Classic Pumpkin Roll with Creamy Filling

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There’s something deeply nostalgic and comforting about a Pumpkin Roll. With its velvety cream cheese filling and warmly spiced pumpkin sponge, this dessert feels like a cozy sweater wrapped around your taste buds. It’s a holiday classic, but honestly, it deserves a spot at the table any time the craving for fall flavors strikes.

The beauty of this roll isn’t just in its swirl or the balance of tangy and sweet—it’s in how impressively elegant it looks for how simple it really is. Whether you’re prepping for Thanksgiving, a family gathering, or just need a showstopper to go with your evening tea, the classic pumpkin roll never disappoints.

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Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Roll with Creamy Filling

• Incredible Texture: Soft, moist pumpkin cake rolled with luscious, slightly tangy cream cheese filling.
• Visually Stunning: That perfect swirl adds a bakery-level wow factor with minimal effort.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This dessert tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for prepping ahead.
• Seasonal Favorite: Filled with warm spices and pumpkin puree—this is autumn on a plate.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Universally loved, and always one of the first desserts to disappear at any party.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment:

• 10×15 Jelly Roll Pan: This shallow baking sheet helps the cake bake evenly and thinly, making it perfect for rolling.
• Parchment Paper: Ensures the sponge releases cleanly and prevents cracking.
• Clean Kitchen Towel: For rolling the warm cake to set its shape before filling.
• Electric Mixer: Essential for whipping the filling until smooth and fluffy.
• Offset Spatula: Makes it easy to spread the cream cheese filling evenly.

Each tool plays a specific role. The jelly roll pan shapes your cake just right; the towel sets its rolled form. Without these, you’d end up with broken sponge or uneven swirl—and that’s a dessert heartbreak we can avoid.

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Ingredients for the Pumpkin Roll with Creamy Filling

• Pumpkin Puree: Brings the rich, earthy flavor and soft texture that define this roll.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to the cake while keeping it light.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the batter without overpowering the pumpkin spice.
• Eggs: Help bind the batter and create a flexible sponge.
• Baking Soda: Gives the cake a slight rise without puffing it too much.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: A cozy blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to amplify fall flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor in both the cake and the filling.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and deepens the flavor profile.
• Cream Cheese: The star of the filling—rich, tangy, and creamy.
• Butter: Softened butter adds depth and silkiness to the filling.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the creamy filling.

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How To Make the Pumpkin Roll with Creamy Filling

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15 jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until thick. Add in the pumpkin puree and vanilla. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the top springs back when touched lightly.

Step 4: Roll While Warm

Turn the hot cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Carefully peel off the parchment paper. Starting from the short end, roll the cake and towel together gently. Let it cool completely while rolled.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Filling

Beat the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until fluffy and well combined.

Step 6: Fill and Roll Again

Unroll the cooled cake and spread the filling evenly using an offset spatula. Roll the cake back up (without the towel this time). Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Dust with powdered sugar before serving for that classic finish. Slice into beautiful swirls and enjoy!

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Serving and Storing the Pumpkin Roll

Serve your pumpkin roll slightly chilled for the best texture and clean slices. Each piece showcases that beautiful swirl and makes a perfect portion.

Storing Tips:

• Refrigerate: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: You can also freeze the roll (whole or sliced). Wrap in plastic wrap and foil, then thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Make Ahead: This dessert is ideal to make a day in advance, allowing flavors to meld and the roll to firm up for easier slicing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the pumpkin roll from cracking?

Roll the cake while it’s still warm, using a towel dusted with powdered sugar. This helps set the shape gently and prevents cracks later.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! Just make sure it’s well-pureed and drained of excess moisture. Canned pumpkin is more consistent, but fresh works beautifully if done right.

What if I don’t have a jelly roll pan?

You can use a rimmed baking sheet of similar size (10×15 inches). Just be sure the cake is spread thinly and evenly.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to follow the same steps and monitor bake time.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Yes! Chopped pecans or mini chocolate chips can be sprinkled over the filling before rolling for an added twist.

How do I get the swirl so clean?

Use an offset spatula to spread the filling evenly and roll tightly but gently. Chilling before slicing makes a big difference too.

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Want More Dessert Ideas?

If this Pumpkin Roll has you craving more cozy, sweet creations, check out these irresistible desserts from the Kitchen By Kate archives:

• Try this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake for a swirled fusion of your favorite flavors.
• For a nostalgic bite, go with the Old-Fashioned Egg Custard Pie that’s silky, simple, and oh-so-satisfying.
• The Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cups make for easy single-serves with max flavor.
• Craving a creamy chill? The Rose Pistachio Cheesecake Ice Cream is a unique scoopable delight.
• Or explore the comforting flavors of Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread – a true Southern gem.

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Let me know in the comments how your pumpkin roll turned out. Did you stick to the classic version or add your own twist? I love seeing your spins on these recipes!

You can find more daily seasonal bakes and cozy kitchen inspiration over on my Pinterest at Kitchen By Kate.

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