Roll cakes are the epitome of dessert perfection – soft, fluffy cake layers rolled around irresistible fillings that burst with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re indulging in chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream, M&M’s Ferrero Oreo, elegant black forest, or heavenly cherry cheesecake, these roll cakes promise to be a hit at any gathering or special occasion. In this article, we’ll explore how to make each of these mouthwatering creations from scratch and share tips to ensure your cakes turn out flawlessly.
1. Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream Cake Roll
This cake roll combines two of the most loved desserts: cookie dough and ice cream. The rich and creamy filling is dotted with chocolate chips, while the outer layer of the cake adds a subtle crunch.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream (softened)
- 1 cup edible cookie dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
- Chocolate ganache for coating
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder.
- In another bowl, beat eggs and sugar until fluffy. Add milk and vanilla.
- Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Once baked, invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with cocoa powder. Roll the cake and let it cool.
- For the filling, mix softened ice cream, cookie dough, and mini chocolate chips.
- Unroll the cooled cake, spread the filling evenly, and re-roll. Freeze for at least 4 hours.
- Coat with chocolate ganache, let it set, and slice to serve.
Pro Tip: If you prefer a firmer texture, chill the ice cream and cookie dough mixture before spreading it on the cake.
2. M&M’s Ferrero Oreo Roll Cake
This vibrant roll cake is an explosion of colors and textures, combining the crunch of Oreos with the smoothness of Ferrero chocolates and the pop of M&M’s.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup crushed Oreos
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1/2 cup Ferrero Rocher chocolates (chopped)
- 1 cup M&M’s
- Chocolate frosting
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- Combine flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda in a bowl.
- Beat eggs and sugar until thick. Add milk and vanilla.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients. Fold in crushed Oreos.
- Spread batter onto the pan and bake for 10 minutes.
- While hot, roll the cake using a towel and let it cool.
- Spread whipped cream over the unrolled cake. Sprinkle chopped Ferrero chocolates and M&M’s.
- Re-roll the cake and frost it with chocolate frosting. Garnish with extra M&M’s.
- Chill for 2 hours before serving.
Pro Tip: For an extra festive touch, use seasonal M&M’s colors to match holidays or celebrations.
3. Elegant Black Forest Roll Cake
This classic German dessert is transformed into a stunning roll cake. Layers of chocolate cake, whipped cream, and cherries come together in harmony.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
- Chocolate shavings and fresh cherries for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder.
- Beat eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy. Add butter and vanilla.
- Fold in the dry ingredients and pour the batter into the pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes. Roll the cake with a towel while hot.
- Whip cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Spread whipped cream and cherry pie filling over the cooled cake. Roll tightly.
- Garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and fresh cherries.
- Refrigerate for 3 hours before serving.
Pro Tip: For a richer flavor, drizzle the cake with cherry liqueur before adding the filling.
4. Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Cake Roll
This cake roll is a dreamy combination of cheesecake and cherries, making it the perfect dessert for any celebration.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
- Graham cracker crumbs for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- Mix flour and baking powder in a bowl.
- Beat eggs and sugar until fluffy. Add milk and vanilla.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients.
- Spread batter into the pan and bake for 10 minutes. Roll the cake with a towel and let it cool.
- Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in whipped cream.
- Unroll the cake and spread the cheesecake filling. Add cherry pie filling.
- Re-roll the cake, dust with graham cracker crumbs, and chill for 4 hours.
- Serve with extra cherries on top.
Pro Tip: For a crunchier base, add a layer of crushed graham crackers to the filling before rolling.
Tips for Perfect Roll Cakes
- Work Quickly: Roll the cake while it’s warm to prevent cracks.
- Use Parchment Paper: This ensures the cake doesn’t stick to the pan.
- Chill Thoroughly: Let the filled cake chill for at least 2 hours for clean slices.
- Garnish Creatively: Use whipped cream, fresh fruit, or chocolate for eye-catching presentations.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding different extracts or zests to the cake batter for unique flavor profiles.
Serving Suggestions
- Plating: Slice the roll cake into even pieces and serve on decorative plates with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Pairing: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a hot cup of coffee, or a glass of dessert wine for a complete experience.
- Decorative Touches: Add edible flowers, sprinkles, or fresh fruit as garnish to elevate the presentation.
Storing Roll Cakes
- Refrigeration: Store roll cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness.
- Freezing: Roll cakes can be frozen for up to 1 month. Wrap them in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Thawing: To enjoy frozen roll cakes, transfer them to the refrigerator and let them thaw overnight before serving.
Why Roll Cakes are Perfect for Any Occasion
Roll cakes are not only delicious but also versatile and visually stunning. They make an excellent centerpiece for holiday tables, birthday celebrations, or casual get-togethers. Their compact size and layered presentation mean they’re easy to serve and portion.
By mastering the techniques and experimenting with different fillings and toppings, you can create endless variations to suit every taste and occasion. Whether it’s the nostalgic flavor of chocolate chip cookie dough or the elegance of black forest cherries, there’s a roll cake for everyone to love.