Name: Irresistible Pumpkin Cake Roll With Cream Cheese Filling Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Optional for decoration); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Sifted for lightness); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon; 1 teaspoon Ground Cloves; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 4 Large Eggs (Beaten); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 cup Libby's Canned Pumpkin (Can substitute with homemade pumpkin puree); 1 drop Gel Food Coloring (Black) (Optional); 1/2 cup Walnuts (Optional); 8 ounces Cream Cheese; 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter or Margarine; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1/2 cup Additional Powdered Sugar (Optional)

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As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, I find myself reaching for my favorite spices, eagerly anticipating the delights of fall baking. This Pumpkin Cream Cheese Roll with Spiced Walnut Filling not only captures the essence of the season but is also a showstopper for any gathering. The combination of a soft pumpkin sponge and a rich, creamy filling creates a dessert that’s not only visually stunning but also wonderfully comforting. With quick prep and the option to customize with walnuts for a delightful crunch, this recipe makes for a perfect centerpiece at holiday celebrations or cozy get-togethers. Are you ready to impress your friends and family with a slice of autumn magic? Let’s dive into this deliciously festive treat!

Why is this Pumpkin Roll a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavor: The warm spices combined with cozy pumpkin create a flavor profile that’s simply intoxicating, evoking the joy of fall.

Visually Stunning: With its beautiful spiral and creamy filling, this roll is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate, making it a perfect centerpiece for gatherings.

Quick Prep: Forget long hours in the kitchen; this recipe comes together quickly and easily, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones.

Customizable Options: Feel free to add a crunchy twist with walnuts or experiment with different spices for your own unique version, like a Strawberry Icebox Cake for a lighter dessert after your meal.

Festive Delight: Ideal for Thanksgiving or any autumn celebration, this Pumpkin Cream Cheese Roll will enchant your guests and make you the star of the show!

Pumpkin Cake Roll With Cream Cheese Filling Ingredients

For the Roll

Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness for sprinkling; optional for decoration.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and stability to the cake; be sure to sift for lightness.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to help the cake rise.
Baking Soda – Works with the acidity of pumpkin for additional lift.
Ground Cinnamon – Introduces a warm spice flavor that’s quintessential to fall.
Ground Cloves – Enriches the flavor with its aromatic and bold essence.
Salt – Enhances the balance of flavors in the roll.
Large Eggs – Acts as a binder and adds aeration to the batter.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the sponge cake beautifully.
Libby’s Canned Pumpkin – Delivers moisture, flavor, and that vibrant orange hue; can be swapped for homemade pumpkin puree.
Gel Food Coloring (Black) – Optional for visual appeal, especially when decorating.
Walnuts (Optional) – Offers a delightful crunch and flavor; can be omitted for nut allergies.

For the Cream Cheese Filling

Cream Cheese – The main ingredient of the filling, creating a rich and creamy texture.
Unsalted Butter or Margarine – Adds richness to the filling; unsalted is best for control over flavors.
Vanilla Extract – Elevates the sweetness and flavor profile of the filling.
Additional Powdered Sugar (Optional) – Sweetens the filling further if desired.

This Pumpkin Cake Roll With Cream Cheese Filling promises to be a hit at your autumn gatherings, both for its taste and charming presentation!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Cake Roll With Cream Cheese Filling

Step 1: Prep the Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a jelly roll pan by lining it with parchment paper. This will help prevent the Pumpkin Cake Roll from sticking, allowing for a smooth release. Make sure to press the parchment into the corners so that it lays flat.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. This combination of dry ingredients will create the perfect foundation for the flavorful Pumpkin Cake Roll. Set the bowl aside to focus on the wet ingredients next.

Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the large eggs until they turn pale and frothy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add granulated sugar and the Libby’s canned pumpkin, mixing until well combined. This mixture will bring richness and moisture to your cake, creating that beloved fall flavor we all adore.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Carefully fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, combining just until no streaks remain. The batter should be smooth and slightly thickened. This step is crucial for achieving a light and fluffy Pumpkin Cake Roll, so mix gently but thoroughly to prevent overmixing.

Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan, spreading it evenly across the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched. The edges should be slightly golden, indicating that it’s ready for the next step.

Step 6: Cool & Roll
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. While it’s still warm, carefully roll the cake (with the parchment still attached) into a log shape. This step will help set the shape of your Pumpkin Cake Roll without cracking as it cools completely.

Step 7: Prepare Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, unsalted butter, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and blend until fully integrated. This delightful filling will complement the moist pumpkin sponge beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor of the Pumpkin Cake Roll.

Step 8: Assemble
Once the cake has cooled completely, gently unroll it from the parchment paper. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly across the sponge, ensuring it’s well covered. Carefully roll the cake back up, using the parchment to help guide it. Securely wrap the roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.

Step 9: Serve
When ready to serve your Pumpkin Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling, remove it from the fridge and slice it into pieces. For an added touch, dust the top with powdered sugar, creating a gorgeous contrast against the golden-brown cake. Your guests will be in for a delightful treat to savor!

Pumpkin Cake Roll With Cream Cheese Filling Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make your Pumpkin Cake Roll uniquely yours!

