As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, I can’t help but think of my favorite fall treat: the pumpkin roll. This delightful dessert is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a quick solution for busy days when you want to impress your loved ones. With its moist cake and creamy filling, it’s like a warm hug on a plate. Plus, it’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Trust me, once you try this pumpkin roll, it will become a cherished recipe in your kitchen, bringing smiles and sweet memories to your family.
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Roll
This pumpkin roll is a game-changer for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s incredibly easy to make, taking just over an hour from start to finish. The taste? Oh, it’s a heavenly blend of warm spices and creamy sweetness that dances on your palate. Plus, it’s a showstopper at any gathering, making you the star of the dessert table without breaking a sweat. Who wouldn’t love that?
Ingredients for Pumpkin Roll
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a perfect pumpkin roll. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your cake, giving it structure and a light texture.
- Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents help the cake rise, making it fluffy and airy.
- Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that adds a cozy flavor, reminiscent of fall.
- Ground nutmeg: This spice brings a hint of warmth and depth to the pumpkin roll.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness.
- Large eggs: They provide moisture and richness, helping the cake hold together.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and contributes to its lovely golden color.
- Canned pumpkin puree: The star of the show! It gives the roll its signature flavor and moisture.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds a lovely aroma and enhances the overall taste.
- Cream cheese: This is the key ingredient for the luscious filling, making it rich and creamy.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling and gives it a smooth texture.
- Additional vanilla extract (for frosting): A little extra vanilla in the filling elevates the flavor.
For those looking to switch things up, consider using whole wheat flour for a healthier twist or adding a dash of ginger for an extra kick. Remember, the exact quantities are listed at the bottom of the article for easy printing!
How to Make Pumpkin Roll
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan and grease it well. This will ensure your pumpkin roll slides out easily after baking. Trust me, you don’t want to wrestle with a stuck cake!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine your all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Whisk them together until they’re well blended. This step is crucial because it ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed, giving your pumpkin roll that perfect rise.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture is thick and pale. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Then, stir in the canned pumpkin puree and vanilla extract. The pumpkin adds moisture and flavor, making your roll irresistibly delicious!
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Now, it’s time to bring the two mixtures together. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a tender cake, not a tough one. It’s like a dance—gentle and graceful!
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Spread the batter evenly in your prepared jelly roll pan. Make sure it reaches the corners for an even bake. Pop it in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma will be heavenly!
Step 6: Roll the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and immediately roll it up in a clean kitchen towel, starting from one of the short ends. This helps shape the cake while it cools. Let it cool completely in the towel. It’s like giving your cake a cozy blanket!
Step 7: Prepare the Filling
While the cake cools, let’s whip up that luscious cream cheese filling. In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This filling is the secret to making your pumpkin roll truly special!
Step 8: Assemble the Pumpkin Roll
Once the cake is cool, carefully unroll it. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges. Then, roll the cake back up tightly, just like you did before. It’s okay if it cracks a little; it adds character!
Step 9: Chill and Serve
Wrap your pumpkin roll in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This helps the flavors meld together and makes slicing easier. When you’re ready to serve, dust it with powdered sugar for that elegant touch. Enjoy every bite!
Tips for Success
- Always use canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best flavor.
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Don’t skip the chilling step; it helps the roll hold its shape.
- Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for a beautiful presentation.
- Experiment with spices like ginger or cloves for a unique twist!
Equipment Needed
- 15×10 inch jelly roll pan: A standard size for this recipe; a baking sheet with sides can work too.
- Mixing bowls: Use medium and large bowls for mixing ingredients; any size will do.
- Whisk: Essential for blending dry ingredients; a fork can be a handy substitute.
- Electric mixer: Ideal for beating eggs and cream cheese; a hand whisk works in a pinch.
- Kitchen towel: Needed for rolling the cake; a clean dishcloth will suffice.
Variations of Pumpkin Roll
- Gluten-Free Pumpkin Roll: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
- Chocolate Pumpkin Roll: Add cocoa powder to the batter for a rich chocolate twist that pairs beautifully with the cream cheese filling.
- Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Spiced Pumpkin Roll: Enhance the spice profile by adding ground ginger or cloves for a more robust flavor.
- Vegan Pumpkin Roll: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a plant-based version.
Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Roll
- Pair with whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy touch.
- Serve with coffee: A warm cup of coffee or spiced chai complements the flavors beautifully.
- Garnish with nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch.
- Presentation: Slice the roll and arrange on a decorative platter, dusting with powdered sugar for elegance.
FAQs about Pumpkin Roll
Can I make pumpkin roll ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pumpkin roll a day in advance. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap after chilling. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious!
What can I use instead of cream cheese in the filling?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a vegan cream cheese alternative. It works wonderfully and still gives you that creamy texture. You can also use whipped coconut cream for a lighter filling.
How do I store leftover pumpkin roll?
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. It will stay fresh for up to three days. Just remember to dust with powdered sugar right before serving for that lovely presentation!
Can I freeze pumpkin roll?
Yes, you can freeze pumpkin roll! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
What’s the best way to slice the pumpkin roll?
To get clean slices, use a serrated knife. Make sure the roll is chilled, as this helps it hold its shape. A gentle sawing motion will give you beautiful, even pieces!
Final Thoughts
Making a pumpkin roll is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories with your loved ones. The joy of rolling up that moist cake, filled with creamy goodness, brings a smile to my face every time. It’s a recipe that invites laughter and warmth into your home, perfect for sharing during those cozy fall evenings. Whether it’s a family gathering or a simple treat for yourself, this pumpkin roll is sure to delight. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this delightful adventure—your taste buds will thank you, and so will your family!
Print
Pumpkin roll recipe: Discover the secret to perfection!
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and moist pumpkin roll filled with cream cheese frosting, perfect for fall celebrations.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan.
- In a bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat eggs and sugar until thick and pale. Stir in pumpkin and vanilla.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture and mix until just combined.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Once baked, immediately roll the cake in a clean kitchen towel and let it cool.
- For the filling, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Unroll the cooled cake, spread the cream cheese filling, and roll it back up.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Make sure to use canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: pumpkin roll, dessert, fall recipe, cream cheese frosting