Carrot Cake Roll Recipe – Sweet Filling

This carrot cake roll recipe is one of my most loved creations, combining the warm flavors of classic carrot cake with the beauty of a rolled dessert.

I make it as part of my passion for discovering new recipes, sharing them in ways that feel approachable and enjoyable. The purpose of this recipe is to bring a homemade treat to family gatherings, celebrations, or even a quiet evening tea.

Carrot cake roll recipe has roots in medieval European cooking where sweetened vegetables were used in desserts, and this modern roll is a creative extension of that tradition.

Now I share the carrot cake roll recipe steps, serving ideas, tips, health benefits, variations, and storage methods for everyone to enjoy.

Carrot Cake Roll Recipe

The carrot cake roll recipe is a moist, spiced cake made with freshly shredded carrots, rolled up with a smooth, sweet cream cheese filling. Baked thin in a sheet pan, then rolled while warm, it creates beautiful spirals once sliced.

This dessert offers the comforting flavors of traditional carrot cake in a fun, eye-catching form. With a soft texture and rich filling, it’s satisfying and simple to make.

Whether served chilled or at room temperature, it makes a lovely centerpiece for gatherings. Easy to customize, store, and serve, this recipe brings something special to your dessert table.

How To Prepare Carrot Cake Roll Recipe?

To make this carrot cake roll recipe just right, I’ll guide you through every step with clear instructions and helpful tips. I’ll also share the tools I find useful, though you don’t need every single one to succeed.

Use what you have on hand, trust the process, and enjoy baking this delicious, tender, and flavorful cake that’s sure to impress!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour (includes cooling and chilling)

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Yield: 10 slices

Kitchen Utensils

  • Jelly roll pan (10×15 inches)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or hand whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Clean kitchen towel
  • Cooling rack
  • Sifter (optional, for powdered sugar)
  • Plastic wrap

Ingredients

For the Carrot Cake:

  • Âľ cup all-purpose flour
  • Âľ teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ÂĽ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ÂĽ teaspoon salt
  • 3 large eggs
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups finely shredded carrots
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting towel)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How To Make Carrot Cake Roll Recipe

1. First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan, grease it well, then line it with parchment paper and give the parchment a light greasing too. Spread out a clean kitchen towel on your counter and sprinkle it generously with powdered sugar—this will keep the cake from sticking when you roll it later.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In a larger bowl, beat the eggs with the granulated sugar until the mixture looks pale and slightly thick, about 2–3 minutes. Stir in the oil and vanilla. Add the dry mixture and mix just until it comes together, then gently fold in the shredded carrots.

3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 13–15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly pressed and a toothpick comes out clean.

4. As soon as it comes out of the oven, run a knife around the edges to loosen it. Carefully flip the cake onto the prepared towel and peel away the parchment paper. Starting from the short side, roll the cake up with the towel. Let it cool completely while rolled, about 30 minutes.

5. While the cake cools, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until fluffy and well blended.

6. When the cake is fully cooled, gently unroll it. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly across the surface, all the way to the edges. Roll it back up, this time without the towel, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.

7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Sprinkle powdered sugar on top if you like, then slice into rounds and enjoy.

Nutrition Facts Of Carrot Cake Roll Recipe

Nutrition Amounts
Calories280
Fat15g
Saturated Fat7g
Carbohydrates33g
Sugar24g
Protein4g
Sodium180mg
Cholesterol70mg

Why My Recipe Works

This carrot cake roll recipe works because each step is carefully designed to balance flavor, texture, and presentation. The cake is thin and flexible, making it easy to roll without cracking, while still staying moist thanks to freshly shredded carrots and oil.

The spice blend of cinnamon and nutmeg adds warmth without overpowering the natural sweetness. Rolling the cake while it’s warm helps it hold its shape, and chilling it sets the cream cheese filling perfectly.

The filling itself is smooth, not overly sweet, and complements the cake without making it soggy. Every element is tested for success.

Carrot Cake Roll Recipe
Carrot Cake Roll Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This carrot cake roll recipe brings together everything you enjoy about carrot cake in a fresh, impressive format. The cake is moist, tender, and lightly spiced, while the cream cheese filling is rich, smooth, and perfectly balanced.

It’s an eye-catching dessert that slices beautifully and feels special without being complicated. You get the familiar flavors with a fun twist that’s easy to make at home.

It’s ideal for gatherings, holiday tables, or just treating yourself. Simple ingredients, reliable steps, and a rewarding result make this carrot cake roll recipe one you’ll want to come back to again and again.

Serving Ideas

Serve the carrot cake roll recipe slightly chilled or at room temperature, sliced into neat spirals about an inch thick. Dust the top lightly with powdered sugar before serving for a clean, elegant finish.

Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for extra indulgence. Fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries pair well and add color.

For a festive touch, drizzle with caramel sauce or sprinkle with chopped toasted walnuts. On a dessert platter, arrange the slices in a circular pattern to highlight the spiral design and impress your guests.

Tips And Variations

Tips

  • Always roll the cake while it’s still warm to prevent cracking.
  • Use freshly grated carrots for better texture and natural sweetness.
  • Chill the cake before slicing for cleaner, neater pieces.
  • Dust the towel generously with powdered sugar to avoid sticking.
  • Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap to keep it moist and flavorful.

