If you are looking for a show-stopping dessert that combines the creamy indulgence of cheesecake with the bright, fruity pop of cherries wrapped in a light, fluffy cake, then you have found your new favorite. This Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe is a delightful twist on classic desserts that offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors inside a beautiful swirl. Each bite feels like a celebration, showcasing the luscious cream cheese filling and vibrant cherry pie filling nestled within a tender cake roll that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe is simple yet essential, coming together to create layers of texture and flavor that elevate this dessert beyond ordinary. From the eggs that give lift to the cake, to the rich cream cheese filling and luscious cherries that add bursts of flavor and color, each component plays a vital role.

Eggs (4): Provide structure and lightness to the cake batter through vigorous beating.
Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens the cake while helping to create a tender texture.
Water (1/4 cup): Adds moisture, ensuring the cake stays soft and fresh.
Vanilla extract (2 tsp total): Enhances the overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes split between the cake and filling.
All-purpose flour (1 cup): The foundation providing structure and crumb to the cake roll.
Baking powder (1 tsp): Gives the cake a gentle rise, keeping it airy and light.
Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances sweetness and deepens flavors.
Powdered sugar (for dusting and filling, 1/2 cup + some extra): Adds refined sweetness and helps dust the towel to prevent sticking during rolling.
Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The heart of the cheesecake flavor, providing rich and creamy texture.
Cherry pie filling (1 cup): Delivers juicy bursts of cherry flavor that complement the smooth cream cheese filling perfectly.

How to Make Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start your adventure by preheating the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a 15x10x1 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This lining is key to ensuring your delicate cake doesn’t stick and will be easy to roll later.

Step 2: Create the Airy Cake Base

Beat the eggs on high speed for a full 5 minutes—this is the secret to giving your cake that wonderful fluffy texture. Gradually add in the granulated sugar to help stabilize those beaten eggs. Stir in water and vanilla extract to add moisture and warmth.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to distribute everything evenly. This dry mix will be folded gently into the egg mixture, so the batter stays light and doesn’t deflate.

Step 4: Bake Your Cake

Spread the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it out to an even thickness. Bake for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cake springs back lightly to the touch. This ensures your cake is perfectly baked without drying out.

Step 5: Roll the Cake While Warm

Once baked, carefully turn the cake out onto a kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar, then peel off the parchment paper. Immediately roll the cake up inside the towel, starting with the short side, and let it cool completely. This step trains the cake to roll easily once filled without cracking.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

While your cake is cooling, blend the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is perfectly smooth and creamy. This filling will add that rich, indulgent cheesecake flavor.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake Roll

Gently unroll the cooled cake and spread the cream cheese filling evenly across the surface, leaving about half an inch border at the edges. Then spoon the cherry pie filling on top of the cream cheese layer, making sure it’s spread evenly and tempting.

Step 8: Roll and Chill

Carefully roll the cake back up, trimming the ends if desired for a neat presentation. Wrap it tightly, refrigerate until it’s nicely set and chilled, and your Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll is ready to wow!

How to Serve Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar on top for a delicate finish. Fresh cherries or a mint sprig can also add a pop of color and freshness, making the presentation as inviting as the taste.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra decadence. A fresh berry salad on the side can add a juicy contrast that complements the creamy and fruity layers perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the cake roll into thick spirals for an elegant serving idea. You can also serve smaller bites as part of a dessert platter alongside other treats, or transform slices into mini trifles layered with whipped cream and more cherries for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe keeps beautifully refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making every bite deliciously rich.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake roll wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to one month. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer, allow it to come to room temperature before slicing. Avoid microwaving as the cake and filling are delicate and might separate or become greasy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?

While fresh cherries are delicious, the cherry pie filling provides a perfect sweet and syrupy consistency that helps hold the roll together and adds vibrant flavor. You can use fresh cherries, but consider cooking them with sugar until syrupy for best results.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder to maintain the cake’s structure and softness.

Is it necessary to roll the cake while it is warm?

Rolling the cake warm is crucial to prevent cracking later. It sets the cake’s shape early and makes it flexible. If it cools unrolled, it might crack when you try to shape it.

Can I prepare this dessert a day ahead?

Definitely. In fact, refrigerating the cake roll overnight helps the flavors meld and sets the filling perfectly for cleaner slices when serving.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in the filling?

You could try mascarpone or a mixture of ricotta and cream for a different but still creamy texture. However, cream cheese delivers that signature tangy cheesecake flavor that’s hard to replace.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe, it will become a cherished addition to your dessert repertoire. Its balance of fluffy cake, creamy cheesecake, and bright cherry bursts creates a dessert that’s as joyful to make as it is to share. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself and those you love to this unforgettable cake roll creation!