The Christmas roll cake is a festive dessert that captures the joy and warmth of the holiday season. Imagine a soft, spongy cake rolled with creamy filling, adorned with seasonal decorations, and bursting with holiday flavors. This delightful treat is the perfect addition to your Christmas table, whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet celebration with loved ones. Its light texture, combined with a rich vanilla flavor, makes it a must-try for anyone who loves a classic yet elegant holiday dessert. If you’re searching for a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, this Christmas vanilla cake roll is for you!
Medium
Level
20min
Prep time
15min
Cooking time
1h
Total time
8-10
Servings
Table of Contents
What is Christmas Roll Cake?
A Christmas roll cake is a delightful holiday dessert made with a soft, fluffy sponge cake rolled around a creamy filling. Often referred to as a Christmas cake roll or Christmas Swiss roll, this festive treat is decorated with seasonal elements like powdered sugar, holiday sprinkles, or intricate frosting designs. It’s cherished for its light texture, festive appearance, and versatile flavors, such as vanilla or chocolate, making it a perfect addition to Christmas celebrations.
The Origins of the Christmas Roll Cake: A Festive European Tradition
The Christmas roll cake originated in European pastry traditions, particularly in Switzerland and Austria, where rolled sponge cakes have been popular for generations. By the late 19th century, bakers began transforming these delicate pastries into festive holiday desserts, creating the beloved Christmas vanilla cake roll we enjoy today. The tradition spread across Europe and North America, becoming a cherished Christmas cake roll centerpiece for holiday celebrations.
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Roll Cake
- ★ Festive Appearance: This Christmas cake roll is as eye-catching as it is delicious, with its swirl of creamy filling and holiday-themed decorations.
- ★ Versatile Flavor: The vanilla sponge is a crowd-pleaser and pairs well with countless fillings, from whipped cream to chocolate ganache.
- ★ Easy to Customize: Add festive colors, sprinkles, or a dusting of powdered sugar to make it uniquely yours.
- ★ Perfect for Gatherings: Its elegant presentation makes it the centerpiece of any dessert table.
Ingredients for Christmas Roll Cake
Eggs: The key to creating a light and airy sponge, with the yolks adding richness and the whipped whites providing structure.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps achieve a tender texture.
All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the sponge, offering just the right balance for a soft and pliable roll.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, aromatic note that complements the holiday spirit.
Powdered Sugar: Essential for dusting and preventing the cake from sticking during rolling, while also adding a festive finish.
Heavy Whipping Cream: Whips into a luscious, fluffy filling that holds its shape beautifully inside the roll.
Powdered Sugar (for the filling): Sweetens the whipped cream, ensuring a smooth and creamy consistency.
Holiday Decorations: Festive sprinkles, edible ornaments, or a dusting of powdered sugar elevate the cake’s appearance for Christmas.
Optional Food Coloring: A touch of red or green dye transforms the cake into a vibrant, seasonal centerpiece.
Note: Precise measurements for each ingredient are available in the recipe card below.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Sifter
- Baking sheet (10×15 inches)
- Parchment paper
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
- Clean kitchen towel
How to Make This Christmas Roll Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat egg yolks with half of the sugar until pale and creamy. Add vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk egg whites with the remaining sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture.
- Sift flour and salt over the batter and fold gently until combined.
- Spread the batter evenly onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched.
Step 2: Roll the Cake
- While the cake is still warm, dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar.
- Carefully invert the cake onto the towel, remove the parchment paper, and roll the cake (with the towel) into a log. Let it cool completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- If desired, divide the cream and tint with red and green food coloring for a festive look.
Step 4: Assemble the Roll Cake
- Gently unroll the cooled cake and spread the filling evenly.
- Roll the cake back up (without the towel) and place it seam-side down on a serving platter.
- Dust with powdered sugar and decorate with sprinkles or edible holiday decorations.
Pro Tips for Perfect Christmas Roll Cake
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can make the sponge dry and prone to cracking when rolled.
- Roll While Warm: Rolling the cake while it’s warm prevents cracks and helps it hold its shape.
- Use Stabilized Cream: Add a teaspoon of gelatin dissolved in water to the whipped cream to help it hold its shape.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the cake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator for easier slicing.
What is a roll cake called?
A roll cake, often referred to as a Swiss roll, is a soft sponge cake rolled with a filling such as cream or jam. During the holiday season, it’s commonly called a Christmas roll or Christmas Swiss roll when made with festive designs or flavors. Its light texture and decorative appeal make it a perfect dessert for Christmas gatherings.
What is the Christmas cake slang?
While Christmas cake can have humorous slang meanings in some contexts, it typically refers to festive treats like a traditional fruitcake or a beautifully decorated Christmas cake roll. The term is often used casually to describe sweet and indulgent cakes enjoyed during the holiday season, including the lighter and cream-filled roll cake Christmas.
Storage and Freezing
- Storage: Wrap the roll cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the roll (undecorated) for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and decorate before serving your roll cake christmas
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Twist: Replace the vanilla sponge with chocolate and fill with chocolate ganache for a decadent treat.
- Berry Delight: Add a layer of strawberry or raspberry jam before spreading the whipped cream.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly dessert.
- Sprinkle vibrant, colorful vermicelli over your Christmas cake roll to create a merry and bright dessert that will dazzle your holiday guests with its cheerful, festive appearance.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a warm cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine for a cozy holiday vibe.
- Slice into even portions and serve on a festive platter.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel for extra indulgence.
Nutrition Information for the Christmas cake roll
- Calories: ~250 per slice
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 12g
Note: Values may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this Christmas roll cake without a mixer?
A: Yes, but whipping the egg whites by hand can be time-consuming. A whisk and strong arm will work!
Q: How do I prevent the cake from cracking?
A: Be sure to roll the cake while it’s warm and handle it gently.
Q: Can I use store-bought whipped cream?
A: You can, but freshly whipped cream has a better flavor and texture.
More Holiday Recipe Ideas
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- 5 Steps to Perfect Velveeta Broccoli Casserole
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Christmas Roll Cake – A Delightful Holiday Dessert
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Sifter
- Baking sheet (10×15 inches)
- Parchment Paper
- Spatula
- Clean kitchen towel
Ingredients
- For the Sponge Cake:
- 4 large eggs separated
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar for rolling
- For the Filling:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For Decoration:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Holiday-themed sprinkles or edible decorations
- Optional: Red and green food coloring for a festive touch
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat egg yolks with half of the sugar until pale and creamy. Add vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk egg whites with the remaining sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture.
- Sift flour and salt over the batter and fold gently until combined.
- Spread the batter evenly onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched.
- Step 2: Roll the Cake
- While the cake is still warm, dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar.
- Carefully invert the cake onto the towel, remove the parchment paper, and roll the cake (with the towel) into a log. Let it cool completely.
- Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- If desired, divide the cream and tint with red and green food coloring for a festive look.
- Step 4: Assemble the Roll Cake
- Gently unroll the cooled cake and spread the filling evenly.
- Roll the cake back up (without the towel) and place it seam-side down on a serving platter.
- Dust with powdered sugar and decorate with sprinkles or edible holiday decorations.
