If you’re looking for a dessert that screams autumn comfort or just want a show-stopping treat for any occasion, the Pumpkin Roll Cake is a must-try. With a soft, spiced pumpkin sponge and a rich cream cheese filling, this cake is as beautiful as it is delicious.
🍴 Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Dusting:
- Powdered sugar (optional)
🥣 Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.
Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Cake
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- In a separate bowl, beat eggs and sugar until thick and pale.
- Add pumpkin puree and vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Gently fold in the dry ingredients until just combined—don’t overmix.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
Step 4: Roll the Cake
- While the cake bakes, lay a clean kitchen towel and dust it with powdered sugar.
- Once baked, immediately invert the cake onto the towel. Carefully peel off the parchment.
- Starting from the short end, roll the cake with the towel and let it cool completely.
Step 5: Prepare the Filling
- Beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy.
Step 6: Assemble the Roll
- Unroll the cooled cake carefully. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly.
- Roll the cake again (without the towel) and place seam-side down on a serving platter.
- Dust with powdered sugar before slicing.
💡 Tips & Variations
- Flavor boost: Add 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger or allspice to the cake batter.
- Nutty touch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for extra texture.
- Make ahead: Cake can be wrapped in plastic wrap and refrigerated for up to 2 days—even better the next day!
- Frosting variation: Swap cream cheese filling with whipped cream and a touch of cinnamon for a lighter version.
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Roll Cake
- Soft, spiced sponge: Perfect balance of pumpkin and autumn spices
- Creamy, sweet filling: Rich without being overpowering
- Impressive presentation: Looks like a bakery masterpiece but easy to make at home
- Perfect for holidays: Ideal for Thanksgiving, Halloween, or cozy fall gatherings