Introduction

As autumn arrives, the essence of pumpkin spice fills the air, and what better way to celebrate than with a delightful pumpkin roll? This dessert, with its tender pumpkin cake rolled around a rich cream cheese filling, is a perfect centerpiece for any fall gathering.

Not only does this pumpkin roll look stunning when sliced, showcasing its beautiful spiral, but it also delivers a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave your guests craving more. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you to create a scrumptious treat that embodies the spirit of the season.

Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or simply a comforting dessert at home, a pumpkin roll can easily become a cherished family favorite. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation that will help you achieve this impressive dish.

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
The main structure of the roll, providing a delicate texture. The flour absorbs moisture and contributes to the overall stability of the cake.
1 teaspoon baking powder
This leavener helps the cake rise, giving it a light, airy texture. It's crucial for achieving the right bounce in the cake.
1 teaspoon baking soda
This ingredient enhances the leavening process, particularly in combination with acidic components like pumpkin puree, ensuring the cake has the right lift.
1/2 teaspoon salt
Salt amplifies the flavors of the other ingredients and balances the sweetness. It’s essential for a well-rounded taste.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cinnamon infuses the cake with warm, fall flavors, enhancing the pumpkin and providing the nostalgic taste we associate with autumn.
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
This spice adds a layer of complexity and warmth to the flavor profile, complementing the pumpkin beautifully.
1 cup granulated sugar
Sugar not only sweetens the cake but also contributes to its moisture and helps create a tender crumb.
3 large eggs
Eggs provide moisture, richness, and act as a binding agent, giving the cake its structure and helping it rise.
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
The star ingredient, pumpkin puree adds moisture and a subtle sweetness while infusing the cake with its iconic flavor.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla amplifies the other flavors, adding a hint of sweetness and warmth that rounds out the cake's taste.
8 oz cream cheese, softened
Cream cheese creates a rich and tangy filling, contrasting beautifully with the sweet pumpkin cake and enhancing the overall flavor.
1/2 cup powdered sugar
Powdered sugar sweetens the cream cheese filling and helps create a smooth, spreadable texture without any grittiness.
1 teaspoon milk
A touch of milk helps loosen the cream cheese filling, making it easier to spread and ensuring a creamy consistency.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Preheating ensures your cake gets the heat it needs from the start to rise properly. Lining the baking sheet prevents sticking, allowing for easy removal after baking.

Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

This step combines dry ingredients evenly and incorporates air, ensuring a balanced mix of flavors and proper leavening throughout the cake when it bakes.

Step 3: In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until thick and light in color.

Whipping the eggs and sugar aerates the mixture, which helps the cake rise and contributes to a fluffy texture. The light color indicates that enough air has been incorporated.

Step 4: Stir in the pumpkin and vanilla extract into the egg mixture until well blended.

Adding pumpkin and vanilla now ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. The moistness from the pumpkin also begins to soften the batter.

Step 5: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture until just combined.

Folding prevents overmixing, which can develop gluten and make the cake dense. This technique keeps the batter light and airy, essential for a sponge-like texture.

Step 6: Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly.

An even layer allows for uniform baking, ensuring every part of the cake sets correctly and rolls up nicely later without cracking.

Step 7: Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Checking for doneness with a toothpick prevents overbaking. A soft yet firm cake is essential for rolling; it shouldn’t be too dry or too moist to roll easily.

Step 8: While the cake bakes, prepare a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar.

This towel will help prevent sticking when rolling the cake. The powdered sugar adds flavor and absorbs moisture, making the rolling process smooth.

Step 9: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and immediately invert it onto the prepared towel.

Inverting the cake while it's still warm helps maintain its shape and prevents it from sticking to the baking sheet, which could cause tearing.

Step 10: Carefully peel off the parchment paper and roll the cake with the towel inside, starting from one edge.

Rolling the cake while it's hot helps set its shape and makes it more pliable, reducing the chances of cracks when you unroll it later.

Step 11: Let the rolled cake cool completely in the towel.

Cooling in the rolled position is important for maintaining the spiral shape. As it cools, it solidifies, holding its form better when filled.

Step 12: Meanwhile, make the cream cheese filling by beating the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth.

This step ensures that the filling is creamy and easy to spread. Proper mixing removes lumps, resulting in a deliciously smooth filling.

Step 13: Once the cake is cooled, carefully unroll it and spread the cream cheese filling evenly across the surface.

Spreading the filling evenly ensures every bite contains the creamy goodness. Rolling back up gently helps maintain the integrity of the cake.

Step 14: Roll the cake back up without the towel and chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before slicing.

Chilling helps firm up the cream cheese filling, making it easier to slice the roll. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.

Step 15: Slice and serve! Enjoy this delightful pumpkin roll with cream cheese filling as a seasonal treat.

Slicing carefully is key to revealing the beautiful swirl. This is the moment to savor your hard work—every bite will be a celebration of fall flavors.

Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Recipe step photo

The Perfect Roll: Achieving a Flawless Shape

One of the key elements in making a pumpkin roll is ensuring that the cake is rolled tightly and properly. The warm cake is more pliable, allowing it to hold its shape without cracking. Using a kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar not only absorbs excess moisture but also adds a bit of sweetness, which compliments the flavors of the pumpkin and cream cheese filling.

Tips for the Cream Cheese Filling

The cream cheese filling is the star of this dessert, and achieving the right texture is essential. Make sure the cream cheese is softened adequately; this helps in blending evenly with powdered sugar and milk. If you find the filling is too thick, add a little milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. This will make it easier to spread on the pumpkin cake.

Customizing Your Pumpkin Roll

While this recipe yields a classic pumpkin roll, there's plenty of room for creativity. Consider adding in chocolate chips for a touch of indulgence or incorporating chopped nuts for added texture. Adding a sprinkle of ginger or cloves can also enhance the flavor profile, making it unique to your taste or seasonal palate.

FAQs

What if my pumpkin roll cracks when rolling?

If your cake is too dry or overbaked, it may crack. Next time, ensure to bake until just firm and roll while it's still warm.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, but be sure to roast and puree it until it's smooth. Canned pumpkin offers convenience and consistent moisture.

What can I do if the cream cheese filling is too runny?

Add a little more powdered sugar to thicken it. Mix until the desired consistency is achieved.

How can I enhance the flavor of my pumpkin roll?

Consider adding spices like ginger or allspice for an added warmth, or experiment with flavored extracts to elevate the taste.

Is it possible to make a chocolate version of this pumpkin roll?

Absolutely! Substitute part of the flour for cocoa powder and adjust the sugar slightly for a chocolate twist.

Can I scale this recipe down for smaller serving sizes?

Yes, you can halve the ingredients, but be cautious with baking time, checking for doneness earlier.

Conclusion

Creating a pumpkin roll with cream cheese filling is more than just baking; it's an experience that captures the essence of fall. Each slice reveals a perfect swirl, offering a delicious bite that wraps up warmth and nostalgia.

With its lovely presentation and delightful flavors, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Embrace the spirit of the season and enjoy your homemade pumpkin roll with a sense of pride and satisfaction.

Recipe Card

Print Pin