Name: Strawberry Roll Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: ¾ cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; 3 large eggs; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons strawberry flavoring; 3 to 5 drops red liquid food coloring; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; ½ to ⅔ cup powdered sugar (for dusting); 4 ounces cream cheese (softened); ½ cup granulated sugar; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup whipped topping; 1½ cups whipped topping; 6 strawberries (washed, dried, and cut in half)

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There’s something magical about a light and fluffy dessert that rolls up like a dream. The Strawberry Roll Cake has become a beloved family favorite for me, and it always brings back fond memories of summer gatherings. I remember my first time making it; the vibrant colors of the strawberries and the sweet scent of the cake filled my kitchen with joy. Each slice reveals a beautiful contrast of creamy filling and the soft, fruity flavor of strawberries, making it not just a treat for the taste buds but a feast for the eyes. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a celebration with friends, this cake never fails to impress. I love sharing this dessert, watching the smiles grow, and hearing the delightful sounds of satisfaction at every bite.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
32 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
12 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
180 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Peeler, Frying Pan, Whisk

Why This Strawberry Roll Cake Shines

Visually Stunning

One of the standout features of the Strawberry Roll Cake is its beautiful presentation. When you slice into the roll, the vibrant red strawberries peek through the creamy filling, creating a stunning visual impact. It’s a cake that looks as good as it tastes, making it perfect for special occasions.

Perfect for Spring and Summer

This cake is ideal for warm weather gatherings. The fresh strawberries add a delightful fruity flavor that feels refreshing and light, making it a great dessert for picnics, barbecues, or any sunny afternoon. It truly embodies the essence of spring and summer.

Easy to Make

Don’t let the appearance fool you; the Strawberry Roll Cake is surprisingly easy to make. With a few simple steps, you can create a dessert that looks professionally crafted. It’s a fun baking project that you can enjoy with your loved ones, creating memories while you whip up something delicious.

Versatile Flavor

While strawberry is the star of this recipe, you can easily play with flavors. Add a hint of lemon zest or use different fruits like raspberries or blueberries. Each twist offers a new experience, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences or seasonal fruits.

Great for Any Occasion

This cake isn’t just a summer dessert. It’s versatile enough for birthdays, holidays, or even an afternoon tea. You can dress it up with whipped cream and berries on top or serve it plain for a cozy dessert after dinner. The Strawberry Roll Cake is bound to be a hit regardless of the occasion.

Make-Ahead Friendly

Another reason to love this dessert is its make-ahead nature. You can prepare the roll a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This makes it a stress-free option for busy days or gatherings, allowing you to enjoy time with your guests without worrying about last-minute desserts.

Ingredients for Strawberry Roll Cake

When crafting the perfect Strawberry Roll Cake, the ingredients play a key role in achieving that delightful flavor and texture. The core components work seamlessly together, creating a light cake that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling and fresh strawberries. Each ingredient contributes to the overall sweetness and aesthetic appeal of the dessert.

¾ cup all-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake, giving it structure and lightness.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise, contributing to its fluffy texture.
¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness of the cake.
3 large eggs: Essential for richness and creating a light, airy structure.
½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a tender crumb.
2 teaspoons strawberry flavoring: Boosts the fruity taste of the cake.
3 to 5 drops red liquid food coloring: Adds a lovely pink hue to the cake.
1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist.
½ to ⅔ cup powdered sugar (for dusting): Prevents sticking and adds sweetness.
4 ounces cream cheese (softened): Forms the rich, creamy filling.
½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth to the filling.
1 cup whipped topping: Lightens the cream cheese mixture.
1½ cups whipped topping: Used for decorating the cake.
6 strawberries (washed, dried, and cut in half): Fresh fruit to top the cake.

Putting Together Strawberry Roll Cake

Creating the Strawberry Roll Cake is a delightful process that’s as enjoyable as the final product. Each step builds upon the last, combining to form a beautiful and delicious treat. Let’s dive into the detailed steps for making this lovely dessert.

