Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe

If you have a soft spot for cozy autumn flavors, you are going to absolutely adore this Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe. It combines a tender, spiced pumpkin cake rolled up with a smooth and tangy cream cheese filling in a way that makes every bite feel like a warm hug. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert for a holiday gathering or a comforting treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee, this pumpkin roll is an irresistible option that balances sweetness and spice perfectly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s wonderful about this recipe is how straightforward and approachable the ingredients are, yet each one plays a critical role in building the vibrant flavor and perfect texture of this pumpkin roll. From the fragrant spices to the richness of cream cheese, everything combines for that classic fall dessert experience.

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the light structure needed for a fluffy cake that rolls easily without cracking.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Adds gentle lift to keep the cake soft and airy.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidic pumpkin puree to give a tender crumb.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses the cake with warm, aromatic spice traditional to pumpkin desserts.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Offers a subtle nuttiness that deepens the spice profile.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a hint of sharpness that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
• 3 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and help create a moist, tender cake.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter without overpowering the spices and pumpkin.
• 2/3 cup canned pumpkin puree: The star ingredient providing moisture, flavor, and that gorgeous orange color.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and rounds out the flavors in the cake.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Used for dusting and sweetening the cream cheese filling for a smooth finish.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates the luscious, tangy filling that perfectly contrasts the spiced cake.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Adds creaminess and richness to the filling.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling): Enhances the sweetness and ties the filling’s flavor together.

How to Make Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe

Step 1: Prepare your pan and oven

Start by preheating your oven to a warm 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, and don’t forget to lightly grease it so the cake releases easily later on. This prep sets the stage for that perfect bake and hassle-free rolling.

Step 2: Mix dry ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in a bowl. This blend of baking agents and spices ensures your cake will be fluffy with all the signature pumpkin pie flavors.

Step 3: Beat eggs and sugar

In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture is thick and pale—this step builds volume for a light cake. Next, mix in the pumpkin puree followed by the vanilla extract for a touch of natural sweetness.

Step 4: Combine wet and dry

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the pumpkin batter until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here as you want to keep that tender crumb intact. Spread the batter evenly into your prepared jelly roll pan, making sure there are no gaps.

Step 5: Bake to perfection

Bake for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when you lightly touch the center. This quick bake time keeps it moist but fully cooked—ready for rolling!

Step 6: Prepare for rolling

While the cake bakes, lay out a clean kitchen towel on a flat surface and dust it generously with powdered sugar. This step is a game-changer, preventing the sticky cake from adhering to the towel during rolling.

Step 7: Roll the cake

Once the cake is out of the oven, carefully invert it onto the sugared towel. Peel off the parchment paper gently, then roll the cake and towel together starting from the short end. Leave it rolled up while it cools completely on a wire rack; this helps the cake “remember” its rolled shape.

Step 8: Make the cream cheese filling

Beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until the filling is silky smooth and fluffy. This rich layer adds the perfect tang and sweetness that makes this Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe extra special.

Step 9: Spread and re-roll

Unroll the cooled cake gently, spread the cream cheese filling evenly across the surface, and then roll the cake back up carefully—this time without the towel. This is where your dessert truly comes alive with that luscious filling.

Step 10: Chill and serve

Wrap your roll snugly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. Chilling helps the filling set and makes slicing easier, giving you clean, beautiful rolls perfect for plates. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if you want an elegant finishing touch.

How to Serve Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar is classic and classy, but you can also sprinkle chopped pecans or drizzle caramel sauce to add crunch and decadence. Fresh whipped cream alongside each slice complements the cream cheese filling beautifully.

Side Dishes

This pumpkin roll shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a creamy chai latte for that perfect afternoon pick-me-up. For a brunch spread, serve it alongside fresh fruit or cinnamon-spiced nuts to continue the fall vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the roll into thick slices and serving them on a wooden board garnished with autumn leaves or cranberries for a festive look. You could also plate individual slices with a drizzle of honey and a sprig of mint to impress guests at holiday gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover pumpkin roll is best kept covered tightly in the refrigerator where it stays fresh for up to 3 days. Proper wrapping prevents the cream cheese filling from absorbing other fridge odors and keeps the cake moist.

Freezing

This Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer, making it a great make-ahead dessert for busy seasons.

Reheating

Since this roll is delicious chilled, reheating isn’t typically necessary. If you prefer it slightly warmed, unwrap and microwave a slice for about 10 seconds—just enough to take the chill off without melting the filling.

FAQs

Can I make this pumpkin roll without spices?

While the spices are what give this dessert its signature flavor, you can reduce or omit them if desired. The cake will still be moist and tasty, but a bit less aromatic and festive.

What type of pumpkin puree is best to use?

Use plain canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, since pie filling already contains added spices and sugar. Pure pumpkin puree gives you full control over the flavor balance.

How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?

The key is to roll the cake while it’s still warm using a powdered sugar-dusted towel. This step softens the cake and “trains” it to roll smoothly. Cooling it rolled up helps maintain the shape.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend designed for cakes, you can enjoy a delicious gluten-free pumpkin roll. Just make sure to check that the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder.

How soon should I slice the roll after assembling?

Chilling the roll for at least an hour before slicing helps the filling set and makes for easier, cleaner slices. If you slice too soon, the filling may squish out and the cake may crumble more.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe is truly a dessert that brings warmth and joy to any table. Its tender cake, cozy spices, and creamy filling offer a delightful combination that’s hard to resist. I encourage you to give it a try, share it with loved ones, and savor the simple comfort that only homemade pumpkin desserts can bring.

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