Name: Easy Christmas Roll Cake Recipe with Festive Lights Decoration
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: PT-481612H56M56S
Ingredients: 3/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 4 large eggs, room temperature; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Red and green food coloring (optional, for a festive swirl); 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp peppermint extract (optional, for a holiday twist); Chocolate ganache (1/2 cup heavy cream and 1/2 cup chocolate chips, melted together); Colorful M&M candies or mini colored lights (to look like Christmas bulbs); Edible glitter or powdered sugar for a snowy dusting

Embrace the holiday spirit with a stunning Christmas Roll Cake that’s as festive as it is delicious. This delightful dessert features a light and fluffy sponge cake filled with creamy frosting, rolled to perfection, and adorned with playful decorations that mimic twinkling Christmas lights.

Ingredients

For the Sponge Cake:

3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
4 large eggs, room temperature
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Red and green food coloring (optional, for a festive swirl)

For the Cream Filling:

1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp peppermint extract (optional, for a holiday twist)

For Decoration:

Chocolate ganache (1/2 cup heavy cream and 1/2 cup chocolate chips, melted together)
Colorful M&M candies or mini colored lights (to look like Christmas bulbs)
Edible glitter or powdered sugar for a snowy dusting

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake

Preheat Oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Line and grease a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan.
Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
Beat Eggs and Sugar: Whip eggs and sugar until thick and voluminous, then fold in vanilla and dry ingredients.
Swirl with Food Coloring: Optionally, divide the batter for coloring, swirl in the pan, and bake for 10-12 minutes.
Roll the Cake: Roll the warm cake in a sugared towel, let cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Whip the Cream: Beat cream with powdered sugar and extracts until stiff. Unroll cake and spread filling, then re-roll.

Step 3: Decorate with Chocolate “Lights”

Ganache Drizzle: Use a piping bag to drizzle ganache over the cake.
Add Decorations: Place M&Ms or mini edible bulbs along the drizzle.
Dust with Edible Glitter: Add a snowy effect with powdered sugar or glitter.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the Cake: Cut into rounds to display the swirl. Serve and delight your guests with this festive creation.

Variations

Flavor Twists: Experiment with different extracts like almond or orange for a unique touch.
Fruit Filling: Incorporate a layer of fruit preserves under the cream for added flavor and texture.

Cooking Note

To ensure the cake remains soft and pliable for rolling, avoid overbaking and roll it while it’s still warm.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this cake with a warm cup of mulled wine or spiced hot chocolate for a cozy, festive dessert experience.

Tips

Smooth Roll: Ensure the towel is well-sugared to prevent sticking when rolling and unrolling the cake.
Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the cake after decorating to set the ganache and make slicing easier.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: About 2 hours (including cooling and decorating)

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 350 per slice
Sugar: 20 g per slice

FAQs

Q: How long can I store this roll cake? A: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, wrapped tightly.

Q: Can I freeze the Christmas Roll Cake? A: Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

This Christmas Roll Cake with festive lights decoration is not only a delicious addition to your holiday table but also a fun and creative baking project. Its whimsical appearance and delightful flavors are sure to bring joy and a touch of magic to your celebrations. Enjoy baking and sharing this lovely treat during the festive season!