Save A festive, whimsical cake roll decorated to resemble a classic holiday ugly sweater, using store-bought ingredients for a fast and fun dessert perfect for parties.
I first created this cake roll for a family gathering, and it instantly became a hit. Everyone loved decorating their own sweater designs, making it a memorable and laughter-filled activity.
Ingredients
- Cake: 1 store-bought vanilla or chocolate Swiss roll cake (about 13–16 oz / 370–450 g)
- Filling (optional, for extra flavor): 1/2 cup (120 ml) whipped cream or vanilla frosting
- Decoration: 1 1/2 cups (180 g) vanilla or cream cheese frosting, red and green gel food coloring, assorted holiday sprinkles, mini candies, colored sugar
- Mini chocolate chips or candy pearls: 1/4 cup (30 g)
- Shredded coconut (optional, for snow effect): 1/4 cup (25 g)
Instructions
- Prep Cake Roll:
- Carefully unroll the store-bought Swiss roll cake. If desired, spread an even layer of whipped cream or frosting over the inside, then gently re-roll the cake.
- Position Cake:
- Place the cake roll seam-side down on a serving platter.
- Tint Frosting:
- Divide the vanilla frosting into three bowls. Tint one portion red, one green, and leave the third white.
- Decorate:
- Using an offset spatula or butter knife, frost the cake roll with the colored frostings in sections or patterns to mimic the look of a holiday sweater.
- Add Details:
- Decorate with sprinkles, mini candies, chocolate chips, colored sugar, and coconut to create playful sweater designs.
- Chill:
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to set the decorations before slicing and serving.
Save Decorating this cake roll together is now our family's favorite tradition. The kids get so creative with sprinkles and frosting, making every holiday gathering extra special.
Required Tools
You'll need an offset spatula or butter knife, medium mixing bowls, food-safe gloves for coloring frosting, and a serving platter.
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (gluten), eggs, and milk (dairy). Decorations may contain soy or nuts, so always read labels for safety.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains about 320 calories, 14 g fat, 46 g carbohydrates, and 3 g protein.
Save Slice the cake to reveal a fun sweater pattern that delights guests and adds extra cheer to your holiday table.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → Can I use a chocolate Swiss roll instead of vanilla?
Yes, a chocolate Swiss roll can add a richer flavor and pairs well with peppermint or vanilla frostings.
- → What type of frosting works best for decorating?
Vanilla or cream cheese frosting holds food coloring well and smooths easily for detailed designs.
- → How can I create vibrant colors for the decorations?
Divide frosting into portions and tint each with red and green gel food coloring, leaving some plain white.
- → Is chilling necessary before serving?
Yes, chilling for at least 15 minutes helps the frosting set and keeps decorations intact when sliced.
- → Can kids participate in decorating?
Absolutely! Letting children decorate their own sections adds fun and creativity to holiday gatherings.