Name: Delicious Candy Cane Roll: A Festive Holiday Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free flour); 1/4 cup Cornstarch (for texture); 1 tbsp Baking Powder (ensure fresh); 1/4 tsp Kosher Salt (or sea salt); 6 large Egg Whites (room temperature); 1/8 tsp Cream of Tartar (optional); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar (or coconut sugar); 2 cups Confectioners’ Sugar (for frosting); 1 tsp Peppermint Extract (to taste); 1 tbsp Red Gel Food Coloring (or natural alternative); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened); 1/2 cup Crushed Candy Canes (for topping); 1 set Piping Bags with Round Tips (for design)

As I flipped through my recipe book one chilly evening, a vision of a Candy Cane Striped Cake danced in my mind, brightening up the dreariest of days. This festive dessert isn’t just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a delightful centerpiece that sings holiday cheer! With its playful layers of peppermint-flavored cream encased in bold red and white swirls, this cake is surprisingly easy to whip up, making it perfect for anyone eager to impress family and friends this season. Best of all, it combines an airy texture that melts in your mouth with a bright, eye-catching design. Who wouldn’t want to slice into something so stunning at their holiday gatherings? Are you ready to bring some joy to your dessert table?

Why Is This Cake So Irresistible?

Festive Appeal: The Candy Cane Striped Cake is visually stunning, making it a showstopper for your holiday dessert table that will leave everyone marveling.

Effortless Elegance: Despite its intricate appearance, you’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create, allowing even novice bakers to shine like pros!

Minty Freshness: Infused with delightful peppermint, this cake captures the essence of the holidays, bringing a refreshing twist to traditional desserts.

Irresistible Texture: With its airy layers and creamy frosting, each bite melts in your mouth, providing a unique taste experience.

Ultimate Crowd Pleasure: Perfect for family gatherings or festive parties, this cake will please guests of all ages, making it the go-to dessert this season!

You could also try it alongside a warm mug of hot cocoa for the perfect holiday pairing.

Candy Cane Roll Ingredients

• Get ready to create a festive masterpiece with these essential ingredients!

For the Cake Base

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; use gluten-free flour for a delightful alternative.
Cornstarch – Lightens the cake texture; a must for that airy feel.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for optimal rise.
Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor balance; sea salt works well too.
Large Egg Whites – Creates a light and airy batter; whip them at room temperature for easier mixing.
Cream of Tartar – Stabilizes egg whites; optional but recommended for volume.

For the Sweetness

Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and structure; can be swapped with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweetens frosting and provides a silky finish; stick with this for optimum results.

For the Flavor

Peppermint Extract – Infuses a delightful mint flavor; adjust according to your preference.
Red Gel Food Coloring – Gives that vibrant visual appeal; go for natural coloring alternatives if desired.

For the Frosting

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the frosting; substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free treat.
Cream Cheese – Contributes to a creamy texture; use dairy-free cream cheese if needed.

For the Decoration

Crushed Candy Canes – These add texture and a festive touch; swap for crushed nuts for a different twist.
Piping Bags with Round Tips – Essential for achieving those lovely stripes; necessary for a picture-perfect finish!

As you gather these ingredients, envision the joy this Candy Cane Roll will bring to your holiday celebrations!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Candy Cane Roll

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, whip the large egg whites with cream of tartar until stiff peaks form, about 3-5 minutes. Gradually incorporate the granulated sugar, then gently fold in the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, kosher salt, and peppermint extract. Add a few drops of red gel food coloring, mixing until the batter is beautifully tinted.

Step 2: Pipe Colors
Transfer the colored batter into separate piping bags for a neat application. Starting from one end of the baking sheet, carefully pipe alternating lines of the white and red batter, ensuring design consistency and preventing overflow. Use zig-zag motions for a whimsical effect, filling the sheet to the edges but leaving a small margin to accommodate spreading during baking. Aim for an even distribution of colors to achieve the stunning striped effect in your Candy Cane Roll.

Step 3: Bake
Once piped, place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back lightly when touched. You want a firm yet soft top that doesn’t appear dry. Stay attentive, as baking times may vary slightly based on your oven’s characteristics. When done, remove it and let it cool in the sheet for 5 minutes before rolling.

Step 4: Roll the Cake
While the cake is still warm, carefully invert it onto a kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Slowly peel off the parchment paper, taking care not to tear the cake. Starting at one short edge, roll the cake tightly with the towel, creating a spiral. Allow this to cool completely, maintaining its shape. This method helps to ensure your Candy Cane Roll has the right form for later filling.

Step 5: Prepare the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat softened unsalted butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, peppermint extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue mixing until the frosting is fluffy and well-combined, approximately another 2-3 minutes. This delightful frosting will complement the airy texture of the Candy Cane Roll, so taste and adjust the peppermint flavor if desired.

Step 6: Unroll and Fill
Once the cake is completely cool, gently unroll it from the towel. Spread an even layer of the prepared frosting over the entire surface, making sure to reach the edges. Be generous but avoid overloading, as excess frosting will make re-rolling difficult. Once spread, carefully roll the cake back up without the towel this time, ensuring a tight fit to maintain that eye-catching spiral.

Step 7: Decorate
Place the newly rolled Candy Cane Roll seam-side down on a serving platter. Use the remaining frosting to frost the outer layer evenly, creating a smooth and inviting look. Finish by sprinkling a generous amount of crushed candy canes over the top for that festive flair. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a lovely crunch to each bite.

