Carrot Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting (Soft, Spiced & Beautifully Swirled)

This elegant Carrot Cake Roll is the perfect balance of cozy and impressive. Inspired by the classic carrot cake, this rolled version adds a stunning swirl of tangy cream cheese frosting that makes it ideal for spring gatherings, holidays, or a relaxing afternoon treat.

With a soft, spiced sponge and rich filling, every slice delivers bakery-quality flavor with surprisingly simple steps.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light, soft cake with warm spice flavor

• Creamy, tangy frosting in every bite

• Beautiful presentation with minimal effort

• Perfect for Easter, brunch, or dessert tables

 Ingredients

 Cake

• 1 box carrot cake mix (plus ingredients listed on package)

• 1 cup grated carrot

 Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 oz cream cheese (room temperature)

• 5 tbsp butter (room temperature)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 cups powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)

 How to Make a Carrot Cake Roll

1. Prep the Pan & Towel

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease.

Lay out a clean kitchen towel and generously dust it with powdered sugar (this prevents sticking when rolling).

2. Make the Cake Batter

Prepare the carrot cake mix according to package instructions (or your favorite homemade version).
Gently fold in the grated carrots.

Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan.

Bake for 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

3. Roll While Warm

Immediately invert the hot cake onto the prepared towel.
Carefully peel off the parchment paper.

Starting from a short end, gently roll the cake with the towel into a log.

Let it cool completely for 45–60 minutes.

4. Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl:

• Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth

• Add vanilla extract

• Gradually mix in powdered sugar until creamy and spreadable

5. Assemble & Chill

Carefully unroll the cooled cake.

Spread the frosting evenly across the surface.

Re-roll the cake (without the towel) and place seam-side down on a serving plate.

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

 Tips for the Perfect Cake Roll

• Roll the cake while it’s warm to prevent cracking

• Don’t skip the powdered sugar towel—it’s essential

• Chill before slicing for clean, neat swirls

• Use a serrated knife for best results

 Serving Ideas

• Dust with powdered sugar for a classic look

• Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch

• Serve with coffee or tea for a cozy treat

 FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours or overnight.

Can I freeze it?
Absolutely—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I use homemade cake instead of a mix?
Yes, any thin-layer carrot cake recipe works perfectly.

 Final Thoughts

This Carrot Cake Roll is soft, creamy, and full of warm spice—everything you love about classic carrot cake, wrapped into a beautiful, sliceable dessert. It’s simple enough for everyday baking but elegant enough to impress guests.