There’s something magical about a Red Velvet Cake Roll that can make anyone weak at the knees. Imagine slicing into a luscious, swirled delight of bright red cake and creamy filling, all wrapped up like a cozy little gift. This dessert doesn’t just look impressive, it tastes like a dream! With its soft texture and rich flavor profile, this Red Velvet Cake Roll is perfect for any occasion—be it a birthday bash or a casual Tuesday when you just need an extra sprinkle of joy in your life.
As I recall my first encounter with this delectable treat, I was at a friend’s dinner party, seated beside someone who claimed to be “the cake expert.” As she cut into it, the whole room buzzed with anticipation. The vibrant red color caught everyone’s eye while the aroma wafted through the air like a sweet promise. One bite later, and I was hooked! If you’ve ever craved something that dances on your palate while also making your heart skip a beat, then buckle up because this Red Velvet Cake Roll is about to steal the show.
Why You'll Love This Red Velvet Cake Roll
- This incredible Red Velvet Cake Roll transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Red Velvet Cake Roll:
- All-Purpose Flour: A must-have for structure! Look for unbleached flour for the best texture.
- Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder to enhance the chocolate flavor without adding sweetness.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar not only sweetens but also helps achieve that moist texture we love in cakes.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These leavening agents ensure our cake rolls up fluffy and light!
- Salt: A pinch of salt balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist and rich without weighing it down.
- Eggs: They act as binders and provide richness; use large eggs for optimal results.
- Red Food Coloring: The star of the show! Use gel coloring for vibrant results without altering the batter’s consistency.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds depth of flavor; always go for pure extract if possible!
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese provides that classic rich flavor and creamy texture we adore in desserts.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the filling while ensuring it remains smooth and spreadable.
- Butter: Adds richness; make sure it’s softened to mix easily into the filling.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Red Velvet Cake Roll:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray—nobody wants their cake to cling like an unwanted guest!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set this delightful mixture aside while we work our cake magic!
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl (because we love doing dishes), mix together vegetable oil, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until smooth. Feel free to channel your inner artist while mixing—this is where all that beautiful color comes from!
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; gentle folding is key here if you want that fluffy texture!
Step 5: Bake It Up
Pour your batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Your kitchen should smell heavenly by now!
Step 6: Cool & Fill
Once baked, remove from oven and let cool slightly before flipping it onto another sheet of parchment paper dusted with powdered sugar. Spread your cream cheese filling evenly over the cooled cake before rolling it up tightly like a burrito of joy! Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour before slicing.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with chocolate sauce or dust with more powdered sugar for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy each bite as if it’s your last slice of heaven on earth!

You Must Know About Red Velvet Cake Roll
- This showstopping Red Velvet Cake Roll delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Cooking Process
Start by whipping up the batter for your Red Velvet Cake Roll while preheating the oven. Bake the cake, then prepare the cream cheese filling as it cools. Finally, roll the warm cake gently with the filling and let it set for a stunning dessert.
Flavor Your Way
Feel free to add a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of almond for an extra flavor twist in your Red Velvet Cake Roll. You can also swap out the cream cheese filling for whipped cream or chocolate ganache if you’re feeling adventurous.
Storing & Reheating
To keep your Red Velvet Cake Roll fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. For a quick refresh, just pop it in the fridge for 15 minutes before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Red Velvet Cake Roll
- This professional-quality Red Velvet Cake Roll relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
Creating my first Red Velvet Cake Roll took me back to a family gathering where everyone raved about how delicious it was—especially my grandma, who couldn’t stop asking for “just one more slice.”

FAQs
What is Red Velvet Cake Roll?
A Red Velvet Cake Roll is a delightful dessert that combines the classic flavors of red velvet cake with the fun and unique presentation of a rolled cake. This dessert features a soft, moist red velvet sponge cake filled with rich cream cheese frosting. The vibrant red color, paired with a white swirl of frosting, makes it visually appealing. It’s perfect for special occasions or just to satisfy your sweet tooth. The contrasting flavors and textures in each slice make the Red Velvet Cake Roll a favorite among dessert lovers.
How do I store Red Velvet Cake Roll?
To store your Red Velvet Cake Roll, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This helps keep the cake fresh and prevents it from drying out. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap the cake roll securely and place it in the freezer, where it can last for about three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
Can I use a different filling for my Red Velvet Cake Roll?
Absolutely! While traditional cream cheese frosting is popular, you can customize your Red Velvet Cake Roll with various fillings. Consider using whipped cream, buttercream, or even chocolate ganache for a twist on flavor. Fruit preserves or even mascarpone cheese can also add an interesting touch. Experimenting with different fillings allows you to create your own unique version of this classic dessert while still enjoying its signature red velvet taste.
What occasions are best for serving Red Velvet Cake Roll?
Red Velvet Cake Roll is versatile and perfect for various occasions. It shines at birthday parties, holiday gatherings, and special celebrations like Valentine’s Day or anniversaries due to its eye-catching appearance and delicious taste. It’s also great for casual get-togethers or potlucks when you want to impress guests without too much hassle in preparation. Its unique look and flavor make it a memorable addition to any dessert table.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Red Velvet Cake Roll is a stunning and delicious dessert that adds flair to any occasion. With its soft texture and rich cream cheese filling, it’s sure to delight everyone who tries it. Storing this delightful treat is easy, whether in the fridge or freezer. Feel free to experiment with different fillings to customize your cake roll further. No matter how you choose to serve it, the Red Velvet Cake Roll will undoubtedly be a hit at your next gathering!

Red Velvet Cake Roll
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Experience the heavenly delight of a Red Velvet Cake Roll, a stunning dessert that combines rich, velvety cake with a creamy filling. This showstopper not only looks impressive but also captivates your taste buds with its soft texture and luscious flavor. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion where you want to impress, this delightful roll is sure to be the highlight of your dessert table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tbsp red food coloring (gel)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the Cream Cheese Filling: 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper. Lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
- In another bowl, mix vegetable oil, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until smooth.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet ingredients until just mixed; avoid overmixing.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool slightly before flipping onto powdered sugar-dusted parchment paper. Spread cream cheese filling evenly over the cooled cake and roll tightly.
- Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour before slicing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg






