Name: Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 162 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup all-purpose flour ((95g)); 1 tsp baking powder ((4g)); 1/2 tsp salt ((2g)); 4 large eggs; 2/3 cup sugar ((135g)); 1 tsp vanilla extract ((5g)); 2 tbsp vegetable oil ((28g)); 10 oz raspberries ((300g)); 1/4 cup sugar ((50g)); 1 tbsp lemon juice ((15ml)); 9 oz cream cheese ((250g), room temperature); 1/2 cup powdered sugar ((60g)); 1 tsp vanilla extract ((5g)); 1 cup whipping cream ((240g), chilled); 9 oz fresh raspberries ((250g)); 6 oz white chocolate ((180g)); 1/4 cup whipping cream ((60g)); a pinch salt; fresh raspberries; star anise; fresh rosemary; powdered sugar

Introduction to Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll

The Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll is a captivating dessert that brings festive cheer to any holiday gathering. Its vibrant layers of fluffy vanilla sponge, luscious raspberry jam, and creamy filling create an impressive presentation that's bound to wow your guests. But beyond its aesthetic appeal, it's the burst of raspberry flavor that truly makes this dessert a standout choice for the season.

Why a Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll is the Perfect Holiday Dessert

Imagine serving a dessert that not only tastes delightful but also adds a pop of color to your table. The Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll incorporates fresh or frozen raspberries, providing a refreshing contrast to rich holiday meals. Plus, the process of rolling a cake can be a delightful experience—perfect for involving friends or family in the kitchen.

Holiday baking doesn't have to be daunting! This cake roll can easily be prepared ahead of time, reducing stress on the big day. Its combination of creamy textures and fruity undertones makes it ideal for sipping alongside a steaming cup of hot cocoa or a festive tea.

Get ready to impress your loved ones this holiday season with a sweet treat that’s not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. If you're ready to dive into making this beautiful dessert, check out the full recipe below!

Ingredients for Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll

When it comes to creating the perfect Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll, having the right ingredients is essential. Here’s a breakdown of everything you'll need to make this festive treat truly shine!

Vanilla Sponge Cake Ingredients

To start with the base, gather these essentials:

¾ cup (95g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon (4g) baking powder
½ teaspoon (2g) salt
4 eggs
⅔ cup (135g) sugar
1 teaspoon (5g) vanilla extract
2 tablespoon (28g) vegetable oil

Raspberry Jam Filling Ingredients

For a zesty, fruity touch, prepare the raspberry jam with:

10 oz (300g) raspberries (fresh or frozen)
¼ cup (50g) sugar
1 tablespoon (15ml) lemon juice

Cream Cheese Filling Ingredients

Adding a creamy dimension is simple with these ingredients:

9 oz (250g) cream cheese (room temperature)
½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
1 teaspoon (5g) vanilla extract
1 cup (240g) whipping cream (chilled)

Whipped White Chocolate Ganache Ingredients

To crown your cake, grab these for the ganache:

6 oz (180g) white chocolate
¼ cup (60g) whipping cream
A pinch of salt

Fresh Raspberry Decoration Ingredients

Finally, for that beautiful finish, don’t forget:

Fresh raspberries
Star anise
Fresh rosemary
Powdered sugar

With these ingredients, you’re not just baking a cake; you’re creating a delightful centerpiece for your holiday gatherings! Ready to dive into the detailed instructions? Let’s get started!

Step-by-step Preparation of Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll

Creating a delightful Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll may seem like a daunting task, but trust me—it’s easier than it looks and incredibly rewarding! Follow these steps, and you’ll wow your holiday guests with a beautiful and delicious dessert.

Prepare the Vanilla Sponge Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Meanwhile, slightly grease a 12×16 inch (30x40cm) baking sheet and line it with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together ¾ cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. Let it sit in the wings.
In a large bowl, crack open 4 eggs, add ⅔ cup sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat with an electric mixer until the mixture is light in color and foamy.
Add 2 tablespoon vegetable oil into the egg mixture and mix until well combined. Gradually fold in the flour mixture until everything is just combined.
Pour the batter onto your prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Remove the cake and sprinkle powdered sugar on top. Cover it with a kitchen towel and flip it onto the towel. Gently remove the parchment paper.
While still warm, roll the cake up with the towel and let it cool completely.

Make the Raspberry Jam Filling

In a saucepan, combine 10 oz fresh or frozen raspberries, ¼ cup sugar, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Bring to a boil while stirring continuously.
Let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until thickened. For a smoother texture, you can sieve it to remove the seeds before letting it cool.

Create the Cream Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, mix 9 oz room temperature cream cheese with ½ cup powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
Add 1 cup chilled whipping cream and whip the mixture until stiff peaks form.

Assemble the Cake Roll

Carefully unroll the cooled sponge cake. Spread the raspberry jam evenly, leaving a ½ inch border, then layer on the cream cheese filling.
Add fresh raspberries (about 9 oz) on top, roll the cake back up, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This will ensure it holds its shape.

