Christmas Vanilla Roll Cake

On a crisp December morning, the kitchen smelled of sugar and vanilla, mingling with the faint scent of pine from the wreath on the door. My grandchildren were bouncing around in their cozy sweaters, eager to help sift flour and crack eggs. Their laughter filled the room as we prepared a simple yet special treat for the holidays.

I wanted a dessert that felt light and festive, with soft sponge and a creamy whipped filling. Using a recipe from my grandmother, I carefully rolled the cake, making sure the filling stayed smooth and even. The process was playful and a little challenging, but the aroma and the soft texture of the sponge made it all worthwhile.

By the time the cake was ready, the kitchen had become a scene of holiday cheer. Slices of the golden roll, filled with sweet cream, brought smiles all around. This cake is more than a treat; it’s a way to gather everyone together, share a moment of joy, and celebrate the little details that make the season special.

Short Description

Christmas Vanilla Roll Cake is a light, fluffy vanilla sponge rolled with creamy whipped filling, perfect for holiday celebrations and family gatherings.

Key Ingredients

For the Cake

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Whipped Cream Filling

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Garnish

• Sprinkles or powdered sugar

Tools Needed

• 15×10-inch jelly roll pan
• Parchment paper
• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Spatula
• Clean kitchen towel
• Mixing bowls

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Beat Eggs and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar on high speed for about 5 minutes until thick and pale.

Step 3: Add Vanilla
Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.

Step 5: Fold Dry Ingredients
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, being careful not to deflate the batter.

Step 6: Spread Batter
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.

Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the cake is golden and springs back when lightly touched.

Step 8: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 5 minutes.

Step 9: Transfer to a Towel
Carefully invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Remove the parchment paper.

Step 10: Roll the Cake
Starting from one short end, roll the cake up gently in the towel. Let it cool completely in this rolled position.

Step 11: Prepare Whipping Cream
In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

Step 12: Unroll and Fill
Once the cake is completely cool, unroll it gently and spread the whipped cream evenly over the surface.

Step 13: Re-roll the Cake
Roll the cake back up without the towel, making sure to keep it tight.

Step 14: Chill
Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.

Step 15: Slice and Serve
Once chilled, slice the cake into portions and serve.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Light and fluffy texture perfect for all ages

Sweet yet delicate flavor that pairs beautifully with holiday beverages

Easy enough for home bakers but impressive for guests

Versatile: can be decorated with sprinkles, powdered sugar, or seasonal toppings

A festive centerpiece that evokes nostalgia and warmth

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

Cake cracking when rolling
This usually happens if the cake isn’t rolled while slightly warm.
Solution: Roll the cake gently immediately after baking, while it’s still pliable.

Whipped cream too soft or runny
Whipping cream that isn’t chilled or under-whipped can make spreading difficult.
Solution: Chill your mixing bowl and beaters, and whip cream until stiff peaks form.

Cake sticking to parchment paper
Peeling too early or uneven baking can cause sticking.
Solution: Ensure parchment overhang and dust with powdered sugar before inverting.

Uneven filling distribution
Filling can slide or clump if spread too thickly.
Solution: Use a spatula to spread an even layer of whipped cream, leaving a small border at the edges.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Slice into 1-inch rolls for a festive dessert platter

Pair with hot cocoa, coffee, or a sweet dessert wine

Decorate with fresh berries, edible flowers, or holiday sprinkles

Serve family-style or individually on decorative plates for a party

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days

Freezing: Freeze for up to 1 month; thaw in refrigerator before serving

Reheating: Best served chilled, but can be left at room temperature for 10–15 minutes for softer cream

FAQs

1. Can I use low-fat cream?
Yes, but full-fat cream gives the best structure and taste.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare a day ahead and refrigerate to enhance flavors.

3. Can I substitute sugar?
You may use coconut sugar or other granulated sweeteners, adjusting sweetness to taste.

4. How do I prevent cracks when rolling?
Roll while warm, and dust generously with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.

5. Can I add flavorings to the whipped cream?
Yes! A teaspoon of almond extract or citrus zest works beautifully.

Tips & Tricks

Use room-temperature eggs for better volume

Dust your towel with powdered sugar generously to prevent sticking

Chill the cake slightly before slicing for clean edges

Decorate just before serving for the freshest look

Recipe Variations

Chocolate Christmas Roll Cake: Replace 2 tablespoons of flour with cocoa powder; follow the same steps.

Berry-Filled Vanilla Roll Cake: Spread fresh raspberries or strawberries over whipped cream before rolling.

Spiced Vanilla Roll Cake: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a holiday spice twist.

Final Thoughts

The Christmas Vanilla Roll Cake delights with its delicate sponge and subtly sweet whipped cream, offering a dessert that feels light yet satisfying. Slicing through the soft layers reveals the creamy center, creating both a visually inviting presentation and a comforting flavor.

It’s a versatile cake, easily enhanced with fresh fruit, a dusting of powdered sugar, or festive sprinkles, making every serving feel special. Perfect for Christmas dinners, casual family gatherings, or a cozy afternoon tea, this roll cake brings warmth, joy, and a sense of togetherness to any table, turning simple moments into cherished holiday memories.