If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly balances fluffy cake, creamy cheesecake, and a burst of bright cherry flavor, look no further than this Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe. This show-stopping treat is not just a feast for your taste buds but also a joy to make, rolling together the lusciousness of cheesecake and the tangy sweetness of cherry pie filling into a soft, golden sponge. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this cake roll will quickly become your new favorite indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this delightful Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe, you’ll need a handful of simple, quality ingredients. Each one plays a key role: from the tender cake flour that gives the sponge its delicate crumb to the rich cream cheese that provides that luscious texture in the filling, and the cherry pie filling that adds a lovely pop of vibrant flavor and color.
- 1 cup cake flour: Use cake flour for a lighter, softer batter that rolls easily without cracking.
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the cake just right, balancing the tangy cheesecake filling.
- 4 large eggs: Eggs add structure and richness, helping the cake rise beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warm, comforting flavor that complements all the other ingredients.
- 8 oz cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake filling, giving it that creamy, dreamy texture.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling smoothly without graininess.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Whipped into the filling for lightness and lusciousness.
- 1 can cherry pie filling: Bursts of juicy cherries add color, flavor, and a beautiful glossy finish on top.
How to Make Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it’s perfectly heated for an even bake. Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper—this step is crucial to prevent sticking and will help the delicate cake roll out smoothly later on.
Step 2: Whip Up the Cake Batter
In a mixing bowl, beat your eggs and sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and has doubled in volume. This aeration is what makes the sponge so tender and springy. Then, gently fold in the cake flour and vanilla extract, being careful not to overmix so your batter stays airy.
Step 3: Bake Your Sponge Cake
Pour the batter carefully into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Slide it into the oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Timing is key here to avoid overbaking, which can dry out your cake.
Step 4: Roll the Cake While Warm
Once out of the oven, let the cake cool just enough to handle without breaking. Flip it onto a kitchen towel generously dusted with powdered sugar, then roll it up tightly with the towel inside. This step trains the cake to roll without cracking once filled later. Allow it to cool completely rolled up.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a clean bowl, mix together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and heavy cream until you achieve a smooth, silky consistency. This filling is the heart of your Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe, so take your time beating it until perfectly creamy and well combined.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake Roll
Carefully unroll your cooled cake and spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface. Then gently roll the cake back up, this time without the towel. This creates those beautiful swirls of cheesecake filling inside every slice.
Step 7: Add Cherry Topping and Chill
Finally, spread the cherry pie filling over the top of your rolled cake for that gorgeous finishing touch. Pop it into the fridge and let it chill for at least an hour—this step sets the filling and helps the flavors meld for that unforgettable bite.
How to Serve Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe
Garnishes
For a touch of elegance and extra flavor, garnish your cake roll with fresh cherries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving. A few mint leaves can also add a refreshing contrast and make the presentation vibrant.
Side Dishes
This cake roll shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A light cup of coffee or tea also complements the sweet, creamy layers perfectly without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the cake roll into individual portions and arranging them on a platter, alternating with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or kiwi. You could also drizzle a little chocolate or cherry syrup around the plate for a restaurant-style finish that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though that’s unlikely), wrap the cake roll tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it will remain fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, the flavors only deepening with time.
Freezing
You can freeze slices of your Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe by placing parchment paper between pieces and storing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When wrapped well, the cake can be frozen for up to 1 month without losing its charm.
Reheating
To enjoy as if freshly made, thaw frozen slices overnight in the fridge. Serve chilled or let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before eating. Because of the creamy filling, reheating in a microwave is not recommended as it can alter the texture.
FAQs
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?
While you can use all-purpose flour in a pinch, cake flour gives the sponge a softer, lighter texture that’s essential for rolling without cracks. If you do use all-purpose flour, consider removing a tablespoon per cup and replacing it with cornstarch to mimic cake flour’s tenderness.
Is it possible to make this cake roll gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free baking mix designed for cakes. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder for the best texture. Keep in mind that baking times might vary slightly.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries are delicious and add a natural sweetness, but you’ll want to cook them down with a bit of sugar and lemon juice to mimic the pie filling consistency to prevent a soggy cake.
How far in advance can I make this cake roll?
This Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe is best enjoyed within 24 hours of assembly for peak freshness and texture. However, it can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated to allow the flavors to meld wonderfully.
How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?
The key is to roll the cake while it is still warm, using a powdered sugar-dusted kitchen towel to support it, which helps shape the sponge and prevents cracks when you add the filling later. Don’t rush this step!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the way a slice of this Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe melts in your mouth, combining the best elements of cake, cheesecake, and cherries in every bite. It’s approachable enough for a weekday treat yet elegant enough to impress at any gathering. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it a beloved staple in your dessert rotation. Once you do, it’ll feel like a little slice of heaven.
Print
Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes plus 1 hour chilling
- Yield: 10 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll is a delightful dessert combining a light, fluffy cake with a luscious cream cheese filling and a sweet cherry topping. Perfect for special occasions or as an indulgent treat, this rolled cake offers a perfect balance of creamy texture and fruity flavor with an eye-catching presentation.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 cup cake flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
Topping
- 1 can cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper to ensure the cake does not stick and is easy to roll later.
- Prepare Batter: In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, indicating that enough air has been incorporated for a soft texture. Then, gently fold in the cake flour and vanilla extract, being careful not to deflate the batter.
- Bake Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for about 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, ensuring the cake is fully cooked but still soft.
- Roll Cake: Once baked, allow the cake to cool slightly. Then flip it onto a kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Roll the cake tightly with the towel inside and let it cool completely to set the shape.
- Make Filling: In a separate bowl, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which will create the cheesecake-style filling.
- Assemble Cake Roll: Carefully unroll the cooled cake and spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the entire surface. Then roll the cake back up gently without the towel, making sure it is tight but not too compressed.
- Add Topping and Chill: Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top of the rolled cake. Place the cake in the refrigerator and chill for at least an hour to firm up the filling and allow the flavors to meld before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature eggs and cream cheese for easier mixing and smoother texture.
- Dusting the towel with powdered sugar prevents the cake from sticking during rolling.
- Chilling the cake before slicing helps maintain the roll’s shape and makes it easier to cut clean slices.
- You can substitute cherry pie filling with fresh cherries or other fruit fillings for variety.
- Handle the cake gently when rolling to prevent cracking.
