Pumpkin Roll With Cream Cheese Filling Recipe

Irresistible Pumpkin Roll With Cream Cheese Filling Recipe

Seasonal baking reaches new heights with this delectable pumpkin roll that promises a creamy, spiced adventure.

Soft, aromatic layers of cake wrap around a luscious cream cheese center, creating a dessert that whispers autumn comfort.

Warm spices dance through each bite, inviting memories of cozy kitchen moments.

Crafting this roll might seem intimidating, but the process becomes surprisingly simple with careful steps.

Delicate and light, the cake’s texture melts on your tongue with each forkful.

Sweet and tangy cream cheese filling adds a luxurious contrast to the pumpkin earthy warmth.

Elegant yet approachable, this dessert will surely become a cherished recipe in your baking collection.

One slice, and you’ll understand why this pumpkin roll is a true seasonal sensation.

Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling: Holiday Favorite

  • Craft a Show-Stopping Dessert: Impress guests with a bakery-style pumpkin roll that looks professionally made, yet surprisingly simple to prepare.
  • Quick and Hassle-Free Preparation: Complete the entire recipe in under an hour, making it perfect for spontaneous baking moments or last-minute gatherings.
  • Seasonal Comfort in Every Slice: Capture the warm, cozy flavors of autumn with this classic pumpkin dessert that brings nostalgic holiday memories to the table.
  • Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Suitable for potlucks, family dinners, holiday parties, or a delightful weekend treat that appeals to all ages and taste preferences.

Ingredients for a Perfect Pumpkin Roll

Cake Base Ingredients:
  • Eggs: Fresh eggs provide structure and richness to the pumpkin roll cake.
  • Sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a tender texture.
  • Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture and signature pumpkin flavor to the dessert.
  • Vanilla: Enhances the overall taste with its warm, sweet aroma.
Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Creates the fundamental structure of the cake.
  • Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances other flavors.
  • Ground Cinnamon: Adds warm, spicy notes that complement the pumpkin.
Filling and Topping Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: Provides a creamy, tangy base for the filling.
  • Butter: Adds richness and smooth texture to the cream cheese mixture.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and helps stabilize the filling.
  • Pecans: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the cake surface.
  • Vanilla Extract: Brings depth and warmth to the cream cheese filling.

How to Roll Pumpkin Cake Like a Pro

Step 1: Prepare Baking Space

Preheat the oven to 375°F.

Line a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends slightly over the edges for easy removal.

Step 2: Create Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.

Gently fold in:
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Vanilla extract
In a separate bowl, combine dry ingredients:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Cinnamon
  • Nutmeg
  • Salt

Carefully fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Step 3: Bake The Cake Base

Spread the batter evenly across the prepared pan.

Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top.

Bake for 13-15 minutes until the cake springs back when lightly touched.

Step 4: Craft Cream Cheese Filling

While the cake bakes, prepare the filling by beating together:
  • Cream cheese
  • Butter
  • Powdered sugar
  • Vanilla extract

Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Roll The Warm Cake

Immediately after removing from the oven, dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar.

Carefully invert the hot cake onto the towel.

Peel off the parchment paper.

Starting from the short end, roll the cake with the towel.

Let cool completely.

Step 6: Fill And Re-Roll

Unroll the cooled cake carefully.

Spread the cream cheese filling evenly across the surface.

Gently roll the cake back up without the towel.

Step 7: Chill And Serve

Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap.

Refrigerate for 1-2 hours to set.

Before serving, dust with additional powdered sugar.

Slice and enjoy the festive treat.

Pumpkin Roll Success: Tricks and Tips

  • Dust the towel generously with powdered sugar to help the warm cake roll smoothly without breaking.
  • Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing to ensure a silky, lump-free filling.
  • Gently press the cake's center; it should spring back when fully baked, indicating it's ready to roll.
  • Cut off any crispy or uneven edges before rolling to create a more professional and clean-looking dessert.
  • Use a sharp, clean knife and wipe between cuts to get perfect, clean slices when serving the pumpkin roll.

Creative Ideas for Pumpkin Roll Fillings

  • Gluten-Free Pumpkin Roll: Replace wheat flour with gluten-free flour blend for those with celiac disease or wheat sensitivities.
  • Vegan Pumpkin Delight: Swap eggs with flax eggs, use coconut cream instead of cream cheese, and replace butter with coconut oil for a plant-based version.
  • Keto-Friendly Pumpkin Cake: Substitute sugar with erythritol, use almond flour instead of wheat flour, and create a low-carb cream cheese filling.
  • Nut-Free Alternative: Omit pecans and replace with sunflower seeds or skip the topping entirely for those with nut allergies.