Variations

  • Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for crunch.
  • Mix raisins or shredded coconut into the batter for extra flavor.
  • Swap the cream cheese filling for a whipped cream or mascarpone filling.
  • Drizzle the finished roll with caramel or white chocolate for a richer touch.
  • Add a hint of orange zest to the filling for a refreshing twist.

Additions For Make More Delicious

➤ Crushed Pineapple – Adding a small amount of well-drained crushed pineapple makes the cake extra moist and adds a light fruity sweetness that blends beautifully with the carrots.

➤ Toasted Nuts – Chopped pecans or walnuts give a pleasant crunch and a nutty richness that balances the soft sponge and creamy filling.

➤ Coconut Flakes – Shredded or toasted coconut adds chewiness and a gentle tropical flavor, making each bite more interesting.

➤ Extra Spices – A pinch of cardamom or ginger deepens the spice profile, giving the roll a warm and slightly exotic taste.

➤ Citrus Zest – Finely grated orange or lemon zest mixed into the filling brightens the flavor, cutting through the richness and leaving a refreshing finish.

Storage Instructions

After making this carrot cake roll recipe, I always wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it from drying out. Store it in the refrigerator, where it stays fresh for up to 4 days.

The cream cheese filling holds up best when chilled, and the flavors actually deepen a bit overnight, which I love.

If you’re planning ahead for a gathering, you can make it a day in advance just wait to dust with powdered sugar until right before serving.

FAQs About Carrot Cake Roll Recipe

Can I make the cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day ahead. Wrap it tightly and store it in the fridge. Add the filling and roll just before serving for best freshness.

What if my cake cracks while rolling?

Rolling the cake while warm helps prevent cracks. If cracks appear, try patching them gently with some frosting when spreading the filling.

Can I use a different filling?

Absolutely! You can use whipped cream, mascarpone, or even a chocolate ganache for a different flavor.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking?

Dust the kitchen towel generously with powdered sugar before rolling to stop sticking.

Can I freeze the carrot cake roll?

Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Can I add nuts or fruit to the batter?

Yes, chopped nuts, raisins, or pineapple work well. Just be sure to adjust moisture levels slightly if adding wet ingredients.

Conclusion

I followed this easy process step by step, and I was truly happy with the result. The carrot cake roll recipe turned out soft, creamy, and full of flavor, and I enjoyed every bite after making it.

Creating and tasting it gave me so much joy, and that is why I wanted to share my recipe with you. I hope my experience inspires you to try carrot cake roll recipe in your own kitchen and discover the same happiness I felt while making it.

Other Popular Carrot Cake Recipes

Copycat Carrot Cake Recipe Paula Deen

Carrot Cake With Applesauce – Moist And Flavorful

Easy Mary Berry Recipe Carrot Cake For Home Bakers

Publix Carrot Cake Recipe – Moist and Delicious

Simple Carrot Cake Recipe Without Frosting

Carrot Cake Roll Recipe

Carrot Cake Roll Recipe

Sophia
This Carrot Cake Roll recipe features a tender, spiced carrot cake baked thin and rolled with creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting. It includes grated carrots, cinnamon, nutmeg, eggs, sugar, and flour. The cake is carefully rolled while warm to prevent cracking, creating a beautiful spiral dessert. Perfect for special occasions or festive gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10 slices
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • Jelly roll pan (10Ă—15 inches)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or hand whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Clean kitchen towel
  • Cooling rack
  • Sifter (optional, for powdered sugar)
  • Plastic wrap

Ingredients
  

For the Carrot Cake:

  • Âľ cup all-purpose flour
  • Âľ teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ÂĽ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ÂĽ teaspoon salt
  • 3 large eggs
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups finely shredded carrots
  • Powdered sugar for dusting towel

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

  • First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a 10Ă—15-inch jelly roll pan, grease it well, then line it with parchment paper and give the parchment a light greasing too. Spread out a clean kitchen towel on your counter and sprinkle it generously with powdered sugar—this will keep the cake from sticking when you roll it later.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In a larger bowl, beat the eggs with the granulated sugar until the mixture looks pale and slightly thick, about 2–3 minutes. Stir in the oil and vanilla. Add the dry mixture and mix just until it comes together, then gently fold in the shredded carrots.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 13–15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly pressed and a toothpick comes out clean.
  • As soon as it comes out of the oven, run a knife around the edges to loosen it. Carefully flip the cake onto the prepared towel and peel away the parchment paper. Starting from the short side, roll the cake up with the towel. Let it cool completely while rolled, about 30 minutes.
  • While the cake cools, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until fluffy and well blended.
  • When the cake is fully cooled, gently unroll it. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly across the surface, all the way to the edges. Roll it back up, this time without the towel, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
  • Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Sprinkle powdered sugar on top if you like, then slice into rounds and enjoy.

Notes

Nutrition Facts Of Carrot Cake Roll Recipe

Nutrition Amounts
Calories 280
Fat 15g
Saturated Fat 7g
Carbohydrates 33g
Sugar 24g
Protein 4g
Sodium 180mg180mg
Cholesterol 70mg
Keyword Carrot Cake Roll Recipe
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Hi! I’m Sophia, your trusted cake guide with years of hands-on baking experience. I’m passionate about creating delicious and wholesome cakes that bring happiness to every occasion and home. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned baker, I’m here to share tips, recipes, and inspiration to make your baking journey enjoyable and rewarding. From classic flavors to healthy twists, my goal is to help you discover the joy of baking and sharing beautiful cakes with family and friends.

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