As the leaves begin to turn and the air becomes crisp, the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices start to fill kitchens everywhere. One fall dessert that encapsulates these seasonal delights is the Pumpkin Roll Cake with Cream Cheese Filling. This decadent treat combines the moist, warmly spiced sponge of pumpkin cake with a rich and tangy cream cheese filling—it’s a match made in autumnal heaven. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering, looking for the perfect Thanksgiving dessert, or simply indulging in the flavors of the season, this pumpkin roll cake is sure to impress.
Why This Pumpkin Roll Cake Is a Must-Try
- It captures the essence of fall: The spices and pumpkin are the ultimate autumn flavor duo.
- It’s visually impressive: A beautifully presented pumpkin roll is guaranteed to wow guests.
- It features a mouthwatering contrast of textures: Soft sponge cake meets creamy filling in every bite.
- It’s easier than it looks: Follow these steps, and you’ll have a pro-looking cake roll in no time.
- It can be made ahead of time: It’s a perfect dessert for stress-free holiday planning.
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Roll Cake
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 15×10-inch jelly-roll pan with parchment paper. Grease and flour the parchment paper.
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
- Beat eggs and sugar: In a separate, larger bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until thick and pale. This should take about 3 minutes with an electric mixer.
- Add pumpkin: Stir in the pumpkin puree until well combined.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: Gently fold in the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients until just blended.
Bake the Cake
- Spread the batter: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly.
- Bake for 13 to 15 minutes or until the top of the cake springs back when touched.
Rolling the Cake
- Prepare for rolling: While the cake is baking, sprinkle powdered sugar generously over a clean tea towel. This prevents the cake from sticking.
- Roll the cake: Once the cake is done, immediately loosen it from the edges of the pan, and turn it out onto the prepared tea towel. Peel away the parchment paper, then roll the cake and the towel up together. Cool the rolled cake on a wire rack.
Make the Filling
- Beat the cream cheese mixture: While the cake is cooling, combine the cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
Fill and Re-roll the Cake
- Unroll the cake: Carefully unroll the cooled cake. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the cake, leaving a small margin at the edges.
- Re-roll the cake: Roll the cake back up, but this time without the towel. Wrap this in plastic wrap.
- Chill: Refrigerate the wrapped roll for at least one hour.
Serve
- Dust with powdered sugar before slicing. Serve at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Tips for Making the Best Pumpkin Roll Cake
- Use fresh or canned pumpkin puree, but avoid pie filling, which has added sugars and spices.
- Make sure to roll the cake when it’s still warm; a cool cake will crack.
- Don’t skimp on the powdered sugar dusting before rolling the cake in the towel—it’s crucial to prevent sticking.
- For neat slices, use a serrated knife and clean it between cuts.
Conclusion
The Pumpkin Roll Cake with Cream Cheese Filling is a beloved classic for a reason. Its moist, spiced pumpkin cake rolled around a creamy, sweet filling is as delicious to eat as it is beautiful to present at your fall table. This dessert not only embodies the flavors of the season but also doubles as a festive centerpiece. Bake your way into the hearts of your family and friends with this must-try recipe this fall!
