Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe moment I catch a whiff of cinnamon mingling with freshly baked pumpkin, I’m transported to the warm gatherings of autumn. This Lightened Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling is a seasonal gem that never fails to bring a smile to everyone’s face. With its fluffy pumpkin cake rolled around a lighter filling made with Greek yogurt, this recipe is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Not only does it keep things indulgent while being a healthier option, but it also makes two rolls—perfect for sharing with friends or saving for later! Cozy up with this autumn dessert, and let it remind you of the beauty of homemade goodness. Are you ready to roll into fall flavor? Why is this Pumpkin Roll a Must-Try? Lightened Version: This pumpkin roll swaps traditional cream filling for Greek yogurt, keeping it deliciously indulgent yet lighter in calories—perfect for the health-conscious dessert lover! Autumn Comfort: The combination of warm spices like cinnamon and allspice creates the cozy flavors of fall that everyone craves during this season. Versatile Treat: Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving or as an afternoon sweet treat, this pumpkin roll is sure to impress friends and family alike! Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can successfully whip up this festive dessert. If you’re looking for other simple yet delicious recipes, check out my Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls or Chocolate Oat Cookies. Crowd-Pleaser: The light cream cheese filling combined with the tender cake creates a delightful spiral that is always a hit, ensuring everyone will be coming back for seconds! Pumpkin Roll Ingredients For the Cake All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure and texture of the cake; gluten-free flour is a great substitute for those avoiding gluten. Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Leavening agents that contribute to a fluffy and light cake. Cinnamon, Pumpkin Pie Spice, Allspice – Adds warm, cozy flavors characteristic of autumn and pumpkin desserts; feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences. Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavors of the cake. Eggs (6 large) – Offers moisture and richness, contributing to the cake’s structure; ensure they are at room temperature for best results. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake; can replace with a sugar alternative if desired. Canned Pumpkin (1⅓ cups) – The star ingredient of this pumpkin roll; ensure you’re using pure pumpkin puree, not pie filling. Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic sweetness to both the cake and filling. For the Filling Light Cream Cheese (12 oz) – Creates a luscious filling; remember to let it reach room temperature for easy mixing. Powdered Sugar (1½ cups, sifted) – Sweetens the filling; sifting prevents lumps and ensures a smooth texture. Fat-Free Greek Yogurt (12 oz) – Keeps the filling light and creamy; can substitute with low-fat yogurt for a richer flavor. Extra Powdered Sugar – Dust on top for serving and to make your presentation even more beautiful. Chopped Walnuts (1 cup, optional) – Adds delightful texture and a nutty crunch; entirely optional but highly recommended! For Preparation Non-Stick Spray & Parchment Paper – Essential for pan preparation to prevent any sticking incidents during baking. Powdered Sugar (½ cup for dusting) – Used to dust the clean towels and for a touch of sweetness in your presentation. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Roll Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, line two 10×15-inch jelly roll pans with parchment paper, making sure to spray them well with non-stick spray. This prepares your pans for the pumpkin roll batter, helping it release easily after baking. Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, allspice, and salt. This mixture creates the flavorful base for your pumpkin roll cake. Set it aside while you work on the wet ingredients, ensuring they are ready to be combined seamlessly. Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 4–5 minutes until it becomes thick and fluffy. Then, gently fold in the canned pumpkin and vanilla extract. This mixture should be light in color and well combined, giving the pumpkin roll its signature flavor. Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Be cautious not to overmix; you want the batter to be just combined and smooth. Once done, evenly spread the batter into the prepared jelly roll pans, ensuring an even layer for consistent baking. Step 5: Bake the Cakes Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for about 13–15 minutes. The cakes are ready when they spring back to the touch, and the edges start to lightly pull away from the pans. While they bake, prepare clean kitchen towels by dusting them with powdered sugar to prevent sticking during the cooling process. Step 6: Cool and Roll the Cakes As soon as the cakes are baked, remove them from the oven and immediately invert them onto the prepared sugared towels. Carefully peel off the parchment paper, then roll each cake tightly using the towel as a guide. Allow the rolled cakes to cool completely