Easy Pumpkin Roll: A Delicious Fall Treat!

Hey there, fellow food lovers! Nyla here from Grill Drip, ready to welcome you into my delicious corner of the internet. I’m all about creating mouthwatering comfort food that turns every meal into something special. And today, we’re diving headfirst into a flavor adventure with one of my all-time favorites: the Pumpkin Roll!

This isn’t just any dessert; it’s a warm, spiced hug in every bite. Think tender pumpkin cake swirled around a luscious cream cheese filling. I’m so excited to share this recipe with you – it’s truly a weeknight winner that doesn’t sacrifice on taste. Get ready to do a little happy dance because this Pumpkin Roll is about to become your new go-to fall dessert!

You see, the best recipes often come from kitchen experiments. A few years back, during a particularly chilly autumn evening, I had a serious craving for something pumpkin-y. I started digging around in my pantry, and after a bit of rummaging, I thought, “Why not try a Pumpkin Roll?”

It was a bit of a happy accident, really. I threw together a simple pumpkin cake batter, whipped up a cream cheese filling, and hoped for the best. The aroma that filled my kitchen while it baked was absolutely heavenly. When I took that first bite of the cooled Pumpkin Roll, I knew I had created something special.

The texture was perfect: soft, moist cake with a creamy, tangy filling. But the flavor – oh, the flavor! The warm spices of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves danced on my tongue, perfectly complementing the sweet pumpkin. It was pure comfort food bliss, and I couldn’t wait to share it with everyone.

This Pumpkin Roll recipe is my way of inviting you to experience that same joy. I want you to feel like you’re right here in my kitchen, cooking alongside me. So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and let’s get ready to make some delicious magic!

INGREDIENTS You Need

This Pumpkin Roll ingredient list is all about bold flavors that actually work together! You can grab these ingredients during your normal shopping trip.

Ingredients for making a pumpkin roll, neatly arranged on a kitchen counter.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour: This forms the base of our tender cake.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder: For that light and fluffy texture.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The quintessential pumpkin spice flavor!
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a warm, zesty kick.
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: A touch of warmth and depth.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the other flavors.
  • 3 large eggs: To bind everything together and create a rich cake.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar: For sweetness.
  • 2/3 cup pumpkin puree: Make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling!
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A touch of flavor magic.
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting: Adds a touch of sweetness and elegance.
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: The star of our luscious filling.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and creaminess to the filling.
  • 3 cups powdered sugar: For the perfect sweetness in the filling.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: More flavor magic for the filling!

No worries if you don’t have ginger or cloves on hand – I use pumpkin pie spice all the time in my Pumpkin Roll. Just use 1 3/4 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice.

This Pumpkin Roll gets its amazing taste from the perfect balance of warm spices and creamy filling. I love adding an extra splash of vanilla extract to my Pumpkin Roll for that extra kick.

Storage tip: make sure the cream cheese is completely softened before blending. This will give the Pumpkin Roll a much more smoother texture.

Let’s Make Some!

This is my favorite part of making Pumpkin Roll – watch the magic happen!

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10×15 inch jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This is crucial for easy removal of the cake after baking.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt. This ensures that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the cake.
  3. In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy. This creates a light and airy base for the cake.
  4. Add the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract to the egg mixture and mix until well combined. The batter should be smooth and a beautiful orange color.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cake.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan and spread it evenly. The batter should be thin and even, ensuring that the cake bakes evenly.
  7. Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. In my kitchen, this Pumpkin Roll usually takes about 14 minutes to bake. It’s important to watch it closely and avoid overbaking.
  8. While the cake is baking, prepare a clean kitchen towel and dust it generously with powdered sugar. This will prevent the cake from sticking to the towel when you roll it.
  9. Once the cake is done, immediately invert it onto the prepared towel. Carefully peel off the parchment paper.
  10. Starting from one of the short ends, roll the cake up tightly in the towel. This is where the magic starts happening! Rolling the cake while it’s still warm will help it hold its shape.
  11. Let the rolled cake cool completely in the towel. This usually takes about an hour.
  12. While your Pumpkin Roll is doing its thing, get ready for some amazing aromas! In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
  13. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  14. Once the cake is completely cooled, gently unroll it. Don’t worry if your Pumpkin Roll looks a little cracked – that’s perfectly normal!
  15. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the cake.
  16. Re-roll the cake tightly, without the towel this time.
  17. Wrap the Pumpkin Roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the filling to set.
  18. Before serving, dust the Pumpkin Roll with powdered sugar. Slice and enjoy!

How to Serve Up This!

People literally do happy dances when this Pumpkin Roll hits the table! It’s perfect for those weeknight dinners that need to be special!

I love to enjoy this Pumpkin Roll with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cold, creamy sweetness perfectly complements the warm, spiced flavors of the cake.

For a bold flavor pairing, try serving this Pumpkin Roll with a drizzle of salted caramel sauce. The salty-sweet combination is absolutely irresistible.

