Name: Pumpkin Roll Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 2/3 cup canned pumpkin (or homemade pumpkin puree); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons butter, softened; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup powdered sugar, plus more for dusting

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 84 reviews

If you’ve ever wished for a dessert that captures the ultimate essence of fall with every bite, then this Pumpkin Roll Recipe is your new best friend. Featuring a tender, spiced pumpkin cake rolled around a luscious, creamy filling, this classic treat combines cozy flavors and a stunning presentation that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Not only does it look impressive, but it’s surprisingly straightforward to make, transforming simple autumn ingredients into a show-stopping dessert that never fails to bring smiles to the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two clear glass bowls placed on a white marbled surface. The left bowl has three bright yellow egg yolks on one side, a mound of white sugar on the other, and a thick orange-brown pumpkin puree in the middle. The right bowl contains a smooth, mixed batter of a deep brown color with small air bubbles on the surface, filling most of the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Pumpkin Roll Recipe plays an essential role, coming together to create the perfect balance of moist texture, warm spices, and smooth creaminess. These basics are easy to find but deliver rich flavor and vibrant color that make this dessert unforgettable.

3/4 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake, providing the right structure without weighing it down.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness throughout the roll.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Ensures the cake rises beautifully and stays light and tender.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm, fragrant spice synonymous with pumpkin treats.
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: Brings a nuanced blend of spices that define the fall classic taste.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly without overpowering the pumpkin flavor.
3 large eggs: Provide moisture and help the cake set with structure.
2/3 cup canned pumpkin (or homemade pumpkin puree): The star ingredient providing moisture, flavor, and that gorgeous autumnal color.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor, adding a subtle sweetness that complements pumpkin beautifully.
8 ounces cream cheese (softened): The key to a creamy, tangy frosting that balances the spices in the cake.
2 tablespoons butter (softened): Adds richness and smoothness to the cream cheese frosting.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Enhances the decadent flavor of the filling.
1 cup powdered sugar (plus more for dusting): Sweetens and thickens the frosting while adding a pretty finish when dusted on top.

How to Make Pumpkin Roll Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 10 x 15-inch jelly roll pan, then place parchment paper inside, making sure it sticks and that you leave an extra inch on both long sides for easy lifting. This nifty trick ensures your cake won’t stick and helps you roll it up without cracks.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. These spices give the cake its warm, cozy flavors, while the flour and leavening work together to create a tender, airy cake base.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree until smooth and well mixed. The eggs give the cake structure and moisture, and the pumpkin adds that signature autumn element.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and gently stir just until no dry streaks remain. Overmixing can make the cake tough, so keep it light and easy to achieve a tender crumb.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep a close eye as ovens differ—your cake should be springy and set without any wet batter left.

Step 6: Roll the Cake While Warm

Here’s the trick to a flawless pumpkin roll: immediately after baking, lift the parchment paper with the hot cake onto a flat surface. Starting at the short end, gently roll the cake and parchment together. Rolling it while warm prevents cracks and makes shaping much easier. Let it cool completely while rolled on a wire rack, so air circulates evenly.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake cools, beat softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla, and powdered sugar with an electric mixer until fluffy and smooth. This luscious frosting complements the spiced pumpkin cake perfectly with its creamy tanginess.

Step 8: Assemble the Pumpkin Roll

Unroll the cooled cake carefully and spread the frosting evenly, leaving a one-inch border around the edges to prevent overflow during re-rolling. Roll the cake up again—this time without parchment. Wrap tightly in plastic and refrigerate for at least one hour to let the flavors meld and the shape set.

Step 9: Serve

Before slicing, dust the top with powdered sugar for a pretty finish. Cut into generous slices and serve to delight your guests with every bite of this seasonal masterpiece.

How to Serve Pumpkin Roll Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a brown rolled cake with a smooth white cream swirl inside, sliced to reveal its spiral shape. The cake has a soft, spongy texture with a dusting of powdered sugar on top. The left side displays a larger section of the whole cake lying on a white plate, while the right side shows a single slice placed on a white plate on a white marbled surface. Nearby, a glass of milk and some cinnamon sticks add to the cozy setting. A black and white striped cloth is partly visible at the bottom. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar is classic, but you can also sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or a little extra cinnamon for added texture and aroma. A drizzle of caramel sauce on the plate adds a luscious, decadent touch that pairs beautifully with the dessert’s spices.

Side Dishes

This pumpkin roll is fantastic on its own but also shines alongside some fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For brunch, pair it with warm chai tea or a spiced latte to enhance those autumn flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Serve individual slices on pretty plates and garnish with candied pumpkin seeds or edible flowers for a festive look. You can also cut the roll into bite-sized pinwheels for a charming party platter perfect for gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover pumpkin roll tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and moist for up to four days, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy weeks or unexpected guests.

Freezing

You can freeze the pumpkin roll for up to two months. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then again in aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and dust with powdered sugar before slicing.

Reheating

This dessert is best served chilled; however, if you prefer it slightly warmed, let slices sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture and cause the creamy filling to soften too much.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! Just be sure to cook and puree your fresh pumpkin, then drain any excess liquid to achieve a similar consistency to canned pumpkin. This ensures your batter maintains the right moisture balance.

What makes this Pumpkin Roll Recipe so moist?

The combination of pumpkin puree, eggs, and careful mixing helps keep the cake tender and moist. Rolling the cake while it’s warm also prevents cracking, locking in moisture beautifully.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum for best results. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

Why do I need to roll the cake with parchment paper right after baking?

Rolling the cake with the parchment while it’s hot keeps it flexible and prevents cracks. It also helps the cake “remember” its rolled shape as it cools, making it easier to add the filling without breaking.

How far in advance can I make the pumpkin roll?

You can prepare this pumpkin roll up to two days ahead of time. Just make sure to keep it tightly wrapped and refrigerated so the flavors can settle and remain fresh for serving.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of festive charm to your table, this Pumpkin Roll Recipe is a must-try. It’s got everything you want in a fall dessert: moist cake, cozy spices, and a decadent cream cheese filling. Give it a shot—you’ll be amazed at how something so simple can taste so spectacular and create smiles all around!