Vintage Cake Rolls Always Make the Dessert Table
Cake rolls are a fun change from the usual layer cakes and cupcakes. They bake fast, cool quickly, and fill easily with anything from whipped cream to frosting. You don’t need special pans or complicated steps—just a sheet pan and some parchment.
Whether you’re making one for a holiday table or just want something different for dessert, these recipes cover a lot of ground. Some are light and airy, others are rich or spiced. A few are frosted on the outside, but most are rolled, chilled, sliced, and served.
They’re easy to make ahead and often hold up better the next day. From chocolate to pumpkin to carrot cake, this list has something for everyone. If you’ve never made a cake roll before, these are a good place to start. And if you have, you might just find a new favorite.
Chocolate Roll Cake
Light sponge cake rolled around creamy chocolate filling makes this a go-to dessert when you’re after something that looks impressive but isn’t overly complicated. The texture contrast between the soft cake and the smooth filling is hard to beat. A great make-ahead treat for any chocolate fan.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Roll Cake
Low Carb Chocolate Roulade
This option keeps things rich without overloading on carbs. Made with simple ingredients, it bakes into a light sponge that wraps around a fluffy, creamy filling. Perfect if you’re looking to keep things a little lighter but still want something indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Chocolate Roulade
Mini Yule Log Cakes
These are a festive spin on the classic log-shaped cake, just scaled down to personal size. The rolled sponge and creamy filling stay soft and slice beautifully. They’re great for individual desserts around the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Mini Yule Log Cakes
Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Cake Roll
Cold, creamy, and full of chocolate-mint flavor, this rolled cake brings together two dessert favorites. The cake wraps around a frozen filling, making it perfect for warmer days or special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Cake Roll
Carrot Cake Roll
All the spiced goodness of classic carrot cake wrapped around a layer of smooth cream cheese frosting. It slices into neat spirals and brings a nice balance of sweet and earthy. A fun alternative to the usual layered version.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake Roll
Simple Classic Swiss Roll
This rolled sponge cake is all about light texture and clean presentation. A thin layer of jam or cream is spread before rolling, creating a nice swirl inside. It’s quick to make and even quicker to disappear.
Get the Recipe: Simple Classic Swiss Roll
Pumpkin Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.
Soft, spiced pumpkin cake meets a tangy, creamy topping for a reliable crowd-pleaser. It’s baked flat, so serving is easy and cleanup is minimal. Works well for both fall parties and laid-back afternoons.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.
Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Roll
Inspired by the popular fall drink, this roll blends pumpkin flavor with hints of coffee and spice. The filling adds a creamy contrast, making it a great seasonal dessert. Serve chilled or room temp—either way, it hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Roll
Banana Roll
Similar to a banana bread turned roll cake—soft, moist, and ideal for anyone who enjoys banana-based treats. The texture is smooth and the flavor mellow. It’s great for a casual dessert or snack.
Get the Recipe: Banana Roll
Buche de Noel
This traditional rolled cake is often dressed up for the holidays with festive touches like chocolate bark or powdered sugar. Inside, you’ll find a soft sponge and a creamy filling. It’s a nice centerpiece that also tastes great.
Get the Recipe: Buche de Noel
Pumpkin Roll
Soft and spiced, this rolled cake layers pumpkin flavor with a cool, creamy center. It’s one of those desserts that looks more complicated than it is. Makes a great choice for fall meals or holiday tables.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Roll