Step 8: Slice and Serve
Cut the Candy Cane Roll into slices, revealing the stunning red and white layers inside. Serve these delightful pieces chilled or at room temperature at your holiday gatherings. Pair them with a warm mug of hot cocoa for an added touch of joy. Watch as friends and family marvel at this beautiful dessert while savoring each minty bite!

Make Ahead Options

These Candy Cane Striped Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday season! You can prepare the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance; just bake, roll, and allow them to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating. The frosting can also be made ahead—store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply unroll the cake, spread the chilled frosting, roll it back up, and decorate with crushed candy canes. Trust me, it will be just as delicious, and your guests will be amazed at your impressive dessert!

Candy Cane Roll Variations

Feel free to get creative and add your own twist to this delightful Candy Cane Roll!

Vanilla Swap: Replace peppermint extract with vanilla extract for a warm, comforting flavor twist. This simple switch will surprise your taste buds!
Colorful Options: Use green gel food coloring for a festive twist or rainbow colors for celebrations beyond the holidays. The vibrant hues will bring joy to any gathering!
Fruit Filling: Substitute traditional frosting with fruit preserves for a fresh burst of flavor inside the cake. Imagine the tangy contrast of raspberry or strawberry against the minty backdrop—it’s pure bliss!
Nutty Crunch: Swap crushed candy canes for chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. Not only will the texture change, but it will also add depth to the flavors.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use vegan butter and dairy-free cream cheese to make this dessert suitable for your plant-based friends. Everyone can enjoy a slice of happiness at your holiday table!
Spicy Spin: Mix in a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter or frosting for a cozy, spiced flavor that pairs beautifully with the mint.
Accidental Allergene Rescue: If nut allergies are a concern, consider using sunbutter instead of peanut butter within your frosting. It contributes creaminess while accommodating sensitive eaters.

Looks like you’re well on your way to making this Candy Cane Roll your own delight. Whether you choose to use these variations or create your own, remember that every layer is a step towards creating something memorable!

What to Serve with Candy Cane Striped Cake?

This cheerful dessert deserves a festive spread to make your holiday gathering truly memorable!

Warm Hot Cocoa: The rich, chocolatey warmth of hot cocoa beautifully balances the cake’s minty freshness, creating a nostalgic holiday experience.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a luscious contrast to the light cake texture while enhancing the overall dessert indulgence.
Fresh Berries: A medley of raspberries and strawberries adds a burst of tartness and color, elevating both flavor and presentation on your dessert platter.
Peppermint Tea: This soothing beverage complements the cake’s peppermint flavor, offering a refreshing palate cleanser after each delightful bite.
Gingerbread Cookies: Pairing the cake with spiced gingerbread cookies introduces a festive nod to traditional holiday flavors, making every dessert bite even more enjoyable.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream enhances the cake’s creamy frosting, enticing guests to indulge just a little more.

For the ultimate holiday experience, choose a few of these delightful accompaniments to enhance your Candy Cane Striped Cake. Each pairing will surely add extra cheer to your festive gatherings!

Expert Tips for Candy Cane Roll

Pipe Right Away: Pipe the batter immediately after mixing to keep the texture intact and achieve those beautiful stripes in your Candy Cane Roll.
Gentle Folding: Be gentle when folding in the whipped egg whites; this preserves the volume for a light, airy cake.
Prevent Cracking: If cracks occur while rolling, don’t worry! The frosting will hide them, and no one will notice.
Damp Towel Trick: Use a damp kitchen towel to keep the cake moist while cooling, preventing it from drying out and making it easier to roll.
Adjust Peppermint Flavor: Taste your frosting and adjust the peppermint extract to your preference; some may enjoy a bolder mint flavor while others prefer a subtle hint.

How to Store and Freeze Candy Cane Roll

Fridge: Store leftover Candy Cane Roll in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep it fresh and delicious.

Freezer: You can freeze the Candy Cane Roll for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn before placing it in a freezer-safe bag.

Thawing: To enjoy frozen slices, transfer them to the fridge for several hours or overnight to let them thaw gracefully before serving.

Reheating: If desired, warm slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a delightful, soft treat that enhances the peppermint flavor!

Candy Cane Roll Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for the Candy Cane Roll?
You can use all-purpose flour for the best structure, but if you need a gluten-free option, gluten-free flour works wonderfully too! Just ensure it’s a 1:1 baking mix for the best results.

How should I store leftover Candy Cane Roll?
Wrap any leftover Candy Cane Roll tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 4 days. This helps maintain its delightful moist texture!

Can I freeze the Candy Cane Roll?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the Candy Cane Roll tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just transfer it to the fridge overnight to thaw!

What if my Cake cracks while rolling?
Don’t panic! If your Candy Cane Roll cracks, it can easily be fixed. Once frosted, no one will notice the crack, so simply roll it up as best as you can, and use the frosting to cover it completely for a beautiful finish.

Is this recipe safe for pets, specifically dogs?
While peppermint is generally safe for dogs in small amounts, the sugars and other ingredients in the Candy Cane Roll may not be healthy for them. It’s best to keep this festive treat for your human guests only!

How do I adjust the peppermint flavor in the frosting?
I recommend tasting your frosting after mixing in the peppermint extract. If you prefer a stronger mint flavor, gradually add more extract, one-quarter teaspoon at a time, until it meets your taste preference. Just mix well and enjoy!