Pink Velvet Valentine Roulade

This Pink Velvet Valentine Roulade is the perfect dessert to celebrate love and sweetness. With its stunning pink color, delicate sponge, and rich filling, this roulade is a showstopper that will impress your Valentine. The light, airy texture of the pink velvet cake pairs beautifully with the creamy filling, making it a delightful treat for a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or as a special gift for someone you love. This roulade takes the traditional red velvet flavor to a soft, pastel pink for a beautiful, festive twist that’s perfect for Valentine’s Day.

The beauty of this roulade lies not only in its appearance but also in its taste. The combination of moist, fluffy cake and luscious cream cheese filling creates a harmonious blend of flavors that’s not too sweet, but just right. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this dessert is simple to make and sure to become a new Valentine’s Day tradition. So, let’s roll up some love and make this Pink Velvet Valentine Roulade the centerpiece of your celebration!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Visually Stunning

The pink color of the roulade makes it a perfect, eye-catching dessert for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion.

2. Light and Fluffy Texture

The sponge cake is light, airy, and moist, while the cream cheese filling adds a smooth, creamy contrast that melts in your mouth.

3. Romantic and Elegant

With its delicate roll and vibrant pink hue, this roulade is the perfect dessert for a romantic meal or a special celebration.

4. Easy to Make

Though it may look fancy, the roulade is easy to make and doesn’t require any complicated techniques.

5. Customizable

You can tweak the filling by adding fruit, a hint of lemon zest, or even chocolate for an added twist. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead and refrigerate.

Ingredients

For the Sponge Cake:

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Eggs
• Vegetable oil
• Red or pink food coloring
• Vanilla extract
• Milk

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• Cream cheese
• Powdered sugar
• Heavy cream
• Vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Variations

• Fruit Filling: Add some fresh strawberries, raspberries, or cherries to the cream cheese filling for extra flavor and texture.
• Lemon Zest: For a zesty twist, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese filling.
• Chocolate Drizzle: After rolling the roulade, drizzle some melted chocolate over the top for a rich and indulgent finishing touch.
• Whipped Cream Filling: For a lighter filling, use freshly whipped cream mixed with powdered sugar and vanilla extract.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper goes up the sides to make it easier to remove the cake later.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and a few drops of red or pink food coloring, then mix until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, and mix just until combined.

Step 3: Bake the Sponge Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched. While the cake is baking, lay a clean kitchen towel on the counter and dust it with powdered sugar. This will help prevent the cake from sticking when you roll it.

Step 4: Roll the Cake

Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes. Carefully turn the cake out onto the prepared towel and peel off the parchment paper. Starting from one edge, gently roll the cake up in the towel while it is still warm. Let it cool completely while rolled up in the towel.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

While the cake is cooling, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, and continue to beat until the mixture is fluffy and well combined.

Step 6: Unroll and Fill the Cake

Once the cake has cooled completely, carefully unroll it. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface of the cake, leaving a small border around the edges.

Step 7: Roll the Cake Back Up

Gently roll the cake back up without the towel, this time with the cream cheese filling inside. Be careful not to tear the cake, and don’t worry if there are small cracks—it’s normal for roulades.

Step 8: Chill and Serve

Place the roulade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving. Dust the top with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra touch.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overbake the Cake: Overbaking can result in a dry cake that’s hard to roll. Be sure to check the cake at the 12-minute mark and remove it once it springs back to the touch.
• Use a Clean Kitchen Towel: A clean towel is crucial for rolling the cake without sticking. Be sure to dust it with powdered sugar to help prevent the cake from sticking.
• Cool Completely Before Unrolling: Let the cake cool slightly before unrolling it; otherwise, the filling could melt and make the cake soggy.
• Roll Gently: When rolling the cake, do it slowly and gently. If the cake cracks a little, don’t worry; it’s still going to taste amazing.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the roulade for a bit before serving. This will help the filling set and allow the flavors to meld together.

How to Serve

Serve this Pink Velvet Valentine Roulade on a romantic dessert table, or surprise your loved one with a slice for a sweet finish to your meal. Pair it with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of raspberry sauce for an extra touch of elegance.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover roulade in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to preserve its freshness, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the container.

Freezing

If you’d like to make the roulade ahead of time, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating

The roulade is best served chilled, but if you prefer it warm, you can lightly heat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different color for the roulade?

Yes, you can substitute the food coloring for any color you prefer. Just be sure to use gel food coloring for the best results.

2. Can I make the roulade ahead of time?

Yes, the roulade can be made a day in advance. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge.

3. Can I use a different filling?

Absolutely! You can try using whipped cream, mascarpone cheese, or even a fruit filling if you prefer.

4. How do I keep the roulade from cracking when I roll it?

Make sure to let the cake cool slightly before unrolling it, and roll it gently. If it cracks a little, that’s okay; the filling will help cover up any imperfections.

5. Can I make the roulade gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version of this roulade.

6. How do I make the cream cheese filling fluffier?

For an extra fluffy filling, beat the cream cheese for a bit longer until it becomes light and airy. You can also add a little more heavy cream for added volume.

7. Can I freeze the cream cheese filling?

It’s not recommended to freeze the cream cheese filling, as it may alter the texture. However, you can freeze the rolled-up roulade and add fresh filling later.

8. Can I add fruit to the filling?

Yes! Fresh raspberries, strawberries, or even a raspberry jam swirl would work wonderfully with the cream cheese filling.

9. Can I make this roulade into individual servings?

You can certainly make mini roulades by cutting the rolled cake into smaller sections. Just be sure to adjust the filling amount accordingly.

10. How do I prevent the roulade from becoming soggy?

Be sure to roll the cake while it’s still warm but not too hot, and avoid overfilling the roulade with cream cheese. Also, chilling the roulade before serving helps to firm up the filling.

Conclusion

The Pink Velvet Valentine Roulade is a deliciously romantic dessert that is as beautiful as it is tasty. With its light, fluffy cake and creamy filling, it’s the perfect treat for any Valentine’s Day celebration. Whether you’re making it for a loved one or for yourself, this roulade will certainly steal the show. With its soft pastel color, indulgent filling, and elegant presentation, it’s a dessert that’s as sweet as the love it celebrates.

Print