Nut-Free: Omit walnuts entirely or substitute with sunflower seeds for a satisfying crunch without the nuts. Your guests won’t even miss them!
Flavored Filling: Swap vanilla extract for maple or almond extract to give your filling a whole new flavor profile. Each variation will add a lovely aroma and depth to the roll.
Spice It Up: Experiment with an extra pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a spicier cake. This twist can wake up those cozy fall flavors as the leaves change color!
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend if you need to accommodate gluten sensitivities. You’ll still get that soft sponge texture everyone loves!
Chocolatey Touch: Fold in mini chocolate chips into the cream cheese filling for a touch of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin. This indulgent addition might just steal the show!
Dairy-Free Delight: For a dairy-free option, substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use coconut cream for the filling, creating a tropical vibe.
Citrusy Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the filling to brighten up the flavors. This citrus twist can really refresh the palate after a hearty meal!
Seasonal Surprise: Incorporate dried cranberries or raisins into the batter for added texture and a fruity surprise. Their sweetness will complement the pumpkin perfectly!

These variations are not just fun; they also offer a chance to get creative in the kitchen! And if you ever want a different dessert idea that’s equally delicious, consider trying a Blueberry Cream Cake for a refreshing finish. Enjoy exploring the possibilities!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Cake Roll With Cream Cheese Filling

Chill the Cake: Allow the rolled cake to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the filling set and makes slicing easier.
Avoid Cracks: Ensure your cake is fully cooled before attempting to roll it. Rolling while warm can lead to cracks in the sponge.
Sift Flour: Sifting the all-purpose flour with other dry ingredients ensures a lighter, fluffier Pumpkin Cake Roll. Don’t skip this step!
Egg Beating: Beat eggs until they are pale and frothy; this aerates the batter, helping achieve a light and delicate roll.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to mix in walnuts if you like extra crunch, but be cautious about allergies. You can adjust flavors by experimenting with different spices for your own spin!

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Cream Cheese Rolls are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the sponge cake up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake the cake, allow it to cool, and then tightly wrap it in plastic wrap to keep it moist in the refrigerator. The cream cheese filling can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring all the flavors develop beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply unroll the cake, spread the filling, and roll it up before chilling for 30 minutes to set. This approach lets you enjoy delicious, homemade Pumpkin Cake Roll With Cream Cheese Filling with minimal last-minute effort.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Cake Roll With Cream Cheese Filling

As you indulge in this delightful dessert, why not elevate your meal with a few perfect pairings that enhance its rich flavors and cozy essence?

Warm Spiced Apple Cider: A classic fall beverage, its citrusy sweetness and blended spices beautifully complement the pumpkin flavors.
Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crunchy texture and slight bitterness balance the sweetness of the roll, creating a delicious contrast.
Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy ice cream melts indulgently into each slice, enhancing the flavors while adding a smooth texture.
Pecan Pie Bars: The nutty, sweet flavors of these bars echo the autumnal theme and provide a delightful variety for your dessert spread.
Maple Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory, these tender carrots bring out the warm spices in your roll, creating a harmonious Thanksgiving-inspired side.
Coffee or Espresso: The rich, deep flavors of a strong brew make for a cozy pairing, cutting through the creaminess of the roll and enhancing the taste experience.

When you set your table with these wholesome accompaniments, you create a true feast of fall flavors that will leave your guests craving more.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Cake Roll With Cream Cheese Filling

Room Temperature: Keep the Pumpkin Cake Roll at room temperature for up to 8 hours if you plan to serve it the same day.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Slice and enjoy cold, or let it sit at room temperature for a bit to soften; there’s no need to reheat!

Pumpkin Cake Roll With Cream Cheese Filling Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pumpkin for the roll?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin, look for Libby’s Canned Pumpkin if you’re going the canned route—it’s consistently smooth and flavorful. If using fresh pumpkin, select a sugar pumpkin (small and sweet) that’s heavy for its size, with a rich, deep color. Ensure it feels firm without any soft or dark spots.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very good question! Store your Pumpkin Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan to eat it later, making it a day in advance enhances the flavors, as the filling sets beautifully overnight.

Can I freeze the Pumpkin Cake Roll?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your roll, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Slicing while still slightly frozen can help maintain neat edges.

What if my roll cracks while cooling?
No worries, this happens sometimes! If your Pumpkin Cake Roll cracks, you can still enjoy it—just make a lovely presentation by slicing the roll in slightly irregular pieces and dusting with powdered sugar. Alternatively, you can use the filling as “glue” to hold the pieces together while serving.

Are there any dietary concerns for pets or allergies?
Definitely! The ingredients like cream cheese and walnuts are not pet-friendly. Additionally, for those with nut allergies, simply omit walnuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower seeds for added crunch without the allergy risk. Always check with guests about dietary restrictions before serving.

What if my cream cheese filling is too thick?
That’s an easy fix! If your cream cheese filling seems thick, try adding a teaspoon of milk or cream at a time until you reach a spreadable consistency. Just be cautious not to overdo it as you want to keep that rich flavor intact. Additionally, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing for easier blending.