Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese

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Introduction

Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting is a festive showstopper dessert that blends the warm, cozy flavors of fall with a luscious, tangy cream cheese filling. This delightful treat features a tender, spiced pumpkin sponge cake rolled around a creamy, sweet filling, creating a striking swirl in every slice. It’s a perfect balance of flavors: the earthy pumpkin and spices contrast beautifully with the smooth richness of the cream cheese, making each bite irresistible.

This dessert is a cherished tradition in many households, and for good reason. The process of baking the pumpkin sponge, filling it with cream cheese frosting, and rolling it into a perfect log is as satisfying as it is rewarding. The aroma of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg wafting through the kitchen instantly evokes a sense of comfort and celebration. When you slice into the roll to reveal the elegant spiral, it’s a moment of pure joy and accomplishment.

Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting is an ideal dessert for any fall gathering or holiday table. It’s not only visually stunning but also a crowd-pleaser that will have guests reaching for seconds. Serve it chilled with a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance. If you’re looking for a dessert that combines seasonal flavors with a dash of sophistication, this pumpkin roll is an absolute must-try!

Perfect for:

• Holiday dessert tables
• Fall celebrations and Thanksgiving
• Gifting as a homemade treat
• Elegant tea-time snacks
• A cozy indulgence on chilly evenings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive and Elegant: The striking spiral of pumpkin cake and cream cheese filling makes it a centerpiece-worthy dessert.
• Rich in Flavor: The perfect combination of spiced pumpkin and sweet, tangy cream cheese.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.
• Customizable: Easily adjusted for dietary preferences and flavor variations.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults, this dessert is always a hit.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour (plus chilling time)
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 15 minutes
• Chilling Time: 1-2 hours
• Servings: 10-12 slices
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories

Ingredients

For the Pumpkin Cake:

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ⅔ cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar (for dusting the towel and rolling)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

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

Ingredient Highlights:

• Pumpkin Puree: Adds natural sweetness, moisture, and seasonal flavor.
• Warm Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger create a cozy, aromatic taste.
• Cream Cheese: The filling’s creamy tang complements the spiced cake.
• Powdered Sugar: Keeps the roll neat and adds a finishing touch.

Step-by-Step

Instructions

Prepare the Pumpkin Cake:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy removal. Grease the paper lightly.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
3. Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until thick and pale, about 2 minutes. Stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Spread Batter: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula.
6. Bake: Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.

Roll the Cake:

7. Prepare Towel: While the cake bakes, lay a clean kitchen towel on the counter and generously dust it with powdered sugar.
8. Invert and Roll: Once the cake is done, immediately invert it onto the prepared towel, peel off the parchment paper, and roll the cake tightly with the towel (starting from the short end). Let it cool completely in the rolled shape.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:

9. Beat Ingredients: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Pumpkin Roll:

10. Unroll and Fill: Carefully unroll the cooled cake and spread an even layer of the cream cheese filling over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.
11. Re-roll: Re-roll the cake tightly without the towel, ensuring the filling is enclosed.
12. Chill: Wrap the roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.

Serve:

13. Slice and Garnish: Dust the roll with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.

How to Serve

• Dessert Plate: Slice into even portions and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
• Coffee Pairing: Enjoy with a warm cup of coffee or spiced latte.
• Holiday Display: Arrange on a festive platter with sprigs of rosemary or cranberries for decoration.

Additional Tips

• Prevent Cracking: Roll the cake while it’s warm to minimize cracking.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened for a smooth filling.
• Dust Generously: Use plenty of powdered sugar on the towel to prevent sticking.
• Make Ahead: The roll can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Recipe Variations

1. Chocolate Pumpkin Roll: Add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate-pumpkin twist.
2. Maple Cream Cheese Filling: Replace vanilla with maple syrup for added warmth.
3. Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the filling before rolling.
4. Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
5. Spiked Filling: Add a splash of rum or bourbon to the cream cheese filling for a grown-up treat.
6. Double Spices: Increase cinnamon and nutmeg for a bolder flavor.
7. Lemon Cream Cheese Filling: Add lemon zest to the filling for a citrusy balance.
8. Pumpkin and Chocolate Chips: Fold mini chocolate chips into the cake batter for added texture.
9. Nut-Free: Use pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for garnish instead of nuts.
10. Mini Rolls: Divide the batter into smaller pans for individual rolls.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep the roll wrapped in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Special Equipment

1. Jelly Roll Pan (10×15 inches) – Essential for baking the thin, even cake layer needed for rolling.
2. Parchment Paper – To line the pan and ensure the cake releases cleanly without sticking.
3. Silicone Spatula – Ideal for spreading the batter evenly into the pan.
4. Fine Mesh Sieve – Useful for sifting dry ingredients to prevent lumps in the batter.
5. Electric Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer – Makes whipping the cream cheese filling smooth and lump-free a breeze.
6. Offset Spatula – Helps spread the cream cheese filling evenly across the cake without tearing it.
7. Kitchen Towel (Clean and Lint-Free) – For rolling the cake while it cools to create the shape without cracking.
8. Cooling Rack – To cool the cake completely before filling and rolling.
9. Serrated Knife – Ensures clean cuts when slicing the pumpkin roll into portions.
10. Powdered Sugar Duster or Shaker – For a light and even dusting of powdered sugar on the outside of the roll for decoration.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
   Yes, but make sure it’s well-pureed and not watery.
2. What if my cake cracks?
   Minor cracks can be hidden with powdered sugar or additional frosting.
3. Can I make it dairy-free?
   Use vegan cream cheese and butter for a dairy-free version.
4. How do I slice it neatly?
   Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts.
5. Can I reduce the sugar?
   Yes, but note that the texture and sweetness may be slightly affected.
6. Can I use a different filling?
   Whipped cream, mascarpone, or flavored buttercream are great alternatives.
7. How do I transport the roll?
   Keep it chilled in its plastic wrap during transport for easy handling.
8. Can I double the recipe?
   Certainly, but bake in multiple pans to maintain an even cake layer.
9. What if my towel sticks?
   Use more powdered sugar to prevent sticking during rolling.
10. Can I add nuts to the batter?
    Yes, finely chopped nuts can be folded into the batter for texture.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese is a show-stopping dessert that perfectly balances the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin with the creamy richness of a tangy filling. The light, fluffy sponge wraps around the luscious cream cheese layer, creating a visually stunning and utterly irresistible treat.

What makes this recipe a true standout is its combination of elegance and approachability. Despite its impressive presentation, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare, making it an excellent choice for both festive gatherings and cozy nights at home. Plus, it stores beautifully, allowing you to make it ahead of time and enjoy its flavors at their peak.

Whether you’re serving it as a centerpiece for a holiday spread or as a thoughtful homemade gift, Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese is guaranteed to impress. I can’t wait for you to give it a try—don’t forget to snap a photo of your masterpiece and share it! Indulge in every soft, spiced, and creamy bite—you deserve it!