Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe
If you’re looking to impress your friends or simply indulge in a delightful treat that’s as stunning to look at as it is delicious to eat, this Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe is exactly what you need. A perfect marriage of fluffy cake, creamy cheesecake filling, and vibrant cherry pie filling, this dessert delivers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds. The roll’s light yet luscious layers make it a showstopper for any occasion, and best of all, it’s surprisingly easy to create in your own kitchen. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of this irresistible Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, straightforward ingredients that come together to create something truly magical. Each component plays an essential role, from the airy cake base to the rich cream cheese filling and the sweet-tart cherries that brighten every bite.
- Eggs: Provide structure and volume, beaten to create the cake’s fluffy texture.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and stabilizes the egg foam.
- Water: Adds moisture, ensuring the cake doesn’t dry out.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, comforting note.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of the sponge, giving it body and tenderness.
- Baking powder: Helps the cake rise gently for that perfect lightness.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and amplifies flavors.
- Powdered sugar: Used for dusting to prevent sticking and sweetening the filling smoothly.
- Cream cheese: The heart of the cheesecake layer, offering creamy richness.
- Cherry pie filling: Provides that signature fruity punch, balancing the creaminess with bright, juicy bursts.
How to Make Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lining a 15x10x1-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This step ensures your cake will bake evenly and lift out easily when it’s time to roll, making the process smooth and mess-free.
Step 2: Whip the Eggs and Sugar
Beat the eggs on high speed for about 5 minutes until they’re light and fluffy. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat, as this helps create a stable and airy base for your cake. Then, stir in the water and vanilla extract for added moisture and aroma.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Fold
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to keep everything evenly distributed. Gently fold this mixture into the egg mixture, taking care not to deflate the air you’ve worked so hard to incorporate—you want a light, tender cake, after all!
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cake springs back after a gentle touch, signaling a soft yet set sponge perfect for rolling.
Step 5: Roll the Cake While Warm
Once out of the oven, immediately turn the cake onto a kitchen towel dusted generously with powdered sugar. Carefully peel off the parchment paper, then roll the cake up in the towel, starting from the short side. This step shapes the cake and prevents cracking later on. Let it cool completely on a wire rack before moving on.
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
Beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This luscious mixture will be the star filling, adding that signature cheesecake flavor and silky texture.
Step 7: Assemble Your Cake Roll
Unroll the cooled cake gently and spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the surface, leaving about half an inch clear around the edges. Next, spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese for bursts of fruity sweetness.
Step 8: Final Roll and Chill
Carefully roll the cake back up, this time without the towel, trimming the ends for a neat finish. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the roll to firm up for perfect slices.
How to Serve Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe by dusting the top with a little powdered sugar or decorating with fresh cherries and a sprig of mint for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. A drizzle of chocolate or a spoonful of whipped cream can add extra indulgence.
Side Dishes
Pair this delightful cake roll with simple accompaniments like a cup of rich coffee or a glass of dessert wine to complement its sweetness. Fresh fruit salad or a tart berry coulis also make excellent partners, balancing the creamy and fruity notes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe into elegant spirals to showcase the beautiful layers, stacking them on a long platter for a party. For a casual gathering, present individual slices on pretty plates with dollops of whipped cream and a cherry on top for that wow factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled preserves the cream cheese filling’s freshness and maintains the cake’s moist texture beautifully.
Freezing
This cake roll freezes surprisingly well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to a month. When ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator so it retains its delicate flavors and creamy texture perfectly.
Reheating
Because of the cream cheese and fruit filling, reheating is not recommended as it may alter the texture. Instead, serve the cake roll chilled or at room temperature for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries can be used as a substitute, but you might want to sweeten them slightly and thicken the juice with a bit of cornstarch to mimic the pie filling’s texture and consistency.
How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?
Rolling the cake while it’s still warm and using a powdered sugar-dusted kitchen towel helps prevent cracks. It trains the cake to hold the shape gently without breaking when you roll it again after filling.
Can I make this cake roll gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend, making sure it contains xanthan gum for structure. The texture might vary slightly, but you’ll still have a delightful dessert.
Is the cream cheese filling very sweet?
Not at all! The powdered sugar balances the slight tanginess of the cream cheese, creating a beautifully mild sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the tart cherry filling.
What’s the best way to serve this dessert at a party?
Slicing it into bite-sized pieces and serving it on a platter with small forks makes it easy for guests to enjoy without fuss. Garnish each slice with a small fresh cherry or a mint leaf for added charm.
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe has become a beloved favorite for good reason: it’s a stunning, flavorful dessert that feels special but is easy enough to make anytime you crave a touch of gourmet magic. Whether for a holiday, a casual get-together, or a simple treat for yourself, you’re going to love the way the creamy, fruity, and fluffy layers come together in every bite. Give it a try and prepare for compliments galore—you’re about to create a new classic!
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Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll combines a light, fluffy sponge cake rolled with a smooth, creamy cream cheese filling and sweet cherry pie filling. Perfect as a delightful dessert for gatherings or special occasions, it presents a beautiful swirl of colors and flavors that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Cake
- 4 eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a 15x10x1-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make it easy to roll the cake later.
- Beat Eggs and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the eggs on high speed for 5 minutes until frothy and thick. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue beating. Then stir in water and vanilla extract to combine.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold this dry mixture into the egg mixture, being careful to maintain the batter’s lightness.
- Bake the Cake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the cake springs back when lightly touched, indicating it’s fully baked.
- Roll the Cake: Immediately turn the cake out onto a kitchen towel that’s been dusted with powdered sugar. Carefully peel off the parchment paper. Starting at a short side, roll up the cake with the towel inside. Let it cool completely on a wire rack while rolled to shape.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Unroll and Fill: Gently unroll the cooled cake. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake, leaving about a 1/2-inch border around the edges. Spread the cherry pie filling on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Roll and Chill: Carefully roll the cake back up without the towel, trimming the ends for a clean finish. Cover the rolled cake and refrigerate until ready to serve, allowing flavors to meld and filling to set.
Notes
- Ensure eggs are beaten thoroughly to incorporate air for a fluffy sponge.
- Rolling the cake while warm helps prevent cracks; be gentle when unrolling after cooling.
- You can substitute cherry pie filling with fresh cherries or other fruit fillings if desired.
- For best results, chill the cake roll for at least an hour before serving to allow it to set properly.
- Dusting the towel with powdered sugar helps prevent sticking during the rolling process.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
