Easy & Delicious Homemade Pumpkin Roll: Your Ultimate Fall Dessert Recipe

Are you ready to impress your friends and family with a dessert that looks incredibly fancy but is surprisingly simple to make? This delicious **pumpkin roll** is your secret weapon! It delivers a show-stopping presentation that suggests hours of culinary mastery, when in reality, it’s a straightforward recipe perfect for any home baker. As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, nothing captures the essence of autumn quite like a perfectly spiced pumpkin roll. This recipe is not just a delightful treat; it’s also a fantastic **make-ahead dessert**, making it the ideal choice for your upcoming holiday gatherings or any festive fall occasion.

Embracing the Flavors of Fall with a Classic Pumpkin Dessert

For too long, my blog has been missing a true pumpkin star, and after nearly two years of sharing recipes, I’m thrilled to finally introduce this magnificent pumpkin roll! Fall is undeniably my favorite time of year, and my love for pumpkin knows no bounds. The rich, warm notes of pumpkin, perfectly complemented by a blend of aromatic spices, create an unparalleled sense of comfort and festivity. This easy pumpkin roll recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s an edible celebration of the season, designed to bring joy and deliciousness to your table.

The Secret to a Simply Irresistible Pumpkin Roll

You might find numerous pumpkin roll recipes online, but I assure you, this particular version is a true standout. It’s a cherished family recipe that has been perfected over time to be incredibly easy to follow, yet yield a dessert that tastes and looks like it came straight from a gourmet bakery. The cake itself is moist, tender, and infused with classic fall spices, providing the perfect canvas for the creamy, tangy cream cheese filling. This combination creates a balance that’s simply divine.

One of the greatest benefits of this pumpkin roll is its versatility as a make-ahead dessert. Preparing it the day before a big event not only saves you precious time on the day of your gathering but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. Simply wrap it and store it in the refrigerator, pulling it out shortly before serving. This convenience makes it an indispensable recipe for busy hosts and a delightful treat for spontaneous autumn celebrations.

Easy Pumpkin Roll Dessert Recipe

Easy Pumpkin Roll Dessert

This recipe delivers a moist and flavorful pumpkin cake, elegantly rolled with a rich, creamy frosting, creating a stunning and delectable dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, especially during the festive fall season.

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Course: Dessert

Author: Jenn

Ingredients

• ▢ **Cake Ingredients:**
• ▢ 3 large eggs
• ▢ 1 cup granulated sugar
• ▢ 2/3 cup canned pumpkin puree (ensure it’s not pumpkin pie filling)
• ▢ 1 tsp. lemon juice
• ▢ 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• ▢ 1 tsp. baking powder
• ▢ 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
• ▢ 1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg
• ▢ 1/2 tsp. ground ginger
• ▢ 1/2 tsp. ground cloves
• ▢ powdered sugar for rolling the cake (plus extra for dusting)
• ▢ **Filling Ingredients:**
• ▢ 1 8-ounce package Neufchatel cream cheese, softened (or regular full-fat cream cheese for a richer flavor and texture)
• ▢ 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted, for a smoother, lump-free filling)
• ▢ 1 tsp. vanilla extract

Instructions

• **Prepare your pan:** Begin by lightly greasing a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan. For an even easier cake release, consider lining the pan with parchment paper, ensuring it extends over the edges to create convenient “handles” for lifting the warm cake later. Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC).
• **Mix the cake batter:** In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale yellow. This process incorporates air, which is essential for a tender cake texture. Gently fold in the canned pumpkin puree and lemon juice until they are just combined. In a separate, medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and ground cloves. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing only until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop the gluten and result in a tough cake. Pour the prepared batter into your jelly roll pan, spreading it evenly across the surface using an offset spatula.
• **Bake and prepare for rolling:** Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The cake should be springy to the touch. While the cake bakes, generously sprinkle a clean, lint-free kitchen towel with powdered sugar. Immediately upon removing the cake from the oven, quickly invert it onto the prepared towel. If you used parchment paper, carefully peel it off the bottom of the warm cake at this point.
• **Roll the cake while warm:** Starting from one of the short ends of the cake, carefully roll the cake along with the powdered sugar-dusted towel. The towel should be rolled *inside* the cake, helping it maintain its shape. Place the rolled cake, still wrapped in the towel, seam-side down on a wire rack to cool completely to room temperature. This step is crucial; rolling the cake while warm helps it “learn” the rolled shape, significantly preventing cracks when you unroll it later to add the filling. While the cake cools, you can begin preparing your delicious cream cheese filling.
• **Prepare the cream cheese filling:** In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s light, smooth, and lump-free. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the mixture is completely smooth and fluffy. Ensure your cream cheese is truly at room temperature before mixing; this is key to achieving a silky-smooth filling.
• **Fill and re-roll the cake:** Once the cake is completely cool (this may take 1-2 hours), gently unroll it from the towel. Carefully spread the prepared cream cheese filling evenly over the entire surface of the cake, leaving a small border (about ½ inch) around the edges. This ensures the filling doesn’t squish out excessively when re-rolling. Carefully re-roll the cake (without the towel this time), starting from the same end you began with.
• **Chill and serve:** Wrap the re-rolled pumpkin roll tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or preferably overnight. Chilling is vital as it allows the cake and filling to firm up, making it much easier to slice cleanly and maintain its beautiful spiral shape. When you’re ready to serve, unwrap the roll, trim the ends for a neat presentation, and slice into ½-inch to 1-inch thick pieces. Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream, an additional dusting of powdered sugar, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts if desired. Enjoy your homemade masterpiece!

