Pumpkin Roll Cake – A Delightful Fall Treat Recipe

If you are looking for the ultimate cozy fall indulgence, the Pumpkin Roll Cake – A Delightful Fall Treat Recipe is exactly what you need. This luscious dessert features a soft, spiced pumpkin sponge cake that is rolled around a silky cream cheese filling, creating a stunning swirl that tastes as magical as it looks. Every bite bursts with warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, bringing all the essence of autumn into one beautiful cake. Whether you’re serving it at a Thanksgiving gathering or craving a seasonal sweet treat, this Pumpkin Roll Cake – A Delightful Fall Treat Recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen and heart.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, wholesome ingredients come together effortlessly in this recipe, each playing a vital role in the cake’s texture, flavor, and appearance. From the aromatic spices that give it that unmistakable fall vibe to the creamy filling that perfectly balances the tender pumpkin sponge, every component is both essential and straightforward to find.

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure for a light yet sturdy sponge.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise just enough without becoming fluffy.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidic pumpkin to ensure a tender crumb.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm, spicy notes essential for that fall feeling.
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Delivers a hint of nutty warmth that deepens the flavor profile.
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger: Lends subtle zing that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
• 3 large eggs: Incorporate air and provide richness for a soft texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while helping to develop the browning on the surface.
• ⅔ cup canned pumpkin puree: The star ingredient, giving moisture, color, and classic pumpkin taste.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a lovely depth and warmth to the batter.
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened): Base for the luscious filling that contrasts the spiced cake.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened): Makes the filling rich and smooth — no grainy texture here!
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling and dusts the towel and finished cake for that elegant touch.
• Additional powdered sugar: For dusting both the kitchen towel during rolling and the top of the cake for a pretty finish.

How to Make Pumpkin Roll Cake – A Delightful Fall Treat Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan thoroughly, then line it with parchment paper before greasing again. This double layer of prep ensures your cake will release easily after baking without sticking or tearing, which is crucial for a flawless roll.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. This combination creates the warm spice base and structure of the pumpkin sponge, and whisking them well ensures an even distribution of flavors throughout the batter.

Step 3: Beat Eggs and Sugar

Meanwhile, beat the eggs and granulated sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is thick and pale. This step is key for incorporating air and creating a light texture. It might take a few minutes of vigorous mixing, but trust me, it’s worth the effort!

Step 4: Add Pumpkin and Vanilla

Next, beat in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until fully combined. The batter will become smooth and rich with a deep orange color — already smelling like fall perfection.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Carefully fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can deflate the batter, so gently fold with a spatula until no flour streaks remain. Your batter should be smooth but light.

Step 6: Bake the Sponge

Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan. Bake for 13 to 15 minutes or until the cake springs back to the touch. Baking it just right is crucial because the cake needs to be soft yet sturdy enough to roll without cracking.

Step 7: Roll the Cake While Warm

While the cake is baking, lay a clean kitchen towel flat and dust it generously with powdered sugar. The powdered sugar prevents sticking and adds a touch of sweetness. As soon as you remove the cake from the oven, carefully invert it onto the sugared towel, peel off the parchment paper, then roll the cake and towel together from the short end. This warm rolling technique trains the cake to hold its shape without cracking later.

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

While the cake cools completely on a wire rack, beat together softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. This filling is the decadent heart of the Pumpkin Roll Cake – A Delightful Fall Treat Recipe, perfectly balancing the spice with a creamy sweetness.

Step 9: Assemble and Chill

Once the cake is fully cool, gently unroll it and spread an even layer of the cream cheese filling. Then re-roll the cake, this time without the towel, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour; this helps the filling set and makes slicing neat and clean.

How to Serve Pumpkin Roll Cake – A Delightful Fall Treat Recipe

Garnishes

Dust the top of the chilled cake with powdered sugar just before serving for a classic, elegant look. For extra flair, sprinkle some finely chopped toasted pecans or a light drizzle of caramel sauce. Edible autumn leaves or cinnamon sticks on the serving platter can add an inviting seasonal touch.

Side Dishes

This Pumpkin Roll Cake shines beautifully alongside a cup of hot coffee, chai tea, or even a glass of spiced apple cider. If you’re serving during a holiday meal, pair it with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate the comfort factor and balance the spices.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the roll into thick rounds and arranging them on a rustic wooden board with fresh cranberries and sprigs of rosemary for a stunning holiday dessert display. You can also cut bite-sized pieces and serve with toothpicks as a festive party treat. No matter how you present it, the Pumpkin Roll Cake – A Delightful Fall Treat Recipe will impress every guest!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Pumpkin Roll Cake tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and moist for up to 4 days, so you can savor this fall delight even after the celebration.

Freezing

You can freeze the finished cake by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

This cake is delicious served chilled, but if you prefer a slightly warmer treat, let a slice sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can soften the cream cheese filling too much and alter the texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! To substitute fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it, then strain out excess water until you reach the right consistency. Keep in mind fresh pumpkin might change moisture content slightly, so adjust baking time as needed.

What if my cake cracks when I roll it?

Cracks usually happen if the cake is too dry or overbaked. Be sure to roll it while it’s still warm with the kitchen towel dusted in powdered sugar. Small cracks can be hidden by the cream cheese filling once rolled.

Can I make the filling dairy-free?

You can try using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and vegan butter to make a dairy-free version. The texture might be a bit different, but the flavors will still be fantastic.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for structure, and watch baking time as gluten-free batter can behave differently.

How far in advance can I make this Pumpkin Roll Cake – A Delightful Fall Treat Recipe?

You can prepare this cake the day before serving and keep it refrigerated. In fact, chilling it helps the flavors meld together and makes slicing easier, so it’s a great dessert to make ahead.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Roll Cake – A Delightful Fall Treat Recipe is pure autumn magic that’s sure to win hearts and taste buds alike. It combines the cozy flavors of pumpkin and spices with a creamy filling that feels like a warm hug in dessert form. Whether you’re a pumpkin lover or simply adore festive sweets, this recipe is so rewarding to make and share. So go ahead, dive into this seasonal treasure and let every bite remind you why fall truly is the most delicious time of the year!

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