Name: Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll How To Wow Guests in 7 Steps
Prep time: 85 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 155 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup all purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 4 pieces eggs; 2/3 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 10 ounces fresh or frozen raspberries; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 9 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup chilled whipping cream; 9 ounces fresh raspberries for filling; 6 ounces white chocolate; 1/4 cup whipping cream; Pinch salt; Fresh raspberries for decorating; Star anise as needed; Fresh rosemary as needed; Powdered sugar for dusting

Introduction to Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll

The Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll is a delightful way to embrace the holiday spirit. This beautiful dessert features a luscious vanilla sponge cake, swirled around a bright and tangy raspberry jam, complemented by a rich cream cheese filling. The stunning presentation, with its elegant swirl and velvety white chocolate ganache, makes it an ideal centerpiece for any festive gathering. Plus, the combination of flavors—sweet, tart, and creamy—strikes the perfect balance that your guests will love.

But why is this cake roll a must-have during the holidays? For one, it’s visually impressive, ensuring that it grabs attention on your dessert table. Its light texture means it can be enjoyed even after a filling holiday meal, and who could resist the allure of fresh raspberries nestled within a soft sponge? Additionally, it’s a versatile treat, perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, or as a sweet gift for friends.

If you want to elevate your holiday offerings this year, the Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll is certain to wow everyone who gets a slice. Ready to dive into this festive baking adventure? Let's get started!

For more holiday baking inspiration, check out resources like The Kitchn and Serious Eats.

Ingredients for Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll

Creating a Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll is a delightful way to impress your guests this season. Below, I've outlined the essential ingredients you'll need to bring this beautiful dessert to life.

List of Ingredients

Cake Base:
¾ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
4 eggs
⅔ cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Raspberry Filling:
10 ounces fresh or frozen raspberries
¼ cup sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Cream Cheese Filling:
9 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chilled whipping cream
9 ounces fresh raspberries for filling
White Chocolate Ganache:
6 ounces white chocolate
¼ cup whipping cream
Pinch of salt
Decorations:
Fresh raspberries for decorating
Star anise and fresh rosemary as needed
Powdered sugar for dusting

Gathering these ingredients will make the process smooth and rewarding. If you're looking for tips on sourcing them, consider checking out local farmers’ markets for the freshest produce! Happy baking!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll

Indulging in a festive dessert is a holiday tradition, and what better way to impress your guests than with a stunning Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll? Follow these straightforward steps to create a delightful dessert that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

Prepare the Raspberry Filling

To begin, you'll want to create the luscious raspberry filling. In a saucepan, combine 10 ounces of raspberries, ¼ cup sugar, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Cook this mixture over medium heat for about 8 to 10 minutes until it thickens, stirring occasionally. Once thickened, strain the mixture to remove any seeds—this step is crucial for a smooth filling. Let it cool while you tackle the cake base, allowing the flavors to meld. Need tips on selecting fresh raspberries? Check out this guide on picking seasonal berries.

Bake the Vanilla Cake Base

Next up is the cake base. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 15 by 10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper. In a bowl, whisk together ¾ cup flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. In another bowl, beat 4 eggs and ⅔ cup sugar for about 5 minutes until they turn a pale color. Gently fold in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, then slowly add the dry ingredients. Spread this batter evenly in your prepared pan and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until it springs back when touched.

Cool and Roll the Cake

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Flip it onto a powdered sugar-dusted towel and roll it up gently. This rolling technique while warm prevents cracking, ensuring a seamless dessert. Let it cool completely while you prepare the cream cheese filling.

Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat 9 ounces of softened cream cheese until smooth. Add ½ cup powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, mixing well. Separately, whip 1 cup of chilled whipping cream until soft peaks form, then fold it into the cream cheese mixture. This will give your filling a delightful richness that complements the tart raspberry perfectly.

Prepare the White Chocolate Ganache

No Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll is complete without a luxurious finish! For the ganache, heat ¼ cup of whipping cream until simmering, then pour it over 6 ounces of chopped white chocolate. Let it sit for a bit, then stir until smooth and add a pinch of salt. Chill this ganache for about 30 minutes, then whip it to a fluffy consistency.

Assemble the Cake Roll

Now comes the fun part—assembling your cake roll! Carefully unroll your cooled sponge cake and spread the raspberry filling evenly across the surface. Add the cream cheese filling on top and scatter 9 ounces of fresh raspberries across it. Roll it back up tightly, this time without the towel, to create a beautiful swirl.

Decorate and Serve

Finish your masterpiece by spreading the whipped white chocolate ganache over the cake roll. For that festive touch, decorate with fresh raspberries, rosemary, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. You might also consider adding a star anise for an aromatic flair. Slice, serve, and watch your guests' eyes light up at this captivating holiday treat!

