Classic Pumpkin Roll

A Pumpkin Roll is a timeless fall dessert that blends the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin and spice with a creamy, sweet filling. Soft, spiced sponge cake rolled around a luscious cream cheese frosting creates a visually stunning and delicious treat perfect for holidays, gatherings, or cozy autumn evenings. With its light texture and beautiful swirl, this dessert is both elegant and approachable, making it a festive favorite that never fails to impress.

Ingredients

For the Pumpkin Roll:
▢ 3 large eggs
▢ 1 cup granulated sugar
▢ ⅔ cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
▢ ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
▢ ¾ cup all-purpose flour
▢ 1 teaspoon baking powder
▢ 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
▢ ½ teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Filling:
▢ 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
▢ 4 tablespoons salted butter, softened
▢ 1 cup powdered sugar
▢ ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Introduction

Few desserts capture the spirit of autumn quite like a Pumpkin Roll. With its tender pumpkin sponge cake infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, and its creamy, tangy cream cheese center, it’s a delightful combination of flavor and texture. Each slice reveals a beautiful spiral, making it as appealing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Though it looks impressive, the process is surprisingly simple. Rolling the warm cake in parchment paper helps set its shape, and the filling comes together in minutes. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or craving something festive to enjoy with coffee, this pumpkin roll is a must-have seasonal classic.

Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving some extra on the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until thick and pale. Add the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the cake springs back lightly when touched in the center. Do not overbake, as the cake should remain soft and flexible for rolling.

Step 4: Roll the Cake

While the cake is still warm, lay a clean kitchen towel or a sheet of parchment paper on your work surface and sprinkle it with powdered sugar. Carefully invert the cake onto the prepared towel, then gently peel off the parchment paper from the bottom. Starting from the short end, roll the cake up in the towel. Allow it to cool completely while rolled up — this helps prevent cracking later.

Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until light and fluffy. Chill briefly if needed to firm up the filling before spreading.

Step 6: Assemble the Pumpkin Roll

Once the cake has cooled, carefully unroll it. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly across the surface, leaving a small border around the edges. Gently re-roll the cake without the towel, using even pressure to create a tight spiral. Wrap the roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set before slicing.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar for a decorative finish. Slice into even rounds and serve chilled or at room temperature. Each slice will display a stunning swirl of cake and filling — the hallmark of a perfect pumpkin roll.

Tips for Success

1. Roll while warm: Rolling the cake immediately after baking ensures it keeps its shape and doesn’t crack later.
2. Use pumpkin puree only: Avoid pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices.
3. Don’t overbake: Overbaking can dry the cake, making it harder to roll.
4. Cool completely: Always cool the cake before adding the filling to prevent melting.
5. Chill before slicing: Refrigerating helps the roll firm up, creating cleaner slices.

Variations

Maple Cream Cheese Filling: Add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon to the filling for a rich, autumnal twist.
Nutty Pumpkin Roll: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the batter before baking for added crunch.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over the chilled roll for an elegant finish.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pumpkin roll as a centerpiece dessert at Thanksgiving or Christmas. It pairs beautifully with coffee, spiced chai, or hot apple cider. For an extra festive touch, garnish each slice with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or crushed pecans.

Storage and Make-Ahead

The pumpkin roll can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze the roll (un-sliced) for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make the pumpkin roll ahead of time?
Yes, it actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours or overnight, as the flavors meld together beautifully.

2. Why did my roll crack?
The cake likely cooled too long before rolling. Always roll while warm to prevent cracking.

3. Can I use store-bought frosting instead of homemade?
You can, but homemade cream cheese filling gives a richer, fresher flavor.

4. How do I make the roll more festive?
Add a light dusting of powdered sugar, drizzle with white chocolate, or sprinkle crushed nuts on top before serving.

5. Can I freeze slices of pumpkin roll?
Yes, wrap individual slices in parchment paper and store in an airtight container for easy, grab-and-go desserts.

Print

Conclusion

A Pumpkin Roll is a show-stopping dessert that delivers big flavor with simple ingredients. The soft, spiced pumpkin sponge combined with a luscious cream cheese filling makes every bite irresistible. Whether served at a holiday feast or enjoyed on a crisp autumn evening, this classic roll is sure to impress with its comforting flavor, elegant presentation, and perfect balance of sweetness and spice.