Name: Red Velvet Cake Roll
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large eggs ¾ cup granulated sugar 2 tablespoons vegetable oil ⅓ cup buttermilk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 tablespoon red food coloring ⅔ cup all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder ½ teaspoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon baking soda ¼ teaspoon salt 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened 1 cup powdered sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Fresh strawberries Extra powdered sugar for dusting

A slice of this Red Velvet Cake Roll is pure dessert bliss. With its bold ruby-red hue, silky cream cheese filling, and delicate crumb, it’s as beautiful as it is indulgent. Whether you’re serving it at a festive gathering or treating yourself to a weekend baking project, this dessert is sure to become a favorite.

The light sponge texture paired with the tang of the filling makes it a perfect balance of flavor and flair. Rolled cakes are not only fun to make but they also offer that wow factor when sliced—those red and white swirls never fail to impress!

What Kind of Cake Texture Works Best for a Cake Roll?

When it comes to a Red Velvet Cake Roll, the sponge cake method is ideal. This type of cake is airy yet flexible, which helps it roll without cracking. The key is to beat the eggs properly and avoid overmixing the batter—this ensures the structure is strong but pliable.

Ingredients for the Red Velvet Cake Roll

Eggs
These provide the necessary lift and flexibility to the sponge cake, helping it hold its rolled shape.

Granulated Sugar
Essential for sweetening and stabilizing the egg mixture during whipping.

Vegetable Oil
Keeps the cake moist and soft without weighing it down.

Buttermilk
Adds the classic tanginess and tender crumb red velvet is known for.

All-Purpose Flour
The structure-builder of the cake, providing body without making it dense.

Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
For that signature subtle chocolate flavor that defines red velvet.

Baking Powder and Baking Soda
A duo that ensures a light rise and balanced texture.

Salt
Enhances all the other flavors, especially the cocoa.

Red Food Coloring
What gives this cake its vibrant and show-stopping red color.

Vanilla Extract
Rounds out the flavor with aromatic sweetness.

Cream Cheese
The heart of the filling—rich, tangy, and perfectly smooth.

Powdered Sugar
Sweetens the filling and helps it hold its creamy shape.

Butter
Adds body and richness to the cream cheese frosting.

Fresh Strawberries (optional for topping)
Adds a bright, fresh touch and enhances presentation.

How To Make the Red Velvet Cake Roll

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang to lift the cake out easily. Lightly grease the parchment for easy release.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs until thick and pale, about 5 minutes. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until fully incorporated. Stir in vegetable oil, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the top. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the top springs back when lightly touched. Do not overbake, or it may crack when rolled.

Step 4: Roll the Cake

Immediately turn the hot cake out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment paper and roll the cake up in the towel starting from the short side. Let it cool completely while rolled.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add in powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fluffy.

Step 6: Fill and Re-Roll

Carefully unroll the cooled cake and spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface. Gently roll it back up (without the towel) and place seam-side down on a platter.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to set. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh strawberries before serving, if desired.

How to Serve and Store Your Red Velvet Cake Roll

Slice the cake roll using a serrated knife for clean, beautiful spirals. Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.

To store, wrap the cake roll tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the roll (without strawberries) in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before slicing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the cake roll ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dessert is perfect for prepping a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

What if my cake cracks when I roll it?

Minor cracks can be hidden with powdered sugar or a topping of cream and berries. Rolling the cake while warm helps prevent cracking.

Can I use natural food coloring?

Yes! Beet powder or plant-based red food dyes can work, though the shade may be more muted.

How do I keep the filling from oozing out?

Chill the roll before slicing and avoid overfilling. A firm, whipped filling also helps.

What size pan should I use?

A 10×15-inch jelly roll pan is ideal. Smaller pans may result in a cake that’s too thick to roll.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure it includes xanthan gum for structure.

Want More Cake Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Red Velvet Cake Roll, you might enjoy diving into these other creative desserts:

Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake for a fruity, creamy twist.
Mini Lemon Bundt Cakes if you like citrusy brightness in elegant shapes.
Amish Applesauce Cake for a spiced, old-fashioned favorite.
Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow when you want a snackable cheesecake-inspired treat.
Bonnies Blue Ribbon Chocolate Dream Cake for deep, dreamy chocolate lovers.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time: Life with Jam Pinterest Recipes

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with strawberries or try a different topping? Did you add extra cocoa for a more chocolatey twist?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.