This Pumpkin Roll is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any fall gathering. It’s also a great option for potlucks or bake sales. The presentation is so stunning, and every will absolutely love the cream cheese filling.

For an extra wow factor, try decorating the Pumpkin Roll with candied pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

If you have any leftover Pumpkin Roll (which is unlikely!), you can transform it into a delicious bread pudding. Simply cube the cake, soak it in a mixture of eggs, milk, and spices, and bake until golden brown and bubbly.

I’ve also experimented with a fusion variation by adding a layer of Nutella to the cake before rolling it up. The hazelnut flavor pairs beautifully with the pumpkin spice.

FAQs:

Here are some frequently asked questions about this Pumpkin Roll.

Will kitchen newbies succeed with this Pumpkin Roll?

Absolutely! This recipe is designed to be easy to follow, even if you’re new to baking. Just follow the instructions carefully, and don’t be afraid to ask questions if you get stuck.

What if I mess up my Pumpkin Roll? (Spoiler: it’ll still taste incredible!)

Don’t worry if your cake cracks or the filling isn’t perfectly smooth. It will still taste amazing! Baking is all about experimenting and learning, so embrace any imperfections.

How can I prep this Pumpkin Roll for busy weeknights?

You can bake the cake and make the filling a day in advance. Just store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble the Pumpkin Roll when you’re ready to serve it.

Can I freeze this Pumpkin Roll?

Yes, you can! Wrap the Pumpkin Roll tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

What if I don’t have pumpkin puree?

While I highly recommend using pumpkin puree for the best flavor, you can substitute it with butternut squash puree in a pinch.

Can I use a different type of filling?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of cream cheese, you can use a mascarpone cheese filling or even a chocolate ganache.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the towel?

Make sure to dust the towel generously with powdered sugar. This will create a barrier between the cake and the towel, preventing it from sticking.

CONCLUSION:

This Pumpkin Roll is more than just a dessert; it’s a symbol of warmth, comfort, and connection. It brings me so much joy to share this recipe with you, and I hope it becomes a cherished part of your own traditions.

My Pumpkin Roll Flavor Secrets:

  1. Don’t skimp on the spices: The warm spices are what give this cake its signature flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spice combinations to find your perfect blend.
  2. Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the final product. Splurge on good-quality cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract.
  3. Don’t overbake the cake: Overbaking will result in a dry, crumbly cake that is difficult to roll. Watch it closely and remove it from the oven as soon as a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

I’ve tested a few delicious Pumpkin Roll variations, like adding chopped pecans to the cream cheese filling or drizzling the finished roll with chocolate ganache. For Thanksgiving, I love to make a double batch of the classic Pumpkin Roll. For Christmas, I add a touch of peppermint extract to the cream cheese filling. And for a simple weeknight treat, I just dust the Pumpkin Roll with powdered sugar and serve it with a cup of coffee.

I encourage you to trust your taste buds, get creative in the kitchen, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Remember, the best recipes are the ones that are made with love and a little bit of happy accident magic!

I’m so excited for you to try this Pumpkin Roll recipe! I know you’re going to love it as much as I do. Happy baking, and remember to share your delicious creations with me! For more fun pumpkin recipes check out this Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls, Spiced Creamy Pumpkin Roll, and Pumpkin Cannoli Cake Roll.

A close-up shot of a sliced pumpkin roll, showcasing the creamy filling and the spiced cake.

Don’t forget to check out this recipe from Spoonabilities for another tasty take on the classic Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling. Or, if you want something super easy, this Easy Pumpkin Roll Recipe – Tastes Better From Scratch is a great option! You can also find inspiration on Allrecipes with their Cream Cheese Pumpkin Roll Recipe.

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Pumpkin Roll

Appetizing Slices of Homemade Pumpkin Roll

This classic Pumpkin Roll is a delicious and impressive dessert, perfect for fall gatherings. A moist pumpkin cake is filled with a sweet cream cheese frosting, creating a delightful treat that everyone will love.

  • Author: Nyla
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2/3 cup pumpkin puree
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • For the Filling:
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10×15 inch jelly roll pan. Line with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
  3. In a separate large bowl, beat together the sugar, pumpkin puree, and eggs until well combined.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  5. Stir in the nuts, if using.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  7. Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. While the cake is baking, prepare a clean kitchen towel by dusting it generously with powdered sugar.
  9. Once the cake is done, immediately invert it onto the prepared towel. Carefully peel off the parchment paper.
  10. Starting at one short end, roll up the cake and towel together. Let cool completely.
  11. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
  12. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  13. Once the cake is completely cooled, carefully unroll it.
  14. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the cake.
  15. Roll the cake back up tightly, without the towel.
  16. Wrap the pumpkin roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
  17. Before serving, dust the roll with additional powdered sugar, if desired.
  18. Slice and enjoy!

Notes

For an extra festive touch, sprinkle chopped nuts on top of the cream cheese filling before rolling up the cake.

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