The Best Fall Pumpkin Roll Recipe for Cozy Gatherings

Autumn’s golden warmth calls for a delectable pumpkin roll that dances with creamy sweetness and spiced perfection.

Soft and tender cake wraps around a luscious cream cheese filling, creating a dessert that whispers comfort.

This classic fall treat combines the rich earthiness of pumpkin with delicate spices that warm you from the inside out.

Bakers of all skill levels can master this elegant dessert with just a few simple steps.

The rolling technique might seem intimidating, but you’ll find it surprisingly straightforward and deeply satisfying.

Each slice promises a swirl of delight that captures the essence of the season.

Prepare to savor a slice of pure autumn magic that will have everyone asking for seconds.

FAQs

• Why use a cheesecloth or tea towel when rolling the cake?

The cheesecloth or tea towel prevents the cake from sticking and cracking during the rolling process, making it easier to create a smooth, perfect roll without breaking the delicate cake.

• Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. The nuts add a nice crunch and complementary flavor to the pumpkin roll.

• How do I know if I'm overbaking the cake?

Watch the baking time carefully and check the cake with a toothpick. If the toothpick comes out clean and the cake springs back when lightly touched, it’s done. An overbaked cake will be dry and difficult to roll.

• Is it necessary to refrigerate the pumpkin roll before serving?

Yes, refrigerating helps the cream cheese filling set and makes the roll easier to slice. The chilling time also allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more delicious dessert.

Why This Pumpkin Roll Is a Fall Favorite

• Capture Holiday Magic: Craft a showstopping dessert that screams festive celebration with minimal effort.
• Beginner-Friendly Baking: Master an impressive roll cake without advanced pastry skills, perfect for novice bakers wanting to wow family and friends.
• Stress-Free Entertaining: Prepare this make-ahead dessert that can be stored in the refrigerator, reducing last-minute kitchen chaos during gatherings.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Combo: Blend classic autumn spices with creamy filling, creating an irresistible treat that appeals to diverse taste preferences.

Pumpkin Roll Ingredients You’ll Need

• Eggs: Fluffy base for the pumpkin roll.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweet goodness that helps create texture.
• Pumpkin Purée: Smooth autumn star of the recipe.
• Vanilla Extract: Warm flavor enhancer.

• All-Purpose Flour: Soft structural foundation.
• Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Helpful rising agents.
• Salt: Flavor balancer.
• Ground Cinnamon, Ground Cloves: Warm spicy companions.

• Pecans, Finely Chopped Pecans: Crunchy nutty delight.
• Cream Cheese: Smooth and tangy filling base.
• Butter: Rich creamy partner.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweet and silky frosting maker.
• Vanilla Extract: Subtle flavor booster.

• Powdered Sugar: Elegant finishing touch.

How to Make a Neat Pumpkin Roll

Step 1: Prepare The Baking Station

Preheat your oven to 375° F.

Line a 15×10 inch baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage for easy cake removal.

Step 2: Create Wet Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk eggs and granulated sugar until they become light and fluffy.

Add pumpkin purée and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until ingredients are perfectly blended.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground cloves

Ensure all dry ingredients are completely integrated.

Step 4: Merge Mixtures

Gently fold dry ingredients into wet mixture, stirring carefully until a smooth batter forms.

Avoid overmixing to maintain cake’s delicate texture.

Step 5: Bake The Cake Base

Spread batter evenly across prepared baking sheet.

Sprinkle chopped pecans over surface.

Bake for 13-15 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

Watch carefully to prevent overbaking.

Step 6: Prepare Cream Cheese Filling

Using a mixer, blend softened cream cheese and butter until silky smooth.

Gradually incorporate powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until filling becomes creamy.

Step 7: Set Up Rolling Station

Dust countertop with powdered sugar.

Lay a clean tea towel over surface, sprinkling additional powdered sugar.

Step 8: Initial Cake Rolling

Immediately after baking, flip cake onto prepared towel.

Carefully roll cake lengthwise using towel’s edge as a guide.

Allow cake to cool completely.

Step 9: Final Assembly

Gently unroll cooled cake.

Spread cream cheese filling evenly across surface.

Sprinkle finely chopped pecans over filling.

Roll cake back up carefully.

Step 10: Chill And Serve

Refrigerate rolled cake for 1-2 hours.

Before serving, dust with powdered sugar and slice into elegant portions.

Enjoy your beautiful pumpkin roll!

