As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, there’s a sense of excitement in the kitchen, especially when making a delightful Pumpkin Roll. This classic dessert isn’t just a feast for the eyes; its soft, spiced cake wrapped around luscious cream cheese filling brings joy with every bite. What I love most about this Pumpkin Roll recipe is how quick and simple it is—you can impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that whispers comfort while offering a delightful twist on traditional pumpkin treats. Curious about how the aroma of fall can fill your home in under two hours? Let’s dive into the details of this irresistible dessert!
Why is Pumpkin Roll a must-try?
Versatile and delightful, this Pumpkin Roll is perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy family gathering or a festive holiday celebration. Easy to make, it blends simple ingredients into a stunning dessert that looks as good as it tastes. Moist cake envelops a creamy filling, delivering a unique flavor experience that’s sure to impress. Plus, it’s a delightful way to embrace the fall season while setting aside unhealthy fast food habits. Time-efficient, this recipe makes it easy to whip up something special without spending all day in the kitchen. Embrace the warmth of home-cooked goodness with this irresistible treat!
Pumpkin Roll Ingredients
For the Cake
- 3 large eggs – essential for providing moisture and structure to your Pumpkin Roll.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – adds sweetness and helps achieve a beautiful golden color.
- ⅔ cup pumpkin puree – the star ingredient that infuses a rich flavor and moistness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – a hint of vanilla amplifies the overall sweetness and aroma.
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour – serves as the base, helping the cake rise and maintain its shape.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – provides leavening, ensuring the cake is light and fluffy.
- ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice – enhances the fall flavor profile with a warm blend of spices.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors throughout.
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened – creates a rich, creamy layer that complements the cake perfectly.
- 1 cup powdered sugar – sweetens the filling and gives it a smooth texture.
- 6 tablespoons butter, softened – adds richness and helps create a creamy consistency in the filling.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling) – further enhances the flavor of the cream cheese mixture.
For the Finishing Touch
- Powdered sugar for dusting – adds a lovely touch of elegance and sweetness on top before serving.
This Pumpkin Roll recipe is not just a treat; it's an experience filled with warm flavors that'll make your kitchen feel like fall itself!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Roll
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and preparing your 10×15-inch jelly roll pan. Line the pan with parchment paper, ensuring it sticks well, and lightly grease it for easy release of your delicious Pumpkin Roll after baking.
Step 2: Mix Eggs and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together 3 large eggs and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is thick and pale, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in ⅔ cup of pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing well until everything is thoroughly blended and smooth.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together ¾ cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the pumpkin batter, mixing gently until just combined, to maintain the light texture of your Pumpkin Roll.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and gently spread it using a spatula. Tap the pan firmly to release any air bubbles, then place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the top springs back when lightly touched, signaling it's ready to come out.
Step 5: Roll the Cake
Once baked, turn the cake out onto a kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Carefully peel off the parchment paper as you roll the cake from the short end using the towel for support. This technique helps the cake maintain its shape while cooling, so let it rest completely rolled up.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, along with 6 tablespoons of softened butter, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth and fluffy consistency. This creamy filling is what will make your Pumpkin Roll irresistibly delicious!
Step 7: Fill and Roll the Cake
Gently unroll the cooled cake from the towel and spread the cream cheese filling evenly across the surface. Re-roll the cake carefully, not using the towel this time, ensuring the filling stays intact. Wrap the finished Pumpkin Roll tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness.
Step 8: Chill Before Serving
Place the wrapped Pumpkin Roll in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This chilling time helps the flavors meld together and makes slicing much easier when it’s time to serve. Once chilled, dust the roll with powdered sugar for a lovely, sweet touch before slicing into pieces.
Pumpkin Roll Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and add your own twist to this delightful Pumpkin Roll!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. It will still hold together wonderfully.
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Dairy-Free: Replace cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use plant-based butter for the filling. Enjoy the same creamy richness without the dairy!
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Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for an extra crunch. It elevates the texture and flavor beautifully.
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Extra Spice: Boost the flavor by incorporating ¼ teaspoon of ground ginger or nutmeg into the batter. This adds warmth and enhances the fall vibe even more.
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Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the filled roll before refrigerating. This will create a decadent layer that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Instead of powdered sugar on top, mix powdered sugar with a dash of cinnamon for a warm, comforting finish that complements the pumpkin flavor.
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Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl: Before rolling, swirl in some pumpkin puree mixed with cinnamon and sugar into the cream cheese filling. This adds a vibrant touch and a fun flavor surprise.
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Layer of Fruit: Include thin slices of fruit like bananas or pears in the filling for a refreshing twist that adds natural sweetness and texture.
