If you're looking for the ultimate dessert to impress your family and friends, then this Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll is the perfect choice. With its soft, spongy cake, creamy cheesecake filling, and luscious cherry topping, this dessert is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. Stick around for the entire article to learn all the tips, tricks, and variations to make this mouthwatering dessert. Let's dive right into it!

What is a Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll?

A Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll combines two classic desserts: a light and airy cake roll and a rich, creamy cheesecake filling. The roll is typically made with a sponge cake that's baked flat, spread with a cheesecake mixture, and then rolled up. Topped with cherry pie filling or fresh cherries, this dessert offers the perfect balance between tart fruit and sweet, creamy goodness.

Ingredients List for Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll

For the Cake Roll:

4 large eggs (room temperature)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¾ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (optional for chocolate variation)
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ cup milk (room temperature)
Powdered sugar (for dusting the towel)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)

For the Cherry Topping:

1 can cherry pie filling (or 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for fresh cherries)

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best parts about this Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll recipe is how customizable it can be! Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
Dairy-Free: Replace the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream for the filling.
Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Make the cake a chocolate sponge by adding cocoa powder to the batter, which pairs wonderfully with cherries.
Berry Variation: Swap out the cherry pie filling for strawberry, blueberry, or raspberry pie filling to create a new flavor profile.
Lemon Cheesecake Roll: Add lemon zest to the cheesecake filling for a refreshing citrus twist.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients and chosen any substitutions or variations, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start baking. Follow these step-by-step instructions carefully for the best results.

How to Make the Cake Roll:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper. Lightly grease the parchment for easy cake removal.
Beat the Eggs and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with an electric mixer on high speed for about 5 minutes, or until the eggs become pale and thick. Gradually add the sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until well combined.
Sift the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder if you're making the chocolate version. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, alternating with the milk until fully incorporated.
Bake the Cake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared jelly roll pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake is springy to the touch and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Towel: While the cake is baking, lay a clean kitchen towel on a flat surface and dust it generously with powdered sugar. This will prevent the cake from sticking when you roll it.
Roll the Cake: As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, immediately invert it onto the prepared towel. Carefully peel off the parchment paper. Starting from one of the short ends, roll the cake up with the towel inside and allow it to cool completely.

How to Make the Cheesecake Filling:

Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Slowly add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until fully combined.
Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and fluffy.

How to Assemble the Cake Roll:

Unroll the Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, carefully unroll it from the towel. Spread an even layer of the cheesecake filling over the surface of the cake.
Re-Roll the Cake: Gently roll the cake back up, this time without the towel. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
Add the Cherry Topping: Before serving, spread the cherry pie filling or fresh cherries over the top of the cake roll. If using fresh cherries, toss them with lemon juice for extra brightness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overbaking the Cake: Overbaking will make the cake dry and difficult to roll without cracking. Be sure to check the cake at the 10-minute mark.
Skipping the Powdered Sugar on the Towel: This step is essential! The powdered sugar prevents the cake from sticking to the towel when you roll it.
Filling the Cake While It's Warm: Always let the cake cool completely before adding the cheesecake filling, or it will melt and become runny.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serving and presenting your Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll can elevate it from a simple dessert to an elegant centerpiece. Here's how to do it right.

How to Serve Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll

Slicing Tip: Use a serrated knife to slice the cake roll for clean, even pieces. Wipe the knife between cuts for the neatest presentation.
Accompaniments: Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the richness of the cheesecake filling.

Presentation Ideas for Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll

Fresh Mint Garnish: Add a few fresh mint leaves on top of the cherry filling for a pop of color and a touch of freshness.
Powdered Sugar Dusting: Lightly dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant finish.
Chocolate Drizzle: For extra decadence, drizzle melted chocolate over the top before adding the cherry filling.

Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe Tips

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs, cream cheese, and milk are at room temperature for the best texture and mixing.
Chill Time: Don't skip the refrigeration step after rolling the cake. This helps the cheesecake filling firm up and makes slicing easier.
Storing: This cake roll can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, wait to add the cherry topping until just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make the cake roll ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the cake roll up to 1 day ahead of time. Simply prepare and assemble the roll, but wait to add the cherry topping until just before serving.

Q: What can I use if I don't have a jelly roll pan?
A: A rimmed baking sheet that’s close in size (like a 9x13 pan) will work. The cake may be a bit thicker, so adjust baking time accordingly.

Q: Can I freeze the cake roll?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cake roll (without the cherry topping) for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight before adding the topping.

Q: My cake cracked when I rolled it—what went wrong?
A: The cake may have been too cool when you rolled it, or it may have been overbaked. Be sure to roll the cake while it's still warm, and don’t overbake.

Conclusion

The Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll is a show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. With its rich, creamy filling and sweet cherry topping, it's the perfect treat for special occasions or whenever you’re craving something indulgent. Whether you're an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is a must-try. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to wow your guests with this irresistible dessert!