Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite, let me introduce you to the Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe. This delightful treat not only brings the cozy flavors of pumpkin and spice to life but also boasts a creamy, luscious filling that perfectly balances sweetness and tang. It’s just the right blend of fluffy cake and smooth frosting rolled up into a beautiful spiral that makes every slice a work of art. Whether you’re preparing for holiday gatherings or just craving an indulgent homemade treat, this recipe promises a delightful experience from start to finish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe starts with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create complex flavors and dreamy textures. Each one plays a crucial role in the final cake’s taste, moisture, and autumnal color, making them absolutely essential.

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender, soft cake that holds its shape.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: A gentle lift for a light texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps with rising and adds a subtle tang.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The warm spice that defines pumpkin desserts.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds depth and a cozy, nutty note.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Provides a touch of zesty heat.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional): Intensifies the spice profile with aromatic richness.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the sweet and spicy flavors.
• 3 large eggs: Bind and add moisture for a tender crumb.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps create a tender cake.
• 2/3 cup canned pumpkin purée: Brings natural pumpkin flavor and moistness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out flavors beautifully.
• Powdered sugar (for dusting the towel): Prevents sticking and adds a hint of sweetness.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Core ingredient for that rich, tangy filling.
• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted: Sweetens the filling without graininess.
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Makes the filling rich and creamy.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the filling’s smooth flavor profile.

How to Make Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper, making sure to grease the paper as well. This careful preparation ensures your pumpkin roll will release easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, optional cloves, and salt. This blend of spices is what gives your pumpkin roll that unmistakable autumn flavor.

Step 3: Beat Wet Ingredients

Next, in a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture turns thick and pale—about 2 to 3 minutes. Then add the pumpkin purée and vanilla extract, mixing gently until smooth and unified.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet pumpkin mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing here to maintain a tender, light cake texture.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan and bake for 13 to 15 minutes. You want the cake to spring back when lightly touched, signaling it’s perfectly baked—not too dry, not too dense.

Step 6: Roll the Cake While Warm

While the cake bakes, prepare a clean kitchen towel by dusting it generously with powdered sugar. Once baked, immediately turn the cake out onto this towel and carefully peel off the parchment paper. Start at the narrow end and roll the cake and towel together into a tight spiral. This step is key to avoid cracks later. Let it cool rolled up for about an hour.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

Beat the softened cream cheese, sifted powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract until the filling is silky and smooth. This luscious filling is the heart of the Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe and elevates the whole dessert to pure indulgence.

Step 8: Unroll, Fill, and Reroll

Once your cake has cooled completely, gently unroll it. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface, leaving a small border all around to prevent overflow. Re-roll the cake tightly but carefully without the towel this time. Wrap it up in plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator for at least one hour to set.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Just before serving, dust the pumpkin roll with powdered sugar for a festive, snowy look. Slice with a sharp knife, and you’re ready to dig into a moist, tender cake intertwined with creamy, dreamy filling.

How to Serve Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe

Garnishes

Dressing up your pumpkin roll is so much fun and adds an extra touch of elegance. Consider a light dusting of extra powdered sugar or even a drizzle of caramel sauce to amplify the fall flavors. Toasted chopped pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon can also add a lovely texture and aroma.

Side Dishes

This pumpkin roll pairs incredibly well with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea, making it a cozy afternoon treat. For a special brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit or lightly whipped cream to balance richness and sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties and gatherings, slice the pumpkin roll into bite-sized pieces and place them on a decorative platter topped with edible flowers or festive autumn leaves. You could also assemble mini pumpkin roll trifle jars layering cake, filling, and a dollop of whipped topping for an impressive twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your pumpkin roll will stay fresh and moist if wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s well covered to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other fridge odors.

Freezing

This Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap it carefully in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for extra protection, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.

Reheating

Generally, this dessert is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer it a touch warmer, allow it to sit out for about 20-30 minutes before serving, but avoid microwaving as it may alter the texture of the cream cheese filling.

FAQs

Can I make this pumpkin roll ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, letting the roll chill in the fridge for a few hours or overnight helps the cream cheese filling set and makes slicing easier. It’s a great dessert to prepare a day in advance.

What can I substitute for canned pumpkin purée?

If you don’t have canned pumpkin, you can cook and mash fresh pumpkin or use pureed butternut squash. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid so your cake batter isn’t too wet.

How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?

Rolling the cake while it’s still warm and using a powdered sugar-dusted towel to assist helps prevent cracks. Be gentle and don’t wait for the cake to cool before rolling for best results.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the filling?

Yes! Adding finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts or even some mini chocolate chips can add texture and a delightful twist to the classic cream cheese filling.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The traditional Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free by default. However, you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe is truly one of those desserts that feels like a special gift to yourself and your loved ones. Its perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and creamy richness makes it a perennial favorite that everyone will ask for again and again. I can’t wait for you to try it and watch those happy smiles as you share each delicious slice!

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