Pumpkin Roll
There’s something magical about the fall season, especially when it comes to baking. One of my favorite treats to whip up is the Pumpkin Roll. This delightful dessert has been a staple in my kitchen for years, bringing warmth and sweetness to cozy gatherings. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg filled my home, instantly transporting me to a harvest festival. Each bite is a blend of creamy filling and spiced pumpkin cake, rolling together in a beautiful spiral that feels both festive and comforting.
Recipe Snapshot
35 mins
20 mins
15 mins
Medium
250 kcal
4 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
13 g
Blender, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet
What You’ll Enjoy About This Pumpkin Roll
Celebration of Fall Flavors
The Pumpkin Roll is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of the fall flavors we all adore. The combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg brings the essence of autumn into every slice. It’s a treat that captures the spirit of the season, making it perfect for gatherings and holiday feasts.
Showstopper Presentation
What I love about this dessert is its stunning appearance. The beautiful swirl of the orange cake against the white cream cheese filling makes it visually appealing. It’s a showstopper that always impresses guests, and the best part is, it’s easier to make than it looks!
Versatile and Customizable
Another reason I adore the Pumpkin Roll is its versatility. You can play around with the spices to suit your taste. Want to add a bit of kick? Toss in some cayenne or swap the cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice. The filling can also be altered with different flavors, like a hint of orange zest or a touch of maple syrup.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a Thanksgiving dessert, a Halloween party treat, or a cozy afternoon snack. Its festive vibe makes it suitable for celebrations, while its comforting flavors make it a cozy option for a quiet evening at home.
Great for Sharing
The Pumpkin Roll is generous in servings, making it an excellent choice for gatherings. It’s easy to slice into portions, so you can share the joy with family and friends. I often find myself making two or three at a time to ensure everyone gets a taste!
Kid-Friendly Fun
Lastly, this dessert is a fun way to get the kids involved in the kitchen. They love helping with the rolling process and, of course, licking the bowl after preparing the filling. It becomes a shared experience that creates lasting memories.
What You Need for Pumpkin Roll

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for perfecting the Pumpkin Roll. Each component plays a vital role in creating the right flavor and texture. The star of the show is, of course, the pumpkin puree, which gives the cake its rich color and moistness. The blend of spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg enhances the pumpkin flavor, providing warmth and aroma. The filling, made with cream cheese and sugar, adds a creamy and sweet contrast that makes every bite unforgettable.
- 3 large eggs – These are the foundation of the cake, providing structure and richness.
- 1 cup sugar – Adds sweetness and helps the cake rise.
- â…” cup pumpkin puree – The key ingredient that gives the cake its flavor and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice – Brightens up the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour – Provides the structure for the cake.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and fragrance.
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger – Offers a zesty kick to the flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg – Complements the spices and enhances the pumpkin flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 1 cup powdered sugar – Used in the filling for sweetness and texture.
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened – Brings richness and creaminess to the filling.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and helps to create a smooth filling.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla – Enhances the flavor of the filling.
Making This Pumpkin Roll

Creating the Pumpkin Roll is a simple yet rewarding process. As you follow these steps, you’ll enjoy the aroma of warm spices filling your kitchen. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Preheat your oven to 375°F. It’s essential to have the oven hot and ready before you start mixing the batter. This ensures even baking for your Pumpkin Roll. Line an 11-x-15-x-1-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly spray it with nonstick spray. This step is crucial for easy removal of your cake later.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with a hand mixer for about 5 minutes until they become light and frothy. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until it’s well incorporated. Then, tip in the pumpkin puree and lemon juice, combining everything until smooth.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. This mix not only adds flavor but also helps ensure an even distribution of dry ingredients in your batter.
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture until well blended. Be careful not to overmix; you want a light and airy batter that will rise beautifully in the oven.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cake is set in the middle. The edges should just start to pull away from the pan.
While the cake is baking, prep your cooling station. Sprinkle a flour-sack style dish towel generously with powdered sugar. This will prevent sticking when you invert the cake.
Once the cake is done, carefully invert it onto the prepared towel. Remove the pan and peel away the parchment paper. Loosely roll the cake up with the towel from the short side, creating a spiral. This step is key to preventing cracks in your Pumpkin Roll!
Let the cake cool completely in this rolled-up state. While it’s cooling, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the sweetness if necessary.
Once the cake is cool, unroll it gently and spread the filling evenly, leaving about a half-inch border around the edges. Roll the cake back up again, this time without the towel, starting from the short side.
Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to slice.
To serve, unwrap the Pumpkin Roll, sprinkle with additional powdered sugar, and slice into one-inch pieces. Enjoy the beautiful spirals and delightful flavors!
Things Worth Knowing
- Roll while hot: Roll the cake while it’s still hot to prevent cracking and achieve those perfect swirls.
- Parchment paper: Line your pan with parchment paper—this step is crucial for a smooth release.
- Powdered sugar: Use plenty of powdered sugar on your tea towel to keep the cake from sticking.
- Chill for clean slices: For clean slices, chill the pumpkin roll before cutting, wiping the knife after each cut.
Tips for Success

As you prepare to make your Pumpkin Roll, here are some helpful tips to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly every time.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the unfilled rolled cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw before filling.
- Variations: Try adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the filling for added texture.
- Serving: This dessert is best served chilled, so make sure to refrigerate it before slicing.
- Presentation: Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or drizzle with caramel sauce for an elegant touch.
Serve This Pumpkin Roll With
When it comes to enjoying the Pumpkin Roll, there are countless ways to enhance your experience. Here are some delightful suggestions:
- Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for an extra creamy delight.
- Coffee: Pair it with a warm cup of coffee or spiced chai for a comforting treat.
- Seasonal Fruits: Consider serving with sliced apples or pears to complement the flavors of fall.
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on the side makes for an indulgent dessert.
- Cheesecake: For a festive twist, serve slices alongside mini pumpkin cheesecakes for a dessert spread.
- Gatherings: This dessert is perfect for potlucks, Thanksgiving dinners, or cozy gatherings with friends.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Pumpkin Roll is a delightful dessert that brings the warmth and flavors of fall to any gathering. Its unique combination of spiced pumpkin cake and creamy filling will surely impress your friends and family. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home. Embrace the joy of baking and treat yourself to this deliciously festive dessert!

Pumpkin Roll
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line an 11-x-15-x-1-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and spray with nonstick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with a hand mixer for about 5 minutes until they become light and frothy. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until it’s well incorporated. Then, tip in the pumpkin puree and lemon juice, combining everything until smooth.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. This mix not only adds flavor but also helps ensure an even distribution of dry ingredients in your batter.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture until well blended. Be careful not to overmix; you want a light and airy batter that will rise beautifully in the oven.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cake is set in the middle. The edges should just start to pull away from the pan.
- While the cake is baking, prep your cooling station. Sprinkle a flour-sack style dish towel generously with powdered sugar. This will prevent sticking when you invert the cake.
- Once the cake is done, carefully invert it onto the prepared towel. Remove the pan and peel away the parchment paper. Loosely roll the cake up with the towel from the short side, creating a spiral. This step is key to preventing cracks in your Pumpkin Roll!
- Let the cake cool completely in this rolled-up state. While it’s cooling, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the sweetness if necessary.
- Once the cake is cool, unroll it gently and spread the filling evenly, leaving about a half-inch border around the edges. Roll the cake back up again, this time without the towel, starting from the short side.
- Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to slice.
- To serve, unwrap the Pumpkin Roll, sprinkle with additional powdered sugar, and slice into one-inch pieces. Enjoy the beautiful spirals and delightful flavors!
Notes
- Roll while hot: Roll the cake while it’s still hot to prevent cracking and achieve those perfect swirls.
- Parchment paper: Line your pan with parchment paper—this step is crucial for a smooth release.
- Powdered sugar: Use plenty of powdered sugar on your tea towel to keep the cake from sticking.
- Chill for clean slices: For clean slices, chill the pumpkin roll before cutting, wiping the knife after each cut.


