Sweet Fall Magic: Classic Pumpkin Roll Recipe Everyone Can Bake

As autumn’s crisp breeze sweeps through, there’s something magical about a classic pumpkin roll that captures the season’s warmth.

Soft, spiced cake wrapped around a luscious cream cheese filling promises pure comfort on every plate.

This beloved dessert brings nostalgic memories of cozy kitchen gatherings and sweet family traditions.

Rolled with delicate precision, the pumpkin roll delivers a stunning centerpiece that looks far more complicated than its simple preparation.

Bakers of all skill levels can master this elegant treat with just a few key techniques.

The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin creates a heavenly aroma that signals the start of cooler days.

Prepare to delight your loved ones with a dessert that perfectly embodies fall’s delicious spirit.

Ideal Pairings for a Pumpkin Roll Dessert

• Savor Complementary Flavors: Pair this classic pumpkin roll with warm spiced apple cider to enhance the autumnal spices and create a cozy drinking experience.
• Create Creamy Contrast: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to balance the roll's rich, spiced cake and provide a cool, smooth counterpoint to the warm dessert.
• Elevate with Beverage Harmony: Match with a smooth bourbon or aged whiskey, which will complement the pumpkin's earthy notes and the cake's warm cinnamon undertones.
• Enhance Dessert Experience: Add a sprinkle of toasted pecans or candied walnuts on the side to introduce a delightful crunch and nutty depth that perfectly matches the pumpkin roll's soft texture.

Pumpkin Roll Variations to Keep Things Fresh

• Gluten-Free Pumpkin Roll: Replace wheat flour with a gluten-free blend containing xanthan gum for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals. Use almond flour or a commercial gluten-free flour mix to maintain the cake's soft texture.
• Vegan Pumpkin Roll: Substitute eggs with flax eggs or aquafaba, and use plant-based cream cheese for the filling. Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a natural sweetener option.
• Low-Sugar Pumpkin Roll: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead of granulated sugar. Opt for a sugar-free cream cheese alternative and reduce overall sugar content without compromising taste.
• Keto-Friendly Pumpkin Roll: Create a low-carb version using almond flour or coconut flour. Replace sugar with erythritol or stevia, and use a keto-friendly cream cheese filling to make this dessert compatible with ketogenic diets.

FAQs

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for better texture and binding.

• How do I know when the cake is perfectly baked?

The cake is done when it springs back lightly when touched and appears golden around the edges. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

• What if my cake cracks when rolling?

Roll the cake while it’s still warm and use the powdered sugar-dusted towel to help prevent cracking. Be gentle and roll from the short end, using the towel as a guide.

• Can I freeze the pumpkin roll?

Absolutely! Wrap the finished roll tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Why Everyone Loves the Classic Pumpkin Roll

• This pumpkin roll is a show-stopping treat that'll make everyone's taste buds dance with joy.
• Perfect for bakers of all skill levels, the recipe walks you through each step with simple instructions that guarantee success every single time.
• Ideal for seasonal gatherings, this dessert transforms basic ingredients into a stunning centerpiece that looks way more complicated than it actually is.
• Kids and adults alike will go crazy for the sweet, spiced pumpkin cake rolled with creamy filling, making it a universal crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together at the table.

What You’ll Need for a Classic Pumpkin Roll

• Eggs: Fresh eggs provide structure and help bind the cake together.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a light, tender texture.
• Canned Pumpkin: Brings moisture and classic pumpkin flavor to the cake.

• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the foundation of the cake's structure.
• Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Help the cake rise and create a soft, fluffy texture.
• Cinnamon, Cloves: Provide warm, traditional fall spice flavors.
• Salt: Enhances and balances the overall taste of the cake.

• Powdered Sugar, Parchment Paper, Kitchen Towel: Essential for preventing sticking and preparing the cake for rolling.

How to Make a Classic Pumpkin Roll at Home

Step 1: Prepare Baking Surface

Preheat the oven to 375°F.

Grease a 13×18-inch half-sheet pan and line with parchment paper.

Grease and flour the parchment to prevent cake sticking.

Step 2: Set Up Cooling Towel

Spread a clean, thin cotton kitchen towel and dust generously with powdered sugar.

This prevents cake from clinging to the towel during rolling.

Step 3: Create Dry Ingredient Blend

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

Step 4: Whip Wet Ingredient Base

Use an electric mixer to beat eggs and granulated sugar until mixture becomes thick and pale yellow, about 3-4 minutes.

