Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll: 7 Joyful Steps to Delight

By:

Christina R. Jones

October 10, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Oh wow, let me tell you about my absolute favorite holiday dessert – the Christmas raspberry cake roll! It’s like a sweet little gift wrapped in a cake. Every year, as soon as the holiday spirit starts to spread, I can’t help but whip this beauty up. The vibrant red of the raspberry puree and the fluffy white whipped cream make it feel like Christmas on a plate. Trust me, when you serve this at family gatherings, it’s like watching everyone’s faces light up – pure joy!

christmas raspberry cake roll - detail 1

I remember the first time I made this cake roll. It was a mad dash in the kitchen, flour flying everywhere, and my kids helping out by smashing the raspberries. We had a little bit of chaos, but that just made it all the more fun! The aroma of baking cake filled our home, and when we finally unrolled that cake, it was like magic. Fresh raspberries peeking out, all wrapped up in that delicate sponge – it’s the perfect blend of festive cheer and deliciousness. Plus, it’s a showstopper that impresses everyone, and it’s surprisingly easy to make! So, let’s dive into how to create this delightful treat that will surely become a holiday tradition in your home too!

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for making the perfect Christmas raspberry cake roll. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup all-purpose flour: This is the base of your cake, providing structure and a light texture.
3/4 cup sugar: Sweetness is key! This will help balance the tartness of the raspberries.
3 large eggs: Eggs are crucial for binding and creating a fluffy sponge.
1/2 cup raspberry puree: Fresh or store-bought, this adds that vibrant raspberry flavor.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A little vanilla enhances all the flavors beautifully.
1/2 teaspoon baking powder: This will give your cake the lift it needs to roll perfectly.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
1 cup whipped cream: Light and airy, this is the delicious filling for your cake.
1/2 cup fresh raspberries: For that burst of juicy goodness inside the roll!
Powdered sugar for dusting: A light sprinkle on top for a festive touch.

Make sure your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor and texture. Now that you have everything ready, we can move on to the fun part – baking!

How to Prepare the Christmas Raspberry Cake Roll

Now, let’s get into the fun part – making this gorgeous Christmas raspberry cake roll! I promise it’s easier than it looks, and the end result is absolutely worth every minute of effort. Here’s how to do it step by step:

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake gets that perfect golden color as it bakes. Don’t skip this step!
Prepare your dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. This blend is the base for our fluffy sponge cake.
Beat the eggs and sugar: In another bowl, using an electric mixer, beat together 3 large eggs and 3/4 cup of sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. You want it to look pale and creamy – this is where the magic begins!
Add the raspberry puree and vanilla: Gently fold in 1/2 cup of raspberry puree and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the egg mixture. Make sure everything is well combined without deflating all that lovely air you just whipped in!
Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually fold in your dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Be careful not to overmix; just mix until you see no more flour streaks.
Spread the batter: Line a baking pan (about 15×10 inches) with parchment paper. Pour the batter in and spread it evenly. It should be smooth and level!
Bake: Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cake is lightly golden and springs back when you touch it gently. You can also do the toothpick test; if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!
Cool and roll: Once baked, take it out and immediately roll the cake in a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Let it cool completely in this rolled position. This step helps it maintain that lovely shape!
Fill and unroll: Once cooled, gently unroll the cake. Spread 1 cup of whipped cream and sprinkle 1/2 cup of fresh raspberries evenly over the surface.
Roll it back up: Carefully roll the cake back up, this time without the towel, and place it seam-side down on a serving platter. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, and voilà!

Tips for Success

To make sure your Christmas raspberry cake roll turns out perfectly, here are my tried-and-true tips:

Check doneness: Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Every oven is different, so start checking around the 15-minute mark. You want it just set and lightly golden.
Cool completely: It’s crucial to let the cake cool completely while rolled up in the towel. This prevents it from cracking when you unroll it later.
Be gentle: When rolling the cake back up, take your time. If it feels resistant, don’t force it – just go slow and steady. A little patience goes a long way!
Use fresh ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh raspberries for garnish and filling. They really elevate the taste!
Keep it chilled: If you’re not serving it right away, store the cake roll in the refrigerator. It’s delightful chilled, and the flavors meld beautifully.