Pumpkin Roll Serving Inspiration

  • Thanksgiving Table Star: Place this elegant pumpkin roll as the centerpiece dessert, surrounded by autumn-themed decor and candles for a stunning presentation.
  • Brunch Delight: Slice and serve alongside morning coffee or tea, creating a sweet weekend breakfast treat that impresses family and guests.
  • Holiday Gift Idea: Wrap individual slices in clear cellophane with a festive ribbon, making charming homemade gifts for neighbors, teachers, or friends during the holiday season.
  • Dessert Pairing Perfection: Complement the roll with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce to enhance its rich, creamy texture and seasonal flavors.

Best Pumpkin Roll Storage Solutions

  • Store the pumpkin roll tightly wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Keep it cool and fresh by placing it in an airtight container.
  • Wrap the roll completely in plastic wrap, then add a layer of aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Cut individual slices and place them between parchment paper in a sealed container. Refrigerate for quick, easy grab-and-go servings.
  • Bring refrigerated slices to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving to prevent the cream cheese filling from becoming runny.

FAQs

  • How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?

Dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar before rolling the warm cake. This helps prevent sticking and makes rolling easier without breaking the delicate pumpkin cake.

  • Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pumpkin roll 1-2 days in advance. Keep it refrigerated and covered, which actually helps the flavors meld together and makes the texture more smooth.

  • What if I don't have pecans?

If you don’t have pecans, you can skip them or substitute with walnuts. The nuts are optional and won’t affect the overall structure of the cake if you choose to omit them.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Pumpkin Roll With Cream Cheese Filling Recipe

Pumpkin Roll With Cream Cheese Filling Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 13 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Creamy pumpkin roll with cream cheese filling brings autumn’s warmth to your dessert table. Spiced cake rolls around silky filling create a delightful seasonal treat you’ll savor with each delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2/3 cup pumpkin puree
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2/3 cup all-purpose flour

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Filling and Topping:

  • 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese (softened)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/3 cup toasted pecans (finely chopped)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 375°F and line a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage and smooth edges.
  2. Whisk eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy, then incorporate pumpkin puree and vanilla extract, creating a smooth liquid base.
  3. Sift together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a separate bowl, then gently fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
  4. Pour batter evenly into prepared pan, using a spatula to spread smoothly and sprinkle chopped pecans across the surface.
  5. Bake for 13-15 minutes until cake springs back when lightly touched and edges slightly pull away from pan sides.
  6. While cake bakes, prepare cream cheese filling by beating cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until silky and well-blended.
  7. Immediately after removing from oven, dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar and carefully invert warm cake onto towel.
  8. Carefully roll cake with towel from short end, allowing it to cool completely in rolled position to prevent cracking.
  9. Once cooled, unroll cake, spread cream cheese filling evenly, then re-roll cake without towel, seam-side down.
  10. Refrigerate rolled cake for 1-2 hours to set filling and enhance flavor, then dust with additional powdered sugar before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth mixing and even baking of the pumpkin roll.
  • Line the baking tray with parchment paper carefully, allowing slight overhang for easy cake removal without breaking.
  • Dust the towel generously with powdered sugar to prevent the delicate cake from sticking during the rolling process.
  • Try alternative nut toppings like walnuts or almonds for different flavor profiles and textures.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 308 kcal
  • Sugar: 22 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg
  • Fat: 21 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
Nathaniel Brooks

Nathaniel Brooks

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Farm-to-table cuisine, Seasonal recipe development, Culinary storytelling

Education

Ivy Tech Community College – Indianapolis, IN
Culinary Arts / Hospitality Administration & Events
Focused on hands-on training in classical and modern culinary techniques. ​


Nathaniel’s story starts in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, where farm stands, backyard gardens, and old family recipes shaped his love for real food. After graduating from Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis, he spent years working in farm-to-table kitchens, learning how to turn local, seasonal ingredients into something memorable.
Today, Nathaniel pours that same spirit into every single recipe on Aspiring Culinarian – recipes that feel real, comforting, and connected to the land. When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll find him foraging wild herbs, chasing sunsets with his camera, or writing about the flavors that shaped his roots.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star