Classic Pumpkin Roll

This Classic Pumpkin Roll features a soft, spongy pumpkin cake wrapped around a creamy, velvety cream cheese filling. The hint of warm spices like cinnamon and ginger adds just the right amount of fall flavor, while the rich, smooth filling takes every bite to the next level. Perfectly dusted with powdered sugar, this dessert is as beautiful as it is delicious.

It’s a classic dessert that will steal the spotlight at any autumn gathering or holiday dinner. Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving or enjoying it on a cozy fall afternoon, this pumpkin roll is sure to be a crowd favorite. Simple, elegant, and utterly delicious, it’s the perfect way to showcase the flavors of the season.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 3 large eggs

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2/3 cup canned pumpkin puree

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for dusting)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and granulated sugar until thick and pale. Stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract.

3. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until well combined.

4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 13-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

5. While the cake is baking, prepare a clean kitchen towel by dusting it generously with powdered sugar. Once the cake is done, immediately turn it out onto the towel and remove the parchment paper.

6. Starting from the short end, carefully roll the cake up with the towel inside. Let it cool completely.

7. For the cream cheese filling: Beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.

8. Once the cake has cooled, carefully unroll it and spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface. Roll the cake back up without the towel.

9. Refrigerate the rolled cake for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving. Dust with additional powdered sugar before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes Kcal: 210 kcal | Servings: 10 servings

Why Pumpkin Roll is the Perfect Fall Dessert

The Pumpkin Roll stands out for a variety of reasons, making it the go-to treat for autumn gatherings. First and foremost, it’s a visual showstopper. The orange hue of the pumpkin cake, contrasted by the creamy filling, makes it not only delicious but also visually appealing. Whether displayed whole or sliced into portions, the swirls of pumpkin and cream cheese are irresistible.

In addition to its appearance, the flavor of the Pumpkin Roll is quintessentially fall. The spices used in the cake, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, evoke the warmth of the season and complement the natural sweetness of pumpkin. The cream cheese filling adds a smooth, rich layer that balances the spices perfectly, creating a harmonious flavor profile that is both indulgent and comforting.

Another reason why the Pumpkin Roll is so well-loved is its versatility. It can be served as a dessert after a hearty Thanksgiving meal, or it can be enjoyed as a treat during casual gatherings with friends and family. Its elegant presentation makes it suitable for both informal and formal occasions, and its delicious flavor appeals to people of all ages.

Making the Perfect Pumpkin Roll

Creating the perfect Pumpkin Roll requires a little bit of attention to detail, but the process is quite straightforward and enjoyable. One of the key steps in making a successful pumpkin roll is ensuring the cake is baked to the right texture. It should be light and spongy, not too dense, which allows it to roll easily without cracking. The right balance of moisture in the cake, achieved through the addition of pumpkin puree, helps create a tender and soft texture.

Another crucial aspect is the cream cheese filling. The filling should be smooth and fluffy, with just the right amount of sweetness to complement the cake without overpowering it. It’s essential to let the pumpkin cake cool completely before spreading the filling to prevent it from melting or causing the roll to fall apart. When rolling the cake, it’s important to do so gently, ensuring the filling stays intact and the roll maintains its shape.

Popular Variations of the Pumpkin Roll

While the Classic Pumpkin Roll is already a beloved dessert on its own, there are several variations that can be explored to add a personal touch or tailor the recipe to different tastes. Some people may opt for different fillings, such as whipped cream or flavored buttercream, to replace the traditional cream cheese filling. These variations can provide a lighter or sweeter option, depending on what you prefer.

Another variation is adding a layer of chocolate or a drizzle of chocolate ganache to the top of the roll. Chocolate pairs wonderfully with the spices in the pumpkin cake, and it adds a rich contrast to the cream cheese filling. Some recipes even incorporate chocolate chips into the cake batter itself for an extra burst of chocolate flavor in every bite.

For those looking to create a more indulgent version of the pumpkin roll, caramel or toffee sauce can be drizzled over the top for added richness. This is especially delightful if you enjoy the combination of pumpkin and caramel, which is a popular flavor pairing during the fall.

Tips for Making the Perfect Pumpkin Roll

To ensure your Pumpkin Roll turns out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:

1. Use parchment paper: Line the baking pan with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking. It also helps when rolling the cake after baking, making the process much easier.

2. Don’t overbake the cake: Keep a close eye on the cake while it’s in the oven. Overbaking can result in a dry cake that is prone to cracking when rolled.

3. Let the cake cool before filling: Always allow the pumpkin cake to cool completely before spreading the cream cheese filling. This prevents the filling from melting and makes it easier to roll.

4. Roll the cake gently: When rolling the cake, do it slowly and gently. Don’t force the roll, as it can cause the cake to break or tear.

5. Chill before slicing: After rolling the cake, refrigerate it for at least an hour to allow the flavors to set and make slicing easier.

Serving Suggestions

The Pumpkin Roll is an incredibly versatile dessert that can be served in various ways. For a festive touch, you can dust the top of the roll with powdered sugar before serving, giving it a delicate, snow-like appearance. It also pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

If you’re hosting a larger event, consider slicing the pumpkin roll into individual pieces and arranging them on a platter. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy without the need for slicing the roll at the table. You could even serve the pumpkin rolls alongside other autumn-inspired desserts like apple pie or pecan pie for a delightful dessert spread.

For a more casual occasion, serving the Pumpkin Roll with a hot beverage like spiced cider or a pumpkin latte enhances the autumnal experience. The flavors of the roll complement the warm spices in these drinks, creating a comforting pairing perfect for cool fall evenings.

Why You Should Make a Pumpkin Roll This Fall

Whether you are an experienced baker or just someone looking to try your hand at a seasonal recipe, the Pumpkin Roll is an excellent choice for a fall dessert. It combines the best of autumn’s flavors and textures, from the spiced pumpkin cake to the creamy filling. It’s not only a treat for your taste buds but also a treat for the eyes, as the beautiful swirl of colors and textures is perfect for the season.

The Pumpkin Roll is also a great way to celebrate the flavors of fall with family and friends. It’s easy to make ahead of time, and it’s a crowd-pleaser that is sure to impress. With its perfect balance of flavors, simple preparation, and seasonal appeal, it’s no wonder the Pumpkin Roll has become a tradition in many households.

Conclusion

The Classic Pumpkin Roll is the quintessential fall dessert. From its origins rooted in autumnal baking traditions to its current place as a holiday favorite, this dessert is a true celebration of the season. With its spongy pumpkin cake and creamy filling, the Pumpkin Roll is a treat that brings warmth, comfort, and a touch of elegance to any occasion. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving, a casual fall get-together, or simply to enjoy during a quiet evening, the Pumpkin Roll is a dessert that never disappoints.