If you're searching for a show-stopping dessert that combines the sweet, tangy flavors of cherries with the creamy richness of cheesecake, then this Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll is exactly what you need. This delightful dessert merges a light, fluffy sponge cake with a luscious cheesecake filling and a vibrant cherry topping. The best part? It’s easier to make than it looks! Stick around for the full recipe, including step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations to customize this treat to your liking.

What is a Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll?

A Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll is a unique and indulgent dessert that combines the classic flavors of cherry cheesecake with the elegant presentation of a cake roll. A soft, airy sponge cake is rolled around a rich and creamy cheesecake filling, creating a spiral of flavor with every slice. The cherry topping adds a burst of color and flavor, making it both visually appealing and delicious. It’s the perfect dessert for special occasions or just to satisfy your sweet tooth at home.

Ingredients List for Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll

For the Sponge Cake:

4 large eggs, room temperature
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup milk, room temperature
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
Powdered sugar for dusting the towel

For the Cheesecake Filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy cream, whipped

For the Cherry Topping:

1 cup cherry pie filling (store-bought or homemade)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, to add tang)
1 teaspoon almond extract (optional, to enhance cherry flavor)

Substitutions and Variations

While this recipe is already divine, you can tweak it based on your taste or dietary preferences.

Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend.
Fruit Substitutions: If cherries aren't your thing, try swapping the cherry filling with strawberries, blueberries, or even mixed berries.
Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream in place of heavy cream for the filling.
Chocolate Variation: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the sponge cake for a chocolatey twist or drizzle melted chocolate over the top for extra indulgence.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it to ensure easy release.

Step 2: Make the Sponge Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together with an electric mixer for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes pale and thick. Add the vanilla extract and milk, mixing until combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep the batter light and airy.

Step 3: Bake the Sponge Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake is golden and springs back when touched. Don’t overbake, as this can make the cake too stiff to roll.

Step 4: Roll the Cake

As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, dust a clean kitchen towel generously with powdered sugar. Turn the cake out onto the towel, peel off the parchment paper, and gently roll the cake up with the towel from one short end to the other. Allow it to cool completely while rolled up—this will help it keep its shape later.

Step 5: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

While the cake is cooling, prepare the cheesecake filling. Beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake Roll

Carefully unroll the cooled sponge cake and spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the surface. Be sure to leave a little space around the edges to prevent the filling from oozing out when you roll it up again. Once the filling is spread, gently re-roll the cake without the towel.

Step 7: Add the Cherry Topping

Spoon the cherry pie filling over the top of the rolled cake. If you want a little extra tang, mix in the lemon juice. For a more intense cherry flavor, add the almond extract to the cherry topping before spreading it over the cake.

Step 8: Chill Before Serving

Allow the cake roll to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible. This helps the flavors meld together and makes the cake easier to slice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can deflate the sponge cake, making it dense and difficult to roll.
Overbaking the Cake: Keep an eye on your cake to avoid overbaking. A dry cake can crack when you try to roll it.
Not Rolling the Cake While Warm: Rolling the cake while it's still warm prevents cracking. If it cools unrolled, it may not maintain its shape.
Rushing the Cooling Process: Let the cake cool completely before adding the cheesecake filling, or the filling may melt and slide out.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when it comes to a dessert like this. Here’s how to elevate your Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll:

Slice with Precision: Use a sharp knife to cut clean slices, wiping the blade between each slice to avoid smearing the filling.
Garnish: Add a dollop of whipped cream and a cherry on top of each slice for a touch of elegance.
Drizzle Sauce: A light drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce over the top of the cake can add an extra level of indulgence.
Edible Flowers: For a special occasion, garnish the platter with edible flowers like pansies or violets to make your cake roll look even more stunning.

How to Serve Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll

This cake roll makes an excellent dessert for parties, holidays, or family gatherings. It’s a light and airy dessert that won’t feel too heavy after a big meal. Here’s how to serve it:

Chilled: Serve the cake roll chilled straight from the refrigerator for the best texture.
Portion Sizes: Cut the roll into 1-inch slices for a beautiful spiral presentation on each plate.
Pairings: Serve with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine like Moscato for an indulgent pairing.

Presentation Ideas for Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll

Make your cake roll a centerpiece with these presentation ideas:

Rustic Look: Dust the top with powdered sugar for a simple, rustic look.
Fancy Glaze: Drizzle a light glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice for a glossy finish.
Layered Plating: Serve each slice on top of a swirl of cherry sauce for added visual appeal and flavor.

Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe Tips

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs, milk, and cream cheese are at room temperature to get the best consistency for both the cake and filling.
Don’t Skip the Cooling: Patience is key. Letting the cake and filling cool completely will give you the best texture and prevent any mess.
Gentle Rolling: Be gentle when re-rolling the cake after adding the filling to prevent it from cracking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make the cake roll in advance?
A: Absolutely! The cake roll can be made a day or two in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I freeze the cake roll?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cake roll. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Q: What if my cake cracks?
A: Don’t worry! You can easily cover cracks with the cherry topping or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
A: Yes! You can cook fresh or frozen cherries with a little sugar and cornstarch to make a quick homemade cherry topping.

Conclusion

This Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll is the perfect dessert for any occasion. With its light, fluffy sponge cake, creamy cheesecake filling, and tangy cherry topping, it's a treat that’s sure to impress. Plus, with simple substitutions and variations, you can tailor it to your taste or dietary needs. Follow these easy step-by-step instructions and tips to make the perfect cake roll every time. Enjoy this beautiful, delicious dessert and get ready for rave reviews from your family and friends!