Pumpkin Roll is a delightful treat that perfectly captures the flavors of fall. With its moist, spiced cake wrapped around a creamy filling, this roll is not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to make. Whether for Thanksgiving, Halloween, or a cozy autumn gathering, this dessert will surely impress your friends and family. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious recipe!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 10
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 230
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 140mg
Why Make This Pumpkin Roll
Pumpkin Roll combines the warm, inviting flavors of pumpkin and spices with a luscious cream cheese filling, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. This dessert brings together a beautiful presentation and delectable taste, offering a taste of autumn in every bite. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare, creating an elegant end to any meal without requiring advanced baking skills.
How to Make Pumpkin Roll
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper. This prevents the cake from sticking and makes it easy to roll later.
Step 2: Mixing
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. In another large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until thick and pale. Stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract. Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
Step 3: Cooking
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 13-15 minutes or until the cake springs back when lightly touched. As soon as it’s done, remove it from the oven and immediately roll it in the parchment paper. This helps preserve its shape as it cools. Allow it to cool for about 30 minutes.
Step 4: Finishing
For the filling, beat the cream cheese, softened butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Unroll the cooled cake carefully, spread the filling evenly, and then roll it back up. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for that extra touch of sweetness.
How to Serve Pumpkin Roll
Pumpkin Roll makes for a stunning centerpiece at any dessert table. Slice it into individual servings and dust with more powdered sugar for an elegant look. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. It’s perfect for fall gatherings, family dinners, or even just a cozy night in!
How to Store Pumpkin Roll
To keep your Pumpkin Roll fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay good for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the unfilled roll by wrapping it well in foil and placing it in an airtight container. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before filling and serving.
Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Roll
- Make it Ahead: This dessert is great for making ahead. You can prepare the roll a day in advance and fill it before serving.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for a smoother filling.
- Rolling Technique: When rolling the cake, be gentle to avoid cracking, and don’t stress if it does; it’ll be covered with the filling.
- Spice Variations: Feel free to adjust the spices based on your preference or use pumpkin pie spice for convenience.
- Presentation Matters: For a festive touch, garnish with candied pecans or serve with caramel sauce.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Pumpkin Roll: Replace 1/4 cup of flour with cocoa powder for a chocolate twist.
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for added texture.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Swirl the filling into the cake batter before baking for a marbled effect.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned? Yes! If you prefer fresh pumpkin, make sure to cook and puree it, squeezing out excess moisture to avoid a soggy cake.
- How do I prevent my cake from cracking while rolling? Rolling the cake while it’s still warm helps maintain its shape. If it cracks, simply patch it with some filling.
- Can I make it gluten-free? Certainly! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to replace the regular flour.
- Is it possible to reduce sugar in the recipe? You can reduce the sugar by about 1/4 cup or use a sugar substitute, but this may affect texture and sweetness.
- How should I serve it? Pumpkin Roll is best served chilled or at room temperature. You can slice and serve directly from the fridge for a refreshing dessert.
Conclusion
This Pumpkin Roll recipe delivers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that can brighten any occasion. Its light, spiced cake, paired with a rich cream cheese filling, makes for a comforting and satisfying dessert. Whether enjoyed alone or as part of a holiday feast, it promises to leave everyone asking for seconds. Grab your ingredients, and let the baking commence! Enjoy the process and relish this autumn classic that will surely become a family favorite.
