Pumpkin Roll

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Few desserts capture the cozy charm of fall like a perfectly swirled Pumpkin Roll. With its tender pumpkin-spiced sponge cake wrapped around a rich, tangy cream cheese filling, this dessert is a stunning centerpiece that tastes just as delightful as it looks. The soft texture of the cake pairs beautifully with the smooth, lightly sweetened filling, making every bite a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Not only is this dessert an autumn classic, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make with the right technique. It brings together warm spices, earthy pumpkin puree, and the kind of creamy decadence that feels both indulgent and nostalgic. Whether you’re planning a Thanksgiving feast, a cozy weekend bake, or simply looking to elevate your dessert game, this Pumpkin Roll deserves a spot on your baking list.

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Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Roll

• It’s a visually stunning dessert that’s easier to make than it looks.
• Combines warm fall spices with a velvety cream cheese filling.
• Perfect for make-ahead entertaining — it tastes even better chilled!
• A festive alternative to traditional pies.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into mixing and baking, gather the essential tools that make this recipe go smoothly:

• Jelly Roll Pan (10×15-inch): This shallow pan is key for baking a thin, even layer of cake that rolls without cracking.
• Parchment Paper: Helps release the cake cleanly from the pan, making rolling hassle-free.
• Clean Kitchen Towel: Used for rolling the cake while warm to prevent cracking.
• Mixer (Hand or Stand): Crucial for whipping the eggs and later the cream cheese filling to a smooth texture.
• Fine Mesh Sieve or Sifter: For evenly dusting powdered sugar — both on the towel and as a final decorative touch.

Each of these tools plays an important role in ensuring your Pumpkin Roll has the perfect swirl and flawless texture.

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Preparation Tips

To master the perfect Pumpkin Roll, it’s all about timing and technique. Make sure to roll the cake while it’s still warm — this sets its shape and prevents cracks later. Dust your towel generously with powdered sugar to avoid sticking. When unrolling the cake to add the filling, be gentle to maintain its structure. Chill the filled roll before slicing for clean, defined swirls. Finally, use room temperature ingredients for the filling to get that creamy, spreadable consistency.

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Ingredients for this Pumpkin Roll

For the Pumpkin Cake:

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2/3 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Garnish:

• Additional powdered sugar for dusting
• Sprigs of thyme or cinnamon sticks (for presentation)

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Step 1: Prepare the Jelly Roll Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the short sides to help lift the cake later. Lightly grease the parchment paper to ensure the cake releases easily.

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Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg until well combined. This ensures your spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed for a consistent flavor and rise.

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Step 3: Beat the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer on high speed for about 5 minutes until the mixture is thick, pale, and has increased in volume. Add the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined.

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Step 4: Combine and Pour

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Stir just until no streaks of flour remain. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly with an offset spatula.

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Step 5: Bake the Cake

Bake for 13–15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Do not overbake, or the cake may crack when rolling.

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Step 6: Roll the Warm Cake

While the cake is baking, lay out a clean kitchen towel and dust it generously with powdered sugar. As soon as the cake is out of the oven, carefully turn it out onto the prepared towel. Peel off the parchment paper and immediately roll the cake (starting from the short end) along with the towel. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.

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Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

While the cake cools, prepare the filling. In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. The filling should be thick yet spreadable.

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Step 8: Fill and Re-roll the Cake

Once the cake has cooled completely, gently unroll it. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Carefully re-roll the cake (without the towel) and place it seam side down on a serving platter.

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Step 9: Chill and Serve

Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set. Before serving, dust with powdered sugar for a festive look. Slice with a sharp knife and enjoy the beautiful swirls in every bite.

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Notes

For best results, use room temperature ingredients for both the cake and the filling. This helps everything blend smoothly and evenly. If your cake develops a small crack during rolling, don’t worry — it can usually be hidden with powdered sugar or by plating it strategically. Letting the roll chill for at least an hour (or even overnight) will firm it up and enhance the flavor. The cake becomes moister and more flavorful after resting.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overbaking the cake: This leads to dryness and cracks when rolling.
• Skipping the towel dusted with powdered sugar: Without it, the cake will stick and tear.
• Rolling the cake after it cools: It must be rolled while warm to retain its shape.
• Using cold cream cheese or butter: This causes lumps in the filling.
• Not letting the roll chill before slicing: It won’t hold its shape and may become messy.

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Storage Instructions

Store the Pumpkin Roll tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap it in both plastic and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Always keep it chilled until ready to serve, as the cream cheese filling is perishable.

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Estimated Nutrition

• Calories: 290 per slice
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Sugar: 26g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 190mg

(Values are approximate and based on 10 servings)

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pumpkin roll ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it tastes better when made a day ahead. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

You can, but make sure it’s pureed very smoothly and not too watery.

How do I prevent the cake from cracking?

Roll it while it’s still warm and don’t overbake. Moisture and flexibility are key.

Can I freeze the Pumpkin Roll?

Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

What if I don’t have a jelly roll pan?

You can use a rimmed baking sheet close to 10×15 inches, but ensure it’s not too deep or the cake will be too thick to roll.

Is it okay to skip the towel?

Not recommended. The towel helps prevent sticking and supports the cake as it sets in its rolled shape.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Avoid almond flour as it alters the texture.

Why is my filling runny?

It’s likely the butter or cream cheese was too warm or the sugar wasn’t measured correctly. Chill the filling briefly and it should firm up.

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Conclusion

This Pumpkin Roll is a beautiful blend of classic fall flavors and creamy indulgence. With its show-stopping spiral and spiced aroma, it’s the perfect dessert for holidays or any cozy occasion. By following a few key techniques and tips, you’ll have a dessert that looks impressive, tastes divine, and keeps everyone coming back for another slice.

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