Oh, the magic of baking during the holidays! There’s just something about the aroma of sweet vanilla wafting through the kitchen that instantly puts me in the festive spirit. The Christmas vanilla roll cake is my absolute go-to when it comes to holiday desserts—it’s not only a showstopper but also a delightful treat that brings everyone together. I remember the first time I made this cake; my family’s eyes lit up as I rolled it up, and when they took that first bite, it was pure bliss! It’s light, fluffy, and filled with creamy goodness, making it a perfect companion for sipping hot cocoa or enjoying after a hearty holiday meal. Plus, it’s so easy to decorate with colorful sprinkles, giving it that extra festive flair. Whether it’s for a cozy family gathering or a grand holiday feast, this roll cake always finds its way to the table. Trust me, once you have a slice, you’ll want to keep this delicious tradition going year after year!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
- Red and green sprinkles for decoration
How to Prepare Instructions
Preheat and Prepare the Pan
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating! You’ll want it set to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab your trusty 10×15 inch jelly roll pan. Grease it up a bit with some butter or cooking spray—this helps your cake slide right out later. Then, line the bottom with parchment paper to make sure it’s all set for the batter. Trust me, this step is super important for an easy release!
Make the Cake Batter
Now, let’s whip up that cake batter! In a large mixing bowl, beat together the 4 large eggs and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is thick and pale—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. The color change is a good sign! Next, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for that lovely flavor. In another bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Now, gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, being careful not to deflate it. You want that light, airy texture!
Bake the Cake
Once the batter is mixed, spread it evenly into your prepared pan. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s ready when the edges start to turn golden brown and the center springs back when lightly touched. It should also smell heavenly—just wait!
Roll and Cool the Cake
When the cake is done, carefully turn it out onto a clean kitchen towel that’s been dusted with powdered sugar (this prevents sticking!). Gently peel off the parchment paper. Now, here’s the fun part: starting from one short end, roll the cake up with the towel inside. This helps shape it while it cools. Let it sit rolled up for about 20 minutes so it holds its form as it cools down.
Prepare the Filling
While the cake cools, let’s make that luscious filling! In a mixing bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream until soft peaks form. Then, add in 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Keep whipping until you reach that perfect creamy consistency—light and fluffy! This filling is what makes the cake so delightful!
Assemble the Cake
Now that the cake has cooled, carefully unroll it from the towel. Spread the whipped cream filling evenly over the cake, leaving a little space at the edges. Now, roll it back up—don’t worry if it looks a little messy, that’s part of the charm! Just be gentle and try to keep it tight. Once it’s rolled, place it seam side down on a serving platter.
Chill and Decorate
Finally, pop the rolled cake in the fridge for about 1 hour to set. This helps everything firm up nicely. When you’re ready to serve, take it out and sprinkle it with those festive red and green sprinkles. You can even dust it with a little extra powdered sugar for that snowy effect. And voila! Your beautiful Christmas vanilla roll cake is ready to impress your family and friends!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Elegance: This Christmas vanilla roll cake not only looks stunning but is surprisingly easy to make. You’ll wow your guests without spending all day in the kitchen!
- Deliciously Light: The fluffy cake paired with the whipped cream filling is a match made in heaven. It’s light enough to enjoy after a big holiday meal without feeling weighed down.
- Customizable: Feel free to get creative! You can add your favorite fruits, swap the sprinkles for festive decorations, or even infuse the filling with different flavors. The possibilities are endless!
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 8 generous slices, making it perfect for gatherings and holiday parties. Everyone will want a piece of this delightful dessert!
- Festive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the sprinkles and the beautiful swirl of cream make this cake a true showstopper on any dessert table. It’s sure to bring smiles and joy!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can make this cake in advance and chill it until you’re ready to serve, taking the stress out of holiday entertaining.
Tips for Success
Alright, let me share some of my best tips to ensure your Christmas vanilla roll cake turns out perfectly every single time. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will save you from any baking mishaps!
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always use fresh eggs and cream for the best flavor and texture. It makes a world of difference in the final product!
- Don’t Overmix: When folding the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, be gentle! Overmixing can deflate the batter and lead to a dense cake. You want to keep that light, airy quality.
- Check Your Oven: Every oven is a bit different. I recommend using an oven thermometer to ensure it’s at the right temperature. If you find your cake browning too quickly, lower the temperature slightly.
- Timing is Key: Keep an eye on the baking time. The cake should spring back when lightly touched and not look shiny in the center. If in doubt, a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean!
- Powdered Sugar is Your Friend: Dust your kitchen towel with powdered sugar generously before rolling the cake. This prevents it from sticking and makes the rolling process much smoother.