Prepare the Whipped White Chocolate Ganache

Melt 6 oz white chocolate with ¼ cup whipping cream over a bain-marie (double boiler). Allow it to cool to room temperature.
Stir in a pinch of salt and whisk until the ganache becomes light and fluffy—this should take about 1-2 minutes.

Finish and Decorate the Cake Roll

Spread the whipped white chocolate ganache over your rolled cake.
Trim the ends to give it a clean look, then get creative with your decorations! Top with fresh raspberries, some sugar-coated rosemary, and a few pieces of star anise for that festive touch.
A final dusting of powdered sugar will add a lovely finishing touch.

And there you have it, a stunning Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll that’s sure to be a showstopper at your holiday gatherings! Enjoy the baking journey and don't forget to savor each bite.

Variations on Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll

Alternative Fruit Fillings

While raspberries are delightful, consider experimenting with different fruit fillings in your Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll. Fresh strawberries, tangy blackberries, or sweet peaches can add a unique twist. You can even mix and match fruits for exciting flavor combinations. If you're feeling adventurous, try a citrus-infused filling with lemon or orange zest for a refreshing touch!

Healthier Cake Roll Options

Looking to make a healthier version of your Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll? Swap out all-purpose flour for almond or whole wheat flour to boost fiber content. Consider replacing sugar with honey or maple syrup, which offer natural sweetness without the refined aspects. You can also lighten up the cream cheese filling by using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese, creating a deliciously creamy and healthier dessert option.

By mixing these variations into your recipe, you'll impress your guests and spread festive cheer!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll

Avoiding a Dry Sponge Cake

To achieve a moist Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll, be cautious not to overbake the sponge. Check for doneness at 10 minutes—the cake should spring back when lightly touched. Additionally, rolling the cake while it’s still warm helps retain moisture and create a perfect texture. Don’t skip the step of covering it with a kitchen towel; this minimizes drying out as it cools.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once assembled, your Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll can be refrigerated for up to three days. For serving, dust it with powdered sugar just before presenting for a beautiful, festive touch. You can pair slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Looking for more festive inspiration? Check out this [guide on holiday desserts](https://www.example.com) for additional ideas!

Serving Suggestions for Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll

Pairing with Coffee or Tea

The festive flavors of Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll complement warm beverages beautifully. Consider pairing it with a rich, dark coffee or a soothing herbal tea like chamomile or peppermint. The tartness of the raspberries and the creamy filling will balance nicely with the beverage of your choice. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a flavored latte or a spiced chai to elevate your seasonal gathering.

Festive Plating Ideas

Presentation can elevate your Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll from simple dessert to showstopper.

Use a vibrant plate that highlights the colorful layers of the roll.
Decorate with fresh raspberries and sprigs of rosemary for a pop of color.
Lightly dust the roll with powdered sugar for that snowy, wintery feel.
Consider adding decorative elements like star anise or even edible gold leaf for an extra touch of elegance.

These simple plating techniques will impress your guests and make your dessert the highlight of the holidays!

Time Breakdown for Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll

Preparation Time

The Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll requires about 30 minutes of preparation. This includes gathering your ingredients and whipping up the delightful vanilla sponge cake and fillings.

Chilling Time

Once rolled, the cake needs to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This step is crucial for setting the flavors and ensuring the cake maintains its shape.

Total Time

In total, you’re looking at around 2 hours and 30 minutes from start to finish, but most of that is hands-off time while the cake chills. This makes your festive baking efficient, allowing you to focus on other holiday preparations.

By breaking down the time, you can easily fit this delicious dessert into your holiday schedule!

Nutritional Facts for Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll

Calories per Serving

Indulging in a slice of our Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll means treating yourself to about 429 calories. Perfect for celebrating the festive season without going overboard, especially if you’re keeping an eye on your caloric intake.

Macronutrient Breakdown

When you savor this delightful cake roll, you're also getting a tasty balance of nutrients:

Carbohydrates: 197g
Protein: 8.6g
Fat: 25.9g (with 13.8g saturated)
This harmonious mix ensures you’ll enjoy a treat that’s both sweet and satisfying! For more detailed insights on nutrition, sites like Harvard Health are great resources to explore healthy eating.

FAQ about Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll

Can I make this cake roll in advance?

Absolutely! The Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll is perfect for prepping ahead of time. You can bake the sponge cake and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days before assembling. Once assembled, the cake roll will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cover it tightly to keep it fresh and moist.

What are the best tips for rolling cake?

When rolling the Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll, remember these key points to keep your cake from cracking:

Always roll the cake while it’s still warm. This helps it maintain its shape.
Use a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
Roll it gently and not too tightly; allow some space for the filling.
If it cracks, don’t worry! A little frosting can cover it up beautifully.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Definitely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that you prefer, making your Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll accessible to everyone at the table. Just be sure to check that the baking powder you use is gluten-free as well.

Conclusion on Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll

This delightful Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll is sure to impress your guests and elevate your holiday dessert table. Combining light sponge cake with tangy raspberry jam and luscious cream cheese filling, it captures festive flavors beautifully. Remember, baking is about joy—so enjoy the process and share the love!