the parchment paper to prepare the baking surface.
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly.
- Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture using a spatula, mixing gently until just combined without deflating the batter.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared jelly roll pan and spread smoothly. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the cake is lightly golden and springs back when gently touched.
- Roll the Cake: While the cake is baking, lay a clean kitchen towel on the counter and dust it generously with powdered sugar. Once the cake is done, immediately remove it from the oven and carefully invert it onto the towel. Peel off the parchment paper gently. Starting from one short edge, roll the cake up with the towel inside, shaping it into a roll. Allow the cake to cool completely in the rolled form.
- Make the Filling: While the cake cools, prepare the filling by beating the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and continue beating until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and add heavy cream or milk, if needed, to reach a smooth and spreadable consistency.
- Assemble the Cake Roll: Once the cake has cooled completely, gently unroll it. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface, leaving about a 1-inch border free from filling around the edges. Carefully re-roll the cake, this time without the towel, to keep the filling inside.
- Decorate and Serve: Dust the top of the cake roll with powdered sugar. Decorate with colored pastel sprinkles, candy such as pastel M&Ms or jelly beans, and optionally fresh flowers for a festive touch. Slice and serve to enjoy this classic Easter dessert.
Notes
- Be sure to roll the cake while it is still warm to prevent cracking and to help form the roll shape.
- Use a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar to avoid sticking during rolling.
- If the filling is too thick, add a little more heavy cream or milk for easier spreading.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and butter with vegan alternatives and use plant-based milk.
- Decorations such as fresh flowers should be non-toxic and edible or used as a removable garnish only.