on a wire rack; this helps maintain their shape. Step 7: Make the Filling While the cakes cool, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually mix in the sifted powdered sugar, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract until well blended. If desired, fold in chopped walnuts for added texture and flavor in your filling. Step 8: Assemble the Pumpkin Roll Once the cakes have completely cooled, gently unroll each one from the towel. Spread an even layer of the cream cheese filling over the surface of the cake. Carefully re-roll the cakes without the towel, pressing gently to ensure they hold their shape. Wrap them in plastic wrap to chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Step 9: Serve and Enjoy After chilling, unwrap the pumpkin rolls and dust the tops with additional powdered sugar for a beautiful finish. Slice with a serrated knife to create neat edges, and serve your delightful pumpkin rolls as a perfect autumn treat that everyone will enjoy! Make Ahead Options These Lightened Pumpkin Rolls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake and cool them as instructed, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. The filling can also be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; just make sure to keep it covered to maintain its creaminess. When you’re ready to serve, simply spread the filling over the cooled cakes, roll them back up, and chill for about an hour before slicing. This way, you’ll have a delicious, homemade dessert that tastes just as fresh with minimal last-minute effort! What to Serve with Lightened Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Elevate your autumn gatherings by pairing this delightful pumpkin roll with complementing side dishes and drinks that enhance its rich flavors and cozy appeal. Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a fluffy texture that perfectly balances the pumpkin roll’s richness. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet, spiced roll, enhancing the autumn experience with every bite. Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider brings a comforting beverage option, heightening the festive atmosphere of your fall gatherings. Pecan Pie Bars: The nutty flavor of pecan pie bars offers a delightful contrast, making for a great dessert table that celebrates the season. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy, cool element, creating a beautiful balance with the soft, warm cake. Caramel Drizzle: Drizzling caramel sauce over the pumpkin roll creates a beautiful presentation while adding a sweet, buttery flavor that tantalizes the taste buds. Coffee or Tea: A rich coffee or herbal tea adds warmth and depth to your meal, making it the perfect companion for this seasonal treat. Pumpkin Spice Latte: For the ultimate fall experience, serve this recipe with a pumpkin spice latte—a cozy blend of flavors that perfectly complements the pumpkin roll. Explore these pairings to create a truly memorable fall feast that your guests will love! Expert Tips for Pumpkin Roll Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature; this helps the batter achieve maximum fluffiness for your pumpkin roll. Don’t Overmix: Gently fold dry ingredients into wet ones without overmixing, as this can lead to a dense cake instead of the light, airy texture you want. Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cakes while baking—overbaking can dry them out and lead to cracks. Aim for the cakes to spring back when gently pressed. Chill Before Slicing: Let your pumpkin rolls chill for at least an hour after assembling. This helps the flavors meld and makes slicing much neater! Add Some Nuts: Consider incorporating chopped walnuts for added texture in your filling. They not only taste great but also offer a nice crunch in your pumpkin roll. Use Non-Stick Tools: Don’t skip on the non-stick spray and parchment paper. Preventing sticking will save you from a frustrating cleanup and ensure your pumpkin roll looks perfect! How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Roll Fridge: Store your pumpkin roll tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps the cake moist and fresh, ready to enjoy any time! Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the pumpkin roll in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, maintaining its delicious flavors. Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen pumpkin roll, simply transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight. This ensures it retains its texture and taste. Reheating: If you prefer it warm, slice and heat individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until slightly warm, to bring out the flavors again! Pumpkin Roll Variations & Substitutions Feel free to make this pumpkin roll your own by incorporating any of these fun variations that will elevate your autumn dessert! Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy a similar texture without any gluten. Sugar-Free: Use a granulated sugar alternative like erythritol or stevia for a low-calorie sweet treat that doesn’t skimp on taste. Spice It Up: Add ½ teaspoon of nutmeg or ground ginger for an extra layer of warmth, giving this roll a delightful twist that spices up the classic flavor. Nutty Addition: Fold in some toasted pecans or almonds into the filling for a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the soft cake. Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Use chocolate cream cheese instead of plain for a decadent filling that blends beautifully with pumpkin flavors. Fruit Fusion: Consider mixing in dried cranberries or raisins to the filling for a fruity burst and an attractive texture contrast. Lower-Fat Option: Swap the light cream cheese for a blend of silken tofu and yogurt if you’re looking for an even lighter, dairy-free filling without sacrificing creaminess. Served Warm: Warm up individual slices in the microwave for a cozy, just-baked experience that’s perfect for a chilly autumn night. Let the creativity flow, and enjoy exploring these tasty variations! For additional ideas, check out my delightful Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls or indulge in scrumptious Chocolate Oat Cookies. Pumpkin Roll Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best pumpkins for this recipe? Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin for your roll, look for sugar pumpkins (also known as pie pumpkins). They should feel firm and heavy for their size, and the skin should be free from any dark spots or blemishes. Canned pumpkin puree is a great alternative—just ensure it’s 100% pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling. What’s the best way to store leftover pumpkin rolls? To keep your pumpkin roll fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This ensures the cake remains moist and flavorful, ready for a quick snack or dessert any time you crave it! Can I freeze the pumpkin roll? Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap the pumpkin roll tightly in plastic wrap, and then place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight before serving. What if my pumpkin roll cracks during baking? Not to worry! If you notice small cracks in your pumpkin roll, it’s perfectly normal. These can often be hidden once you spread the filling. To help minimize cracks, ensure you don’t overbake the cake; it should spring back lightly when pressed. Is this pumpkin roll suitable for my gluten-free friends? Very! You can easily make a gluten-free pumpkin roll by substituting all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free baking blend. Just ensure the blend contains xantham gum or follow your blend’s specific usage guidelines for best results. Enjoy sharing with everyone! Can pets have pumpkin roll? While pumpkin itself is safe for dogs in moderation, the cake and cream cheese filling contain ingredients like sugar and spices that are not suitable for pets. It’s best to stick to pure pumpkin for them without any added sweeteners or decorations. Lightened Pumpkin Roll with Greek Yogurt Filling Delight This Lightened Pumpkin Roll with Greek Yogurt Filling Delight is a healthier take on a classic dessert, perfect for autumn gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsCooling Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 180 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake1 cup All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour can be substituted.1 tsp Baking Powder1 tsp Baking Soda2 tsp Cinnamon1 tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice1 tsp Allspice½ tsp Salt6 large Eggs At room temperature.1 cup Granulated Sugar Can replace with a sugar alternative.1 ⅓ cups Canned Pumpkin Use pure pumpkin puree.1 tsp Vanilla ExtractFor the Filling12 oz Light Cream Cheese At room temperature.1 ½ cups Powdered Sugar Sifted.12 oz Fat-Free Greek Yogurt1 cup Chopped Walnuts Optional.Extra Powdered Sugar For dusting.For Preparation1 can Non-Stick Spray For pan preparation.1 roll Parchment Paper½ cup Powdered Sugar For dusting towels. Equipment OvenJelly roll pansMixing BowlsElectric MixerSpatulawire rackPlastic wrap Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Pumpkin RollPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two jelly roll pans with parchment paper, spraying them with non-stick spray.In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, allspice, and salt.In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar for 4–5 minutes until thick, then fold in canned pumpkin and vanilla extract.Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture without overmixing, then evenly spread into the prepared pans.Bake for 13-15 minutes until springs back to the touch. Prepare sugared towels for cooling.Once baked, invert onto sugared towels, peel off parchment, and roll tightly using the towel to cool.Beat the cream cheese until smooth, mix in powdered sugar, Greek yogurt, and vanilla. Optionally fold in walnuts.Unroll the cooled cakes, spread filling evenly, and re-roll without the towel. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 1 hour.Unwrap and dust with powdered sugar. Slice and serve. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 4gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 3500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure eggs are at room temperature and do not overmix the batter for best results. Chill before slicing for neat edges. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
