Hands down, the perfect Christmas cake! Confession: I eat it at other times too!

Cinnamon cake roll, also known as a jelly roll, is a delightful dessert that combines the warm and comforting flavors of cinnamon with a light, fluffy cake. Its name originates from the rolling technique used to create its distinctive shape, which resembles a log or a Swiss roll. This delicious sweet treat has been enjoyed for generations, offering a delightful balance of moist cake and fragrant cinnamon.

To serve this delectable cinnamon cake roll, there are a few options that pair beautifully with its flavors. A classic choice is a dollop of softly whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar to enhance its sweetness. For an extra indulgence, a drizzle of melted chocolate or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can elevate this dessert to new heights. Additionally, a cup of hot tea or coffee makes for a perfect accompaniment, bringing out the cinnamon notes of the cake.

Ingredients:

For the cake:
3/4 cup flour
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 eggs
3/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon cloves
Powdered sugar for rolling the cake

For the frosting:
5 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup eggnog
1/2 cup room temperature unsalted butter
1/2 tablespoon white rum or 1 teaspoon rum extract

For the glaze: 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons eggnog

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper or foil. Spray foil/parchment paper with cooking spray.

2. Beat 3 eggs and 3/4 cup sugar in a bowl until combined. Stir in 2 tbsp vegetable oil and 1 tsp vanilla extract.

3. In another bowl, whisk 3/4 cup flour, 1 tsp baking powder, 1 tbsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, and 1/8 tsp cloves.

4. Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet to form a batter. Do not overmix.

5. Spread the batter in the prepared pan and bake for 9-10 minutes. While the cake bakes, prepare a powdered sugar-dusted towel.

6. After baking, flip the cake onto the towel, roll it up, and let it cool for a few hours.

7. While it cools, make frosting by beating butter, adding powdered sugar, rum, and eggnog.

8. Once cooled, unroll the cake, frost it, and roll it up again.

9. Create a glaze with powdered sugar and eggnog, pour over the cake, sprinkle with cinnamon, and let it set before slicing and serving.

Whether enjoyed as a delightful afternoon tea treat or as a show-stopping dessert for special occasions, this cinnamon cake roll is sure to please with its perfect blend of sweetness and spice. Its versatility allows for countless variations in fillings and toppings, making it a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed by all.