Creamy Banana Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting

Are you ready to elevate your baking game with a show-stopping dessert that’s both impressive and irresistibly delicious? Look no further than this delightful Banana Cake Roll Cream Cheese recipe! Picture a soft, pillowy banana sponge generously filled with a luscious cream cheese filling, then elegantly rolled up and finished with a tangy icing drizzle and a delightful sprinkle of spiced fruit and nuts. It’s a treat that strikes the perfect balance between festive indulgence and everyday comfort.

I first whipped up this Banana Cake Roll Cream Cheese for my cousins, and let me tell you, it vanished in a flash! Since then, it has become a beloved go-to for all occasions, from cozy brunches to celebratory birthdays. The addition of candied ginger creates a cozy warmth in every bite, making this dessert truly special. Whether you’re rolling up this beauty for a special gathering or a casual family treat, the joy it brings is simply unmatched.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a masterpiece that will have your guests begging for seconds. This Banana Cake Roll Cream Cheese not only impresses with its flavors but also with its ease of preparation. Let’s dive into the world of cake rolling and savor each slice of this delightful creation together!

Quick Benefits

• Impressively festive and delicious dessert perfect for holidays and special occasions
• Easy to make and a hit with guests, great for cozy brunches and celebrations
• Versatile recipe with options for nut allergies and ingredient substitutions
• Can be made ahead of time and stored well for convenience and easy serving

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Banana Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

• Impress without stress: Perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
• Festive and familiar: Suitable for holidays and everyday cravings alike.
• Pillowy banana sponge: Soft, moist cake swirled with sweet cream cheese.
• Tangy icing with spiced fruit and nuts: Adds a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
• Easy to store and freeze: Make ahead and enjoy for days to come.
• Customizable ingredients: Swap nuts, fruit, or spices to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for gatherings: A crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
• Bridging old world technique with festive flavors: A blend of tradition and innovation.
• Keeps well in the refrigerator: Enjoy fresh slices for up to four days.
• Simple rolling technique: Easy steps to create an impressive cake roll.

Ingredients for Creamy Banana Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream Cheese Filling

• 3 tablespoons whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 7 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 large egg

Cake Batter

• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/3 cup pecans, chopped
• 2/3 cup mashed banana (1 large or 2 small bananas)
• 1/4 cup candied ginger, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 4 large eggs, separated
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Glaze

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ounce cream cheese, softened
• 2 to 3 teaspoons whole milk
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar

Pro Tips for Creamy Banana Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting

To achieve a soft and airy cake base, ensure that you whisk the egg whites to stiff peaks and gently fold them into the batter. This technique will help create a light and fluffy texture for your banana cake roll.

When rolling the warm cake in a towel, make sure to do it carefully to prevent cracking and help shape the cake for easy filling and rolling later. This step is crucial in achieving a beautifully rolled cake without any mishaps.

For longer storage, slice the cake roll into individual pieces and freeze them on parchment paper. Once frozen, transfer the slices to a freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy a delicious slice of banana cake whenever you crave it, even after a couple of months.

How to Make Creamy Banana Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Baking Pan and Oven

Prepare a 15 x 10 x 1 inch jelly roll pan by greasing it and lining it with parchment paper. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

Step 2: Make Cream Cheese Filling

In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add egg, whole milk, and beat until fully combined. Spread the filling evenly in the prepared pan.

Step 3: Chop Nuts and Fruits

Chop pecans, candied ginger, and dried cranberries coarsely together. Set aside 1/3 cup for the batter and reserve the rest for topping.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon baking soda. Set aside.

Step 5: Prepare Egg Yolks Mixture

In a large bowl, beat 4 egg yolks and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract on medium speed for approximately 5 minutes until thick and lemon-colored. Gradually incorporate 1/3 cup granulated sugar, then stir in mashed banana and 1/3 cup of chopped pecan, cranberry, and ginger mixture.

Step 6: Whip Egg Whites

In a separate clean bowl, beat 4 egg whites until soft peaks form at medium-high speed. Gradually add 1/3 cup granulated sugar, beating on high until stiff peaks form.

Step 7: Assemble Cake Batter

Carefully fold the egg yolk mixture into the beaten egg whites. Gradually fold in half of the flour mixture, followed by the remaining flour mixture, folding until just combined without overmixing.

Step 8: Layer and Bake

Evenly spread the cake batter over the cream cheese filling in the pan. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the cake is set and lightly golden.

Step 9: Prepare Rolling Towel

Once the cake is in the oven, prepare a clean kitchen towel by dusting it generously with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.

Step 10: Invert and Roll Cake

Allow the baked cake to cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, release the edges with a knife, flip the cake onto a powdered sugar-dusted towel, and remove the parchment paper. Roll the cake with the towel into a log starting at the short end. Place seam-side down and let it cool for 10 minutes to set the shape.

Step 11: Cool on Serving Platter

Place the rolled cake on a serving platter and allow it to cool entirely before adding the glaze.

Step 12: Prepare Glaze

Combine 1 ounce softened cream cheese with 3/4 cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 2 to 3 teaspoons milk in a small bowl until smooth and drizzle consistency.

Step 13: Finish with Glaze and Topping

Evenly spread the glaze over the cooled cake roll, then sprinkle with the reserved chopped pecans, cranberries, and candied ginger.

Storage Tips

After making the banana cake roll, store any leftovers by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate the cake roll to keep it fresh for up to four days. If you prefer a softer texture, let the cake roll come to room temperature before serving. For longer storage, slice the roll into individual pieces, freeze them on parchment paper, and then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to two months. Thaw the frozen cake roll overnight in the fridge before serving, and glaze it fresh on the day of serving for the best taste.

The banana cake roll is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed for various occasions. You can customize the recipe by swapping pecans with toasted walnuts or sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries with dried cherries or golden raisins. If you don’t have candied ginger, a pinch of ground ginger can be used for flavor enhancement. Serve thick slices of the cake roll with hot coffee or breakfast tea, and consider adding extra banana slices or berries for a colorful presentation. To elevate the dessert during holidays, top it with cinnamon whipped cream for a festive touch.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you have allergies or prefer a different flavor, you can easily substitute the pecans with toasted walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds in the cake roll. For a fruity twist, dried cherries or golden raisins can replace the cranberries, and a pinch of ground ginger can be used instead of candied ginger for a similar flavor boost.

To enhance or customize the cake roll according to the season, consider using chopped toasted hazelnuts for a winter variation, lemon zest for a refreshing spring touch, or dried figs or cherries for an autumnal flavor profile. These substitutions can elevate the cake’s taste while keeping it versatile and adaptable to different occasions throughout the year.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try slicing the banana cake roll into bite-sized pinwheels for a delightful party appetizer or a sweet addition to a brunch spread. Arrange the colorful pinwheels on a platter and garnish with a dollop of cinnamon whipped cream and a sprinkle of fresh berries to create a visually appealing and delicious treat that will impress your guests.

Another fun idea is to transform the banana cake roll into a decadent trifle dessert. Cut the cake into cubes and layer them in a trifle dish with layers of vanilla pudding, whipped cream, and a drizzle of caramel sauce. Top it off with a generous sprinkle of chopped pecans, dried cranberries, and candied ginger for added texture and flavor. This dessert is perfect for special occasions or as a show-stopping finale to a dinner party.

FAQs for Creamy Banana Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting

Can I make this banana cake roll ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the roll the day before serving. Simply glaze and garnish it just before presenting for the best results.

What can I substitute for candied ginger in this recipe?

If you prefer to skip the candied ginger, you can add a pinch of ground ginger for a similar flavor boost. Alternatively, you may use other dried fruits like cherries or golden raisins.

How should I store leftovers of this banana cake roll?

To keep the cake roll fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to four days. For longer storage, slice it and freeze individual pieces on parchment paper, then transfer them to a freezer bag.

What is the purpose of rolling the warm cake in a towel?

Rolling the warm cake in a towel helps prevent cracking, shapes the cake for easy filling and rolling later, and ensures a smooth and neat presentation of the final cake roll.

Conclusion

Banana Cake Roll Cream Cheese is a delightful treat that never fails to impress and satisfy, whether for special occasions or cozy gatherings. The combination of fluffy banana sponge and sweet cream cheese filling, topped with tangy icing and spiced fruit and nuts, creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will leave everyone reaching for seconds.

Don’t be intimidated by the idea of making a cake roll – this recipe is here to guide you through the process step by step. The joy of baking and sharing this delicious dessert is truly rewarding, and the memories created in the kitchen are just as sweet as the cake itself. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create a masterpiece with this Banana Cake Roll Cream Cheese recipe. Happy baking!