Classic Pumpkin Roll Recipe

If you adore the cozy flavors of fall wrapped up in a delightful dessert, you are going to fall in love with this Classic Pumpkin Roll Recipe. Imagine a tender, lightly spiced pumpkin sponge cake rolled with a luscious, creamy cream cheese filling—each bite melts in your mouth with the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. This pumpkin roll is an absolute showstopper for any occasion, whether it’s a festive holiday gathering or a simple afternoon treat with your favorite cup of tea. The combination of the soft cake texture and the smooth filling creates a harmony that feels both nostalgic and fresh at the same time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Classic Pumpkin Roll Recipe is surprisingly simple thanks to its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each component has a vital role, contributing to the perfect flavor, texture, and even the gorgeous autumnal color of the dessert.

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the structure to hold the cake together without weighing it down.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Gives the cake a gentle rise that keeps it tender and light.
• 1/2 tsp baking soda: Adds a touch of lift and helps balance the acidity of the pumpkin.
• 1 tsp cinnamon: Brings warm, inviting spice every pumpkin dessert deserves.
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice: A blend of spices that enhances the pumpkin’s natural flavor with hints of nutmeg and cloves.
• 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 3 large eggs: Adds richness and helps to bind the cake ingredients together.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right and helps with tenderness.
• 2/3 cup canned pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that gives the cake a moist texture and beautiful color.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant depth of flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
• Powdered sugar (for dusting and rolling): Prevents sticking while rolling and adds a delicate sweetness on top.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates the creamy filling that contrasts so perfectly with the spiced cake.
• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted: Sweetens the cream cheese frosting smoothly without any lumps.
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened: Adds silkiness and richness to the filling.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (for filling): Infuses the filling with a lovely vanilla note.

How to Make Classic Pumpkin Roll Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and give it a good greasing. This preparation ensures your delicious pumpkin roll will come out cleanly and beautifully every time.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. This blend of dry ingredients is the flavor base that makes this cake uniquely autumnal and perfectly spiced.

Step 3: Make the Batter

In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture is thick, pale, and luscious. This step is crucial for creating a tender cake texture that will roll without cracking. Next, stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be gentle here — you want everything mixed just until combined to keep the cake light and tender.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Spread the batter evenly in your prepared jelly roll pan, smoothing it out to all corners. Bake for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the top springs back when you lightly touch it. This means it is perfectly baked but still moist and pliable — ideal for rolling.

Step 6: Roll the Cake

Sprinkle a clean kitchen towel generously with powdered sugar. When your cake comes out warm from the oven, immediately invert it onto the sugared towel. Carefully peel off the parchment paper and dust the top of the cake with more powdered sugar. Roll the cake tightly in the towel to cool—this great trick sets the classic spiral shape and keeps the cake moist.

Step 7: Prepare the Filling

While the cake cools fully, beat your softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, unsalted butter, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy. This dreamy filling balances every bite of spiced pumpkin in the cake.

Step 8: Assemble the Roll

Unroll the cooled cake gently, spread the cream cheese filling evenly across the surface, and roll it back up carefully—this time without the towel. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to let everything set beautifully.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Before slicing, dust the top with a final sprinkle of powdered sugar to add a touch of elegance. Then cut into slices and enjoy the delightful combination of soft cake and creamy filling with every bite.

How to Serve Classic Pumpkin Roll Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a simple garnish can elevate this Classic Pumpkin Roll Recipe for any gathering. Fresh whipped cream, a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce all bring out the cozy fall flavors with an added textural contrast. A few whole cinnamon sticks on the side look charming and add to the autumnal vibe.

Side Dishes

This pumpkin roll pairs fabulously with warm drinks like spiced chai tea, hot apple cider, or a classic latte. For a fuller dessert spread, consider serving alongside vanilla ice cream or a scoop of cinnamon-spiced whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to get creative with your Classic Pumpkin Roll Recipe, slice it into mini rolls for individual desserts or use a serrated knife to create swirled shapes for festive platters. You can also place slices on a wooden serving board surrounded by gourds and autumn leaves to really capture the season’s spirit.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This pumpkin roll keeps beautifully in the refrigerator wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to maintain moisture and freshness. It’s best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days but often disappears much faster once tasted!

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this Classic Pumpkin Roll Recipe later, wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It freezes well for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best texture.

Reheating

Since this dessert is best served chilled, reheating isn’t necessary. However, if you prefer it slightly less cold, let slices sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving so the cream cheese filling softens slightly.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin, but make sure to cook and puree it very well until smooth and strain off excess moisture. Canned pumpkin puree is convenient and consistent, which makes the Classic Pumpkin Roll Recipe foolproof.

What’s the best way to avoid cracks when rolling the cake?

The key is rolling the cake while it’s still warm using a powdered sugar-dusted towel. This helps set the shape gently and prevents cracks. Avoid rushing this step, and your roll will come out perfectly smooth.

Can I substitute the cream cheese filling with something else?

Definitely! While cream cheese filling is traditional, you can swap it with whipped mascarpone, a simple dusting of cinnamon sugar, or even a spiced buttercream for different flavors and textures.

Is it possible to bake the cake a day ahead?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake and roll it in the towel the day before. Just wrap it tightly and refrigerate overnight. Prepare the filling and assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh.

Can I make this Classic Pumpkin Roll Recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that measures like regular flour, you can adapt this recipe. Be sure to check the blend includes xanthan gum to help maintain the cake’s structure.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Pumpkin Roll Recipe is a wonderful way to capture the essence of fall with a dessert that’s as charming as it is delicious. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a favorite for so many home bakers. Don’t hesitate to whisk up this pumpkin-spiced delight and make your next gathering a little more special — I promise it will earn rave reviews and warm smiles all around.

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