The Art of Elegant Roll Cakes

The holiday season is a time for warmth, family gatherings, and, of course, indulgent treats that bring joy to the table. Among the many delicious options available for holiday baking, loaf cakes have a special place. These versatile and easy-to-make treats are perfect for sharing with loved ones, gifting to friends, or simply enjoying during the festivities. In this article, we’ll explore eight irresistible loaf cake recipes that are sure to elevate your holiday baking game. Each one brings a unique twist, combining seasonal ingredients and flavors that are beloved during the colder months. From zesty cranberry breads to decadent chocolate treats, these recipes will bring joy to your kitchen and heart.

1. Christmas Cranberry Pound Cake 

Cranberries are one of the quintessential fruits associated with the holiday season, and their tartness pairs beautifully with the sweetness of a pound cake. The Christmas Cranberry Pound Cake is a festive, moist loaf that will fill your home with the delightful aromas of oranges and cranberries. The combination of fresh or frozen cranberries with the richness of butter and the slight tang from sour cream makes for a loaf that is not only flavorful but also has a perfectly soft texture. A glaze made from fresh orange juice and powdered sugar adds a beautiful citrusy finish.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries (coated in flour)
• ½ cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice (for glaze)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and orange zest.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with sour cream, mixing until just combined.
4. Gently fold in cranberries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. For the glaze, mix powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.

2. Chocolate Peppermint Bread: A Holiday Delight

The combination of chocolate and peppermint is synonymous with the holiday season, evoking memories of peppermint bark, hot cocoa, and candy canes. This Chocolate Peppermint Bread is a rich, soft loaf that perfectly balances these two beloved flavors. With crushed peppermint candies and gooey chocolate chips swirled throughout, this bread is a treat both visually and in taste. The moist crumb and festive aroma make it an ideal addition to any holiday spread.

Ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup crushed peppermint candies
• ½ cup chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
5. Fold in the crushed peppermint candies and chocolate chips.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing.

 

3. Cranberry Orange Bread: A Refreshing Twist

For those who enjoy the vibrant flavors of citrus, Cranberry Orange Bread offers a refreshing twist on traditional holiday breads. The burst of tart cranberries and bright orange zest creates a bread that’s both aromatic and flavorful. The addition of cinnamon enhances the warmth of the bread, making it perfect for cozy winter mornings. Optional walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch, but even without them, this bread is a winner.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup orange juice
• 2 tsp orange zest
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and sugar.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the egg, orange juice, orange zest, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in cranberries and nuts (if using).
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
7. Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

 

4. Hot Fudge Brownie Bread: The Ultimate Chocolate Lovers’ Dream

For the ultimate indulgence, the Hot Fudge Brownie Bread is a must-try. Imagine the rich, fudgy texture of a brownie combined with the soft crumb of a loaf cake. The addition of hot fudge sauce swirled into the batter creates pockets of gooey chocolate that melt in your mouth. This decadent treat is perfect for any occasion that calls for something luxurious and comforting.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup chocolate chips
• ¼ cup hot fudge sauce (plus extra for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. In another bowl, mix together melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Combine with the dry ingredients.
4. Fold in chocolate chips and swirl in the hot fudge sauce. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out slightly fudgy.
7. Drizzle with extra hot fudge sauce before serving.

 

5. Holiday White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Pistachio Bread: A Nutty, Fruity Indulgence

If you’re seeking a loaf that’s both luxurious and festive, the Holiday White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Pistachio Bread fits the bill perfectly. The combination of white chocolate chips, dried cranberries, and an array of nuts creates a beautiful blend of flavors and textures. This soft, airy loaf, made with instant yeast, rises beautifully and has a rich, slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with a hot cup of cocoa or tea.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup warm whole milk (110°F)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp instant yeast
• ½ tsp salt
• ⅓ cup chopped pecans
• ⅓ cup shelled pistachios
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup white chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, melted butter, and egg. Add 2 cups of flour, yeast, and salt, mixing until combined. Gradually add the remaining flour to form a soft dough.
2. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. Gently knead in pecans, pistachios, cranberries, and white chocolate chips.
5. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Let it rise for 30 minutes.
6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30-35 minutes, until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
7. Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing.

 

6. Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze: A Zesty Twist

Cranberry bread is a classic holiday treat, and adding an orange glaze gives it a refreshing twist. The sweetness of the glaze pairs perfectly with the tartness of the cranberries, making for a delightful loaf that’s full of vibrant flavors. This bread is moist and dense, with a rich texture that pairs wonderfully with a warm drink or as a standalone treat.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup orange juice
• ¼ cup milk
• ⅓ cup melted butter
• 2 eggs
• Orange Glaze:
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
• 1 tsp orange zest

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir in cranberries.
3. In another bowl, whisk together orange juice, milk, melted butter, and eggs. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and bake for 50–60 minutes.
5. Allow the bread to cool before drizzling with orange glaze made from powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest.

