The Perfect Pumpkin Roll Recipe

 Few desserts capture the essence of fall quite like a pumpkin roll. This sweet and spiced treat combines a light, fluffy pumpkin cake with a rich cream cheese filling, rolled together into a stunning spiral that’s as satisfying to look at as it is to eat. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or just indulging in the coziness of autumn, this recipe will help you achieve pumpkin roll perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Fall Flavors: Warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and the earthy sweetness of pumpkin make this dessert a seasonal favorite.
• Impressive Presentation: The swirl of cream cheese filling makes this a show-stopper, perfect for entertaining.
• Easier Than You Think: While it looks sophisticated, it’s surprisingly simple with step-by-step instructions.

Ingredients You'll Need

For the Pumpkin Cake:

• 3/4 cup (95g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2/3 cup (150g) pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Extras:

• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Parchment paper to aid rolling

How to Make a Pumpkin Roll

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to use as handles when removing the cake later. Lightly grease the parchment paper to ensure easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Cake Batter

1. Combine the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt) in a medium bowl.
2. In a larger mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until thick and pale, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the pumpkin purée and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared jelly roll pan. Spread it out smoothly with a spatula. Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched. Do not overbake—it needs to stay soft and pliable for rolling.

Step 4: Roll the Cake While Warm

Once out of the oven, carefully invert the warm cake onto a clean kitchen towel generously dusted with powdered sugar. Gently peel away the parchment paper. Starting from the narrow end, slowly roll the cake up with the towel (this helps form the structure without cracking). Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

While the cake cools, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 6: Fill and Roll

Once cooled, unroll the cake gently. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll the cake back up (without the towel this time) and place it seam-side down. Wrap it in plastic wrap to help it hold its shape and refrigerate for at least an hour.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Before serving, dust the pumpkin roll with powdered sugar for a festive finish. Slice into rounds and watch your guests marvel at the beautiful cream cheese spiral.

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Purée: Ensure it’s 100% pumpkin for the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Towel Rolling: Rolling the cake when warm prevents cracks later.
• Chill Time is Key: Refrigerating the rolled cake helps set the filling and makes slicing easier.
• Make Ahead: A pumpkin roll can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month. Just thaw before slicing.

Variations to Try

• Nut Lovers: Add finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling or sprinkle them on top for added crunch.
• Spice it Up: Experiment with other spices like allspice or cardamom for a unique twist.
• Chocolate Lovers: Add cocoa powder to the cake batter or mix mini chocolate chips into the filling.

Final Thoughts

A homemade pumpkin roll is the perfect embodiment of fall flavors and festive joy. With its tender pumpkin cake and velvety filling, it's a dessert that stands out on any table. Plus, creating that beautiful spiral is oh-so-satisfying!

If you’re already dreaming of making your pumpkin roll, share your results with us in the comments or on social media—we’d love to see your masterpiece!