This Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll is a delightful, festive dessert that’s both visually stunning and delicious. A light, airy sponge cake is filled with whipped cream and fresh raspberries, making it a perfect treat for the holiday season. With its beautiful swirl and refreshing flavor, this cake roll will surely be a crowd-pleaser at your Christmas gatherings.

Ingredients

4 eggs
3/4 cup sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 cup fresh raspberries
1 cup whipped cream

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, beat the eggs on high speed for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture is thick and lemon-colored.
Gradually add the sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold this mixture into the egg mixture, being careful not to deflate the batter.
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
Cool the cake for 5 minutes. Then, invert it onto a kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar.
Gently peel off the parchment paper. Carefully roll the cake up in the towel, starting from a short side to form a jelly roll.
Allow the rolled-up cake to cool on a wire rack.
Once the cake has cooled, unroll it and spread whipped cream over the surface, leaving about 1 inch from the edges.
Top the whipped cream with fresh raspberries.
Roll the cake back up and cover it. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Fruit Filling: Substitute fresh raspberries with other berries such as strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a different flavor profile.
Chocolate: Add a layer of chocolate ganache or chocolate shavings on top of the whipped cream before adding the raspberries for a richer taste.
Whipped Topping: For a lighter filling, use a whipped topping or cream cheese frosting instead of heavy whipped cream.
Spices: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter for a warm, spiced flavor that pairs perfectly with the raspberries.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cake roll in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, for up to 3 days.
Freezing: To freeze, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating: This cake is best served chilled, so reheating is not necessary.

10 FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, the cake can be prepared the day before serving. After rolling it up, refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for convenience.
What can I substitute for fresh raspberries? You can use other fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or even canned cherries if raspberries are not available.
How can I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling it? Be sure to roll the cake gently and let it cool wrapped in a towel. The cake should be warm when rolled, but not too hot.
Can I make this cake gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the blend includes xanthan gum to help the cake hold its shape.
How can I make the cake sweeter? If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can increase the sugar in the cake batter by a few tablespoons or add a dusting of powdered sugar on top before serving.
What type of whipped cream should I use? You can use homemade whipped cream or store-bought whipped cream. Make sure it’s thickened enough to hold up when spreading.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the parchment paper? Lightly grease the parchment paper before spreading the batter to ensure easy removal after baking.
Can I add a flavored syrup to the cake? Yes, you can drizzle a little raspberry syrup or fruit preserves onto the cake before rolling it up for an added layer of flavor.
Can I make this cake without eggs? You can try using an egg substitute like flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer, but the texture may differ slightly.
How do I serve this cake? Serve the cake as a dessert at a holiday gathering, sliced into individual servings. It’s perfect for Christmas parties, family dinners, or as a festive afternoon treat.

Conclusion

The Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll is an elegant and delicious holiday dessert that’s sure to impress. With its soft, fluffy cake and the refreshing combination of whipped cream and raspberries, it offers a light yet satisfying way to end your festive meals. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas dinner or looking for a unique dessert for a holiday party, this cake roll will be a showstopper.