Tried this Recipe? Pin it for Later!Mention @JenNikolaus or tag #YummyHealthyEasy!

Expert Tips for a Perfectly Rolled Pumpkin Cake

While the steps are simple, a few expert tips can ensure your pumpkin roll comes out flawless every time, with no cracks and a beautiful spiral:

• **Don’t Overbake Your Cake:** An overbaked cake will be dry and rigid, making it prone to cracking when rolled. Keep a close eye on your oven; the cake should be just set and springy to the touch.
• **Roll While Warm is Key:** The most crucial step! The cake is pliable and forgiving right out of the oven. Don’t let it cool flat on the pan, or it will stiffen and be impossible to roll without breaking.
• **Generous Powdered Sugar Dusting:** Don’t skimp on the powdered sugar for your towel. It acts as a non-stick barrier and helps absorb any surface moisture, ensuring the cake doesn’t stick and unrolls smoothly.
• **Use a Clean Kitchen Towel:** Make sure your towel is lint-free and clean. Any residue can transfer to your cake.
• **Cool Completely Before Filling:** This cannot be stressed enough. A warm cake will melt the cream cheese filling, turning your beautiful spiral into a runny mess. Allow ample time for the cake to cool to room temperature, ideally on a wire rack to allow air circulation.
• **Room Temperature Cream Cheese:** For a super smooth and creamy filling, ensure your Neufchatel (or regular) cream cheese is fully softened. Take it out of the refrigerator at least an hour before you plan to mix the filling. Sifting the powdered sugar also helps prevent lumps.
• **Even Spreading of Filling:** When unrolling and spreading the filling, try to create an even layer from edge to edge, leaving just a tiny border if desired. This guarantees a consistent filling in every slice.
• **Chill Time is Non-Negotiable:** After filling and re-rolling, the pumpkin roll needs time in the refrigerator to set. This firming process is what allows for clean, beautiful slices. Resist the urge to cut it too soon!

Creative Variations and Serving Suggestions

This classic pumpkin roll is delicious on its own, but it’s also wonderfully adaptable! Here are a few ideas to customize your creation:

• **Spice it Up:** Enhance the spice profile by adding a pinch of allspice or a little extra cinnamon to the cake batter. You could also experiment with a dash of cardamom for a unique twist.
• **Add a Nutty Crunch:** Fold finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the cake batter for added texture. Alternatively, sprinkle them over the cream cheese filling before re-rolling for a pleasant crunch in every bite.
• **Decadent Caramel Drizzle:** For an extra layer of sweetness, gently warm some caramel sauce and drizzle it over each slice just before serving.
• **Chocolate Lover’s Delight:** Introduce mini chocolate chips into your cream cheese filling for a delicious pumpkin chocolate chip roll. Dark chocolate pairs wonderfully with pumpkin.
• **Elegant Toppings:** Beyond a simple dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream, consider using a decorative stencil with powdered sugar or cocoa powder for a sophisticated finish.

A Visual Guide to Rolling Your Pumpkin Roll

The magic begins with the roll! Immediately after baking, gently roll the warm cake with the towel inside. This initial roll helps the cake set its shape and prevents cracking later, making the process much easier than it might seem.

Allow the cake to cool completely in its rolled state. Once cooled, carefully unroll it and spread your delicious, fluffy cream cheese filling evenly across the surface. Then, gently re-roll it into its final spiral form.

After a vital chilling period in the refrigerator, your magnificent pumpkin roll is ready! Slice it into elegant rounds and marvel at the beautiful spiral you’ve created. It’s a true feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Enjoy every delightful bite of this seasonal favorite! Whether it’s for a special occasion or a simple autumn afternoon, this pumpkin roll is sure to become a cherished recipe in your baking repertoire.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baking a Pumpkin Roll

What’s the difference between canned pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie filling?

This is a crucial distinction! Canned pumpkin puree is 100% cooked pumpkin. Pumpkin pie filling, on the other hand, already contains added spices, sugar, and sometimes other ingredients. Always use pure pumpkin puree for this recipe, otherwise, the flavor and texture of your cake will be off.

My pumpkin roll cracked when I unrolled it. What went wrong?

Cracking is a common issue, usually due to the cake being overbaked or not being rolled while still warm. Ensure you don’t overbake (a clean toothpick is key) and roll it immediately after it comes out of the oven, with the powdered sugar-dusted towel tucked inside. The initial warm roll “trains” the cake to keep its shape.

Can I make this pumpkin roll recipe gluten-free?

While this specific recipe uses all-purpose flour, many bakers have success substituting with a good quality 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure your blend contains xanthan gum for elasticity, or add 1/2 tsp if it doesn’t.

How long does a pumpkin roll last, and how should I store it?

Because of the cream cheese filling, the pumpkin roll must be stored in the refrigerator. Tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, it will stay fresh for 3-5 days. It’s an excellent make-ahead dessert!

Can I freeze a pumpkin roll?

Absolutely! Pumpkin rolls freeze beautifully. Wrap the entire roll or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 1-2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

If you’ve enjoyed the comforting flavors of this pumpkin roll, you’ll surely love these other delightful recipes, perfect for capturing the essence of autumn and beyond: