The aroma of lush strawberries and sweet vanilla wafts through my kitchen as the holiday season approaches, marking the perfect moment to whip up a festive treat. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for a Strawberry Santa Christmas Roll Cake, a charming dessert that brings joy and laughter to your holiday gatherings. This delightful cake features a fluffy vanilla base wrapped around a sumptuous strawberry cream filling, creating a light and irresistible creation that’s sure to please guests of all ages. Not only is it a showstopper, but it’s also vegetarian-friendly and offers a gluten-free option, allowing everyone at your table to indulge in the festivities. Just wait until you see the adorable Santa decorations that will turn your cake into a holiday centerpiece! Curious how to create this whimsical wonder? Let’s dive in!
Why Is This Cake a Holiday Favorite?
Whimsical design: The adorable strawberry Santa decorations add a festive touch that captivates both kids and adults alike.
Light and Fluffy: Its airy vanilla cake paired with creamy strawberry filling creates a delightful contrast in every bite.
Versatile options: Easily adapt this recipe for gluten-free diets or switch up the filling with seasonal fruits like raspberries for a unique twist.
Crowd-Pleaser: This cake is sure to be the star of any holiday gathering, making it a go-to recipe for festive celebrations.
Make Ahead: Prep elements in advance to save time on busy holiday mornings, allowing you to enjoy your time with loved ones.
Experience the joy of this Strawberry Santa Christmas Roll Cake and check out my other festive recipes for more holiday fun!
Strawberry Santa Christmas Roll Cake Ingredients
• Discover the delightful components of this festive treat!
For the Cake
- Eggs – Provide structure and leavening for the cake; use large eggs for the best volume.
- Sugar – Adds sweetness and creates a fluffy texture; you can reduce slightly for less sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract – Offers a warm flavor that enhances the cake; opt for pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
- All-Purpose Flour – Creates the cake’s structure; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
For the Filling
- Heavy Cream – Whipped to create a fluffy strawberry cream filling; substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- Mascarpone Cheese – Adds richness and creaminess; cream cheese can work if mascarpone isn’t available.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the filling and frosting.
- Diced Strawberries – Adds fresh fruit flavor and vibrant color; you can use frozen strawberries if fresh are unavailable.
- Strawberry Jam – Enhances the filling’s flavor; optional but recommended for a more intense strawberry taste.
For Decoration
- Chocolate Chips – Use for adorning the Strawberry Santas and adding a touch of elegance.
- Red Candy Balls – Perfect accents to bring your adorable strawberry Santas to life!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Santa Christmas Roll Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin this delightful journey by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that your Strawberry Santa Christmas Roll Cake will bake evenly and rise perfectly. While the oven warms, gather your mixing bowls and baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ready to create a fluffy cake.
Step 2: Whisk Eggs and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, crack your eggs and add sugar, whisking them together vigorously for 5–7 minutes. You want the mixture to turn pale and fluffy, tripling in volume. This step is crucial for achieving that light texture in your cake, and you’ll know it’s ready when you can draw ribbons that hold their shape.
Step 3: Incorporate Vanilla and Dry Ingredients
Gently add the vanilla extract to your egg and sugar mixture. Next, sift in the all-purpose flour and salt to avoid lumps. Carefully fold these dry ingredients into the mixture using a spatula—this method maintains airiness and ensures your Strawberry Santa Christmas Roll Cake has that perfect lift while baking.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Spread the batter evenly onto your prepared baking sheet, making sure to reach the corners. Place it in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes. Keep an eye on the cake as it turns a lovely golden brown; it’s done when it springs back gently when touched.
Step 5: Roll the Cake
As soon as the cake is out of the oven, flip it onto a clean kitchen towel sprinkled lightly with powdered sugar. Carefully peel off the parchment paper, then roll the cake tightly with the towel, starting from one end. This shaping technique prepares your cake for filling while it cools completely.
Step 6: Prepare the Strawberry Filling
While the cake is cooling, prepare the scrumptious filling. In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, mascarpone cheese, and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Once you achieve this dreamy consistency, gently fold in the diced strawberries to add that vibrant fruitiness that complements your Strawberry Santa Christmas Roll Cake beautifully.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake
Once your cake has cooled completely, unroll it carefully, revealing the soft surface. Spread the luscious filling evenly over the cake, making sure to go all the way to the edges. Then, roll the cake back up tightly without the towel, ensuring all that delightful strawberry cream is tucked inside. Refrigerate for 1–2 hours to firm up.
Step 8: Make the Frosting
In a clean bowl, mix the remaining mascarpone cheese with strawberry jam to create a lovely pale pink frosting. This delightful mix will enhance not only the flavor of your Strawberry Santa Christmas Roll Cake but also give it a festive look fitting for holiday celebrations.
Step 9: Frost and Decorate
Once the cake has chilled and set, spread the pink frosting over the entire surface, ensuring a smooth layer. Now it’s time for the fun part! Create the whimsical Strawberry Santas using fresh strawberries for hats and dollops of whipped cream for their faces, ensuring your cake is not just delicious but visually enchanting.
Strawberry Santa Christmas Roll Cake Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this delightful cake with your own twists and substitutions!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously inclusive cake.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free mascarpone for a delightful dairy-free version.
- Sugar-Free: Opt for a sugar substitute like erythritol to make this cake suitable for those watching their sugar intake.
- Berry Bliss: Swap out strawberries for raspberries or blueberries to create a vibrant fruit mystery; the tangy flavors will brighten up any holiday table.
- Flavored Extracts: Experiment with other extracts like almond or lemon for enticing flavor notes that elevate your cake’s profile.
- Jam Flavor Swap: Try different jams such as apricot or peach in the filling for a unique and fruity twist—each bite will transport you to sweet summer days.
- Nutty Addition: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds into the filling for a delightful crunch and added texture.
- Chocolate Lovers: Add cocoa powder to the cake batter—a subtle chocolatey surprise will harmonize beautifully with the strawberry cream filling.
Embrace the joy of baking this Strawberry Santa Christmas Roll Cake along with these festive variations, and explore more delicious recipes like the Festive Christmas Tree Cupcake to inspire your holiday celebrations!
What to Serve with Strawberry Santa Christmas Roll Cake
Delight in creating a harmonious holiday feast that truly complements your festive centerpiece.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop adds extra creaminess and richness, enhancing the cake’s light, fruity flavors.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of berries and citrus balances sweetness, bringing a refreshing contrast to the rich cake.
- Chocolate Fondue: The warm, melty chocolate invites guests to dip slices or fruit, enhancing the festive spirit.
- Classic Eggnog: Its creamy, spiced notes resonate beautifully with the cake’s festive vibe, making for a cozy pairing.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: As it melts alongside the warm cake, it offers a comforting creaminess that everyone will love.
- Gingerbread Cookies: Their spice complements the flavors of the roll while adding a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely.
- Sparkling Cider: This bubbly drink feels celebratory, and its sweetness pairs well with the cake’s enchanting strawberry notes.
- Peppermint Hot Chocolate: The chocolatey richness with a hint of mint brings warmth and sweetness—a cozy addition to the holiday table!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Santa Christmas Roll Cake
Fridge: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it fresh. Cover any exposed areas to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unassembled cake (without filling or frosting) for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: If you prefer serving it warm, gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds. Enjoy the delightful flavors of the Strawberry Santa Christmas Roll Cake as if it were freshly made!
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Santa Christmas Roll Cakes are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the génoise (cake) and strawberry cream filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow all the instructions to make and bake the cake, then allow it to cool before rolling it up with the filling and refrigerating it. To maintain the cake’s quality, ensure it’s tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. On the day of serving, simply make the frosting, spread it over the chilled roll, and decorate with the adorable strawberry Santas. This way, you’ll enjoy a stress-free preparation and have a delightful dessert ready to impress your guests!
Helpful Tricks for Strawberry Santa Cake
- Egg Whisking: Beat the eggs until they triple in volume for a light and airy cake. This is crucial for the perfect texture in your Strawberry Santa Christmas Roll Cake.
- Gentle Folding: When incorporating flour, fold gently to avoid deflating the batter. This will help maintain the fluffy structure that makes this cake special.
- Chill Properly: Refrigerate the rolled cake for 1–2 hours after assembly. Chilling helps it maintain its shape when sliced, ensuring beautiful presentations.
- Ensure Even Baking: Keep an eye on the cake while baking. It should be golden and spring back when touched—this ensures that it’s cooked through and won’t collapse.
- Add Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to use other fruits like raspberries for a twist! This keeps the recipe versatile, allowing everyone to enjoy a tailored Strawberry Santa Christmas Roll Cake.
Strawberry Santa Christmas Roll Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe strawberries for my filling?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are vibrant in color with a sweet aroma. They should be firm yet slightly soft to the touch, ideally free from dark spots and blemishes. If you can, pick berries that are a deep red hue, as this often indicates that they are at peak ripeness.
What’s the best way to store leftover Strawberry Santa Christmas Roll Cake?
To keep your Strawberry Santa Christmas Roll Cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover exposed sections with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. If you want to keep it longer, consider the freezing option!
Can I freeze the Strawberry Santa Christmas Roll Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then secure it with aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, allow the cake to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
What should I do if my cake cracks when rolling?
Not to worry! If your cake cracks, it’s often because it didn’t cool long enough, or it wasn’t rolled gently. Instead, spread a bit more filling over the crack before frosting to hide it. If it happens again, ensure you’re rolling the cake while it’s still warm but not hot, as this will make it more pliable.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make a gluten-free version of the Strawberry Santa Christmas Roll Cake, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients, especially baking powder, are also gluten-free. Your cake will still be deliciously fluffy and festive!
Is this recipe safe for my kids or guests with allergies?
Very! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, and with a gluten-free adaptation, it can accommodate various dietary needs. Just be cautious with any substitutions—like using coconut cream for dairy-free alternatives or ensuring sugar substitutes are safe for anyone with sensitivities. Always check ingredient labels!
Strawberry Santa Christmas Roll Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Whisk together eggs and sugar in a large mixing bowl for 5-7 minutes until pale and fluffy.
- Incorporate vanilla extract and sift in flour and salt. Fold gently to preserve airiness.
- Spread the batter onto a prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the cake onto a powdered sugar-dusted towel, peel off parchment, and roll with the towel to cool.
- Whip heavy cream, mascarpone, and powdered sugar until stiff peaks, then fold in diced strawberries.
- Unroll the cooled cake, spread filling evenly, re-roll and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
- Mix remaining mascarpone with strawberry jam to make frosting.
- Spread frosting over cake and decorate with strawberries and whipped cream.
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