Pumpkin Roll

Pumpkin Roll is a classic fall dessert featuring a light, spiced pumpkin sponge cake filled with sweet, tangy cream cheese frosting. Rolled up into a beautiful swirl, this impressive treat is surprisingly easy to make and always a showstopper for Thanksgiving, holiday gatherings, or cozy autumn afternoons.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious combination of moist pumpkin cake and rich cream cheese filling.
• Looks impressive but is easy to make with simple steps.
• Perfect for make-ahead — it actually tastes better chilled!
• Freezer-friendly for holiday prep.
• A timeless fall dessert that everyone loves.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ⅔ cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar for dusting

directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until thick and pale. Mix in the pumpkin puree and vanilla.
4. Gently fold in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 13–15 minutes, until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
6. While the cake bakes, lay out a clean kitchen towel and dust it generously with powdered sugar.
7. Immediately turn the hot cake onto the prepared towel, peel off the parchment, and roll the cake up gently (starting from a short side) with the towel inside. Cool completely on a wire rack.
8. Make the filling: Beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
9. Carefully unroll the cooled cake. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the cake, leaving a small border.
10. Re-roll the cake (without the towel). Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes about 8–10 slices
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour or more

Variations

• Add chopped toasted pecans or walnuts to the filling for crunch.
• Sprinkle extra cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice in the filling for more warmth.
• Make it extra festive by drizzling with caramel sauce before serving.
• Use maple extract in the filling for a sweet fall twist.

storage/reheating

Wrap Pumpkin Roll tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the whole roll (wrapped in plastic and foil) for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

FAQs

What is a Pumpkin Roll?

A Pumpkin Roll is a spongy pumpkin cake rolled up with cream cheese frosting, creating beautiful swirls when sliced.

How do I keep the cake from cracking?

Roll the cake while it’s warm — this helps prevent cracks.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better chilled and can be made 1–2 days in advance.

Can I freeze Pumpkin Roll?

Absolutely — wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 2 months.

What’s the best towel to use for rolling?

Use a clean, thin kitchen towel (not terrycloth) dusted generously with powdered sugar.

Can I use fresh pumpkin puree?

Yes — just make sure it’s well-drained and smooth.

Why is my cake dry?

Be careful not to overbake it — it should spring back when touched.

What else can I fill it with?

Try a mascarpone filling, whipped cream, or add caramel sauce for a twist.

How do I slice it neatly?

Use a sharp serrated knife and wipe the blade between cuts.

Can I add nuts?

Yes! Chopped pecans or walnuts are delicious mixed into the filling or sprinkled on top.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Roll is a timeless dessert that never fails to impress. With its light, spiced pumpkin cake and creamy filling, this classic treat is perfect for cozy fall days, Thanksgiving tables, and holiday gatherings. Make one this season and enjoy every delicious swirl!

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