Pumpkin Roll: 5 Easy Steps to Cozy Autumn Bliss

Posted on September 26, 2025

Posted by Georgina sami

Oh my goodness, let’s talk about Pumpkin Roll! This delightful dessert is like autumn on a plate—it’s moist, spiced pumpkin cake rolled up with a luscious cream cheese filling that just melts in your mouth. Trust me, every bite is a celebration of fall flavors! I love bringing this to gatherings because it looks so impressive, yet it’s surprisingly easy to whip up. Seriously, I often find myself making this when I’m craving something cozy and comforting, and it never fails to impress my friends and family. The way the warm spices mingle with the creamy filling? Wow! Plus, it’s a perfect make-ahead dessert, so you can prepare it for a special occasion without a last-minute scramble. If you’ve never tried making one, you’re in for a treat—let’s dive into the magic of creating this Pumpkin Roll together!

Looking for the perfect drink to enjoy with your Pumpkin Roll? Try this Pumpkin Spice Latte Mix — warm, cozy, and the ultimate

Pumpkin Roll

Ingredients List

To make this scrumptious Pumpkin Roll, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour – This is the base of your cake, giving it structure.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cake rise and stay fluffy.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda – Adds extra lift for that perfect texture.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – The warm spice that screams fall.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger – For a little zing and warmth.
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg – Adds depth to the flavor profile.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
  • 3 large eggs – Binds everything together and adds moisture.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake perfectly.
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree – The star of the show, providing that delightful pumpkin flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For a touch of sweetness and aroma.
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened – The creamy filling that makes this dessert irresistible.
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the filling just right.
  • 1/4 cup butter, softened – Adds richness to the filling.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling) – Enhances the flavor of the cream cheese filling.

Gather these ingredients, and let’s create something magical together!

How to Prepare Pumpkin Roll

Pumpkin Roll - detail 1

Making a Pumpkin Roll is an exciting process, and I’m here to guide you through each step to ensure it turns out perfectly! Let’s get started!

Prepping the Pan

First things first, we need to prepare our jelly roll pan. Grab a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan and grease it with some butter or non-stick spray. This will help the cake release easily later on! Now, line the bottom with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the edges. This is a game changer when it comes to inverting the cake later. Trust me, you’ll be glad you took this step!

Mixing the Batter

Now, let’s mix our batter! In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until it’s thick and pale—this should take about 2 minutes. Then, gently mix in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract. Now, it’s time to combine! Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. We want a fluffy batter, so mix just until you see no more flour.

Baking the Cake

Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan and pop it in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it—overbaking can lead to a dry cake, and we don’t want that! While it’s baking, prepare a clean kitchen towel and sprinkle it generously with powdered sugar. This will help prevent sticking when we roll the cake.

Rolling the Cake

Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and immediately invert it onto the prepared towel. Carefully peel off the parchment paper. Now, here’s the trick: starting at one short end, roll the cake up tightly with the towel, like you’re rolling up a sleeping bag. This helps maintain its shape! Let it cool completely while rolled up, which should take about 30 minutes. If it cracks a little, don’t worry—just be gentle, and it’ll be fine!

Preparing the Cream Cheese Filling

While the cake is cooling, let’s whip up that delicious cream cheese filling! In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy—this is where the magic happens! Make sure your cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for the best consistency. No one likes lumpy filling!

Assembling the Pumpkin Roll

Once the cake has cooled completely, gently unroll it from the towel. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges. Now, roll it back up without the towel, starting from the same end. Don’t be too tight—you want a lovely spiral! Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. This chilling time helps the flavors meld together and makes slicing easier. And there you have it—the perfect Pumpkin Roll waiting to be devoured!

Craving another pumpkin dessert? Try this Pumpkin White Hot Chocolate — creamy, spiced, and wonderfully indulgent!

