Delicious Gingerbread Roll Recipe: A Festive Holiday Favorite

A Festive Tradition: The Gingerbread Roll

The Gingerbread Roll is the perfect holiday dessert for any gathering. With its warm, spiced flavor and creamy filling, it brings the cozy spirit of the season to your table. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this dessert is guaranteed to impress.

Why Gingerbread Rolls Are Perfect for the Holidays

Not only does a Gingerbread Roll look festive, but its flavors also capture the essence of Christmas. The combination of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses gives the cake a rich depth, while the cream cheese frosting adds a smooth, tangy balance. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, saving you time during the busy holiday season.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Roll

To make sure your Gingerbread Roll turns out perfectly, start by baking the cake just until it’s done—overbaking can lead to cracks. Additionally, while the cake is still warm, roll it in a towel dusted with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. For more tips on achieving a flawless roll, check out this guide to making the perfect gingerbread cake roll.

Adding a Personal Touch to Your Gingerbread Roll

Decorating your Gingerbread Roll is a fun way to add a personal touch. Dust it with powdered sugar or drizzle it with holiday-themed frosting for an extra festive look. If you’re looking to perfect your frosting technique, this cream cheese frosting guide has everything you need.

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Basic Gingerbread Roll Recipe

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STEPS

Step 1

Preheat oven to 375°F and spray a 10 x 15-inch jelly roll pan with nonstick spray; line pan with parchment paper and spray parchment paper with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Make cake

Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt in a large bowl. Whisk together molasses, eggs, sugars, and vanilla in a medium bowl for 1 minute until fully incorporated and smooth. Add molasses mixture to flour mixture and fold in with a spatula just until no flour streaks remain.

Step 3

Spread the batter evenly into prepared pan and tap pan sharply to reduce air bubbles.

Step 4: Bake cake

for 14 to 15 minutes, until the cake springs back to the touch. While the cake bakes, place a piece of parchment paper flat on the kitchen counter and dust with 1/2 cup powdered sugar.

Step 5

Remove cake from the oven and immediately turn out onto prepared parchment. Slowly and carefully peel off the parchment paper from the back of the cake. Dust the cake with remaining 1/4 cup powdered sugar. Starting from the narrow end, carefully and gently roll up the cake with the parchment paper. Transfer rolled up cake to a wire rack and place seam side down; let cool completely.

Step 6: Brown butter

Cook 2 tablespoons (28 g) cubed butter in a heavy saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until it foams, turns clear, and then turns a deep brown. Pour brown butter into a mixer bowl and let cool to room temperature (about 15 minutes).

Step 7: Make frosting

Add remaining 4 tablespoons (56 g) butter and cream cheese to the mixer bowl (with the cooled brown butter) and beat until combined. Mix in vanilla and salt. Beat in powdered sugar on low speed until incorporated, then on medium speed until soft and creamy.

Step 8: Assemble cake

Gently unroll the cooled cake, and use an offset spatula to spread frosting over the cake. Carefully re-roll the cake, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing and serving (trim any uneven edges before cutting into slices).

Step 9

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 2 days.

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Advanced Techniques for the Perfect Gingerbread Roll

Mastering the Gingerbread Roll Technique

Achieving the perfect gingerbread roll requires a few key techniques. First, make sure to roll the cake while it’s still warm, as this prevents cracks from forming. A smooth and even roll depends on the cake’s flexibility, so be gentle but firm when rolling. Using a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar is essential for avoiding any sticking.

Perfecting the Frosting Spread

When it comes to the cream cheese frosting, ensure it’s spread evenly across the cooled cake. A thin layer works best to avoid too much filling spilling out during the roll. It’s also crucial to let the frosting soften to room temperature before spreading; this prevents tearing the delicate cake. If you’re looking for a creamier frosting texture, whip the butter and cream cheese longer to achieve a smoother consistency.

Rolling and Cooling the Cake

Once the frosting is applied, carefully re-roll the gingerbread roll using the same technique as the initial roll. Be sure to roll tightly but not too firmly—this helps maintain the perfect spiral shape. After rolling, wrap the cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow it to set. This step ensures that your gingerbread roll holds its shape when sliced, creating those signature swirls of spiced cake and creamy frosting.

Decoration Tips

For an extra festive touch, consider dusting the finished roll with powdered sugar or topping it with holiday-themed decorations. Sliced gingerbread cookies or candied ginger pieces add both flavor and visual appeal.

