Pumpkin Roll – Classic Fall Dessert with Cream Cheese Swirl

If fall had a signature dessert, the pumpkin roll would be it. With warm pumpkin spice flavors, a tender cake that melts in your mouth, and that irresistible swirl of sweet cream cheese frosting, this recipe captures everything cozy about the season. Stunning enough for a holiday table yet simple enough for a weekend treat, this pumpkin roll is a must-save recipe for fall baking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect balance of cinnamon-spiced pumpkin cake and creamy filling.
• Looks bakery-worthy yet uses simple ingredients.
• Freezer-friendly for make-ahead convenience.
• Nostalgic, festive, and perfect for holiday gatherings.
• A fall classic that delivers flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

Pumpkin Cake:

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 3 large eggs
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2/3 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice together.
3. Beat eggs and sugar until fluffy. Add pumpkin and vanilla, mixing well.
4. Fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined. Spread evenly into prepared pan.
5. Bake 12–14 minutes until cake springs back when touched.
6. Immediately turn cake onto a towel dusted with powdered sugar. Roll cake with the towel while warm and let cool completely.
7. In a bowl, beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
8. Carefully unroll cooled cake, spread filling evenly, and re-roll. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 1 hour before slicing.

Tips & Variations

• Roll the cake while warm to avoid cracking and keep it flexible.
• Add orange zest or maple syrup to the cream cheese filling for extra fall flavor.
• For a chocolate twist, dust with cocoa powder instead of powdered sugar.
• Use reduced-fat cream cheese to make a lighter version without sacrificing taste.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Wrap pumpkin roll tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Chill before slicing for clean cuts.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve alongside hot apple cider, chai tea, or pumpkin spice lattes.
• Garnish slices with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for café-style charm.
• Drizzle with caramel sauce or serve with vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
• Pair with roasted pecans or spiced nuts for crunchy contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a pumpkin roll different from regular cake?

A pumpkin roll is baked in a thin sheet and rolled around a creamy filling, creating a beautiful spiral that combines texture and flavor in every bite, offering a festive alternative to layered cakes.

How do I prevent cracking in my pumpkin roll?

Rolling the cake while it’s still warm is essential to prevent cracks. This helps the cake “remember” its rolled shape as it cools, making unrolling and filling easier.

Can I prepare pumpkin roll ahead of time?

Yes, pumpkin roll can be made 1–2 days ahead and refrigerated, or frozen for up to 2 months. Making it ahead allows the flavors to meld and makes holiday baking less stressful.

Are there filling variations for pumpkin roll?

Yes! Try mascarpone cream, maple frosting, or whipped chocolate ganache for unique twists while retaining that creamy, rich texture.

Ready to Make It?

This pumpkin roll recipe is a cozy slice of fall that brings warm spices, creamy filling, and a beautiful presentation together in one dessert. Whether baking for a special occasion or an indulgent treat, it’s a recipe that invites comfort and celebration. Save it, share it, and enjoy every bite of autumn.

You Might Also Like

• Almond Flour Pumpkin Bread – A healthier, gluten-free pumpkin loaf that’s still full of flavor.
• Pumpkin Bars – Moist, spiced pumpkin bars topped with cream cheese frosting.
• Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake – A creamy twist on the classic holiday pie.
• Pumpkin Cream Pie – Silky smooth pumpkin filling in a flaky crust.

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