Pumpkin Roll Recipe

As the leaves change color and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a freshly baked pumpkin roll wafting through your kitchen. This delightful dessert combines the essence of fall spices with a rich cream cheese filling, creating a treat that is both visually stunning and utterly delicious. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this Pumpkin Roll Recipe will quickly become a seasonal favorite in your household.

Why It Deserves a Spot

This Pumpkin Roll Recipe deserves a spot on your dessert table for several reasons. First, it’s a showstopper. When you slice into that beautiful swirl of pumpkin cake and creamy filling, it’s sure to impress your guests. Second, the flavors are spot on for autumn, bringing together the warm notes of cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice. Lastly, it’s surprisingly easy to make, with a simple method that anyone can follow. You’ll love how this dessert combines elegance with comfort, making it perfect for any occasion.

What to Buy

Before diving into the recipe, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2/3 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup confectioners sugar, plus more for serving
• 8 oz brick cream cheese, at room temperature
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup confectioners sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Equipment & Tools

To make the pumpkin roll, you will need a few essential tools:

• Mixing bowls – for combining your ingredients.
• Whisk or electric mixer – to ensure your batter is fluffy and well blended.
• Baking sheet – a jelly roll pan works best for this recipe.
• Parchment paper – to prevent sticking and make rolling easier.
• Clean kitchen towel – for rolling the cake while it’s still warm.
• Spatula – to spread the cream cheese filling evenly.

Make Pumpkin Roll Recipe: A Simple Method

Now, let’s get to the fun part—making our Pumpkin Roll! Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides. This will help you remove the cake easily once baked.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, and salt. Set this mixture aside.

Step 4: Beat the Eggs and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture is thick and pale, about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for a light and airy cake.

Step 5: Add Pumpkin and Vanilla

Gently fold in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract to the egg mixture until combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Carefully add the dry ingredient mixture to the pumpkin batter, folding gently until no flour streaks remain. Be cautious not to overmix.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched lightly.

Step 8: Roll the Cake

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and immediately flip it onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with confectioners sugar. Carefully peel away the parchment paper. Roll the cake up in the towel, starting from the short end, and let it cool completely.

Step 9: Make the Filling

In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese, unsalted butter, sifted confectioners sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy.

Step 10: Unroll & Fill

Once the cake is completely cooled, gently unroll it and spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface.

Step 11: Roll It Up Again

Roll the cake back up (without the towel this time) and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing.

Fit It to Your Goals

This Pumpkin Roll Recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to fit various dietary preferences:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Less Sugar: Reduce the granulated sugar and confectioners sugar for a lighter version.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives to make it dairy-free.
• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for a delightful crunch.

Problems & Prevention

Even with the best of recipes, things can go awry. Here are some common issues and how to prevent them:

• Cake cracks when rolling: Ensure you roll the cake while it’s still warm and use a generous amount of confectioners sugar on the towel.
• Cake is too dense: Make sure to beat the egg mixture well to incorporate enough air.
• Filling is too runny: Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at the right temperature and that you’ve sifted the confectioners sugar.
• Unpleasant taste: Always use fresh spices and ingredients for the best flavor.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

Your Pumpkin Roll can be enjoyed over several days, and here’s how to store it properly:

To store, wrap the pumpkin roll tightly in plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze it. Wrap the roll in plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and serve chilled or at room temperature. For a warm treat, you can heat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds.

Ask the Chef

Can I make the pumpkin roll ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cake and filling a day in advance. Just roll it up and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with pumpkin roll?

It pairs beautifully with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for an added touch of sweetness.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! If you prefer fresh pumpkin, make sure to roast and puree it until smooth. Just ensure it’s not too watery.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

You can make your own by combining equal parts cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. This will give you the warm, spiced flavor that complements the pumpkin perfectly.

One Pan, More Ideas

If you’re inspired by this Pumpkin Roll Recipe, here are some more delicious ideas to try:

• Banana Bread – A classic favorite that never disappoints.
• Avocado Chocolate Mousse – A healthy dessert that’s rich and creamy.
• Easy Vanilla Cake – A versatile base for any celebration.
• Classic Cheesecake – Smooth, creamy, and a perfect complement to fruit toppings.

The Last Word

With its beautiful presentation and scrumptious taste, this Pumpkin Roll Recipe is sure to bring joy to your table. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of fall, and with every bite, you’ll be reminded of cozy gatherings and sweet moments shared with loved ones. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to impress with this delightful dessert that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Enjoy the process, share it with friends, and savor every last slice!