Pumpkin roll is that magical dessert that takes you on a flavor journey, blending the rich taste of pumpkin with warm spices and creamy frosting. Imagine rolling up a moist cake filled with a luscious cream cheese mixture, then slicing it for the perfect presentation at any gathering. You can practically smell the spices wafting through your kitchen as it bakes.
Every bite is like autumn wrapped in a delicious hug. I remember the first time I attempted to make a pumpkin roll. It was during one of those crisp fall afternoons when the leaves were turning golden, and my kitchen smelled like a cozy café. After a few mishaps (let’s just say my first attempt looked more like a pancake than a roll), I finally nailed it! Now, this delightful treat is my go-to for potlucks and family gatherings, earning me applause every time.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This pumpkin roll is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor that will wow your guests
- The visual appeal of its swirled design makes it an eye-catching centerpiece on any table
- Customize it with nuts or chocolate chips for added flair, and enjoy its versatility as both dessert or breakfast treat
Ingredients for Pumpkin Roll
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Canned Pumpkin Puree: Use 100% pure pumpkin for the best flavor; avoid pumpkin pie filling as it contains added sugars and spices.
- All-Purpose Flour: This acts as the structure for your cake; sift before measuring to ensure lightness.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the batter perfectly while helping achieve that soft texture we all love in cakes.
- Baking Powder: Essential for giving your pumpkin roll that desired lift; make sure it’s fresh for optimal results.
- Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves): These warm spices create the signature flavor profile of fall; feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Eggs: They provide moisture and richness, binding everything together beautifully.
- Powdered Sugar: Used in the cream cheese filling; it lends sweetness without graininess.
- Cream Cheese: A key player in this recipe, providing that rich and creamy filling everyone adores.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and enhances all other flavors; opt for pure vanilla extract if possible.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Pumpkin Roll
Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even baking so your pumpkin roll turns out just right—no soggy centers here.
Prepare Your Baking Sheet:
Line a jelly roll pan (15×10 inches) with parchment paper and spray lightly with non-stick cooking spray. This little step prevents sticking disasters later on—trust me!
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until well combined. The aroma will bring back memories of holidays spent baking with family.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, beat eggs and granulated sugar until thick and pale—about three minutes should do it. Add in canned pumpkin and vanilla extract while mixing gently until everything blends smoothly.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep that airy texture intact for a fluffy cake.
Pour Batter into Pan:
Spread the batter evenly across the prepared baking sheet using an offset spatula. The smooth surface helps achieve uniform baking—nobody wants uneven slices!
Bake Your Cake:
Pop your pan into the oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until lightly browned around edges and springs back when touched gently. The heavenly aroma will fill your kitchen—enjoy it!
Roll It Up:
Once baked, remove from oven immediately! Place another clean kitchen towel on top of the cake after flipping it onto parchment paper. Roll up tightly starting from one end while it’s still warm; this helps shape it properly.
Cool Down:
Allow the rolled cake to cool completely on a wire rack—patience is key here! If you fill too early, you risk melting that beautiful cream cheese filling.
Prepare Cream Cheese Filling:
While waiting for your cake to cool down completely, beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy—a decadent treat all on its own!
Unroll & Fill:
Carefully unroll your cooled pumpkin cake from its towel embrace. Spread cream cheese filling evenly over surface; don’t skimp here—it’s where all the flavor lies!
Re-roll & Chill:
Roll up again but without the towel this time! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap; refrigerate for at least an hour before slicing—it lets those flavors meld beautifully.
Slice & Serve:
Once chilled enough to hold its shape nicely (you can wait longer if you want), slice into pieces about an inch thick—garnish with additional powdered sugar or whipped cream if feeling fancy!
And there you have it—a delightful pumpkin roll that’s perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself (no judgment!). Enjoy each bite filled with warmth inspired by those cozy autumn days!
You Must Know
- This delightful pumpkin roll recipe offers more than just a sweet treat; it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion
- Its unique blend of spices and creaminess will leave everyone asking for seconds
- Plus, it looks impressive when served, making you the star of dessert time
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing your pumpkin roll batter while preheating your oven. Bake the cake layer first until it’s fluffy and set. Once cooled, spread the cream cheese filling and roll it up tightly. Voila! A beautiful pumpkin roll ready to impress.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your pumpkin roll by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch. You can also swap out the spices—try ginger or nutmeg instead of cinnamon if you’re feeling adventurous. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
To store your pumpkin roll, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. For best results, enjoy it chilled or let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving. It’s delicious either way!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh pumpkin puree for a richer taste, but canned works too in a pinch
- Always let your cake cool completely before rolling to avoid cracking
- And don’t skimp on the cream cheese filling—it makes all the difference!
I remember the first time I made this pumpkin roll; my family couldn’t believe I had made such a fancy dessert at home. They devoured every slice and insisted I bring it to every gathering afterward!
FAQs:
What is Pumpkin Roll?
Pumpkin Roll is a delightful dessert that features a soft and spongy pumpkin cake rolled with a creamy filling, usually made from cream cheese. This seasonal treat is particularly popular during autumn, especially around Thanksgiving. The combination of warm spices, like cinnamon and nutmeg, enhances the pumpkin flavor, making it a favorite among many.
How do I store leftover Pumpkin Roll?
To store leftover Pumpkin Roll, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain its freshness. You can also place it in an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated for up to five days. If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing individual slices wrapped securely; they can last up to three months in the freezer.
Can I make Pumpkin Roll ahead of time?
Yes, you can easily make Pumpkin Roll ahead of time. Prepare the cake and filling a day or two before serving. Once assembled, refrigerate it overnight for the flavors to meld together. For longer storage, you can freeze the unfilled cake roll; just remember to thaw it completely before adding the cream cheese filling.
What can I serve with Pumpkin Roll?
Pumpkin Roll pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. You might also consider serving it alongside a warm cup of spiced chai or coffee. For a festive touch, garnish your dessert platter with chopped nuts or sprinkle some powdered sugar on top of the roll.
Conclusion for Pumpkin Roll:
In summary, Pumpkin Roll is a delicious and versatile dessert perfect for fall gatherings. With its moist pumpkin cake and creamy filling, this treat delights everyone who tries it. Storing and preparing your Pumpkin Roll ahead of time ensures maximum flavor and convenience. Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite beverages or toppings for an enhanced experience! Enjoy this seasonal favorite at your next celebration!
Pumpkin Roll
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
Pumpkin Roll is a delightful autumn dessert that combines a moist pumpkin cake with a rich cream cheese filling, creating a beautiful rolled treat that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye. With warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this seasonal favorite is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or cozy nights at home. Impress your guests with this easy-to-make yet stunning dessert that’s sure to have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ½ tsp ground cloves
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for filling)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a jelly roll pan (15×10 inches) with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat eggs and granulated sugar for about three minutes until thick; mix in pumpkin and vanilla.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture; pour into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 15 minutes until lightly browned; cool slightly before rolling the cake tightly in a kitchen towel.
- Prepare filling by mixing softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla until fluffy.
- Unroll the cooled cake, spread filling evenly, then re-roll without the towel; wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour.
- Slice into pieces and serve with optional garnishes like whipped cream or powdered sugar.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (50g)
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: For added texture, incorporate chopped nuts into the batter or filling. Adjust spices based on preference; ginger can be used instead of cinnamon for a unique twist. Store leftovers wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to five days.
