Crimson Cozy Roll – A Decadent Red Velvet Embrace for Heartwarming Gatherings

Crimson Cozy Roll is a stunning red velvet cake roll filled with luscious cream cheese frosting, offering a beautiful and delicious centerpiece for festive occasions. With its rich red color, tender cake, and smooth, tangy filling, this dessert brings warmth and sweetness to any celebration, from holidays to special gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake roll delivers the classic red velvet and cream cheese flavor combination in a visually striking form. The soft, cocoa-kissed sponge cake is easy to roll and pairs perfectly with the creamy filling. With simple ingredients and an impressive result, it’s a dessert that’s sure to delight guests and family alike. Plus, it can be made ahead, making it a convenient choice for busy hosts.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cake
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 large eggs
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon red food coloring

For the cream cheese filling
8 oz cream cheese, softened
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.

2. In a bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

3. In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and thick, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Add the buttermilk, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Mix until combined.

5. Gently fold in the dry ingredients until just incorporated.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.

7. While the cake bakes, lay out a clean kitchen towel and dust it lightly with powdered sugar.

8. When the cake is done, immediately turn it out onto the towel. Carefully peel off the parchment paper. Starting at a short end, roll the cake and towel together into a spiral. Let it cool completely.

9. To make the filling, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, and beat until creamy and fluffy.

10. Unroll the cooled cake and spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface. Gently re-roll the cake (without the towel).

11. Chill for at least 1 hour before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar or garnish as desired before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 10 servings.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 12 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: about 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Add mini chocolate chips or chopped pecans to the cream cheese filling.

• Use a swirl of raspberry jam along with the cream cheese for a fruity twist.

• Top with a drizzle of melted white chocolate or a dusting of cocoa powder.

• Make it extra festive with sprinkles or edible glitter on top.

Storage/reheating

Store the cake roll covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
It is best served chilled. Freezing is possible: wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

Can I make the cake roll ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate the cake roll up to a day in advance.

How do I prevent cracks when rolling?

Roll the cake while it is still warm and flexible, and avoid overbaking.

Can I use natural food coloring?

Yes, natural red food coloring can be used, though the color may be less vibrant.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

Mix 1/4 cup milk with 1 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes.

Can I use a different filling?

Yes, try whipped cream, mascarpone filling, or chocolate ganache.

How do I slice the cake neatly?

Use a sharp serrated knife, wiping it clean between cuts.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Can I add more cocoa for a deeper chocolate flavor?

You can increase cocoa slightly, but adjust the flour accordingly to maintain texture.

What size pan works best?

A 10×15-inch jelly roll pan is ideal for creating the right thickness for rolling.

Can I decorate the outside?

Yes, top with powdered sugar, chocolate drizzle, or piped frosting for extra flair.

Conclusion

Crimson Cozy Roll is a festive, elegant dessert that brings together the beloved flavors of red velvet cake and cream cheese frosting in a beautiful, sliceable form. Simple to prepare and sure to impress, it’s the perfect choice for adding a touch of sweetness and color to your next special occasion.

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