Red Velvet Cake Roll

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This Red Velvet Cake Roll is the kind of dessert that steals the spotlight at any table. Rich, vibrant, and visually striking with its bold red sponge cake and luscious cream cheese filling, it tastes just as magical as it looks. Each bite is a tender swirl of cocoa-kissed sponge and silky sweet filling—like a little love letter to classic red velvet.

Whether you’re making it for Valentine’s Day, a birthday bash, or just a cozy night in with tea, this roll brings the wow factor with minimal effort. It’s a bake that looks like it came from a fancy patisserie, but trust me—you can pull it off right in your own kitchen. All you need is a jelly roll pan, a clean towel, and a little baking enthusiasm.

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Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Cake Roll

• Beautifully Elegant: That swirl! It’s as gorgeous as it is delicious.
• Rich Yet Light: The cake is moist with a hint of cocoa, while the cream cheese filling keeps it light and dreamy.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping a day in advance. The flavors deepen, and slicing becomes easier.
• Versatile: Add crushed nuts, mini chocolate chips, or drizzle with chocolate ganache to dress it up.

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What Kind of Cocoa Powder Should I Use?

For this recipe, natural unsweetened cocoa powder is ideal. It enhances that subtle chocolate note typical in red velvet cake without overpowering the flavor. Dutch-processed cocoa will work in a pinch, but you might miss a bit of the traditional tang that balances beautifully with the cream cheese.

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Ingredients for the Red Velvet Cake Roll

Red velvet cake is known for its balance of sweetness and a slight tang, and the ingredients below play a big part in achieving that perfect harmony:

• All-Purpose Flour – Gives the sponge cake its structure while keeping it soft and tender.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Brings the classic hint of chocolate flavor without overwhelming.
• Baking Powder + Baking Soda – These help the sponge rise evenly, ensuring it stays fluffy.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor and balances sweetness.
• Eggs – The backbone of the sponge; they add richness and help the cake stay pliable enough to roll.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake and helps whip the eggs into a light, airy base.
• Buttermilk – Essential for that signature red velvet tang and moisture.
• Vegetable Oil – Adds moisture without making the cake heavy.
• Vanilla Extract – Rounds out the flavor with warm depth.
• Red Gel Food Coloring – For that bold, iconic hue.
• Cream Cheese – The rich, slightly tangy star of the filling.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the filling while keeping it smooth.
• Butter – Adds creaminess and helps the filling set.

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How To Make the Red Velvet Cake Roll

Step 1: Prep and Line Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it. This ensures your cake will lift easily and not stick.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In one bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until thick and pale—about 5 minutes. Add the oil, buttermilk, vanilla, and red food coloring. Gently fold in the dry ingredients until fully combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the center springs back when lightly pressed.

Step 4: Roll While Warm

Immediately turn the hot cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment, then roll the cake (with the towel inside) gently into a spiral. Let it cool completely this way—it trains the cake to hold its shape.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

Beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy.

Step 6: Fill and Re-Roll

Carefully unroll the cooled cake, spread the filling evenly, then re-roll without the towel. Chill for at least 1 hour to firm up before slicing.

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Serving and Storing This Red Velvet Cake Roll

This Red Velvet Cake Roll yields about 10-12 slices, making it ideal for sharing at parties or keeping in the fridge for a few indulgent days.

To serve, dust lightly with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted white chocolate. You can even sprinkle red velvet cake crumbs over the top for an elegant finish.

Store the roll in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It keeps well for up to 4 days and actually slices best when chilled.

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What to Serve With Red Velvet Cake Roll?

Fresh Berries

Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add brightness that complements the rich filling.

Coffee or Espresso

A dark, strong brew balances the sweetness of the cake perfectly.

Whipped Cream

Add an extra dollop on top for a light and airy texture contrast.

Chocolate Sauce

A light drizzle of dark or white chocolate makes it feel ultra-decadent.

Vanilla Ice Cream

This is especially perfect for warm weather or if you want to serve it as a plated dessert.

Candied Pecans

Adds crunch and a toasty caramel note that plays nicely with the tangy filling.

Festive Cocktails

Try a spiced eggnog or a raspberry bellini for an elevated dessert pairing.

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Want More Cake Roll Ideas?

If you adore this Red Velvet Cake Roll, you’ll probably fall in love with these unique and delicious dessert creations too:

• Sweet Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls for a fruity, creamy indulgence.
• Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake when you crave something rich and romantic.
• Magic Lemon Cobbler for a citrusy twist that brightens any occasion.
• Chocolate Raspberry Drip Cake if you’re in the mood for a bold flavor pairing.
• Whipped Shortbread Cookies for a buttery bite to go alongside your dessert board.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go with the classic filling or add a little twist? Maybe a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips or a swirl of ganache?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s bake better together.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and decadent desserts on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to indulgence!

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