Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Recipe

If you’re looking to bring autumn right into your kitchen, this Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Recipe is an absolute must-try that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds. Imagine a soft, spiced pumpkin sponge rolled around a luscious, velvety cream cheese filling that melts in your mouth with every bite. This dessert is more than just a treat; it’s a classic fall celebration in cake form, pairing seasonal spices and pumpkin puree for the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or just a cozy night in, this Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Recipe promises smiles at the serving table and comfort in every slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet essential, each one playing a vital role in creating the texture, flavor, and visual appeal of your pumpkin roll. From the spices that give it its autumnal charm to the cream cheese filling’s rich smoothness, everything here works together beautifully.

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for a soft, tender cake.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise perfectly for that light spongy texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidic elements to give the cake lift.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the batter.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses the cake with warm, aromatic spice.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds depth and complexity to the spice profile.
• 3 large eggs: Bind everything while adding richness and moisture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens just enough and helps create a tender crumb.
• 2/3 cup canned pumpkin puree: Gives that unmistakable pumpkin flavor and moistness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a sweet, mellow note.
• Powdered sugar (for dusting): Perfect for adding a refined finish and preventing sticking when rolling.

Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened): The star of the filling with creamy tanginess.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting while keeping it silky smooth.
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and helps the filling spread beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the cream cheese filling with a delicate sweetness.

How to Make Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat

Begin by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan thoroughly and line it with parchment paper; then lightly grease the parchment itself. This careful prep ensures your cake doesn’t stick and will roll out smoothly without any hiccups later on.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This blend will provide the perfect spice balance and texture base for your pumpkin roll’s tender crumb.

Step 3: Beat Eggs and Sugar, Add Pumpkin and Vanilla

In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the granulated sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is thick and light in color—this aerates the batter for that soft texture. Next, mix in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the wet batter just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can toughen the cake, so gentle folding is key to keeping it soft and fluffy.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared jelly roll pan and spread it gently to cover every corner. Bake for 13 to 15 minutes until the top springs back at a light touch—a sign your cake is perfectly baked but still soft enough to roll.

Step 6: Roll the Cake in Powdered Sugar-Dusted Towel

As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, loosen the edges and carefully invert it onto a clean kitchen towel generously dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment paper gently, then roll the cake along the short edge inside the towel. This rolling while still warm helps the cake form its signature shape without cracking. Let it cool completely while rolled.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

Beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, unsalted butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture is velvety smooth and creamy—this filling is what takes the pumpkin roll to the next level with its sweet tang.

Step 8: Unroll, Fill, and Re-Roll

Once the cake has cooled, carefully unroll it and spread the cream cheese filling evenly across the entire surface. Then re-roll the cake, this time without the towel, to secure the filling inside. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and chill for at least an hour to let all the flavors meld perfectly.

How to Serve Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a snowy finish, but you can also sprinkle finely chopped toasted pecans for a delightful crunch and nutty contrast to the creamy filling. A light drizzle of caramel sauce or a handful of fresh cranberries alongside can bring an extra festive flair.

Side Dishes

Enjoy your pumpkin roll alongside a cup of hot coffee, chai tea, or even mulled cider to complement the warm spices and creamy sweetness perfectly. For a brunch spread, pair it with fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced flavor experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the pumpkin roll into smaller rounds to create bite-sized treats for parties, served on decorative plates or tiered tray arrangements. You can also cut thick slices and offer a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream alongside for an indulgent dessert twist that everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, your pumpkin roll will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures the cake stays moist and the filling fresh, making it perfect for preparing ahead of time for gatherings or just to enjoy over a couple of days.

Freezing

If you want to save your pumpkin roll for a longer period, freezing is a great option. Wrap the whole roll snugly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and freeze for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

To enjoy your pumpkin roll a little warmer, simply let it come to room temperature then warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat as the cream cheese filling can soften too much. This quick step brings back that freshly-baked feeling in no time.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Fresh pumpkin can be used, but it requires cooking and pureeing first to achieve the right consistency. Also, canned pumpkin puree tends to have a more consistent moisture level, which ensures your cake turns out just right every time.

What if I don’t have a jelly roll pan?

If you don’t have a jelly roll pan, you can use a rimmed baking sheet of similar size. Just be mindful to adjust baking time slightly and to handle the cake carefully when rolling since the thickness may vary.

How can I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?

The secret is to roll the cake while it’s still warm and using a powdered sugar-dusted clean towel. This helps the cake flex gently without breaking. Also, avoid overbaking; a very dry cake cracks more easily.

Can I make the Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Recipe vegan?

To veganize this recipe, swap eggs with flax eggs, use dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives, and ensure the sugar is vegan-friendly. Keep in mind texture and flavor might vary slightly but you can still get a delicious result.

What’s the best way to slice the pumpkin roll?

Use a sharp serrated knife and wipe it clean between each slice to keep the edges neat and avoid dragging the filling. This technique ensures clean, beautiful slices that look as good as they taste.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Recipe that combines the best of fall flavors in a cake you’ll want to make again and again. It’s surprisingly simple to create, yet elegant and celebratory enough to impress any guest. I can’t encourage you enough to give this recipe a try—you’ll find it quickly becomes a beloved favorite, perfect for cozy moments and festive occasions alike.

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