 

7. Cranberry Pistachio Fig Cheese Log Recipe

A savory appetizer, the Cranberry Pistachio Fig Cheese Log is a creative twist on the classic cheese ball. This easy-to-make dish combines tangy cream cheese with the richness of goat cheese, complemented by the sweetness of dried fruits and the crunch of pistachios. Perfect for any gathering, this cheese log is not only visually striking but also incredibly delicious.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 oz goat cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• 1/4 cup pistachios, chopped
• 1/4 cup dried figs, chopped
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
• Additional cranberries, pistachios, and figs for coating
• Crackers, fresh fruits, or veggies for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, goat cheese, honey, cranberries, pistachios, and figs. Mix thoroughly.
2. Shape the Log: Transfer the mixture to a piece of plastic wrap. Shape it into a log and chill for at least an hour.
3. Coat the Cheese Log: After chilling, roll the cheese log in additional cranberries, pistachios, and figs. Press gently for an even coating.
4. Serve: Arrange the log on a platter and serve with crackers, fruits, or veggies.

This simple yet elegant appetizer brings together savory, sweet, and crunchy elements, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

8. Orange Chocolate Bliss Loaf

Combining the tangy zest of oranges with the richness of chocolate, the Orange Chocolate Bliss Loaf is a moist, flavorful treat. The contrast of citrus and cocoa creates a deliciously unique flavor that pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea.

Ingredients:

• Dry Ingredients:
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • Pinch of salt
• Wet Ingredients:
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Zest and juice of 1 orange
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
• Additional:
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, orange zest, orange juice, and buttermilk. Mix until smooth.
4. Combine Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Stir in the chocolate chips.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes.
6. Cool: Allow the loaf to cool before slicing.

This moist, flavorful loaf is a perfect blend of chocolate and orange, making it a delightful addition to your dessert repertoire.

9. Spiced Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling

A true showstopper, the Spiced Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling brings together the rich flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in a tender carrot cake. Rolled up with a smooth cream cheese filling, it’s a perfect combination of spiced cake and sweet, tangy filling.

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 cup finely grated carrots
  • Powdered sugar for dusting
• For the Cream Cheese Filling:
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For Garnish: (optional)
  • Chopped walnuts or pecans
  • Additional powdered sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until pale. Add the vanilla extract and vegetable oil. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients and grated carrots.
3. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched.
4. Roll the Cake: Invert the warm cake onto a powdered sugar-dusted kitchen towel, peel off the parchment paper, and roll the cake up in the towel. Allow it to cool.
5. Prepare the Filling: Beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
6. Assemble the Cake Roll: Unroll the cooled cake, spread the filling evenly, and re-roll the cake. Chill before slicing.
7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with nuts and powdered sugar. Serve chilled.

This carrot cake roll is a delicious twist on the classic dessert, offering a light, spiced cake paired with a creamy, tangy filling.

10. Chocolate Caramel Cream Roll

The Chocolate Caramel Cream Roll combines a rich, chocolaty sponge with a luscious caramel cream filling. Topped with a silky chocolate ganache, this indulgent roll is perfect for special occasions or simply when you want to treat yourself.

Ingredients:

• For the Chocolate Sponge:
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• For the Caramel Cream Filling:
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1/4 cup caramel sauce
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:
  • 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sponge Cake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Whisk together the dry ingredients, then beat the eggs and sugar until thick and pale. Add the vanilla extract and oil, then fold in the dry ingredients. Bake for 10-12 minutes.
2. Prepare the Caramel Cream Filling: Whip the cream until soft peaks form. Add the caramel sauce and powdered sugar, and beat until stiff peaks form.
3. Assemble the Roll: Unroll the cooled cake, spread the caramel cream evenly, and roll it up again. Chill before serving.
4. Make the Ganache: Heat the cream and pour over the chocolate chips. Stir until smooth, then pour over the rolled cake.
5. Serve: Let the ganache set before slicing and serving.

This decadent dessert combines deep chocolate flavor with the sweetness of caramel, making it a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

11. Swiss Roll Meets Black Forest Charm

A luscious combination of chocolate and cherries, this roll cake takes inspiration from the beloved Black Forest cake. Swiss Roll Meets Black Forest Charm is a rich cocoa sponge filled with sweet cherry compote and whipped cream, offering the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients:

• For the Chocolate Sponge Cake:
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
• For the Cherry Filling:
  • 2 cups pitted cherries
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp water
• For the Whipped Cream Filling:
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For Garnish: (optional)
  • Extra cherries
  • Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chocolate Sponge Cake: Preheat the oven and grease a jelly roll pan. Beat eggs, sugar, and vanilla until pale, then sift the dry ingredients and fold into the egg mixture. Bake for 12-15 minutes.
2. Make the Cherry Filling: Cook the cherries with sugar and cornstarch until thickened, then let cool.
3. Make the Whipped Cream: Beat the cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
4. Assemble the Cake: Spread whipped cream over the cake, top with cherry filling, and roll the cake up. Chill and garnish with cherries and chocolate.

The combination of rich chocolate sponge, tart cherries, and creamy filling makes this dessert a perfect indulgence.