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Maintenance Tips for Your Gingerbread Roll

Storing Your Gingerbread Roll

Proper storage is key to keeping your gingerbread roll fresh and delicious. After assembling the roll, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. Store the roll in the refrigerator for up to three days to maintain its soft, moist texture. If you plan to enjoy it later, simply slice off a piece and allow it to come to room temperature before serving. This ensures that the cream cheese frosting is smooth and the cake stays tender.

Freezing for Longer Shelf Life

If you want to prepare your gingerbread roll in advance, freezing is a great option. To freeze the roll, first wrap it in plastic, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. Place the wrapped roll in an airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to one month. When ready to serve, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight, and then bring it to room temperature before slicing. This method keeps both the cake and frosting in perfect condition.

Reheating the Gingerbread Roll

Although it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, reheating the gingerbread roll slightly can bring back some of its softness. To warm up a slice, microwave it for 10-15 seconds or let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Just be careful not to overheat the cream cheese frosting, as it can melt and lose its smooth consistency.

With these maintenance tips, your gingerbread roll will stay fresh, delicious, and ready to serve whenever you need it!

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Dietary Adaptations for Gingerbread Roll

Gluten-Free Gingerbread Roll

To make a gingerbread roll gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the flour contains a mix of xanthan gum, which helps maintain the cake’s structure. Gluten-free flour can be slightly drier, so you may need to add a tablespoon of milk or water to maintain the batter’s moisture. This adaptation ensures that everyone can enjoy this holiday favorite without sacrificing texture or flavor.

Dairy-Free Option

For those with dairy sensitivities, creating a dairy-free gingerbread roll is simple. Replace the butter in both the cake and frosting with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or a vegan butter spread. Instead of cream cheese, use a plant-based cream cheese substitute. Choose one with a smooth, creamy texture to maintain the richness of the frosting. These substitutions will keep your dessert just as indulgent without the dairy.

Low-Sugar Variation

To make a lower-sugar version of the gingerbread roll, reduce the amount of granulated and brown sugar by half. You can also replace the sugars with natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit, keeping the cake’s sweetness intact without the added calories. In the frosting, opt for a powdered sugar substitute to maintain the consistency without compromising on taste. This version is perfect for those watching their sugar intake but still craving a festive treat.

With these dietary adaptations, the gingerbread roll can easily be enjoyed by people with different dietary needs, without losing its signature flavor.

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Common FAQs About Gingerbread Roll

Why did my Gingerbread Roll crack?

Cracking is a common issue when making a gingerbread roll. It typically happens if the cake has cooled too much before rolling. To avoid this, roll the cake while it’s still warm, using a towel dusted with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Another reason for cracking could be overbaking, so keep a close eye on the cake during its bake time to ensure it stays soft and flexible.

Can I make the Gingerbread Roll ahead of time?

Yes! The gingerbread roll can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. For even longer storage, you can freeze it for up to a month. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

How can I make the filling less sweet?

If you find the cream cheese frosting too sweet, you can reduce the amount of powdered sugar by half. Adding a pinch of salt or lemon juice can also balance the sweetness. This tweak allows the gingerbread roll to maintain its rich flavor without being overly sugary.

These FAQs address some of the most common concerns, ensuring that your gingerbread roll turns out perfect every time!

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Final Tips for a Perfect Gingerbread Roll

Mastering the Rolling Technique

One of the key factors for achieving the perfect gingerbread roll is mastering the rolling technique. Roll the cake while it’s still slightly warm, using a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. This helps prevent sticking and cracking. If you wait until the cake cools completely, it becomes less pliable and more prone to breaking.

Perfecting the Cream Cheese Frosting

For a smooth, creamy filling, always use softened cream cheese and butter. Beat them together until light and fluffy before gradually adding the powdered sugar. Make sure to sift the sugar to avoid lumps in the frosting. A well-made frosting not only tastes delicious but also spreads easily over the gingerbread roll without tearing the cake.

Presentation Matters

For the best presentation, trim the ends of the roll for a clean, polished look before serving. Dust the gingerbread roll with powdered sugar or add decorative piping using extra cream cheese frosting for a festive touch. You can also garnish with small holiday-themed decorations like sugared cranberries or edible gold stars to elevate its appearance.

By following these final tips, your gingerbread roll will look as amazing as it tastes, becoming the centerpiece of any holiday dessert table.