The moment I rolled out my Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll from the oven, the heavenly aroma enveloped my kitchen, evoking cozy memories of family gatherings and sweet treats shared with loved ones. This recipe is a delightful escape that combines velvety chocolate cake with a luscious caramel buttercream filling, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Not only is the Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll easy to make, but it also offers an impressive presentation that will have your guests reaching for seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just stepping into the world of desserts, this recipe promises satisfaction with every slice, leaving you wondering how something so indulgent can be so simple to create. Are you ready to transform your next gathering into a celebration of flavors? Why Is This Cake Roll So Irresistible? Decadent flavors: The luscious combination of chocolate cake and caramel buttercream creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing. Visual delight: With its elegant swirl and glossy ganache, this Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll is an eye-catching centerpiece for any gathering. Easy preparation: No advanced skills required! This recipe is straightforward and fun, making it perfect for both newbies and seasoned bakers alike. Flexible variations: Customize to your liking! From a salted caramel twist to a mocha flavor, there’s a fun flavor combo for everyone. Crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves the rich taste and delightful textures, ensuring seconds and compliments all around! This dessert pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or espresso, just like our Caramel Chocolate Crunch for a perfect end to any meal. Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll Ingredients For the Cake Roll Eggs – Provides structure and moisture; using large eggs gives the best results. Chocolate Cake Mix – Base of the cake; simplifies preparation—Devil’s Food is highly recommended. Water – Hydrates the cake mix; make sure it’s at room temperature for smooth mixing. Vegetable Oil – Adds moisture and richness; substitute with melted butter for a richer flavor. Powdered Sugar – Used for dusting the cake; prevents sticking when rolling. For the Buttercream Filling Unsalted Butter – Creates a creamy buttercream filling; always soften for easy mixing. Caramel Sauce – Enhances the buttercream flavor; opt for high-quality caramel for the best taste. Vanilla Extract – Deepens the buttercream flavor; optional, but highly recommended for an aromatic touch. For the Ganache Topping Heavy Whipping Cream – Used to create the ganache; ensure it’s fresh for creamy richness. Chocolate Chips – Forms the ganache; semi-sweet or dark chocolate works best for a delightful contrast. For the Topping Chopped Toasted Pecans – Adds a crunchy finish; omit for a nut-free version or substitute with crushed pretzels. Dive into this Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll that’s not only easy to whip up but also irresistibly scrumptious! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, take a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper, ensuring the paper hangs over the edges for easy removal. Grease the parchment lightly with cooking spray or butter, which will help the delicate Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll release smoothly later. Step 2: Mix the Batter In a mixing bowl, beat together 3 large eggs until they are foamy and pale yellow, about 2 minutes. Add in the chocolate cake mix, 1 cup of water at room temperature, and 1/4 cup of vegetable oil, mixing until the batter is smooth and well combined. This luscious batter will create the perfect foundation for your cake roll. Step 3: Bake the Cake Pour the batter into your prepared jelly roll pan, gently spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The cake is done when it springs back softly to the touch and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep a close eye during the last few minutes to avoid overbaking! Step 4: Roll the Cake Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar, ensuring an even layer. Carefully invert the pan to turn the cake onto the towel, peel away the parchment, and roll it up tightly with the towel. Allow the Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll to cool completely in this rolled-up shape to prevent cracking. Step 5: Make the Buttercream Filling While the cake cools, prepare the caramel buttercream. In a large mixing bowl, beat 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter until it becomes fluffy and pale, about 3-4 minutes. Gradually incorporate 1 cup of powdered sugar and mix until smooth, then add 1/2 cup of caramel sauce and optional vanilla extract. Beat until the filling is creamy and well combined. Step 6: Spread and Roll Carefully unroll the cooled cake from the towel, ensuring it retains its shape. Spread an even layer of the caramel buttercream filling over the entire surface of the cake, leaving a small border around the edges. Slowly re-roll the cake starting from one end, using the parchment paper to help guide the roll without squishing it. Step 7: Prepare the Ganache To make the ganache, heat 1/2 cup of heavy whipping cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove it from the heat and pour it over 1 cup of chocolate chips in a bowl. Stir gently until the chocolate melts completely and the mixture is smooth and glossy, creating a luxurious topping for your cake. Step 8: Decorate and Chill Place the rolled Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll seam-side down on a serving platter. Pour the warm ganache over the top, ensuring it drizzles down the sides. If desired, sprinkle with chopped toasted pecans for added crunch. Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes to set the ganache before slicing and serving. What to Serve with Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll Imagine rounding off your meal with a tantalizing dessert that’s not only sweet but also a feast for the eyes—each slice beckoning with rich, indulgent flavors. Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a burst of tartness, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the cake roll. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream is a classic complement, enhancing every bite of the rich chocolate and caramel layers. Espresso or Coffee: A robust cup of fresh coffee or espresso elevates the chocolate flavors, making each taste even more satisfying. Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: An extra layer of chocolate sauce creates a luxurious experience and amplifies the dessert’s indulgence. Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream offers a soft texture contrast while providing a delightful creaminess with each bite. Candied Nuts: Adding a sprinkle of candied pecans delivers a sweet crunch that ties in beautifully with the rich ganache topping. Mint Leaves Garnish: Bright, fresh mint leaves on the side not only brighten the plate but also add a refreshing note alongside the dessert’s richness. Caramel Drizzle: A touch of extra caramel sauce on top or drizzled on the plate enhances the dessert’s signature flavor profile. Embrace creativity with these pairings, and let your dessert shine both on the table and in the hearts of your guests! Make Ahead Options These Chocolate Caramel Cake Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cake itself up to 24 hours in advance, allowing it to cool completely before rolling it up in a clean kitchen towel. For the buttercream filling, you can mix it up to 3 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its creamy texture. When ready to serve, simply allow the buttercream to soften at room temperature, then spread it on the unrolled cake and roll it up. Top with the ganache right before serving to ensure it remains glossy and fresh. With these tips, you’ll save time and enjoy a stunning dessert without the last-minute rush! Expert Tips for Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll Beat Eggs Well: Ensure your eggs are whipped until pale and frothy to create a light, airy texture in the Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll. Roll While Warm: Rolling the cake while it’s still warm prevents cracks and ensures a smooth, perfect swirl. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Generously dust your kitchen towel with powdered sugar to prevent the cake from sticking when you roll it up. Cool Gradually: Allow the cake to cool in its rolled shape to maintain the form; this helps you avoid breakage during unrolling. Be Mindful of Ganache Temperature: Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring it over the cake to avoid melting the buttercream filling beneath. Slice with a Sharp Knife: Use a sharp knife to cut neat slices of the Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll for a professional presentation. Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll Variations Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own! Each variation adds a delightful twist that’s sure to impress your loved ones. Salted Caramel Twist: Swap regular caramel sauce for salted caramel and sprinkle with flaky sea salt to enhance flavors. A perfect balance of sweet and savory! Nut-Free Option: For a nut allergy-friendly version, omit the pecans and replace them with crushed pretzels or chocolate curls. Enjoy the crunch without the worry. Mocha Flavor: Mix in a tablespoon of espresso powder either into the buttercream or the cake mix for a bold mocha flavor. This adds a delightful coffee finish that will thrill espresso lovers! Boozy Version: Add a splash of bourbon or coffee liqueur to the ganache to deepen the flavors, creating a decadent adult dessert that’s truly unforgettable. White Chocolate Topping: Switch out dark chocolate chips for white or milk chocolate in the ganache for a sweeter twist. This lightens the overall flavor while keeping it rich. Fruit-Filled Delight: Consider spreading a layer of raspberry or strawberry jam under the buttercream for a fruity burst. This adds freshness and a lovely contrast to the rich cake. Zesty Citrus: Enhance the buttercream by adding a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest. The citrus notes brighten the sweetness and give an unexpected zing! Coconut Bliss: Fold in some shredded sweetened coconut into the buttercream for added texture and a tropical flair. It adds an enticing coconut flavor that’s hard to resist. These variations not only make your Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll unique but can also cater to different tastes and preferences, ensuring everyone leaves with a smile. Be sure to enjoy with a comforting cup of coffee, similar to how you’d savor a slice of Caramel Chocolate Crunch for that extra indulgent touch! How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll Fridge: Store your Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep it fresh. Freezer: To freeze, wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months for the best quality. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake overnight in the fridge before serving to maintain the texture and flavor. Reheating: If desired, slice individual pieces and gently warm in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enhance the gooey caramel filling. Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll Recipe FAQs What type of eggs should I use for the Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll? I recommend using large eggs as they provide the perfect structure and moisture for the cake. When beaten well, they will help the cake rise beautifully and create that light, airy texture we all crave. How should I store the Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll? To keep your Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll fresh, store it covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 4 days. If you plan on keeping it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to freeze; it can last up to 2 months. Can I freeze the Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll? Absolutely! To freeze your Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This helps to protect it from freezer burn and maintain its delicious flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight. What should I do if my cake cracks while rolling? No worries! If your cake cracks, this can happen sometimes, especially if it cools too much before rolling. Just carefully patch it up with a bit of the buttercream filling when you spread it out, and when you slice, no one will notice! Rolling while the cake is warm can help prevent cracking in the first place. Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider when making this recipe? Good question! This Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll contains gluten and dairy, so it’s not suitable for those with gluten intolerance or lactose allergies. For a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped toasted pecans or swap them with crushed pretzels or chocolate curls for a delightful twist! How can I enhance the flavor of the Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll? For a more intense flavor experience, consider adding a splash of espresso powder to the cake batter or buttercream. You can also try switching out the regular caramel sauce for a salted caramel sauce for a delicious contrast that will delight your taste buds. Indulgent Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll That's Easy to Make Delight in this Chocolate Caramel Cake Roll that combines velvety chocolate cake with luscious caramel buttercream, perfect for any occasion. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake Roll3 large Eggs Provides structure and moisture.1 box Chocolate Cake Mix Devil’s Food is highly recommended.1 cup Water At room temperature.1/4 cup Vegetable Oil Can substitute with melted butter.1 cup Powdered Sugar Used for dusting.For the Buttercream Filling1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Softened for easy mixing.1 cup Caramel Sauce Opt for high-quality for best taste.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Optional but recommended.For the Ganache Topping1/2 cup Heavy Whipping Cream Ensure it's fresh.1 cup Chocolate Chips Semi-sweet or dark chocolate preferred.For the Topping1/2 cup Chopped Toasted Pecans Optional; omit for nut-free version. Equipment 10x15 inch jelly roll panMixing BowlSpatulaparchment paperWhisksaucepan Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.Beat together the eggs in a mixing bowl until foamy and pale yellow for about 2 minutes.Mix in the chocolate cake mix, water, and vegetable oil until the batter is smooth and well combined.Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 12-15 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.Dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar, invert the baked cake onto it, and roll it up tightly.Beat softened butter in a bowl until fluffy, then mix in powdered sugar, caramel sauce, and vanilla until creamy.Unroll the cooled cake, spread the buttercream filling, and re-roll gently using the parchment.Heat heavy whipping cream in a saucepan until simmering, pour over chocolate chips, and stir until smooth.Place the cake seam-side down, pour ganache over it, sprinkle pecans if desired, and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 4gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 5IUCalcium: 2mgIron: 6mg NotesFor best results, roll the cake while warm and dust the towel generously with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