12. Chocolate and Blackberry Roll Cake

The Chocolate and Blackberry Roll Cake offers a delightful pairing of chocolate and tangy blackberries, with a light sponge and airy whipped cream. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, combining fruit and chocolate in a sophisticated and indulgent way.

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
• For the Filling:
  • 1 cup fresh blackberries
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake: Preheat the oven and beat eggs and sugar until pale. Sift in the dry ingredients and fold into the egg mixture. Bake for 12-15 minutes.
2. Make the Blackberry Filling: Cook blackberries with sugar and lemon juice until thickened. Let cool.
3. Whip the Cream: Beat the cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Assemble the Cake: Roll the cooled cake, spread blackberry filling, and top with whipped cream. Chill and garnish with fresh blackberries.

This roll cake is a wonderful dessert for berry lovers, providing a perfect blend of chocolate, fruit, and cream.

 

13. Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll

The Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of whipped cream, the tartness of raspberry jam, and the light texture of sponge cake. It’s a festive and elegant dessert that’s sure to wow your guests.

Ingredients

• For the Cake:
  • 5 large eggs, separated
  • 1 cup sugar (divided)
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup raspberry jam (seedless if preferred)
• For the Whipped Cream Filling:
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • Fresh raspberries (for garnish)
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter: Beat the egg yolks with 1/2 cup of sugar until thick and pale. In another bowl, whisk the egg whites until frothy, then gradually add the remaining 1/2 cup sugar and continue whisking until stiff peaks form.
3. Combine and Fold: Gently fold the egg yolk mixture into the egg whites, followed by the sifted flour, baking powder, and salt. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
4. Bake the Cake: Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cake springs back when touched. Remove from the oven and turn it out onto a kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Roll the cake up in the towel and let it cool completely.
5. Assemble the Cake Roll: Unroll the cooled cake, spread a layer of raspberry jam, and then re-roll the cake. Whip the heavy cream with sugar until stiff peaks form and spread it over the cake. Garnish with fresh raspberries and a dusting of powdered sugar.

The tangy raspberry jam and sweet whipped cream combine perfectly in this cake, making it a holiday favorite. It’s easy to make, yet looks and tastes like an elaborate dessert.

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14. Red Velvet Cake Roll

Red Velvet Cake is a classic holiday favorite known for its deep red color and velvety texture. This Red Velvet Cake Roll is a perfect way to bring the rich, festive flavor of red velvet into a fun and creative dessert form.

Ingredients

• For the Cake:
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp red food coloring
  • ½ cup buttermilk
• For the Cream Cheese Filling:
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy cream

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix in the vegetable oil, vanilla, red food coloring, and buttermilk until smooth.
3. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Roll the Cake: Once baked, immediately roll the warm cake in a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Allow the cake to cool completely while rolled up.
5. Make the Filling: In a separate bowl, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture.
6. Assemble and Serve: Unroll the cake, spread the cream cheese filling over the surface, and carefully re-roll the cake. Chill for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving.

The red velvet cake offers a rich and moist base, while the cream cheese filling provides a tangy, rich complement. This cake roll is not only festive but also indulgent, making it a standout dessert for any holiday party.

15. Festive Christmas Funfetti Cake

If you’re looking for a fun, festive, and easy-to-make dessert that both children and adults will love, a Funfetti Cake Roll is the perfect option. Bursting with colorful sprinkles and topped with whipped frosting, this cake is as much about the visual appeal as it is about the flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 box vanilla cake mix
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup red and green sprinkles
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
• 1 cup whipped frosting
• Extra sprinkles for decorating

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, mix together the cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, sour cream, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the red and green sprinkles and mini chocolate chips (if using).
3. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.
4. Frost and Decorate: Once the cake has cooled, spread a layer of whipped frosting over the top. Decorate with extra sprinkles to give it a festive touch.

This Funfetti Cake is perfect for a lively holiday gathering. It’s playful, colorful, and guaranteed to bring joy to the table, especially when topped with whipped frosting and extra sprinkles.

16. Velvet Lemon Cream Roll Cake

For a lighter, refreshing twist on the traditional cake roll, the Velvet Lemon Cream Roll Cake is an ideal choice. The tangy lemon flavor paired with the smooth cream filling creates a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness, perfect for cutting through the richness of other holiday treats.

Ingredients

• For the Cake:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• For the Lemon Cream Filling:
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • ½ cup heavy whipping cream

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. Make the Cake Batter: Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla, lemon zest, lemon juice, milk, and melted butter, and mix until smooth. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients.
3. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 10-12 minutes. Let the cake cool for a few minutes before rolling it in a kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar.
4. Make the Lemon Cream Filling: Beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and lemon juice until smooth. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, then fold it into the cream cheese mixture.
5. Assemble the Cake Roll: Unroll the cooled cake and spread the lemon cream filling evenly over the surface. Roll the cake back up and dust with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.

This Lemon Cream Roll Cake is perfect for those looking for a dessert with a zesty, refreshing flavor to balance the heavier holiday sweets.