Pumpkin Roll – Classic Fall Dessert With Creamy Filling

This Pumpkin Roll is a classic fall dessert featuring a spiced pumpkin cake rolled up with a creamy, sweet cream cheese filling. Perfect for impressing guests at holiday gatherings, this dessert is both beautiful and delicious. The cake is soft and flavorful, and the filling adds a delightful richness. With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you can create a treat that's ideal for any festive occasion.

This Pumpkin Roll recipe brings together the warm flavors of cinnamon and pumpkin in a soft, spiced cake rolled up with a creamy, sweet filling. Ideal for autumn celebrations, it’s a classic treat that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.

INGREDIENTS

• All-Purpose Flour (3/4 cup): Forms the base of the cake and provides structure.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• Baking Soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the cake rise and keeps it light.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth to the cake’s flavor.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice (1 teaspoon): A blend of fall spices that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
• Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cake and adds moisture.
• Large Eggs (3): Provides structure, stability, and richness to the batter.
• Canned Pumpkin (2/3 cup): Adds moisture, flavor, and a lovely orange color.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the flavor of the cake.
• Cream Cheese (8 ounces): Softened to create a smooth, creamy filling.
• Butter (2 tablespoons): Softened, adds richness to the filling.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Adds flavor to the cream cheese filling.
• Powdered Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the filling and creates a smooth texture.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan with non-stick spray and line with parchment paper, leaving extra overhang on the long sides.

Step 2:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice until well combined. Set aside.

Step 3:

In another bowl, mix the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and canned pumpkin until the mixture is smooth.

Step 4:

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined and no dry streaks remain.

Step 5:

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6:

Immediately lift the parchment paper with the hot cake out of the pan and place it on a flat, heat-safe surface. Starting from a short end, gently roll the warm cake and parchment paper together. Let the rolled cake cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 7:

For the filling, beat the softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy.

Step 8:

Once the cake has cooled completely, carefully unroll it. Spread the filling evenly over the surface, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.

Step 9:

Roll up the cake tightly, this time without the parchment paper. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Step 10:

Dust the top with powdered sugar if desired, then slice and serve.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve chilled or at room temperature with a dusting of powdered sugar on top.
• For clean slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts.
• Store leftovers tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Helpful Notes

• Roll the cake while it’s hot to prevent cracking and help it hold shape.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the filling to avoid melting.
• Use canned pumpkin or homemade puree for best results, but avoid pumpkin pie filling.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef Martha Stewart recommends lightly dusting the cake with powdered sugar before rolling to prevent sticking.
• Chef Ina Garten suggests using high-quality vanilla extract for the filling to enhance flavor.
• Chef Mary Berry advises chilling the roll for at least an hour to help it set firmly before slicing.

WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE

• Classic flavors of fall in every bite.
• The spiced cake and creamy filling create a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
• Beautiful presentation, ideal for holiday gatherings and celebrations.
• Simple to make and can be prepared in advance.

VARIATIONS

• Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the filling for a crunchy texture.
• Try a maple-flavored filling by substituting vanilla extract with maple extract.
• Use a gingerbread spice blend instead of pumpkin pie spice for a different holiday twist.
• Add a layer of caramel sauce inside the roll for added richness and sweetness.