There’s something magical about a homemade pumpkin roll—the soft, spiced cake wrapped around luscious cream cheese frosting feels like a hug in dessert form. Every bite is cozy, creamy, and just the right mix of sweet and spicy. It’s perfect for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or even a quiet weekend treat with a warm cup of coffee. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer—you’ll want to slice it even before it cools completely.

From the moment you whisk the batter and smell that pumpkin-spice aroma filling your kitchen, you’ll know this recipe is worth every second. And don’t worry—it’s not as intimidating as it looks. With a few tips and a little patience, you’ll have a roll that’s perfectly soft, tender, and creamy in the middle.

Recipe Origin

Pumpkin rolls have been a beloved American classic since the mid-20th century, often appearing on Thanksgiving tables and autumn dessert spreads. The concept of a rolled cake comes from European jelly rolls, where sponge cake is filled with jam or cream and rolled into a beautiful spiral. The pumpkin variation adds seasonal warmth and spice, creating a festive dessert that’s as impressive as it is comforting.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Whisk
• 10×15-inch jelly roll pan
• Parchment paper
• Fine mesh sieve (for dusting confectioners’ sugar)
• Cooling rack

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Roll Recipe

Versatile

It’s a dessert that fits every occasion—Thanksgiving, Halloween, birthdays, or simply a cozy night in. It’s portable, too, so you can take it to potlucks or parties.

Budget-Friendly

With basic pantry staples like flour, sugar, and eggs, plus canned pumpkin, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes gourmet without breaking the bank.

Quick and Easy

While it may look fancy, the steps are straightforward. Even if you’re a beginner baker, this recipe walks you through everything so you can roll it perfectly.

Customizable

Add a touch of extra cinnamon or nutmeg if you like it spicier, or fold in chocolate chips for a decadent twist. The cream cheese frosting can also be flavored with maple, orange zest, or even a dash of bourbon.

Crowd-Pleasing

Everyone loves a rolled cake with a creamy filling. Kids, adults, and dessert enthusiasts alike will be impressed by this show-stopping treat.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Line your jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
• Dust the towel for rolling generously with confectioners’ sugar to avoid cracking.
• Don’t overbake—the cake should be soft and springy to the touch.
• Cool the cake slightly before spreading frosting, but roll while still pliable to prevent breaking.
• Use room temperature ingredients for the frosting for a smooth, creamy finish.

Ingredients in Pumpkin Roll

Here’s what makes this dessert truly irresistible:

All-Purpose Flour, Baking Powder & Baking Soda

The foundation of the sponge cake, giving it structure while remaining tender.

Ground Cinnamon & Pumpkin Pie Spice

The warm, fragrant spices that bring autumn straight into your kitchen.

Salt

Just enough to enhance all the sweet and spicy flavors.

Eggs

Whipped to airy perfection, they give the cake its light, delicate texture.

Canned Pumpkin Purée

Moist, flavorful, and packed with that unmistakable fall essence.

Brown Sugar & Granulated Sugar

Brown sugar adds depth and a hint of caramel, while granulated sugar balances sweetness.

Vanilla Extract

Enhances all the flavors and adds a warm, sweet aroma.

Confectioners’ Sugar (for rolling)

Keeps your cake from sticking and gives it a polished look.

Cream Cheese & Butter

The heart of the frosting—creamy, tangy, and luscious.

Additional Confectioners’ Sugar & Vanilla

Sweetens and flavors the frosting to perfection.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.

Beat Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat eggs with brown and granulated sugar until thick and pale. Mix in pumpkin purée and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Batter

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or the cake may become dense.

Bake the Cake

Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake 13–15 minutes, or until the cake springs back lightly when touched.

Roll the Cake

While the cake is still warm, dust a clean kitchen towel with confectioners’ sugar. Invert the cake onto the towel, peel off parchment, and gently roll the cake along the short side with the towel inside. Let it cool completely rolled up.

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and spreadable.

Unroll and Frost

Carefully unroll the cooled cake. Spread the frosting evenly over the surface, leaving a small border to prevent overflow when rolled.

Roll the Cake Again

Roll the cake back up without the towel, keeping it tight but gentle to avoid cracks.

Serve and Enjoy

Dust with additional confectioners’ sugar if desired. Slice into 1-inch pieces and serve.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 10–12 slices
Calories per serving: ~320
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Pumpkin Roll

• With Coffee or Tea: Perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon treat.
• Holiday Dessert: Slice and serve with whipped cream for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
• Gift Idea: Wrap slices individually for neighbor or friend gifts.
• Party Tray: Arrange slices on a platter for a dessert buffet.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Make the cake a day ahead and refrigerate; frost just before serving.
• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; can be frozen for up to 1 month (frosting separately if possible).

Variations to Try

• Maple Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap vanilla for maple extract.
• Chocolate Twist: Fold cocoa powder into the cake batter for a chocolate pumpkin roll.
• Nutty Filling: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts inside the frosting for texture.
• Citrus Zest: Add orange or lemon zest to the frosting for a bright flavor.

Additional Tips

• Roll the cake gently to avoid cracking.
• Use room temperature cream cheese and butter for smooth frosting.
• Dust the towel generously with sugar to prevent sticking during rolling.
• Slice with a serrated knife for clean edges.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make the cake a day ahead?
A1: Yes! Bake it, roll it while warm, and refrigerate until ready to frost.

Q2: Can I freeze a pumpkin roll?
A2: Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Q3: Can I use homemade pumpkin pie spice?
A3: Absolutely! Mix cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves to taste.

Q4: Can I make this dairy-free?
A4: Substitute cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives.

Q5: How do I avoid cracks in the roll?
A5: Roll the cake while warm using a sugared towel, and don’t overbake.

Q6: Can I use canned pumpkin puree?
A6: Yes, it’s the recommended form for the right moisture and consistency.

Q7: Can I add chocolate chips?
A7: Sure! Fold in a handful for extra indulgence.

Q8: How do I store leftovers?
A8: Wrap tightly and refrigerate for 3 days.

Q9: Can I serve it without frosting?
A9: You can, but the cream cheese frosting is what makes it truly decadent.

Q10: Can I make mini pumpkin rolls?
A10: Yes! Bake in smaller pans and roll individually for single-serving desserts.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Roll is the ultimate fall dessert—soft, spiced cake wrapped around creamy, luscious frosting. It’s as beautiful as it is delicious, perfect for holidays, gatherings, or just a sweet treat to savor with coffee. With just a little care and attention, you’ll end up with a dessert that looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to make. Slice, serve, and enjoy every tender, creamy bite—your friends and family will be asking for seconds before you know it.

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