- Chill Time: Don’t skip the chilling step after you’ve filled and rolled the cake. This will help it hold its shape when you slice it, making for beautiful, clean pieces!
- Decorate Just Before Serving: If you’re making the cake ahead of time, wait to add the sprinkles until just before serving. This keeps them vibrant and prevents them from getting soggy.
With these tips, I’m confident you’ll create a stunning and delicious Christmas vanilla roll cake that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds. Happy baking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up a bit, there are so many fun ways to put your twist on the Christmas vanilla roll cake! Here are some of my favorite variations that’ll keep your dessert table exciting:
- Chocolate Delight: Swap out half of the all-purpose flour for cocoa powder to create a rich chocolate roll cake. Pair it with a whipped chocolate ganache filling for an extra indulgent treat!
- Fruit-Filled Bliss: Add some seasonal flair by incorporating fruit into your filling. Try mixing in fresh raspberries, strawberries, or even a layer of spiced apple compote for a burst of flavor!
- Nutty Addition: For a delightful crunch, fold in some finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the batter. You can also sprinkle them on top after decorating for an extra festive touch!
- Citrus Zing: Brighten up your roll cake by adding some lemon or orange zest to the batter and filling. The citrus adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness, making it perfect for holiday gatherings!
- Spiced Wonderland: Give your cake a cozy holiday vibe by adding warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the batter. This will infuse it with those delightful seasonal flavors we all love!
- Decadent Cream Cheese Filling: Instead of whipped cream, why not try a cream cheese filling? Just beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla for a tangy, rich alternative!
With these variations, you can create a Christmas vanilla roll cake that’s uniquely yours. Feel free to mix and match ideas, and let your creativity shine. Happy baking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve made this delightful Christmas vanilla roll cake and somehow have leftovers (which is a miracle in itself!), here’s how to store it properly so you can savor every last bite!
First things first, if you have any leftover cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This keeps it moist and fresh. I like to place it in an airtight container, too, just for good measure. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Trust me, the flavors actually deepen a bit as it sits, making it even more delicious!
If you want to keep your cake for a longer period, you can freeze it! Just slice it into individual pieces and wrap each slice in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can enjoy a piece anytime you crave a little holiday cheer. It’ll last in the freezer for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. No need to reheat; serve it chilled for that delightful creamy texture!
And here’s a little tip: If you find yourself reheating a slice, I recommend using the microwave for just about 10-15 seconds. This will warm it slightly and bring back that fluffy texture without drying it out. Just be careful not to overdo it—nobody wants a rubbery cake!
With these storage and reheating tips, you can keep the festive spirit alive even after the holiday celebrations are over. Enjoy every single slice, my friend!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional information for our delightful Christmas vanilla roll cake! While it’s definitely a treat meant for special occasions, knowing what’s in it can help you enjoy it even more. Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per slice:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 4g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes. But trust me, every bite of this cake is worth it when it comes to holiday cheer! Enjoy responsibly, and savor the joy it brings to your celebrations!
FAQ Section
Can I make the Christmas vanilla roll cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake is perfect for making in advance. You can prepare the roll cake a day or two ahead, just be sure to store it in the refrigerator. It actually tastes even better after chilling, as the flavors meld together beautifully.
What can I use instead of heavy cream for the filling?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use whipped topping or a lighter whipped cream alternative. Just keep in mind that the texture and richness will differ a bit, but it will still be delicious!
How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?
To avoid cracks, make sure to roll the cake while it’s still warm in the towel. This helps it hold the shape without breaking. Also, be gentle when unrolling and rerolling it; patience is key here!
Can I freeze the Christmas vanilla roll cake?
Yes, you can! Just slice the cake into individual servings and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll keep in the freezer for about 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
What’s the best way to decorate my roll cake?
Decorating is where you can get really creative! I love using red and green sprinkles for a festive touch, but you can also dust it with powdered sugar or even drizzle some melted chocolate on top. The key is to have fun with it and make it your own!
Delightful Christmas Vanilla Roll Cake for Cozy Celebrations
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful Christmas vanilla roll cake filled with cream and decorated for the holidays.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
- Red and green sprinkles for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 10×15 inch jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, beat eggs and granulated sugar until thick and pale.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Turn the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar.
- Roll the cake with the towel and let it cool.
- Whip the heavy cream and mix in powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
- Unroll the cooled cake, spread the whipped cream filling, and reroll it carefully.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
- Decorate with sprinkles before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients for best results.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Feel free to add fruit to the filling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Christmas vanilla roll cake, holiday dessert, rolled cake