Fold in canned pumpkin and blend thoroughly.

Step 5: Merge Ingredient Mixtures

Slowly incorporate dry ingredient mixture into wet ingredients.

Stir gently to combine, avoiding overmixing which creates dense cake texture.

Step 6: Spread Cake Batter

Pour batter into prepared pan.

Use a spatula to distribute evenly across surface.

Step 7: Bake Cake Layer

Bake in preheated oven for 13-15 minutes.

Check doneness by gently pressing cake top – it should spring back immediately when touched.

Step 8: Create Initial Roll

Immediately after removing from oven, flip cake onto prepared sugared towel.

Carefully peel off parchment paper.

Roll cake with towel from short end, allowing it to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare Cream Cheese Filling

Mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.

Step 10: Complete Pumpkin Roll

Unroll cooled cake, spread cream cheese filling evenly.

Roll cake back up without towel.

Dust with additional powdered sugar before serving.

Expert Tips for Rolling the Perfect Pumpkin Roll

• Roll the warm cake in the sugared towel immediately after baking to avoid splitting when filling later. This technique helps the cake stay flexible and prevents unsightly cracks.
• Use a fine-mesh sieve when sprinkling powdered sugar on the towel for an even, light coating that won't clump or create heavy patches.
• Beat eggs and sugar until they become pale and thick, creating a light, airy texture that gives the pumpkin roll its signature soft consistency.
• Allow the rolled cake to cool completely before adding cream cheese filling to prevent melting and ensure a stable, clean presentation.
• Wrap the finished pumpkin roll tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain moisture and preserve the cake's delicate texture for several days.

Storing and Reheating the Pumpkin Roll

• Wrap the pumpkin roll tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, storing it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep the cream cheese filling intact and prevent it from drying out.
• Carefully seal the entire pumpkin roll in freezer-safe wrap, placing it in the freezer for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Cut the roll into individual slices, wrap each piece separately in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer bag. Enjoy single servings directly from the freezer or thaw at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
• Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or let them sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes to soften the cream cheese filling and restore the cake's soft texture.

Classic Pumpkin Roll Recipe

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4.9 from 34 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Indulgent classic pumpkin roll brings autumn’s warmth straight to dessert tables with creamy spiced filling nestled in delicate cake. Sweet spirals of comfort promise pure seasonal delight for passionate bakers eager to impress guests.

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Ingredients

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Cake Base Ingredients:

• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar (225g / 8 ounces)
• 2/3 cup canned pumpkin (175g / 6 ounces)
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (115g / 4 ounces)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Filling Ingredients:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (227g)
• 6 tablespoons butter, softened (84g)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (125g / 4.4 ounces)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dusting Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons powdered sugar (for towel)
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for serving)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the baking environment by heating the oven to 375°F. Meticulously coat a 13×18-inch sheet pan with grease, layer parchment paper, then re-grease and dust with flour to ensure smooth cake release.
2. Create a non-stick surface by spreading a thin cotton towel and generously sifting powdered sugar across its entire surface.
3. Whisk dry ingredients in a compact bowl, blending flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt until uniformly combined.
4. Utilize an electric mixer to transform eggs and granulated sugar into a thick, pale yellow mixture. This process requires approximately 3-4 minutes of continuous beating. Incorporate canned pumpkin, mixing thoroughly until a smooth consistency emerges.
5. Gently fold flour mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring cautiously to prevent overworking the batter, which could compromise the cake’s delicate texture.
6. Transfer batter to prepared pan, using a spatula to distribute evenly and create a level surface.
7. Slide pan into preheated oven, baking for 13-15 minutes. The cake is ready when its surface rebounds elastically upon gentle finger pressure.

Notes

• Prevent cake from cracking by rolling the warm cake in the sugared towel immediately after baking, allowing it to cool in this shape and create muscle memory for later rolling.
• Use room temperature ingredients, especially eggs, to ensure smooth batter consistency and even cake texture that prevents potential lumps or uneven mixing.
• Dust powdered sugar sparingly on the towel to avoid excess sugar buildup, which might make the cake layer too sweet or create a grainy texture when rolling.
• Consider gluten-free adaptation by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend, maintaining the same measurements for a celiac-friendly version of this classic dessert.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 305
• Sugar: 36g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 85mg