Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll Recipe

If you’re looking to make dessert unforgettable, this Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll is a show-stopping centerpiece that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Imagine a feather-light vanilla sponge cake, rolled up with luscious, airy cheesecake filling and crowned with a cascade of cherry topping. Every swirl is a promise of plush creamy texture, bright bursts of tart cherry, and just the right touch of sweetness. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday table or surprising friends on a random Saturday, this Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll always delivers pure joy (and bragging rights).

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love about this recipe is that every ingredient truly matters—each one builds irresistible flavor, dreamy texture, and eye-catching color. Gather these pantry basics and classic staples, and you’re halfway to creating your own Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll!

• Eggs: Room temperature eggs whip up fluffier, giving the sponge cake its signature lightness and height.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and ensures a stable, airy structure when beaten with the eggs.
• Vanilla Extract: Infuses both the cake and the filling with gorgeously rich aroma.
• All-Purpose Flour: Gives structure while keeping the cake tender and easy to roll.
• Baking Powder: Helps the sponge cake rise evenly and stay plush.
• Salt: Just a pinch makes all the flavors pop; don’t skip it!
• Milk: Makes the cake even softer and more flexible for rolling without cracks.
• Powdered Sugar (for dusting): Prevents sticking when rolling, plus adds the prettiest finish.
• Cream Cheese: Softened to perfection, this is the creamy backbone of the cheesecake filling.
• Powdered Sugar (for filling): Dissolves smoothly with cream cheese for a silky mouthfeel.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: Whipped to stiff peaks, it folds into the filling for that dreamy, mousse-like cloud texture.
• Cherry Pie Filling or Cherry Compote: Ready-made or homemade, cherries bring gorgeous color and a juicy, tart-sweet contrast to all that creaminess.
• Optional Garnish: Extra powdered sugar, fresh mint leaves, and fresh cherries make every slice look extra special (and extra tempting).

How to Make Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Roll

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a jelly roll pan (10×15 inches), grease it well, and lay down parchment paper for a foolproof release. In a large bowl, go to town with your electric mixer—beat the eggs and sugar together on high for a dramatic five minutes until the mixture is thick and pale; you’re looking for lots of volume and a color so delicate it almost glows. Mix in vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, and salt, then gently fold those dry ingredients into the egg mixture. Add the milk and blend just until smooth. Pour your batter into the pan, spread it evenly, and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. You want the cake lightly springy, not dry.

Step 2: Roll the Cake

This step has a little magic in it! As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, dust a clean kitchen towel generously with powdered sugar. Carefully invert the warm cake onto the towel. Peel back the parchment paper and, starting at the short end, roll up the cake (with the towel inside). The towel will act as a mold and prevent sticking as everything cools down—give it a full hour for the most flexible, flawless rolling later.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

While your cake is cooling, whip up the creamy heart of this treat. Beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until totally smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip your heavy cream until stiff peaks form (the more air, the fluffier the finish). Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture—take your time and use a spatula to keep it light as air. This is what makes the Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll so lush and irresistible with every bite.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake Roll

Now for everyone’s favorite part. Gently unroll your cake—it’s normal if it curves a bit at the edges. Spread a generous layer of cheesecake filling over the sponge, leaving a one-inch border to prevent overflow. Next, spoon about half of your cherry pie filling (or homemade compote!) over the cream. Take a deep breath, and carefully roll the cake back up (towel-free this time), keeping the swirl as tight as you can. Place it seam-side down on a serving platter.

Step 5: Add Topping and Garnish

Give your cake roll its crown! Generously spoon the remaining cherry topping along the top, letting it gently cascade over the edges. For the finale, dust lightly with powdered sugar and sprinkle on a few fresh cherries or mint leaves if you’ve got them. Not only is it a feast for the tastebuds, but just look at those vibrant colors—it’s truly the Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll in all its glory.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Patience pays off here! Cover and refrigerate the roll for at least an hour. This chilling time allows the filling to set up, making each slice showcase those gorgeous, neat swirls. Use your sharpest knife for serving and wipe it clean between cuts for showstopping slices that’ll make jaws drop.

How to Serve Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll

Garnishes

Go all out with your garnish—this cake loves a bit of drama! A classic snowy dusting of powdered sugar adds vintage charm. Dot the plate (or the top) with whole fresh cherries and tuck in a few mint leaves for a fresh pop of color. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of melted white chocolate never hurts either.

Side Dishes

While the Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll can easily steal the show on its own, pairing it with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of softly whipped cream elevates each bite. For a light balance, serve it alongside fresh berries or a small fruit salad, or round out afternoon tea with a hot cup of Earl Grey or a splash of sparkling rosé.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, slice the cake roll on a diagonal for extra flair and arrange slices artfully on a long platter. Mini rolls are great for parties—simply cut into two-inch sections for bite-sized treats. Or, for a rustic touch, serve straight from a wooden board dusted with extra powdered sugar and let everyone help themselves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow have leftovers, you’re in luck: the Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll actually tastes even better after resting overnight. Wrap the roll or slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. The cake will stay moist, and the flavors continue to meld.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze this beauty! Simply wrap the cake roll (without cherry topping) in a double layer of plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to one month. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, then top with cherries just before serving for maximum freshness and color.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat this dessert, as it’s meant to be enjoyed chilled (making it ideal for prepping ahead). If it’s been frozen, just let it slowly thaw in the fridge until soft enough to slice.

FAQs

Can I make the Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll a day in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead gives all the flavors time to mingle and makes slicing even easier. Just store it in the fridge and garnish right before serving for best results.

What if my cake cracks when rolling?

Small cracks are perfectly normal and can easily be hidden under the cherry topping and powdered sugar. Rolling the cake in a towel while it’s still warm helps minimize cracks, and chilling before filling ensures it stays pliable.

Can I use homemade cherry compote instead of pie filling?

Definitely! A homemade cherry compote brings an extra layer of freshness and lets you control the sweetness. Just make sure it’s thick (not watery) to prevent sogginess.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for the all-purpose flour. With careful handling, the result will still be soft and rollable.

Can I use different fruit toppings?

Of course! While cherries make the Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll look and taste iconic, feel free to experiment with blueberry, raspberry, or mixed berry compotes for a twist that’s just as delicious.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve made it this far, you’re just steps away from creating something truly special. The Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll is all about joy, celebration, and sharing something comforting and beautiful with the people you love. Give it a try—you’ll fall in love with every sweet, creamy, cherry-filled bite!