Preheat your oven to 375°F. This temperature is crucial for ensuring your cake bakes perfectly, so be sure to give your oven enough time to reach the right heat.
Line a 15x10x1-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper. Make sure to spray it with nonstick spray to help the cake release easily once baked.
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the ¾ cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt. This mix is the dry base of your cake, combining essential ingredients that give it structure.
Using either a stand mixer or a handheld mixer, beat 3 large eggs in a separate bowl for about 5 minutes. You want the eggs to reach a light yellow frothy texture, which will help create a light and airy cake.
Next, add ½ cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons strawberry flavoring, 3 to 5 drops red liquid food coloring, and 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to the egg mixture. Continue beating until the mixture is well incorporated and smooth.
Gently fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Be careful not to over-mix, as you want to preserve the airiness of the batter.
Evenly pour the cake batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out gently with a spatula. Bake this in your preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until it is lightly golden and springs back when touched.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven. Using a sharp knife, carefully run the tip along the edges of the cake where it meets the pan, which will help release it.
Dust the top of a clean tea towel with ½ to ⅔ cup powdered sugar. Place the towel powdered side down on top of the cake, then quickly flip the cake over so it lands on the towel. This prevents sticking and makes rolling easier.
Carefully peel off the parchment paper from the cake. Dust the top of the cake with more powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
Start rolling the cake from one end, using the towel to help guide it. Be gentle to avoid cracking. Once rolled, set the cake aside to cool completely.
In a medium bowl, beat 4 ounces cream cheese, ½ cup granulated sugar, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract for 1 to 1½ minutes until smooth. The mixture should be creamy and without lumps.
Fold in 1 cup whipped topping to the cream cheese mixture, incorporating it smoothly.
Once the cake is completely cool, carefully unroll it. If any small cracks appear, don’t worry—they’ll be covered by the filling.
Using a spatula, spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the top of the cake, making sure to leave the edges clear.
Gently roll the cake back into a log shape, using the towel as a guide. Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap to maintain its shape and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight if you prefer.
When ready to serve, carefully unwrap the cake. Fill a piping bag or Ziploc with 1½ cups whipped topping, snipping off a corner to pipe it onto the top of the cake.
Pipe the whipped topping down the length of the cake and place the halved 6 strawberries on top of the whipped topping for decoration.
Slice the cake into ½-inch wide servings, and enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooling the Cake: Make sure to let the cake cool completely before unrolling it. This helps prevent cracks and ensures a neat filling layer.
Sifting Powdered Sugar: Sifting the powdered sugar before dusting not only prevents lumps but also creates a beautiful presentation.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in your filling.
Chilling Time: Don’t rush the chilling process; allowing the cake to set will help it hold its shape when sliced.

Change It Up

There are countless ways to customize your Strawberry Roll Cake. Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity:

Flavor Variations: Consider using different fruit flavorings such as raspberry or peach in the filling for a unique twist.
Filling Options: Add a layer of fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate sauce inside the roll for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions: Serve slices with additional whipped topping or a scoop of ice cream on the side for a decadent treat.
Decorative Touches: Garnish with mint leaves or a sprinkle of crushed nuts for added texture and flavor.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Side Dish Ideas for Strawberry Roll Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Roll Cake can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas:

Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully. Use seasonal fruits for a vibrant mix.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the cake, adding a delightful contrast.
Whipped Cream: Serve extra whipped cream on the side to enhance the cake’s flavor and texture.
Tea or Coffee: A cup of herbal tea or a strong coffee can balance the sweetness of the cake, making it a delightful afternoon treat.
Cheese Plate: For a savory option, a cheese platter with mild cheeses can help offset the sweetness of the dessert.
Celebratory Occasion: This cake is perfect for birthday parties, brunches, or spring celebrations, making it versatile for various occasions.

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries for the Strawberry Roll Cake. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using them in your cake. This will prevent the filling from becoming too watery. Fresh strawberries are ideal for decoration, but frozen can work well in the filling.

To store leftovers of the Strawberry Roll Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This will help maintain its freshness. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be sure to enjoy it within that time frame, as the strawberries may start to lose their texture and flavor.

Absolutely! The Strawberry Roll Cake is perfect for making ahead. Prepare the cake and filling, then roll it and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate it for at least one hour or overnight. This not only makes it easier to serve when you’re ready but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

The Strawberry Roll Cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance its sweetness. A fresh fruit salad or a light herbal tea can also complement the cake beautifully, making for a well-rounded dessert experience.

Conclusion

The Strawberry Roll Cake is a delightful dessert that never fails to impress with its vibrant colors and delicious flavors. Its light texture and creamy filling make it a perfect treat for any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share its joy with your family and friends. You’ll find that the process of making it is just as rewarding as indulging in its sweetness.