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk numbers! This Christmas raspberry cake roll is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s also a treat that fits into your holiday indulgences. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per slice:

Calories: 210
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Sugar: 15g
Protein: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 50mg
Cholesterol: 50mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use. So, whether you’re counting calories or just enjoying the flavor, this cake roll is a delightful addition to your holiday table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Christmas raspberry cake roll is a true holiday gem, and here’s why you’ll adore it:

Festive Appeal: The vibrant colors of the raspberry puree and whipped cream make it a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table.
Easy to Prepare: Don’t be intimidated! This cake roll is surprisingly simple to make, even for novice bakers.
Delicious Flavors: The combination of sweet raspberries and light, fluffy cake creates a delightful flavor explosion that everyone will love.
Perfect for Gatherings: It’s an impressive dessert that’s perfect for family gatherings, holiday parties, or any festive occasion.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully, making your holiday prep a breeze!

Trust me, once you make this cake roll, it will become a cherished part of your holiday traditions!

Variations

One of the best things about the Christmas raspberry cake roll is how versatile it is! You can easily switch up the flavors and fillings to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Cream Cheese Frosting: Instead of whipped cream, try spreading a rich cream cheese frosting inside the roll. Just mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla for a tangy twist that pairs beautifully with the raspberries.
Other Fruit Purees: Feeling adventurous? Swap the raspberry puree for other fruit options like strawberry, blueberry, or even mango. Each fruit brings its unique flavor and color, making your cake roll a delightful surprise!
Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend. Just make sure the baking powder is also gluten-free. You’ll still get that lovely texture without the gluten!
Vegan Version: For a vegan take, replace the eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg) and use a plant-based whipped cream. You won’t lose any of the deliciousness!
Add Some Zest: For a refreshing twist, add lemon or orange zest to your batter or filling. The citrus notes brighten up the flavor and make the cake even more festive!

Experimenting with these variations can create a new family favorite each holiday season. So go ahead, make this recipe your own, and enjoy the delicious journey!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your Christmas raspberry cake roll properly is key to keeping it fresh and delicious! First, if you have any leftovers (which is rare, but hey, it happens!), make sure to wrap the cake roll tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help prevent it from drying out in the fridge.

Place the wrapped cake roll in the refrigerator where it can stay fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually meld together beautifully as it sits! If you want your cake roll to be a bit more decadent, serve it chilled straight from the fridge. But if you prefer it at room temperature, just let it sit out for about 30 minutes before serving.

If you want to reheat it, I recommend slicing the cake roll and giving it a quick zap in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will warm it up just enough to enhance the flavors without making it soggy. Enjoy your delightful treat!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making the Christmas raspberry cake roll? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that pop up:

Q1: Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh ones?
Sure! If fresh raspberries aren’t available, frozen ones work just fine. Just remember to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using them in the cake. This helps keep the texture just right!

Q2: How can I prevent my cake from cracking when rolling?
To avoid cracks, make sure your cake is fully cooled while rolled in a towel. This helps it maintain its shape. Also, take your time when unrolling and rolling it back up; be gentle!

Q3: Can I make this cake roll ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Christmas raspberry cake roll actually tastes better if made a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge, and the flavors will meld beautifully. Just be sure to dust it with powdered sugar right before serving!

Q4: What’s the best way to slice the cake roll?
Use a serrated knife for clean, even slices. It’s best to slice it when it’s cold, as this helps maintain the structure. Warm cake can get a bit mushy, so aim for chilled slices!

Q5: Is there a way to make this cake roll gluten-free?
Yes! You can easily swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure your baking powder is gluten-free too. You’ll still enjoy that delightful texture!