Pumpkin Roll Recipe

“This easy homemade pumpkin roll recipe is the perfect fall dessert! Made with spiced pumpkin cake and a rich cream cheese filling, it’s soft, moist, and full of warm flavors. Learn how to make a classic pumpkin roll with simple ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips to prevent cracking. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any holiday gathering. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly and freezer-friendly!”

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting the towel, plus more for serving)
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup pumpkin puree

Filling Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
• 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Prep Ahead

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 13x18x1-inch rimmed baking sheet with butter and line it with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends up the sides.
2. Grease and lightly flour the parchment paper.
3. Lay out a clean, thin kitchen towel on a work surface and generously dust it with 1/4 cup powdered sugar.

Make the Pumpkin Cake Roll

4. In a medium mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, pumpkin spice, and salt. Set aside.
5. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar on high speed for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes pale, thick, and fluffy.
6. Reduce the mixer speed to low and blend in the pumpkin puree until fully incorporated.
7. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Scrape down the bowl and fold a few times with a spatula to ensure even mixing.
8. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the top springs back when lightly pressed. (Note: A dark pan may bake faster.)
9. Immediately turn the hot cake onto the prepared towel, then carefully peel off the parchment paper.
10. Starting from the short end, gently roll the cake along with the towel into a log shape. Place seam-side down and let cool completely on a wire rack for about 1.5 hours.

Make the Filling

11. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until combined.
12. Increase the speed to high and beat for 2-3 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed, until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Assemble the Pumpkin Roll

13. Carefully unroll the cooled cake and spread the cream cheese filling evenly across the surface using an offset spatula.
14. Re-roll the cake, using the towel to help maintain a tight shape.
15. Trim the edges for a neater look, if desired, and dust the roll with powdered sugar.
16. Slice and serve!

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Tips

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: While canned pumpkin works well, fresh pumpkin puree enhances the flavor.
• Avoid Cracking: Roll the cake while it’s still warm to prevent cracks.
• Chill for Cleaner Slices: Refrigerate for 30 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
• Storage: Store in the fridge, wrapped tightly, for up to 3 days.

Variations and Substitutions

• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the filling before rolling.
• Maple Flavor: Swap vanilla extract with maple extract for a fall-inspired twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
• Less Sugar: Reduce the powdered sugar in the filling to 1 cup for a less sweet version.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze a pumpkin roll?
Yes! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Q: My cake cracked. What went wrong?
It likely cooled too much before rolling. Always roll it while it’s still warm.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day after chilling in the fridge.

Serving Suggestions

• With Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage pairs perfectly with this spiced treat.
• Topped with Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Holiday Dessert: Serve at Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings.
• Drizzled with Caramel: Enhance the flavors with a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Spiced: Classic fall flavors of cinnamon and pumpkin spice.
• Soft and Moist: The cake stays tender, and the cream cheese filling is rich and creamy.
• Great for Holidays: A beautiful, crowd-pleasing dessert for any fall celebration.
• Easy to Make Ahead: Make it in advance and serve when ready!

Enjoy your homemade pumpkin roll!