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This Raspberry Swirl Christmas Roll is a showstopping holiday dessert that never fails to impress. A billowy soft sponge cake wraps around a punchy raspberry filling, finished with a cloud of cream cheese frosting and a dusting of sugar. Whether you are serving this at Christmas dinner or bringing it to a festive gathering, the bright swirl and creamy topping make each slice feel extra special.
My family requests this cake every single December. I love seeing their faces light up when I bring it out after Christmas lunch—those vibrant slices always disappear fast.
Ingredients
- Powdered sugar: gives sweetness and a silky smooth frosting Aim for a fine textured version for best results
- Vanilla extract: brings warmth and balances the tart raspberry Use pure vanilla for the richest flavor
- Cream cheese: forms the creamy frosting Full-fat blocks work best for structure and taste
- Raspberry filling: adds bright tartness and festive color Opt for one with whole berries or make your own with fresh raspberries for more flavor
- Powdered sugar for dusting: provides that snowy holiday look Just a light sprinkle goes a long way
Instructions
- Make Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Beat together the powdered sugar and vanilla extract with the cream cheese Start at low speed until the sugar is moistened then increase to medium and whip for two to three minutes until fluffy and light
- Prepare and Fill Sponge Cake:
- Once your baked sponge has cooled completely gently unroll it from the towel so it does not crack Evenly spread raspberry filling right to the edges but leave a slim border for neat rolling
- Roll Up Cake:
- Carefully roll from one short end using steady gentle pressure You want a tight swirl but not so tight that the filling oozes out Place seam down on your serving plate
- Frost and Decorate:
- Generously cover the top and sides of the roll with your fluffy cream cheese frosting Use a spatula for smooth edges or a piping bag for extra flair
- Dust and Slice:
- Liberally dust with powdered sugar just before serving for that signature festive look Slice with a sharp serrated knife Serve chilled or at room temperature for best enjoyment
Every time I make this roll I think of my grandmother who always took extra care to get that swirl just right. My favorite part is swirling in extra raspberry for a more dramatic look—it feels like creating edible art.
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers well wrapped in plastic or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake stays moist up to three days and you can dust again lightly with sugar just before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap in strawberry or blueberry preserves for the filling if raspberries are hard to find. For a citrusy twist add a sprinkle of lemon zest to the frosting. If you prefer, mascarpone can replace cream cheese for a milder cream layer.
Serving Suggestions
Slice thick pieces for generous dessert servings or cut delicate spirals for an afternoon tea tray. Garnish with a few fresh berries on top or some festive mint leaves for extra color.
Cultural and Holiday Connections
While roll cakes are enjoyed across Europe, this berry swirl version feels unmistakably festive thanks to its red hue and snowy topping. It takes me back to cozy family gatherings where tradition means a sweet finish to the holiday meal.
Seasonal Adaptations
emphasize fresh berries if making in summer swap in cranberry or cherry for a winter tartness add orange zest or spice to cake batter for more holiday flavor
Success Stories
This cake is the number one pick for birthdays and family gatherings in our house. Even beginner bakers have pulled it off and come back for the recipe. Once you master the roll, it becomes your showpiece.
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can freeze the unfrosted roll by wrapping it tightly in plastic Then thaw completely before frosting and serving The texture remains soft and the flavors stay fresh
With its colorful spiral and creamy topping, this Christmas roll is guaranteed to stand out on any holiday table. Enjoy the festive flavors and make it your new seasonal tradition.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do you keep the roll cake from cracking?
Allow the sponge to cool in a towel after baking, then gently unroll and fill once fully cooled. Rolling while warm helps prevent cracks.
- → Can I use a different berry for the filling?
Absolutely! Strawberries or blueberries work well and add their own unique flavors and colors to this festive dessert.
- → How should I store the cake after making it?
Wrap the cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate. It stays moist and flavorful for up to two days in the fridge.
- → Is it possible to make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, the cake can be made a day in advance and stored chilled until ready to serve. Simply dust with powdered sugar before presentation.
- → What’s the best way to achieve a smooth frosting finish?
Use an offset spatula to spread the cream cheese frosting evenly, and pipe decorative swirls for an elegant finish if desired.