Tips for Best Results
- Roll the cake while it’s still hot in the towel so it “remembers” the shape and is less likely to crack when filled.
- Don’t skimp on draining/softening steps: let the cake cool fully before filling, and let ice cream soften just enough to spread but not melt.
- Heat-treat the flour fully for the cookie dough to keep it safe for eating raw.
- Work quickly when adding ice cream so it doesn’t melt into the cake, which can make it soggy.
- Freeze the roll seam-side down so it holds its shape.
Variations and Serving Ideas
- Use chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream instead of vanilla for extra cookie flavor.
- Swap in different ice creams like cookies-and-cream, caramel swirl, or peanut butter cup.
- Add a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce over slices and top with whipped cream and extra mini chips for a sundae-style presentation.
- Make mini cake rolls by cutting the sponge in half and assembling two smaller rolls instead of one large.
Storage, Slicing, and Make-Ahead
- Keep the cake roll tightly wrapped in the freezer for up to 1–2 weeks.
- To slice, let the roll sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes, then use a sharp, warm knife (run under hot water and wiped dry) to cut clean slices.
- Because it’s a fully frozen dessert, it’s perfect to make several days ahead of a party.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What pan size works best?
A 10×15-inch jelly roll pan gives the right thin cake layer for rolling; using a larger pan can make the cake too thin, and a smaller one too thick to roll easily.
2. What if my cake cracks?
Small cracks are common and usually hidden by the cookie dough and ice cream layers. Just roll gently, and use extra cookie dough or a dusting of powdered sugar on the outside to disguise any imperfections.
3. Can I skip the cookie dough layer?
Yes. You can make this as a classic chocolate ice cream cake roll with just the cake and ice cream. But the cookie dough layer is what gives it the “cookie dough ice cream” feel.
4. Do I have to use cream cheese frosting or ganache outside?
You don’t have to. You can keep the outside simple with a dusting of powdered sugar, or dress it up with ganache, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce if you want a more decorated look.
Cookie dough ice cream cake rolls are the kind of over-the-top, fun dessert that looks like a bakery project but fits nicely into your make-ahead lineup. When you test it, play with different ice cream flavors or cookie dough add-ins, see which combo disappears first, and use that to build your own signature roll for birthdays, holidays, and summertime celebrations.