If you're on the hunt for a show-stopping dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet burst of cherries, this Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll recipe is exactly what you need. Whether you're making it for a special occasion or just to indulge your sweet tooth, this delightful dessert promises to impress with every bite. Follow along for the perfect guide on how to create this flawless cherry cheesecake cake roll, with no unsightly cracks or lines in the middle. Keep reading for step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations to master this stunning dessert!

What Is a Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll?

A cherry cheesecake cake roll is a delicious combination of two desserts: a soft and fluffy cake rolled around a rich, creamy cheesecake filling, with bursts of juicy cherries adding flavor and color throughout. This dessert is both visually impressive and incredibly satisfying to eat. What makes this particular recipe unique is its smooth, crack-free texture, with no awkward lines or breaks that can sometimes plague cake rolls. The end result is a beautifully rolled cake, perfectly balanced in flavor, and utterly divine in taste.

Ingredients List for Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll

For the Cake Roll:

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

For the Cheesecake Filling:

8 oz cream cheese (softened)
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream (chilled)

For the Cherry Filling:

1 cup cherry pie filling (or homemade cherry compote)
½ teaspoon almond extract (optional for added depth)

For Decoration:

Powdered sugar or whipped cream
Fresh cherries or maraschino cherries
Chocolate shavings (optional)

Ingredients List for Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll

Let’s go over the key components of this Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll. These ingredients are carefully selected to ensure the perfect flavor, texture, and appearance of your dessert. From a light sponge cake to a luscious cheesecake filling and cherry surprises in every bite, here's everything you need:

Cake Roll:

Eggs: The separated egg yolks and whites contribute to the cake's light, airy texture, which is crucial for rolling without cracks.
Granulated Sugar: Helps sweeten the cake and stabilizes the egg whites.
Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and flavor to the sponge.
All-Purpose Flour: Gives the cake structure while keeping it light.
Cocoa Powder (Optional): For those who love a chocolatey twist, adding cocoa to the batter is an optional variation.
Baking Powder: Ensures the cake rises just enough to keep it fluffy.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Powdered Sugar (for Dusting): Prevents the cake from sticking when you roll it and adds a sweet touch to the outer layer.

Cheesecake Filling:

Cream Cheese: The star of the filling, creating the rich, smooth cheesecake flavor.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the filling without adding graininess.
Vanilla Extract: Elevates the creamy cheesecake flavor.
Heavy Whipping Cream: Adds lightness and fluffiness to the filling, ensuring it’s smooth and easy to spread.

Cherry Filling:

Cherry Pie Filling or Compote: Adds bursts of juicy sweetness and color. Store-bought or homemade, cherries make this roll pop.
Almond Extract (Optional): A tiny hint of almond complements the cherries beautifully.

Decoration:

Powdered Sugar or Whipped Cream: For that final dusting or dollop on top.
Fresh or Maraschino Cherries: A fresh touch to garnish your dessert.
Chocolate Shavings: An optional, but highly recommended, addition for extra indulgence.

Substitutions and Variations

Want to get creative with your Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll? Here are a few ideas to tweak the recipe to your liking:

Fruit Filling: Not a fan of cherries? Substitute the cherry filling with strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or a mixed berry compote. The cake roll also pairs beautifully with lemon curd or a smooth caramel sauce for a different flavor profile.
Chocolate Cake Roll: Add ¼ cup of cocoa powder to the cake batter for a chocolate version that contrasts deliciously with the cheesecake filling.
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend to make the cake roll gluten-free without sacrificing texture.
Dairy-Free Alternative: Use a dairy-free cream cheese and whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free version of the cheesecake filling.
Almond Cake Variation: Add almond extract to the cake batter for a nutty twist, which pairs beautifully with the cherries.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preparing the Cake Roll

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a jelly roll pan (10x15 inches) with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
In two separate bowls, separate the egg whites and yolks.
Beat the egg yolks with half of the sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is pale and thick.
In another bowl, whip the egg whites with the remaining sugar until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture, being careful not to deflate the batter.
Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt (and cocoa powder if using) over the mixture, and fold everything together until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched.
Immediately turn the cake onto a clean, powdered-sugar-dusted kitchen towel. Peel off the parchment and roll the cake up in the towel to cool completely.

2. Preparing the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.

3. Assembling the Cake Roll

Once the cake has cooled, carefully unroll it.
Spread a generous layer of the cheesecake filling over the entire surface of the cake.
Spoon the cherry filling evenly over the cheesecake layer.
Gently re-roll the cake without the towel, being careful not to apply too much pressure.
Place the roll seam-side down and refrigerate for at least an hour to set.

How to Cook Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll: A Step-by-Step Guide

Preparing the Cake:

Ensure your eggs are at room temperature before starting, as this will help them whip up better.
When folding the ingredients together, be gentle. Overmixing will deflate the batter and result in a denser cake.
Rolling the cake in a towel while it’s still warm prevents cracking. The towel helps form the roll shape and cools the cake without drying it out.

Making the Filling:

Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before beating to avoid lumps.
For the whipped cream, ensure both the bowl and the beaters are cold. This helps the cream whip faster and hold its shape.

Assembly:

Be careful when unrolling the cake to avoid tearing it. If it cracks slightly, don’t worry! You can patch up small cracks with the filling.
Spread the filling evenly and make sure to roll the cake gently to avoid squishing the layers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overbaking the Cake: Overbaking will make the cake dry and prone to cracking when rolled.
Not Cooling the Cake Properly: Always roll the cake in a towel right out of the oven. Waiting too long will cause it to crack.
Filling Too Much: Be mindful of the amount of filling. Too much will make the roll hard to manage and may ooze out when you roll it.
Not Refrigerating the Cake: Let the cake set in the refrigerator for at least an hour to ensure clean slices and a firm texture.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll:

Slice the roll with a sharp, serrated knife to avoid squishing the layers.
Serve each slice with a drizzle of chocolate syrup, extra cherries, or a dollop of whipped cream for added flair.

Presentation Ideas for Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll:

Dust the top with powdered sugar for a snowy, elegant finish.
Place fresh cherries and chocolate shavings along the top for a gourmet touch.
Serve each slice on a plate garnished with a cherry and a sprig of mint for a pop of color.

Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe Tips

Make this dessert a day ahead of time; it will taste even better after setting in the fridge overnight.
For an extra indulgent touch, you can add a layer of chocolate ganache over the top before serving.
If you want sharper slices, freeze the cake for 15-20 minutes before slicing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make the cake roll in advance?

Yes! This cake roll can be made up to two days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.

What if my cake cracks?

If your cake cracks slightly, don’t panic! The filling can help mask any minor imperfections.

Can I freeze the cake roll?

Yes, you can freeze the cake roll! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store it for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?

Absolutely! You can make a quick cherry compote with fresh or frozen cherries, sugar, and a bit of cornstarch to thicken.

Conclusion

This Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll is a dessert that offers both beauty and taste in every bite. With its smooth, crack-free texture and luscious cheesecake and cherry filling, it’s sure to become a favorite at any gathering. Whether you're a seasoned baker or new to the art of cake rolls, following this guide will ensure success. Happy baking!