If you’re looking for a warm, spiced, and creamy dessert, this Pumpkin Roll is the perfect treat! With a soft and moist pumpkin sponge cake rolled up with a sweet, tangy cream cheese filling, it’s an irresistible fall dessert that looks just as good as it tastes. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving, a holiday party, or just a cozy night in, this pumpkin roll recipe will be your new go-to!s to come!
🛒 Ingredients for Pumpkin Roll
For the Pumpkin Cake:
✅ ¾ cup all-purpose flour – The perfect structure for a soft sponge cake.
✅ 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps keep the cake light and fluffy.
✅ ½ teaspoon baking soda – Ensures the perfect rise.
✅ ½ teaspoon cinnamon – Warm and comforting spice.
✅ ¼ teaspoon nutmeg – Adds depth of flavor.
✅ ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
✅ 3 large eggs – Helps bind everything together.
✅ 1 cup granulated sugar – Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
✅ ⅔ cup pumpkin puree – The star of the show!
✅ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavors.
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
✅ 8 oz cream cheese, softened – Rich and creamy texture.
✅ 1 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the filling.
✅ 4 tablespoons butter, softened – Adds extra creaminess.
✅ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For extra depth of flavor.
🍰 How to Make a Perfect Pumpkin Roll (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Pan & Preheat Oven
🔹 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
🔹 Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper. Grease lightly.
Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Cake
🔹 In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
🔹 In another bowl, beat eggs and sugar until thick and fluffy.
🔹 Add pumpkin puree and vanilla, then mix until smooth.
🔹 Gently fold in the dry ingredients until just combined.
🔹 Pour batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
🔹 Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the top springs back when lightly touched.
🔹 While the cake bakes, prepare a clean kitchen towel and dust it with powdered sugar.
Step 4: Roll the Cake While Warm
🔹 Once baked, immediately turn the cake onto the sugared towel.
🔹 Carefully peel off the parchment paper.
🔹 Gently roll the cake with the towel from the short end and let it cool completely.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
🔹 Beat cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until smooth.
🔹 Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until creamy.
Step 6: Fill & Roll the Cake
🔹 Once cooled, carefully unroll the cake.
🔹 Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the cake.
🔹 Re-roll the cake (without the towel) and wrap in plastic wrap.
🔹 Chill for at least 1 hour before slicing.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!
🔹 Dust with powdered sugar, slice, and serve!
🔬 The Science Behind Its Unique Texture
The secret to the perfect pumpkin roll is all about texture. Here’s why it works:
- Eggs – The whipped eggs create a light and airy sponge cake that’s flexible enough to roll.
- Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and natural sweetness without making the cake too heavy.
- Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise just enough to keep it fluffy but not too thick.
- Rolling While Warm – Rolling the cake while it’s still warm prevents cracks and makes it easier to shape.
These elements work together to create a perfectly soft, rollable cake that doesn’t break!
✨ The Magic of Pumpkin Roll
What makes this Pumpkin Roll so special? Let’s break it down!
- 🎃 Moist & Flavorful – The perfect balance of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- 🍰 Light & Fluffy Sponge Cake – Baked thin so it rolls easily without cracking.
- 🧀 Creamy, Tangy Filling – A luscious cream cheese filling that perfectly complements the pumpkin flavor.
- 🏆 Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better the next day!
- 🎨 Gorgeous Presentation – Looks impressive, but it’s surprisingly easy to make!
Once you make this pumpkin roll, it’ll become a family favorite for year
🎯 Tips for the Best Pumpkin Roll
✔️ Use Parchment Paper – Prevents sticking and makes rolling easier.
✔️ Roll While Warm – Keeps the cake from cracking.
✔️ Cool Completely Before Filling – Avoids melting the cream cheese.
✔️ Chill Before Slicing – Helps the flavors blend and makes cutting easier.
✔️ Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree – If possible, homemade pumpkin puree adds extra richness!
These simple tricks will give you a perfect pumpkin roll every time!
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Roll
🎃 Classic Fall Flavors – A perfect blend of pumpkin, cinnamon, and cream cheese.
🍰 Light & Fluffy Texture – Soft cake with a smooth, creamy filling.
🌟 Impressive Presentation – Looks fancy, but it’s easy to make!
🕒 Make-Ahead Friendly – Stays fresh for days!
🍂 Perfect for Holidays – A Thanksgiving and Christmas staple.
🏆 Storage and Freezing Tips
To keep your pumpkin roll fresh, follow these storage tips:
- Refrigerator – Wrap tightly and store for up to 4 days.
- Freezer – Wrap in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months.
- To Serve – Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before slicing.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
✨ Dust with Extra Powdered Sugar – For a classic look.
✨ Drizzle with Caramel Sauce – Adds a sweet touch.
✨ Serve with Whipped Cream – Extra creamy goodness!
✨ Pair with Coffee or Tea – A cozy treat for fall mornings.
No matter how you serve it, this pumpkin roll is guaranteed to impress!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why did my pumpkin roll crack?
A: The cake may have cooled too much before rolling. Always roll it while warm!
Q: Can I use canned pumpkin?
A: Yes! Make sure to use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld.
Q: How do I get an even roll?
A: Roll gently and don’t press too hard while shaping the cake.
🍽️ Conclusion
This Pumpkin Roll is the ultimate fall dessert, combining moist, spiced pumpkin cake with a rich, creamy filling. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a weekend treat, it’s a show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. So grab your pumpkin puree, preheat your oven, and bake up this classic holiday favorite! 🍂🎃🍰