These variations will make your Pumpkin Roll a signature dessert that you can enjoy and share in countless delightful ways!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Roll
Fridge: Keep your Pumpkin Roll wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This will help maintain its freshness and delicious creaminess.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy your Pumpkin Roll later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Thawing: To use a frozen Pumpkin Roll, transfer it to the fridge for 6-8 hours before serving. This gradual thawing will maintain its texture.
Serving: Slice the Pumpkin Roll while it's chilled for clean cuts, or let it come to room temperature for a softer, creamy filling experience.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Roll?
Imagine the delight of sharing a sweet, spiced treat alongside some complementary flavors that round out your meal beautifully.
- Warm Spiced Cider: This cozy drink brings out the fall flavors in your Pumpkin Roll while providing a comforting warmth the entire family will love.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a luscious texture and enhances the creaminess of the filling. It's a classic pairing that never disappoints!
- Autumn Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, apples, and walnuts offers a crisp contrast to the sweetness of the roll, balancing the meal perfectly.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and decadent, a scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a traditional pairing that contrasts wonderfully with the spiced cake. It’s a heavenly combination!
- Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea complement the flavors in the Pumpkin Roll, making for a warm beverage to sip alongside your dessert.
- Nutty Biscotti: Serve alongside crisp, nutty biscotti for a delightful texture contrast, adding a satisfying crunch with each bite. These treats are perfect for dipping!
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle some melted chocolate over slices of your Pumpkin Roll for a decadent twist; the rich cocoa enhances the sweetness beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Rolls are excellent for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the cake layer up to 24 hours in advance by baking it and rolling it up in the towel as instructed. Once cooled, simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its moisture. The cream cheese filling can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, unroll the cake, spread the filling, re-roll, and chill for at least 1 hour before slicing. By prepping ahead, you ensure a stress-free dessert with just as much deliciousness waiting for you on busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Roll
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Prepare Your Pan: Make sure to grease and line your pan properly. This prevents the cake from sticking and ensures a smooth roll.
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Fold Gently: When incorporating dry ingredients, fold rather than mix vigorously. This keeps the Pumpkin Roll light and fluffy, avoiding a dense texture.
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Rolling Technique: Roll the cake while it’s warm in a sugared towel. This helps shape the cake without cracking and makes for a beautiful presentation.
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Chill Before Slicing: Allow the Pumpkin Roll to chill for at least an hour. This firms up the filling and helps with clean, even slices.
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Filling Variations: Get creative! Add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese filling for an extra layer of flavor that complements the Pumpkin Roll perfectly.
Pumpkin Roll Recipe FAQs
What are the best pumpkins for making Pumpkin Roll?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree, opt for sugar pumpkins or Libby's canned pumpkin for consistency and flavor. Look for puree without added sugars or preservatives for the best results. Fresh pumpkins can be used, but remember to cook and puree them first, ensuring they are smooth and free from excess moisture.
How do I store leftover Pumpkin Roll?
Very simple! To keep your Pumpkin Roll fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This will help maintain its texture and flavor, keeping every slice delicious!
Can I freeze Pumpkin Roll?
Absolutely! To freeze your Pumpkin Roll, first wrap it really well in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil. This extra layer prevents freezer burn and ensures freshness. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just transfer to the refrigerator to thaw for about 6-8 hours—this gradual process helps keep that lovely soft texture!
What should I do if my Pumpkin Roll cracks when rolling?
Don’t worry—this happens to the best of us! If your Pumpkin Roll cracks, don’t panic. Ensure you roll it while it’s still warm, as this makes it more pliable. If it cracks while rolling, you can use the filling as a “glue” to hold the pieces together. Just spread it over the cracks before serving; trust me, it’ll still look beautiful when dusted with powdered sugar!
Is there a way to make a gluten-free Pumpkin Roll?
Definitely! To make a gluten-free Pumpkin Roll, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. I recommend using a one-to-one gluten-free flour replacement for best results. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t already include it. This way, you can enjoy this delightful fall treat without worries!
Can I give Pumpkin Roll to my pets?
Always remember, while pumpkin itself is often safe for pets, the sugar and cream cheese in this recipe aren't ideal for their diets. If you want to share pumpkin with your furry friends, plain pumpkin puree (with no additives or spices) is a better option.
Delicious Pumpkin Roll: A Cozy Fall Treat to Savor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare your 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together 3 large eggs and 1 cup of granulated sugar until thick and pale.
- Stir in ⅔ cup of pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together ¾ cup of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, and ¼ teaspoon of salt.
- Gradually fold the dry mixture into the pumpkin batter until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 13-15 minutes or until springy.
- Turn the cake out onto a powdered sugar-dusted kitchen towel and roll it up for cooling.
- In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Unroll the cooled cake and spread the filling evenly before re-rolling.
- Wrap the finished Pumpkin Roll in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Dust with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.
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