This holiday season, let your kitchen become a hub of joy with this Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll. Happy baking!

Variations on Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll

Chocolate Raspberry Cake Roll

If you're a chocolate lover, consider transforming your Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll into a decadent chocolate version! Simply replace ¼ cup of the flour with unsweetened cocoa powder in the batter. The rich cocoa adds depth and pairs beautifully with the raspberry filling. For an even more luxurious treat, you can drizzle chocolate ganache over the top instead of white chocolate. Your guests will be raving about this indulgent twist!

Vegan Raspberry Cake Roll

For a plant-based option, a vegan Raspberry Cake Roll is both easy and delicious. Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water or use unsweetened applesauce. Switch the cream cheese for a vegan alternative and use coconut cream for the whipped topping. This way, you maintain that luscious texture and the delightful flavor, ensuring everyone at your gathering has a slice of festive joy. Think of it as a delightful way to cater to various dietary preferences while keeping holiday cheer intact!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll

Key Tips for Success

Creating a stunning Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll starts with ensuring your oven is properly preheated. Remember to use a parchment-lined jelly roll pan to help with easy removal. When rolling the warm cake in a towel, be gentle but firm—this helps prevent cracks. If possible, prepare your cake a day in advance; it enhances the flavors and allows for easier assembly!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is undercooking the cake, which can make it soggy and difficult to roll. Ensure the cake springs back when touched. Also, avoid overmixing the batter; gentle folding is key to maintaining that light texture. Lastly, don’t skip straining the raspberry mixture to achieve a smooth filling—nobody likes seeds in their cake! For more baking tips, check out resources like King Arthur Baking.

Serving Suggestions for Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll

Perfect Pairings for Your Cake Roll

To truly elevate your Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll, consider serving it alongside a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a festive twist, a side of homemade cranberry sauce can add a tart balance to the rich flavors of the cake. Complement your dish with warm spiced apple cider or a classic hot chocolate to create a cozy holiday feel.

Presentation Ideas

Make your cake roll the star of your dessert table! Place it on a beautiful cake stand, garnished with fresh raspberries, sprigs of rosemary, or a dusting of powdered sugar for that snowy effect. You might even drizzle extra white chocolate ganache over the top for an irresistible finish. Personal touches, like a handwritten card describing the flavors, can impress your guests and make the occasion feel even more special.

For more creative dessert ideas, check out this link to inspire your holiday menu!

Time Breakdown for Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll

Preparation Time

You’ll need about 30 minutes to gather your ingredients and whip up the delightful batter, prep the raspberry filling, and get everything ready to bake.

Baking Time

The cake bakes for approximately 12 to 15 minutes. This quick bake helps maintain that soft, fluffy texture that makes this Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll so special.

Cooling Time

After baking, allow the cake to cool for at least 1 hour. This cooling period is vital; it prevents cracking when you roll it up.

Total Time

From start to finish, plan for about 2 hours and 35 minutes to create this festive masterpiece, but trust us, the effort is worth every minute!

Discover more festive recipes and tips at allrecipes.com and make your holiday season delicious.

Nutritional Facts for Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll

This delightful Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll offers a festive treat to wow your guests without compromising on flavor or enjoyment. Here’s a quick look at its nutritional profile:

Calories Per Slice
Each slice contains approximately 320 calories, making it a sweet indulgence for special occasions.

Sugar Content
With 32 grams of sugar, this cake roll strikes a balance between delightful sweetness and festive flavor.

Fat Content
At 16 grams of fat per slice, including 9 grams of saturated fat, it indulges your dessert cravings while still feeling celebratory.

This cake roll is perfect for sharing and is sure to become a holiday favorite! For more details on nutrition or alternatives, check out the USDA's Food Composition Database.

FAQs about Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll

Can I make the cake roll ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making your Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll a day in advance is a great idea. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes your holiday hosting easier. Just remember to store it properly to maintain its freshness.

How do I store leftover cake roll?
To keep your leftover cake roll tasty, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to extend its life, consider freezing it. Just ensure it's well-wrapped, and it can last for a couple of months. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.

What can I use instead of raspberries?
While raspberries really shine in this recipe, you can substitute them with other berries like strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries. For a unique twist, try using citrus preserves or even chocolate hazelnut spread for a different flavor. Your Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll will still impress your guests no matter what you choose!

Conclusion on Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll

In summary, the Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll is not just a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for the taste buds. With its soft sponge, luscious cream filling, and pop of raspberry flavor, this dessert is sure to impress your guests! Perfect for holiday gatherings.