Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

The Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is a true showstopper for any autumn gathering or cozy weekend treat. This tender, spiced pumpkin cake rolls beautifully with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting that perfectly complements its warm flavors. Every bite melts in your mouth, delivering a delightful contrast of soft cake and creamy filling, making this dessert a beloved classic that feels like a warm hug from the inside. Whether you’re a pumpkin spice devotee or just love a good roll cake, this recipe will become your go-to for seasonal celebrations and beyond.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simplicity of the ingredient list fool you—each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and color in this Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. From the rich pumpkin puree to the aromatic cinnamon and smooth cream cheese, these ingredients come together to craft a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

• 3 large eggs (150 grams, room temperature): Provide structure and help create a light, airy cake.
• ⅔ cup pumpkin puree (151 grams): Brings moisture, natural sweetness, and that irresistible pumpkin flavor.
• ½ cup granulated sugar (100 grams): Adds a clean sweetness to balance the spices.
• ½ cup brown sugar (107 grams): Imparts a subtle molasses note and enriches color.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (4 grams): Enhances the overall flavor depth beautifully.
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour (90 grams): Forms the tender base of the cake batter.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda (6 grams): Helps the cake rise and keeps it fluffy.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (3 grams): Gives the cake its warm, autumnal spice.
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies the other flavors.
• 8 ounces cream cheese (227 grams, room temperature): Creates a rich, silky frosting with a tangy kick.
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (85 grams, room temperature): Adds creaminess and smoothness to the frosting.
• 1 cup powdered sugar (113 grams, plus more for dusting): Sweetens and thickens the frosting perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (4 grams): Brings a lovely aroma and subtle flavor boost to the frosting.

How to Make Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by heating your oven to 375°F and prepping a 10×15-inch Jelly Roll Pan. Spray it with oil and line it with parchment paper for an easy release—don’t forget to spray the parchment too. This setup is crucial for rolling your cake without any sticking mishaps.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. This mixture combines the richness of the pumpkin with the sweetness and flavor foundations for your cake.

Step 3: Whisk Dry Ingredients Separately

In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Combining these dry ingredients independently ensures even distribution of the leavening and spice throughout the batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cake tender and light.

Step 5: Spread and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly all the way to the edges. Pop it into the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the cake springs back with a gentle poke—that’s your sign it’s perfectly baked.

Step 6: Roll the Cake While Warm

Once baked, dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar, then carefully invert the cake onto it and peel off the parchment paper. Roll the cake tightly from the short end within the towel—this step cools the cake in the rolled shape, making it easier to frost later.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake cools, whip up the frosting by beating room temperature cream cheese until smooth, adding butter until combined, then mixing in powdered sugar and vanilla on low speed. Increase speed to beat until creamy and dreamy.

Step 8: Frost and Re-Roll

Unroll the cooled cake gently and spread the frosting evenly over the surface. Then roll the cake back up, this time without the kitchen towel, so the frosting remains inside, luscious and inviting.

Step 9: Chill and Serve

Transfer your roll to a serving platter, cover it, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and the frosting to set perfectly. Just before serving, dust with powdered sugar for that irresistible finishing touch.

How to Serve Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

Elevate your pumpkin roll with simple garnishes like a sprinkle of cinnamon or finely chopped toasted pecans for a delightful crunch. Fresh cranberries or delicate edible flowers add a festive and colorful touch, perfect for holiday tables or special occasions.

Side Dishes

Pair this pumpkin roll with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cream to add creamy contrast. A warm cup of spiced chai or freshly brewed coffee also complements the cake’s rich flavors beautifully, making every bite even more comforting.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice your pumpkin roll into generous portions and arrange on a rustic wooden board for an inviting dessert spread. For a party, serve mini slices on decorative plates with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds to wow your guests with presentation and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your dessert, wrap any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge. The pumpkin roll stays moist and fresh for up to 4 days, allowing you to savor every bite without worry.

Freezing

If you want to keep your pumpkin roll longer, freezing is your friend! Wrap it well in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to protect flavor and texture. It freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best taste.

Reheating

Reheat refrigerated or thawed slices gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds if you prefer a slightly warm, gooey bite—or simply enjoy it chilled. Avoid overheating to keep the frosting from melting too much and the cake moist and tender.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and saves time. Just make sure to use pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains additional spices and sweeteners.

What if I don’t have parchment paper?

Parchment paper is essential for an easy release and clean rolling, but if you don’t have it, generously grease and flour your pan. Keep in mind this might make the peeling and rolling more challenging, so parchment is highly recommended.

Can I make the frosting dairy-free?

You can substitute cream cheese and butter with non-dairy alternatives like vegan cream cheese and margarine. The frosting will still be delicious, though the texture may vary slightly.

Is it better to roll the cake while warm or cooled?

Rolling the cake while it’s still warm and flexible helps it set into shape without cracking once cooled. If you roll it after cooling, cracks are more likely to form when you frost the cake.

How thick should the frosting layer be?

A moderate layer, about ¼ inch thick, balances the cake perfectly. Too thin won’t provide enough creaminess, while too thick might overpower the delicate pumpkin sponge. You want that perfect creamy swirl inside every bite.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about baking and sharing this Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. Its blend of soft pumpkin cake and creamy, tangy frosting is pure autumn joy that feels both special and comforting. Whether you’re making it for a holiday crowd or a quiet treat, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and requests for seconds. So roll up your sleeves and dive into this delicious adventure—the perfect pumpkin roll awaits!

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