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Pumpkin Roll

Pumpkin Roll: 5 Easy Steps to Cozy Autumn Bliss


  • Author: georgina
  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A delicious dessert featuring pumpkin cake rolled with cream cheese filling.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper.
  3. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
  4. In another bowl, beat eggs and sugar until thick.
  5. Add pumpkin and vanilla to the egg mixture.
  6. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients.
  7. Spread the batter in the prepared pan.
  8. Bake for 15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  9. While baking, prepare a clean kitchen towel sprinkled with powdered sugar.
  10. Once baked, invert the cake onto the towel and peel off the parchment paper.
  11. Roll the cake with the towel and let it cool.
  12. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla until smooth.
  13. Unroll the cooled cake and spread the cream cheese filling.
  14. Roll the cake back up without the towel.
  15. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.

Notes

  • Ensure the cake is completely cool before adding the filling.
  • Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.
  • This dessert can be frozen for later use.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: Pumpkin Roll, Pumpkin Cake, Dessert, Fall Recipes

FAQ Section

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! The Pumpkin Roll is perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare the cake and roll it up without the filling, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. If you want to make it even further in advance, you can freeze the rolled cake for up to a month. Just remember to let it thaw in the fridge before adding the cream cheese filling. This way, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready for any occasion!

What can I substitute for pumpkin puree?

If you find yourself without pumpkin puree, don’t worry! You can use other pureed vegetables like butternut squash or sweet potato as a substitute. Just make sure they’re smooth and creamy, similar to pumpkin. You could even try using applesauce for a different twist, but keep in mind it will change the flavor profile a bit—still delicious, though!

How do I prevent my cake from cracking?

To avoid cracking, the key is to be gentle during the rolling process. Make sure your cake is completely cooled before unrolling it, and don’t roll it too tightly. If you notice it starting to crack, just roll it a bit looser the next time, and it should hold its shape better. Plus, remember to sprinkle that powdered sugar generously on the towel—it’ll help the cake slide out smoothly without sticking! Practice makes perfect, and soon you’ll be a pro at rolling!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Roll

  • It’s a crowd-pleaser—everyone loves the combo of spiced pumpkin cake and creamy filling!
  • Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy fall days or last-minute gatherings.
  • Its stunning presentation makes it look like a gourmet dessert, but it’s super simple to make.
  • Seasonal flavors that evoke cozy memories and warm gatherings with family and friends.
  • Perfect for make-ahead dessert lovers—just roll it up and chill until you’re ready to serve!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Pumpkin Roll turns out perfectly, here are some helpful tips! First, always make sure your ingredients are at room temperature, especially the cream cheese and butter for the filling—this ensures a smooth texture. When rolling the cake, be gentle and don’t pull too tightly; this helps prevent cracks. Also, remember to sprinkle enough powdered sugar on the towel to avoid sticking. If you do encounter any cracks, just embrace them! A little dusting of powdered sugar on top can hide imperfections beautifully. Lastly, don’t skip the chilling time—it makes slicing much easier and enhances the flavors!

Need a cinnamon-flavored treat to go with your roll? Try these Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars — soft, chewy, and spiced just right!

Nutritional Information Section

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for each slice of this delightful Pumpkin Roll. Keep in mind these are approximations, and actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes:

  • Calories: 250
  • Fat: 10g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

These values make it easy to enjoy this seasonal treat while keeping track of your dietary needs. Happy eating!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To store your delicious Pumpkin Roll, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. It’ll stay good in the refrigerator for up to a week, so you can enjoy a slice whenever that pumpkin craving hits! If you have leftovers (which I doubt, but just in case!), you can also freeze it. Just slice it first for easy serving later, and place the pieces in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to indulge again, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. No reheating needed—just slice and enjoy straight from the fridge for that perfect cool treat!

What to Serve with Pumpkin Roll

When it comes to enjoying your Pumpkin Roll, pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience even further! I love serving it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side—there’s something about that creamy texture that just complements the pumpkin perfectly. A warm cup of spiced chai or apple cider is also delightful; the cozy flavors blend beautifully with the cake. If you’re feeling indulgent, a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a lovely contrast to the spiced cake. And don’t forget a sprinkle of toasted nuts on top for some crunch! Enjoy your Pumpkin Roll with these delicious options for an extra special touch!


Love pumpkin and apple together? Try this Iced Caramel Apple Spice Coffee — bold, sweet, and full of fall flavor!

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