The holiday season brings a whirlwind of joy, laughter, and, of course, delicious treats. One of my favorite festive delights is the Raspberry Swirl Christmas Roll. This dessert is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a quick solution for those busy days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. The vibrant raspberry swirls create a stunning visual, while the sweet and tangy flavors dance on your palate. Trust me, this roll will become a cherished part of your holiday traditions, bringing smiles to everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Raspberry Swirl Christmas Roll
This Raspberry Swirl Christmas Roll is a game-changer for your holiday baking. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for those last-minute gatherings. The delightful combination of sweet raspberry preserves and fluffy cake creates a taste sensation that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it looks stunning on any dessert table, effortlessly elevating your holiday spread. You’ll love how it brings joy without the stress!
Ingredients for Raspberry Swirl Christmas Roll
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Raspberry Swirl Christmas Roll. Here’s what you’ll need:
All-purpose flour: The backbone of your cake, providing structure and a light texture.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the cake rise, giving it that fluffy quality.
Baking soda: Another leavening agent that works with acidic ingredients to create lift.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and contributes to its tender crumb.
Large eggs: They bind the ingredients together and add moisture and richness.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this classic flavor elevates the overall taste.
Buttermilk: This adds tanginess and keeps the cake moist; you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a bit of vinegar.
Raspberry preserves: The star of the show! These provide that beautiful swirl and fruity flavor.
Powdered sugar: Used for the glaze, it adds sweetness without the graininess of granulated sugar.
Lemon juice: Brightens the glaze and adds a refreshing zing.
Fresh raspberries and mint leaves: Optional garnishes that add a pop of color and freshness.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Raspberry Swirl Christmas Roll
Creating the Raspberry Swirl Christmas Roll is a delightful journey that fills your kitchen with festive aromas. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a stunning dessert that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly. While the oven warms up, grab a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan. Grease it lightly and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang. This makes it easy to lift the cake out later.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial as it combines the leavening agents evenly, ensuring your cake rises beautifully. Set this mixture aside for now.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes. You want it to be light and fluffy, which adds air to the batter, making it tender.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps incorporate them fully into the batter. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. The aroma of vanilla will make your kitchen feel like a holiday wonderland!
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Step 6: Swirl in Raspberry Preserves
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Then, drop spoonfuls of raspberry preserves over the top. Use a knife to gently swirl them into the batter, creating a beautiful marbled effect. This is where the magic happens!
Step 7: Bake the Roll
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake should be lightly golden and spring back when touched.
Step 8: Roll the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven. Immediately invert it onto the prepared kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Carefully peel off the parchment paper. Starting from one short end, roll the cake up tightly in the towel. Let it cool completely, seam side down, for about 1 hour.
Step 9: Prepare the Glaze
While the cake cools, mix the powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl. This glaze will add a sweet and tangy finish to your roll. Adjust the consistency by adding more sugar or lemon juice as needed.
Step 10: Assemble the Roll
Once the cake is cool, gently unroll it. Spread a thin layer of raspberry preserves over the surface. Then, roll it back up without the towel. This keeps the beautiful swirls intact and makes for a stunning presentation.
Step 11: Drizzle and Garnish
Finally, drizzle the glaze over the top of your Raspberry Swirl Christmas Roll. For an extra festive touch, garnish with fresh raspberries and mint leaves if desired. This adds a pop of color and freshness, making your dessert even more inviting!
Tips for Success
Ensure your butter is softened for easy creaming; it should be at room temperature.
Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined for a light texture.
Use a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
Let the cake cool completely before unrolling to avoid cracks.
Experiment with different fruit preserves for unique flavors!
Equipment Needed
15×10-inch jelly roll pan: A standard size for this recipe; a baking sheet with sides can work in a pinch.
Electric mixer: For creaming butter and sugar; a whisk can be used if you’re feeling adventurous.
Mixing bowls: A medium and a large bowl are essential for mixing ingredients.
Kitchen towel: Use a clean one for rolling the cake; parchment paper can also help.
Variations
Chocolate Raspberry Roll: Substitute 1/4 cup of the flour with cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with raspberry.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Vegan Twist: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use a plant-based butter alternative for a vegan-friendly version.
Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the batter for a refreshing holiday twist.
Spiced Version: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a warm, spiced flavor that complements the raspberry.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Raspberry Swirl Christmas Roll with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.
Serve alongside a warm cup of spiced chai or hot cocoa to enhance the festive vibe.
For a beautiful presentation, dust with extra powdered sugar before serving.
Garnish with additional fresh raspberries and mint leaves for a pop of color.
FAQs about Raspberry Swirl Christmas Roll
Can I make the Raspberry Swirl Christmas Roll ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the roll a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to serve, let it come to room temperature and drizzle with glaze.
What can I substitute for raspberry preserves?
If raspberry preserves aren’t your thing, feel free to use other fruit preserves like strawberry, blueberry, or even apricot. Each will give a unique twist to your Raspberry Swirl Christmas Roll!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Raspberry Swirl Christmas Roll in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just remember to enjoy it before it disappears!
Can I freeze the Raspberry Swirl Christmas Roll?
Yes, you can freeze the roll! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
What’s the best way to serve this dessert?
For a festive touch, serve slices of the Raspberry Swirl Christmas Roll with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of fresh raspberries. It’s a showstopper that will impress your guests!
Final Thoughts
The Raspberry Swirl Christmas Roll is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories. Each slice tells a story, from the vibrant swirls of raspberry to the sweet glaze that ties it all together. Baking this roll fills your kitchen with warmth and joy, making it a perfect centerpiece for holiday gatherings. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of coffee, this festive treat brings smiles and satisfaction. Embrace the spirit of the season and let this delightful roll become a cherished tradition in your home!
A festive and delightful Raspberry Swirl Christmas Roll, perfect for holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 cup raspberry preserves
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh raspberries and mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined.
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Drop spoonfuls of raspberry preserves over the batter and use a knife to gently swirl them into the batter, creating a marbled effect.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
While the cake is baking, prepare a clean kitchen towel by dusting it with powdered sugar.
Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and immediately invert it onto the prepared towel. Carefully peel off the parchment paper.
Starting from one short end, roll the cake up tightly in the towel. Let it cool completely in the towel, seam side down, for about 1 hour.
In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar and lemon juice to make a glaze.
Once the cake is cool, unroll it gently and spread a thin layer of raspberry preserves over the surface. Roll it back up without the towel.
Drizzle the glaze over the top and garnish with fresh raspberries and mint leaves if desired.
Notes
For a chocolate twist, substitute 1/4 cup of the flour with cocoa powder.
To make it a festive treat, add a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies on top of the glaze.
