When a recipe is a true masterpiece, it doesn’t need a complicated story. It just needs to get the job done, and get it done with style. The pumpkin roll is that kind of recipe.
It’s, in my humble opinion, the best of autumn desserts, a total classic that’s impressive to look at but secretly easy to pull off. No long-winded backstories, no fuss, just pure, spiced pumpkin cake rolled up with a perfect, tangy cream cheese filling.
This is the kind of dessert that makes you a legend at any potluck, and it does it with the kind of confident, no-nonsense deliciousness you can always count on.
What Makes This Pumpkin Roll So Special
- Moist
- Creamy
- Spiced
- Fluffy
Pumpkin Roll With Cream Cheese Filling Recipe
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| all-purpose flour | 3/4 cup |
| salt | 2/3 tsp |
| baking soda | 3/4 tsp |
| ground cinnamon | 1 tsp |
| pumpkin pie spice | 1 tsp |
| granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| large eggs | 3 |
| canned pumpkin | 2/3 cup |
| vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
For the Filling:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| cream cheese | 8 oz |
| butter | 2 tbsp |
| vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| powdered sugar | 1 cup |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the long sides. This overhang is your handle for lifting the cake later. Lightly grease the parchment paper.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. This ensures a perfect mix of all the spices.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the eggs, granulated sugar, canned pumpkin, and vanilla until the mixture is smooth.
4. Mix and Spread the Batter
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix. Spread the batter evenly across the prepared pan.
5. Bake and Roll While Warm
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Immediately lift the hot cake out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. While it’s still warm, gently roll the cake and the paper into a tight log, starting from a short end. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.
6. Make the Filling
While the cake cools, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter until fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the filling is smooth.
7. Unroll, Fill, and Re-roll
Once the cake is completely cool, carefully unroll it. Spread an even layer of the cream cheese filling over the cake, leaving a one-inch border. Carefully re-roll the cake (without the parchment paper this time). Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to set.
8. Serve and Enjoy
When ready, unwrap the roll and dust with powdered sugar. Slice with a sharp knife and serve.
Tips, Variations & Customizations
- For added crunch: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts over the filling before you re-roll.
- Need more spice? Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the cake batter.
- Make it gluten-free: Swap the flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
- Fancy finish: Drizzle the top with caramel sauce before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown
This recipe makes 10 servings.
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | Approx. 290 |
| Total Fat | Approx. 14g |
| Total Carbohydrates | Approx. 38g |
| Protein | Approx. 4g |
Serving Suggestions
Classic & Simple – Dust with powdered sugar and slice into neat swirls. Perfect for when you just want to let the roll shine on its own.
With Coffee or Tea – Pair a slice with a steaming mug of coffee, a spiced chai latte, or even a soothing herbal tea. The cozy flavors play off each other beautifully.
Ice Cream Pairing – Add a scoop of vanilla bean or butter pecan ice cream on the side for an extra indulgent touch.
Giftable Treat – Wrap individual slices or half a roll in parchment and twine. It makes a thoughtful, homemade holiday gift for neighbors or friends.
The Grand Finale
There it is, the pumpkin roll. It’s an edible classic that delivers on every promise. It’s easy, it’s impressive, and it’s just the right kind of cozy comfort. Make a batch and tomorrow, you’ll have a dessert that’s ready to handle whatever comes your way. Happy baking!
