A Classic Frozen Dessert with a Retro Twist!
Few desserts bring back childhood memories quite like the Arctic Roll. This nostalgic British classic features a soft vanilla sponge wrapped around a creamy ice cream center, all coated with a thin layer of jam for the perfect balance of flavors.
I love this recipe because it’s simple yet impressive, and making it from scratch brings back that retro charm while tasting even better than store-bought versions. If you grew up enjoying Arctic Roll, this homemade version will take you right back to the good old days!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Arctic Roll needs several hours in the freezer, so it’s best made a day ahead for the perfect texture.
Q: What’s the best ice cream to use?
Traditional Arctic Roll uses vanilla ice cream, but you can experiment with strawberry, chocolate, or even mint chocolate chip for a fun twist!
Q: Can I use store-bought ice cream?
Absolutely! Just soften it slightly before rolling to make it easier to shape inside the sponge.
Q: How do I prevent the sponge from cracking?
- Roll it while still warm with a tea towel to create the shape.
- Don’t overbake—it should be soft and flexible.
Q: Can I add extra flavors?
Yes! Try adding lemon zest to the sponge, swapping the jam for Nutella, or drizzling the roll with melted chocolate before serving.
What You Need to Make a Nostalgic Arctic Roll
For the Sponge Cake:
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- ¾ cup (90g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon warm water
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
For the Filling:
- 1 pint (500ml) vanilla ice cream (slightly softened)
- ¼ cup (60g) strawberry jam (or raspberry)
For Serving (Optional):
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Fresh berries
- Melted chocolate drizzle
How to Make Nostalgic Arctic Roll
Step 1: Prepare the Ice Cream Filling
- Scoop softened ice cream onto a sheet of parchment paper or plastic wrap.
- Shape it into a log about 10 inches (25cm) long, wrap tightly, and freeze for at least 2 hours.
Step 2: Make the Sponge Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 10×12-inch baking tray with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy.
- Fold in flour, baking powder, salt, vanilla, and warm water, mixing gently.
- Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 10-12 minutes until just set (don’t overbake!).
Step 3: Roll the Sponge
- Lay a clean tea towel on a flat surface and dust with powdered sugar.
- Turn the warm sponge onto the towel and peel off the parchment paper.
- Roll the sponge gently but firmly (with the towel inside) and let it cool completely.
Step 4: Assemble the Arctic Roll
- Unroll the sponge and spread an even layer of jam.
- Place the frozen ice cream log on one side and carefully roll the sponge around it.
- Wrap tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours.
Step 5: Slice & Serve
- Slice with a sharp knife, dust with powdered sugar, and serve with fresh berries or melted chocolate!
Tips for the Best Arctic Roll
✔ Use soft sponge – Don’t overbake; a flexible sponge is key to easy rolling.
✔ Freeze between steps – This ensures clean layers and prevents melting.
✔ Seal the edges well – This helps keep the ice cream from oozing out.
✔ Experiment with flavors – Try chocolate sponge, different jams, or flavored ice cream.
✔ Serve slightly softened – Let the roll sit for 5-10 minutes before slicing for the best texture.
Reader Reviews
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Emma L. – “Just like I remember from childhood! So much better homemade, and the jam layer was perfect.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 James K. – “Surprisingly easy to make! I used chocolate sponge and vanilla ice cream—amazing!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Samantha W. – “Nostalgic and delicious! I used raspberry jam, and it was a huge hit at my family gathering.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Lucas R. – “A fun dessert to make! It does take some patience, but the end result is worth it.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Jessica T. – “A perfect retro dessert! My kids loved it, and we’ll be making it again for Christmas.”
Printable Recipe
Nostalgic Arctic Roll
This Nostalgic Arctic Roll is a homemade version of the classic vanilla sponge roll with a jam layer and ice cream center. A delicious retro dessert!
Ingredients
- For the Sponge Cake:
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- ¾ cup (90g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon warm water
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- For the Filling:
- 1 pint (500ml) vanilla ice cream (slightly softened)
- ¼ cup (60g) strawberry jam (or raspberry)
- For Serving (Optional):
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Fresh berries
- Melted chocolate drizzle
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ice Cream Filling
- Scoop softened ice cream onto a sheet of parchment paper or plastic wrap.
- Shape it into a log about 10 inches (25cm) long, wrap tightly, and freeze for at least 2 hours.
Step 2: Make the Sponge Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 10x12-inch baking tray with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy.
- Fold in flour, baking powder, salt, vanilla, and warm water, mixing gently.
- Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 10-12 minutes until just set (don’t overbake!).
Step 3: Roll the Sponge
- Lay a clean tea towel on a flat surface and dust with powdered sugar.
- Turn the warm sponge onto the towel and peel off the parchment paper.
- Roll the sponge gently but firmly (with the towel inside) and let it cool completely.
Step 4: Assemble the Arctic Roll
- Unroll the sponge and spread an even layer of jam.
- Place the frozen ice cream log on one side and carefully roll the sponge around it.
- Wrap tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours.
Step 5: Slice & Serve
- Slice with a sharp knife, dust with powdered sugar, and serve with fresh berries or melted chocolate!
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
If you loved this Nostalgic Arctic Roll, don’t keep it to yourself! Share it on social media, pin it on Pinterest, or send it to a friend who loves classic desserts. Homemade treats always taste better when shared! Tag me if you try it!
