How do I prevent the carrot cake roll from cracking?

To prevent cracking, roll the cake while it's still warm using a towel dusted with powdered sugar. Let it cool completely before unrolling to add the filling.

Can I make the carrot cake roll ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the carrot cake roll a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. It actually tastes better after chilling.

What kind of frosting is used in a carrot cake roll?

This carrot cake roll uses a rich and tangy cream cheese frosting made with cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.

Do I need to peel the carrots before grating?

Yes, peeling the carrots ensures a smooth texture and removes any bitterness from the skin.

DESSERTS

Moist Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

by Clara Bennett

13 de July de 2025

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Easy Carrot Cake Roll Recipe – Moist & Irresistible Dessert

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Carrot cake recipe is one of those desserts that instantly transports me back to my grandma’s kitchen on a rainy Sunday afternoon. I remember watching the steam rise as she pulled the spiced, nutty cake out of the oven—the air filled with cinnamon, nutmeg, and the sweet earthiness of fresh carrots. Inspired by her, I gave this classic treat a twist by rolling it up with my signature tangy cream cheese frosting for a fun and elegant presentation. The result? A moist, fluffy carrot cake rolled into a swirl of creamy, dreamy indulgence. Perfect for Easter brunch, holiday tables, or just because you love an old-fashioned dessert with a modern flair. If you’re craving a bakery-style rolled carrot cake that’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress, this is it.

Here’s how to make it.

Why You’ll Love This Carrot Cake Roll Recipe

Super moist & flavorful – The perfect blend of cinnamon, ginger, and freshly grated carrots.
Easy to roll without cracking – Follow our tips for a smooth roll every time!
Creamy, tangy filling – Made with real cream cheese, butter, and vanilla.
Perfect for any occasion – Great for Easter, holidays, birthdays, and tea parties.
Make-ahead friendly – Stays fresh in the fridge and can be frozen for later!

Ingredients for Moist Carrot Cake Roll

For the Cake:

¾ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a GF option)
½ teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (key spice for warm flavor!)
½ teaspoon ground ginger

¼ teaspoon salt
3 large eggs (room temperature for best results)
1 cup granulated sugar

⅔ cup finely grated carrots (fresh carrots provide moisture!)
1 cup chopped pecans (optional but adds crunch!)

Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup powdered sugar
6 tablespoons butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make a Carrot Cake Roll – Step-by-Step

Step1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan, line it with parchment paper, and lightly grease the paper.

Step2: Mix the Cake Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.

In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until thick and pale.
Stir in the grated carrots and gently fold in the dry ingredients.

Step3: Bake the Cake

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared jelly roll pan.

Sprinkle with chopped pecans (if using).
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched.

Step4: Roll the Cake While Warm

Lay a clean kitchen towel on the counter and dust it with powdered sugar.

Turn the cake out onto the towel and carefully peel off the parchment paper.
Roll the cake up with the towel and let it cool completely.

Step5: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

Beat the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth.

Add powdered sugar gradually, beating until creamy.

Step6: Fill and Reroll the Cake

Carefully unroll the cooled cake, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly, then reroll it without the towel.
Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step7: Serve and Enjoy!

Dust with powdered sugar before slicing.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Expert Tips for a Perfect Carrot Cake Roll

Use fresh carrots – Pre-shredded carrots are too dry; always grate fresh for extra moisture.
Don’t overbake – Overbaking makes the cake brittle, causing cracks.
Roll while warm – This prevents cracks and helps the cake hold its shape.
Chill before slicing – A cold cake roll slices cleaner for a professional presentation.
Customize the filling – Add a pinch of cinnamon or maple syrup for extra flavor!

How to Serve Carrot Cake Roll

With coffee or tea – A cozy dessert for any time of day.
Drizzled with caramel sauce – Adds richness to every bite.
With fresh berries – Strawberries and raspberries complement the creamy filling.
Topped with toasted pecans – Adds a satisfying crunch.

Carrot Cake Roll Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 350 kcal
Carbs: 45g

Protein: 5g
Fat: 17g
Sugar: 30g

Storage & Freezing Instructions

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
Thawing: Let thaw overnight in the fridge before slicing and serving.

FAQs – Common Questions About Carrot Cake

Why does my carrot cake roll crack?

Rolling the cake while warm prevents cracks. Overbaking can also cause dryness.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for gluten-free all-purpose flour.

Can I freeze a carrot cake roll?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

How long does it take to make a carrot cake roll?

Total time: 1 hour 32 minutes (including chilling time).

More Desserts You’ll Love!

Easter Jell-O Pie – Easy Layered Dessert Recipe

Homemade Apple Pie Biscuits – Easy Dessert Recipe

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to make the best-ever carrot cake roll, it’s time to give it a try! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this easy, step-by-step recipe ensures success.

Have you made this recipe? Leave a comment below and let us know how it turned out!
📌 Love this recipe? Share it on Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram!

Irresistible Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

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Author: Jannet Lisa

Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 10 slices 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This homemade carrot cake is moist, fluffy, and filled with rich cream cheese frosting. A perfect dessert for Easter, holidays, or any time you crave a classic treat with a twist.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In a separate bowl, beat eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until light and thick.
Stir in the grated carrots, then gradually fold in the dry ingredients. Add walnuts if using.

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 12–14 minutes or until the cake springs back when touched.
Immediately invert the hot cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Gently peel off the parchment paper.
Starting at one short end, roll the cake up in the towel. Let cool completely.

For the filling, beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
Unroll the cooled cake, spread the filling evenly, then roll it back up tightly.
Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing.