Applesauce Cake Roll Recipe: Spiced Swirls With Creamy Filling

This cake roll transforms humble applesauce into a showstopping dessert with spiced cake and creamy filling.

Baking the thin cake to exact doneness is key—it must be flexible enough to roll without cracking. The applesauce keeps it moist while adding subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the filling.

Ingredients for Applesauce Cake Roll

Transform humble applesauce into a showstopping dessert with these carefully selected ingredients.

Optimal quality requires freshly milled spices for the cake—Penzeys offers exceptional cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The applesauce should be unsweetened and smooth; Mott’s or Musselman’s brands are reliable. For the filling, Philadelphia cream cheese delivers consistent texture and flavor. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for seamless integration.

Substitutions are possible with care: swap all-purpose flour for cake flour at a 1:1 ratio for a lighter texture. If cream cheese is unavailable, mascarpone provides a similar richness though with slightly higher fat. Land O’Lakes butter substitutes well if unsalted is not on hand. For spice variations, cardamom at one-third the amount can replace cloves for a different aromatic profile.

The cake roll is best assembled and served the same day but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Store components separately if making ahead—baked cake at room temperature for 1 day, filling refrigerated for 3 days. Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in the cream filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Applesauce Cake Roll

Master the technique for a perfectly rolled cake with a creamy, spiced filling every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. In a large bowl, whisk together the 1.5 cups all-purpose flour, 1.5 tsp baking powder, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 0.5 tsp ground nutmeg, 0.25 tsp ground cloves, and 0.5 tsp salt.

In a separate bowl, beat the 1 cup granulated sugar with the 4 large eggs until pale and thick, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the 1.5 cups unsweetened applesauce and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—do not overmix.

Step 2: Bake and Cool the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the top springs back when lightly touched and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Immediately after removing the cake from the oven, run a knife around the edges to loosen it. Flip the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Gently peel off the parchment paper, then roll the cake up in the towel, starting from one of the short ends. Allow it to cool completely, about 1 hour.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Filling

In a medium bowl, beat the 8 oz cream cheese and 0.5 cup unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the 1 cup powdered sugar and 1 tsp vanilla bean paste, beating until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling. The mixture should be spreadable but still hold its shape. If it’s too thick, beat in a splash of milk, but avoid over-thinning.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake Roll

Carefully unroll the cooled cake and spread the cream filling evenly over the surface, leaving a ½-inch border along one of the long edges. Re-roll the cake gently but firmly, using the towel to help lift and guide it into a tight spiral.

Place the cake seam-side down on a serving platter. Chill for at least 30 minutes to set the filling and make slicing easier. Use a serrated knife to trim the ends for a clean presentation, then dust with additional powdered sugar before serving.

Perfect Pairings for This Recipe

Beverage Pairings

I love serving this with a cold glass of milk—the creamy richness complements the spiced cake beautifully. For a grown-up version, try vanilla chai tea with its warming spices echoing the cake’s cinnamon and nutmeg notes. 🥛

Dessert Accompaniments

A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream adds luxurious texture contrast. For fruit lovers, warm caramelized apples or spiced poached pears enhance the applesauce theme.

Coffee and Tea

Black coffee with a splash of cream cuts through the sweetness, while Earl Grey tea with its bergamot notes adds sophisticated contrast. I always brew Starbucks French Roast for its bold body.

Festive Additions

Dust the platter with ground cinnamon or drizzle with salted caramel sauce for extra flair. A side of toasted pecans or candied walnuts adds crunch that pairs wonderfully with the soft cake. ✨

Frequently Asked Questions