Pro Tips for Rolling Pumpkin Cake

• Roll the warm cake immediately after baking while it's flexible, using the cloth to guide the process without touching the delicate surface directly.
• Use 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, to ensure the right moisture and flavor for your roll cake.
• Ensure cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for a creamy, lump-free frosting that spreads easily across the cake.
• Refrigerate the rolled cake for at least an hour before serving to help the filling set and create clean, beautiful slices.
• Swap pecans for walnuts or toast them lightly before adding to enhance their nutty flavor and provide extra crunch.

Storing a Pumpkin Roll Without Mess

• Store the pumpkin roll wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent absorbing other flavors.
• Carefully wrap the entire roll or individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Bring the pumpkin roll to room temperature before serving. For a slightly warm slice, microwave individual pieces for 10-15 seconds. Avoid overheating to prevent the cake from becoming tough or dry.
• Dust with fresh powdered sugar just before serving to restore its beautiful presentation and add a touch of sweetness.

Best Pairings for Pumpkin Dessert Rolls

• Pair with Warm Mulled Cider: Spiced apple cider heated with cinnamon sticks and cloves perfectly complements the pumpkin roll's warm autumnal flavors, enhancing the dessert's rich profile.
• Match with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Creamy, smooth vanilla ice cream provides a cool contrast to the warm spices in the pumpkin roll, creating a delightful temperature and texture balance.
• Serve with Dark Roast Coffee: Strong, robust coffee with slight bitter notes cuts through the sweetness of the cream cheese filling, offering a sophisticated taste experience that elevates the dessert's complexity.
• Complement with Caramel Liqueur: A smooth, sweet caramel liqueur adds depth and richness, harmonizing with the pumpkin and pecan elements while providing a luxurious adult twist to the dessert.

Variations for Pumpkin Rolls You Can Try

• Gluten-Free Pumpkin Roll: Replace wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, ensuring the same texture and taste for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Swap cream cheese and butter with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream cheese and plant-based butter to accommodate lactose-intolerant individuals.
• Nut-Free Version: Eliminate pecans completely or substitute with sunflower seeds for those with nut allergies, maintaining the roll's delicious flavor profile.
• Vegan Pumpkin Roll: Use egg replacer, coconut cream, and plant-based cream cheese to create a completely plant-based dessert that everyone can enjoy.

Easy Pumpkin Roll Recipe

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4.7 from 11 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 10 1x

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Description

Silky pumpkin roll dances with creamy cream cheese filling, promising autumn’s warmest embrace. Sweet spices and delicate cake roll combine for a comforting dessert you’ll savor with each delightful bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 2/3 Cup pumpkin puree
• 3 Large eggs
• 1 Cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 Cup all-purpose flour

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1 Teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 Teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 Teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 Teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 Teaspoon salt

Toppings and Garnish:

• 1 Cup pecans (roughly chopped)
• 1/4 Cup powdered sugar

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating to 375°F and line a 15×10 baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring even coverage.
2. Whisk eggs and granulated sugar in a large bowl until thoroughly blended, then incorporate pumpkin purée and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves, creating a uniform dry mixture.
4. Gently fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients, stirring until a consistent batter forms without overmixing.
5. Carefully spread batter across prepared pan, distributing evenly and sprinkling chopped pecans over the surface.
6. Bake for 13-15 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick that should emerge clean; avoid overbaking to maintain rollability.
7. While cake bakes, prepare cream cheese filling by beating softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and well-integrated.
8. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar and vanilla extract into the cream cheese mixture, stirring until smooth and uniform.
9. Dust a clean countertop with powdered sugar and lay a large cheesecloth or tea towel over the surface, lightly coating the cloth with additional sugar.
10. Immediately after baking, carefully invert the cake onto the prepared cloth, using the edge to assist in rolling the cake lengthwise.
11. Allow the rolled cake to cool completely at room temperature, maintaining its cylindrical shape.
12. Gently unroll the cooled cake and spread cream cheese filling evenly across the surface, sprinkling finely chopped pecans over the frosting.
13. Carefully re-roll the cake, ensuring a tight but gentle wrap, and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to set the filling.
14. Before serving, dust the exterior with powdered sugar and slice into elegant portions.

Notes

• Roll the cake while it’s still warm to prevent cracking, which helps create a flexible and smooth texture.
• Use freshly ground spices for a more vibrant and intense flavor profile in the cake.
• Always line the baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cake removal and prevent sticking.
• When spreading batter, aim for an even, thin layer to guarantee uniform baking and easy rolling.
• Chill the cream cheese and butter before mixing to achieve a smoother, more stable frosting consistency.
• Dust the towel and counter generously with powdered sugar to prevent the delicate cake from sticking during rolling.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before adding frosting to prevent melting and maintain structural integrity.
• Store the pumpkin roll in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 10
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 14 g
• Sodium: 80 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg