Save to Pinterest 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.
The first time I made this for a holiday party, it was an instant hit and guests took turns decorating their slices with wild sprinkles and candy. The creative possibilities make every cake unique!
Ingredients
- Cake: 1 store-bought vanilla or chocolate Swiss roll cake (about 13–16 oz / 370–450 g)
- Filling (optional): 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, 1/4 cup (30 g) mini chocolate chips or candy pearls, 1/4 cup (25 g) shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions
- Unroll Cake:
- Carefully unroll the Swiss roll cake. Spread whipped cream or frosting if using, then gently re-roll.
- Position Cake:
- Place the cake roll seam-side down on a serving platter.
- Prepare Frosting:
- Divide the vanilla frosting into three bowls and tint one red, one green, and leave one white.
- Decorate:
- Frost the cake roll in sections or patterns to create an ugly sweater effect.
- Add Toppings:
- Decorate with sprinkles, mini candies, chocolate chips, colored sugar, and coconut for fun designs.
- Chill:
- Refrigerate at least 15 minutes to set decorations before slicing.
Save to Pinterest Last Christmas, my niece claimed the coconut snow as her section and everyone loved making their own edible sweater patches. It became the centerpiece of the dessert table and sparked lots of laughter.
Required Tools
Offset spatula or butter knife, medium mixing bowls, food-safe gloves (optional), serving platter
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, milk (dairy). May contain soy or nuts depending on chosen cake or decorations.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 320 calories, 14 g fat, 46 g carbohydrates, 3 g protein
Save to Pinterest This cake roll is a guaranteed conversation starter and brings instant holiday cheer to any gathering. Just slice, serve, and celebrate!
Questions & Answers
- → What type of cake works best for this dessert?
A vanilla or chocolate store-bought Swiss roll cake provides a perfect base due to its soft texture and easy rolling.
- → How do I create the colorful frosting designs?
Divide the vanilla or cream cheese frosting into portions and tint each with red and green gel food coloring, leaving a part white for festive patterns.
- → Can I add flavor inside the roll?
Yes, spreading whipped cream or vanilla frosting inside before re-rolling adds extra creaminess and flavor.
- → What decorations enhance the holiday theme?
Use holiday sprinkles, mini candies, chocolate chips, colored sugar, and shredded coconut to create festive sweater designs like zig-zags and snowflakes.
- → How should this dessert be stored after preparation?
Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to three days to maintain freshness and decoration integrity.
- → Is chilling necessary before serving?
Yes, chilling for at least 15 minutes helps set the colorful frosting and decorations for clean slices and presentation.