This Red Velvet Roll Cake is a delightful dessert featuring a moist, vibrant red sponge swirled with creamy filling, topped with rich chocolate shavings.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons (10g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) white vinegar
For the Filling:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup (90g) chocolate shavings or chips
- 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Additional chocolate pieces (optional)
Equipment
- 10×15-inch jelly roll pan
- Parchment paper
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Clean kitchen towel
- Offset spatula
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.
- In a bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar with an electric mixer on high for 3-5 minutes until thick and pale.
- Add red food coloring, vanilla extract, vegetable oil, and vinegar. Mix until combined.
- Gently fold in the dry ingredients until just incorporated, avoiding overmixing.
- Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cake springs back when touched.
Step 2: Roll the Cake
- While the cake bakes, lay a clean kitchen towel on a flat surface and dust with powdered sugar.
- Immediately upon removing the cake from the oven, turn it onto the towel. Peel off the parchment paper.
- Starting at a short end, roll the cake and towel together. Let it cool completely (about 30 minutes) to set the shape.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gently fold in the whipped heavy cream until fully combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Unroll the cooled cake carefully. Spread the filling evenly over the cake, leaving a 1-inch border.
- Roll the cake back up without the towel. Place seam-side down on a serving platter.
Step 5: Decorate and Serve
- Pipe or spread additional whipped cream or frosting along the top in lines.
- Sprinkle chocolate shavings and pieces over the top. Dust with powdered sugar.
- Chill for 30 minutes before slicing. Serve fresh.
Cooking Tips
- Rolling: Roll while warm to prevent cracking; the towel helps maintain shape.
- Color: Adjust food coloring for a deeper red if desired.
- Storage: Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 1 month, wrapped tightly.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
Serving Suggestions
Pair with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk. Add biscuits or fresh berries on the side for a complete dessert spread.
Fun Fact
Red velvet cake’s signature color originally came from a reaction between cocoa and vinegar, though food coloring is now standard for that vibrant hue!
