Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe

If you’re dreaming of a dessert that brings autumn warmth to every bite, this Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines the tender, spiced pumpkin cake wrapped around a velvety cream cheese filling that’s just the right balance of sweet and tangy. Whether you’re hosting holiday gatherings or craving a cozy treat, this pumpkin roll delivers on flavor, texture, and that fall comfort factor in every slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create a showstopping dessert. Each one plays an important role, from the aromatic spices that give the cake its cozy warmth to the rich cream cheese filling that melts in your mouth.

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: The base that gives the cake structure and tenderness.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps your pumpkin roll rise gently without becoming too dense.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the pumpkin’s natural acidity for perfect fluffiness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star spice adding warmth and depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle nutty aroma that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: A gentle peppery zing to brighten the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional): For those who love an extra layer of spice complexity.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• 3 large eggs: Provide richness and help with cake structure.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake to a perfect level without overpowering.
• 2/3 cup canned pumpkin purée: Delivers moistness and classic pumpkin goodness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the spices with smooth, sweet vanilla notes.
• Powdered sugar (for dusting the towel): Prevents sticking and adds a touch of sweetness to the cake’s surface.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The luscious hero of the filling, bringing creaminess and tang.
• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted: Sweetens the filling while keeping it silky smooth.
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and helps the filling hold its shape.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling): Infuses the cream cheese filling with sweet, aromatic flavor.

How to Make Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan thoroughly and line it with parchment paper, then grease the parchment paper as well. This double greasing ensures your delicate pumpkin cake doesn’t stick and will release easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves if you’re using them, and salt. Combining everything now helps to evenly distribute the spices and leavening agents throughout the batter.

Step 3: Beat the Eggs and Sugar

In a separate large bowl, vigorously beat the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes thick and pale, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is key to an airy, tender cake. Then add the pumpkin purée and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth and thoroughly combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually fold in the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until everything comes together. Be careful not to overmix, or the cake could become dense instead of light and fluffy.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Spread the batter evenly in your prepared jelly roll pan. Pop it into the oven to bake for 13 to 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top springs back gently when pressed. Overbaking can dry out the cake, so keep a close eye on it.

Step 6: Roll the Cake While Warm

While the cake is baking, lay out a clean kitchen towel and dust it generously with powdered sugar. As soon as the cake finishes baking, carefully invert it onto the powdered sugar-covered towel and peel off the parchment paper. Starting at the narrow end, roll the cake up with the towel inside, then let it cool completely rolled up for about 1 hour. This step helps the cake “memorize” its rolled shape without cracking later.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract until the filling is smooth and creamy. This luscious filling is what makes the Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe truly unforgettable.

Step 8: Fill and Reroll the Cake

Once your pumpkin cake has fully cooled, gently unroll it and spread the cream cheese filling evenly on top, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent overflow. Then reroll the cake, this time without the towel, into a tight spiral. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour before slicing to let it set perfectly.

Step 9: Final Touch and Serving

Before serving, dust the top of your pumpkin roll with a light sprinkling of powdered sugar for a delicate, snow-like finish. Slice into 8-10 generous pieces and watch smiles light up around the table.

How to Serve Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds charm, but you can also top your pumpkin roll with toasted crushed pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce to elevate the flavor and add texture that wow guests.

Side Dishes

This pumpkin roll is perfect on its own, but pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream transforms it into an indulgent dessert experience. A hot cup of spiced chai tea or rich coffee also complements its autumnal flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, serve individual slices on pretty dessert plates with a mint leaf or a cinnamon stick garnish. You might even layer slices with whipped cream and toasted nuts for a trifle-style dessert that’s as memorable as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The pumpkin roll keeps well wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen and the cake becomes even more moist after sitting a while, so it’s a great make-ahead for holiday dinners.

Freezing

You can freeze the pumpkin roll tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving, and it will taste just as fresh and luscious as the day you made it.

Reheating

This dessert is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is not usually necessary. If you prefer it slightly warmed, allow slices to come to room temperature, or briefly warm for 10-15 seconds in the microwave—just be careful not to melt the cream cheese filling completely.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned purée?

Yes! You can roast and mash fresh pumpkin, but be sure to cook out excess moisture by draining or cooking it down before measuring. This prevents the batter from becoming too wet, which can affect the cake’s texture.

Why do I need to roll the cake while it’s warm?

Rolling the cake warm helps it “remember” the shape and prevents cracking when you add the filling later. If you try to roll it cold, it’s more likely to break.

Can I make the cream cheese filling dairy-free?

Absolutely. Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free version like cashew-based cream cheese and use dairy-free butter alternatives. The flavor and texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the towel when rolling?

Dust the kitchen towel generously with powdered sugar before rolling the cake onto it. This acts as a barrier and keeps the cake from sticking and tearing.

Can I add nuts or raisins to this pumpkin roll?

Yes, but keep it minimal to avoid disrupting the cake’s texture. A handful of chopped nuts or raisins folded into the batter can add a nice crunch and sweet surprises, but do so sparingly.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that feels both nostalgic and special. It’s perfect for holiday celebrations, casual fall get-togethers, or anytime you want to treat yourself to a slice of cozy happiness. Once you make it, you’ll see why pumpkin roll desserts hold such a cherished place in so many hearts. Go ahead and bake one up — your friends, family, and sweet tooth will thank you!

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