Red Velvet Cake Roll Recipe

There’s something magical about creating a Red Velvet Cake Roll Recipe that makes everyone swoon at the dinner table. The vibrant color, combined with the rich flavor and creamy filling, makes it a standout dessert for any occasion. Flexing your culinary skills with this recipe is both rewarding and satisfying, leaving your guests eagerly awaiting the first bite.
In my family, this cake roll has always brought joy to our gatherings. I remember my grandmother teaching me the secrets behind a perfect cake roll, her hands deftly guiding mine as we rolled the delicate cake layer around the luscious filling. It was in those moments that I realized the power of food to create lasting memories and bond over shared experiences in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser and for good reasons. The combination of the cake’s fluffy texture with the smooth, creamy filling creates a mouthwatering dessert. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare without sacrificing the presentation — a perfect showstopper for any special occasion. The ingredients are also budget-friendly, making it accessible for everyone.
Ingredients Notes
For the best results, use high-quality cocoa powder to enhance the cake’s flavor. If you can, choose a brand that’s known for its rich taste. Buttermilk is another key ingredient that adds moisture and a slight tang to the cake, so don’t skip it. If you’re out of buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk. The filling is traditionally creamy, but you can adjust the sweetness to suit your taste.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper. Dust the paper with a light layer of cocoa powder to prevent sticking.
Step 2
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, mix sugar, oil, eggs, buttermilk, food coloring, and vanilla extract until combined. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
Step 3
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the cake springs back when touched. Allow to cool slightly before turning out onto a powdered sugar-dusted towel. Roll the cake up with the towel and let it cool completely.
Step 4
Prepare the filling by beating cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. Unroll the cooled cake and spread filling evenly over the surface.
Step 5
Gently re-roll the cake without the towel. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour before slicing and serving.
Storage Options
This cake roll can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness. For longer storage, the cake roll can be frozen. Wrap it in a layer of plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and freeze for up to a month. To serve, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Variations & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, try substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. If you have dietary restrictions, gluten-free flour blends work well as a 1:1 replacement. Also, consider switching out cream cheese frosting for a dairy-free version by using vegan cream cheese and margarine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake roll ahead of time? Yes, you can! Preparing the cake roll a day in advance gives the flavors time to meld together, and it makes dessert time on the day of your event a breeze.
Is red food coloring necessary for the recipe? While traditional red velvet requires red food coloring for its signature look, you can skip it if you prefer natural ingredients. The cake will still taste lovely, though it will have a more muted color.
What if my cake cracks during rolling? Don’t worry if your cake cracks slightly while rolling. This can often be disguised with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate. The cake’s flavor will still be delicious, even with minor cracks.

Red Velvet Cake Roll Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.25 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 0.25 cup cocoa powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 4 large eggs room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until thick and pale. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 12 minutes.
- Carefully roll the cake while it is still warm, using a clean towel. Let it cool.