If you have a soft spot for dreamy desserts that are as stunning as they are delicious, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Purple Velvet Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe. Imagine a moist, velvety cake swirled with a luscious, tangy cream cheese filling and that gorgeous pop of purple makes it an absolute showstopper at any gathering. This recipe brings together simple pantry staples with a magical twist that results in a dessert that’s light, flavorful, and perfect for impressing family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Purple Velvet Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing an essential role to deliver the perfect texture, taste, and that enchanting purple hue. These items are easy to find but come together in a way that creates something truly special.
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the structure you want for a soft but sturdy cake base.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Lightens the batter for a tender crumb that rolls easily.
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds subtle depth to the flavor while enhancing the purple tone.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise perfectly without being too fluffy.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and amplifies flavors.
- 4 large eggs (room temperature): Key for richness and achieving that airy texture when whipped well.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens just enough to highlight the cocoa and cream cheese.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender throughout.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Injects warmth and familiar comfort into every bite.
- 1 tablespoon purple gel food coloring: Ensures a vibrant, jewel-toned cake without watering down the batter.
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened): Creates the silky, tangy filling that complements the cake’s richness beautifully.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling to smooth perfection.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened): Adds creamy richness and helps the filling spread effortlessly.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling): Elevates the cream cheese with a hint of aromatic sweetness.
- Powdered sugar for dusting: Finishes the roll with a delicate, elegant touch.
How to Make Purple Velvet Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Dry Ingredients
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, lightly greasing it to prevent sticking. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This mixture is the dry foundation that ensures your cake has the perfect texture and subtle cocoa nuance. Setting this aside now will streamline the process.
Step 2: Whip Eggs and Sugar
Next, grab a large bowl and beat your eggs with granulated sugar until they become pale and thick—this usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes with a mixer. This step is essential for a light, airy batter that creates that signature tender crumb of your Purple Velvet Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe. The volume here makes all the difference for a cake that rises beautifully and rolls without cracking.
Step 3: Add Oil, Vanilla, and Color
Once your eggs and sugar are perfectly whipped, mix in the vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and purple gel food coloring. The gel food coloring is perfect because it delivers a dazzling purple without thinning out your batter. Stir gently yet thoroughly to ensure even coloration and flavor distribution.
Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Now carefully fold in the dry ingredients mixture to your wet bowl, combining just until there are no streaks of flour. This gentle folding keeps the batter airy, which is key for the soft texture of the cake roll. Overmixing at this stage can make the cake tough, so take your time and keep it light.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Slide it into the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. The cake is done when it springs back lightly to the touch—avoid overbaking as you want it to remain pliable for rolling.
Step 6: Roll the Cake
While the cake is still warm, turn it out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted generously with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Gently peel off the parchment paper and roll the cake from the short end, using the towel to help you. Rolling warm helps the cake hold its shape nicely without cracking during the filling step.
Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until silky smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and sweet. This luscious filling is the heart of the Purple Velvet Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe and creates that irresistible swirl.
Step 8: Assemble and Chill
Carefully unroll the cooled cake, spread the cream cheese filling evenly all over, and then re-roll it firmly but gently. Wrap the cake roll tightly with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to help it set and make slicing easier.
How to Serve Purple Velvet Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar over the top adds an elegant finishing touch and a delicate sweetness contrast. For extra flair, feel free to sprinkle with edible flowers or a drizzle of white chocolate for a beautiful presentation that also adds a subtle flavor bonus.
Side Dishes
This cake roll pairs wonderfully with freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert duo. Fresh berries like raspberries or blackberries also provide a tart brightness that complements the creamy filling and rich cocoa undertones.
Creative Ways to Present
For celebrations, slice your Purple Velvet Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe into neat rounds and arrange on a platter with sprigs of mint for a pop of freshness and color contrast. You can also serve individual slices on dessert plates with a fresh berry compote spooned on the side for an upscale touch that wows any guest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once prepared, this cake roll can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled ensures the cream cheese filling stays fresh and the cake retains its moist, tender texture.
Freezing
You can freeze slices or the whole cake roll wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve flavor and texture beautifully.
Reheating
This cake roll is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, let slices sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before serving rather than applying heat to avoid melting the cream cheese filling.
FAQs
Can I use regular liquid food coloring instead of gel?
While regular liquid food coloring will work, it may thin the batter and result in a less vibrant purple hue. Gel food coloring is recommended for the best color intensity and texture in your Purple Velvet Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe.
What if my cake cracks when rolling?
Rolling the cake while it is still warm and using a powdered sugar-dusted kitchen towel helps prevent cracking. If cracks do appear, the cream cheese filling will help conceal them once spread and rolled back up.
Can I substitute the cream cheese filling for something else?
Absolutely! You can swap the cream cheese filling for whipped cream, buttercream, or even mascarpone mixed with powdered sugar for a different but equally delicious twist.
Is it necessary to chill the cake roll before slicing?
Yes, chilling firms up the filling and stabilizes the roll, which makes slicing cleaner and presentation more attractive.
How far in advance can I make this cake roll?
You can bake and assemble the Purple Velvet Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe a day ahead, keeping it wrapped tightly in the fridge to maintain freshness and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Purple Velvet Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe is a delightful way to brighten up any dessert table with its stunning color and irresistible flavor combo. It’s approachable for home bakers, rewarding in every bite, and guaranteed to become a new favorite for anyone lucky enough to share it with. Don’t wait to give this dazzling treat a try—it’s pure joy rolled into one beautiful cake!
Print
Purple Velvet Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 37 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and delicious Purple Velvet Cake Roll filled with a smooth cream cheese filling. This dessert combines a tender, cocoa-flavored purple sponge cake rolled with a luscious cream cheese mixture, perfect for festive occasions or a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon purple gel food coloring
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Dusting
- Powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Beat Eggs and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the room temperature eggs and granulated sugar on high speed for 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture is pale and thick, which will help create a light sponge.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Gently mix in the vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and purple gel food coloring into the egg mixture until the color is evenly distributed.
- Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Using a spatula, carefully fold the dry ingredients into the wet batter. Be gentle and mix just until combined to maintain the airy texture.
- Bake the Cake: Pour and spread the batter evenly into the prepared jelly roll pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly pressed.
- Roll the Cake: While the cake is still warm, dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar. Turn the cake out onto the towel, carefully peel off the parchment paper, and roll the cake gently from the short end with the towel. Allow it to cool completely in the rolled shape.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a clean bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then mix until fully incorporated and fluffy.
- Assemble the Cake Roll: Carefully unroll the cooled cake. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface of the cake. Re-roll the cake tightly without the towel.
- Chill and Serve: Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set. Before serving, dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish and slice with a clean knife, wiping between cuts for neat slices.
Notes
- Use gel food coloring to achieve the most vibrant purple color without affecting batter consistency.
- For clean, even slices, wipe the knife with a warm towel between cuts.
- Rolling the cake while warm helps prevent cracking.
- Chilling the cake roll before slicing ensures the filling sets nicely and the roll holds its shape.
