Pumpkin Roll Recipe

Okay friend, get ready—because this Pumpkin Roll is the ultimate fall dessert that never goes out of style. It’s soft, spiced pumpkin cake wrapped around a rich, velvety cream cheese filling. Think of it like a big, edible hug that tastes like autumn and cozy sweaters. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving, a holiday party, or just because Tuesday called for something sweet, this pumpkin roll is always the right choice.

And here’s the best part—it looks super impressive, but it’s easier than you think. A few simple ingredients, some rolling magic, and boom: you’ve got a show-stopper dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe).

Why You’ll Love Pumpkin Roll

There’s something nostalgic and comforting about a pumpkin roll—it feels like home, like celebration, like the holidays. Here’s why this recipe is an all-time favorite:

Beautiful & Impressive
Even though it’s easy to make, it looks like something straight out of a bakery window. That swirl? Pure dessert drama.

Perfectly Spiced
The cake is packed with warm, cozy flavors—cinnamon, nutmeg, maybe a hint of cloves—that just scream fall.

Make-Ahead Friendly
Pumpkin rolls are even better after chilling in the fridge, making them perfect for prepping the day before an event or dinner.

Crowd-Pleaser
Everyone loves it. It’s creamy, soft, sweet, and a little tangy. Basically, it checks all the boxes.

Freezes Like a Dream
Want to keep one on hand for surprise guests or sudden cravings? Wrap it up and freeze—it thaws beautifully!

Ingredients in Pumpkin Roll

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

For the Pumpkin Cake:

• Pumpkin Purée – The star of the show. Make sure you’re using pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
• Eggs – They help the cake stay light and give it structure.
• Granulated Sugar – For sweetness and to balance the spices.
• All-Purpose Flour – The base of the cake—keeps it soft and tender.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda – For just the right rise and fluffiness.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – A cozy blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
• Salt – Just a pinch to bring all the flavors together.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds a little warmth and depth.

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• Cream Cheese – Tangy and rich; it’s what gives the filling that dreamy flavor.
• Butter – Adds creaminess and helps the filling set up.
• Powdered Sugar – For a silky smooth, lightly sweet filling.
• Vanilla Extract – Because everything’s better with a splash of vanilla.

Instructions

Let’s roll (literally)! Here’s how to make this delicious fall favorite:

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, and lightly grease it. This is important so the cake doesn’t stick when you roll it.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and pumpkin purée until smooth. Add vanilla. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cake springs back lightly when touched and a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 4: Roll It Up!

While the cake is still warm, carefully turn it out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted generously with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment paper, then roll the cake up in the towel (yes, with the towel inside!) starting from the short end. Let it cool completely—this helps it “remember” the rolled shape.

Step 5: Make the Filling

In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Unroll and Fill

Once the cake is cool, gently unroll it. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly across the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.

Step 7: Roll It Back Up

Now carefully roll the cake back up (without the towel this time). Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour, or overnight if you can wait that long.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Dust the top with powdered sugar before serving, slice into beautiful swirled pieces, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8–10
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cooling Time: 1 hour (minimum)
Total Time: About 1 hour 35 minutes

How to Serve Pumpkin Roll

This dessert is stunning on its own, but here are a few ways to take it up a notch:

• With Whipped Cream – A little dollop on the side adds lightness.
• Dusting of Powdered Sugar – A final snowy sprinkle makes it extra festive.
• Add Nuts – Chopped pecans or walnuts can be sprinkled inside or on top for crunch.
• Drizzle of Caramel Sauce – For next-level indulgence.

Additional Tips

• Use a Jelly Roll Pan – It’s thinner than a standard baking pan and perfect for rolling.
• Don’t Overbake – You want a soft, flexible cake. Overbaking can make it crack when you roll it.
• Keep the Towel Handy – Rolling the warm cake in a towel helps prevent breaks and gives the cake a memory of that rolled shape.
• Chill for Clean Slices – A cold pumpkin roll slices beautifully and looks extra polished.
• Store Properly – Keep it wrapped in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I freeze pumpkin roll?
A1: Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before slicing.

Q2: Why did my cake crack?
A2: It may have cooled too much before rolling. Rolling it warm helps prevent cracking. A little cracking is okay—it still tastes amazing!

Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
A3: Yes! In fact, it’s better after it’s chilled. You can make it a day or two ahead.

Q4: Can I add nuts to the filling?
A4: You sure can. Chopped pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch and flavor.

Q5: What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
A5: No worries! Mix 1 tsp cinnamon with ¼ tsp each of nutmeg, ginger, and cloves as a quick substitute.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Roll Recipe is one of those desserts that feels special every single time. It’s cozy, creamy, perfectly spiced, and just downright delicious. Whether it’s for the holidays or a random Wednesday, this roll is guaranteed to steal the show—and your heart. So go ahead, whip one up and get ready to wow yourself (and everyone else). You’ve got this!

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