Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling

If you’re searching for the perfect autumn treat that combines moist, spiced cake with a luscious, creamy center, look no further than the Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling. This delightful dessert offers a beautiful swirl of vibrant orange pumpkin cake rolled tightly around a tangy cream cheese filling, making it an irresistible centerpiece for any fall gathering or cozy night in. With its tender texture and harmonious flavors, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite you’ll return to year after year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect balance of flavors: The warm spices in the pumpkin cake complement the smooth, tangy cream cheese filling beautifully, creating a harmonious taste experience.
• Moist and tender texture: Thanks to the pumpkin puree and careful baking, every bite is soft and moist, avoiding dryness common in rolled cakes.
• Impressive yet easy to make: Don’t let the elegant rolled appearance fool you—this recipe is straightforward, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Great for seasonal celebrations: Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling makes a stunning addition to holiday tables or autumn parties that will impress your guests.
• Customizable flavors: The recipe allows for spice adjustments and creative twists for personalizing your pumpkin roll.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling recipe has a special role, from providing moisture to enhancing flavor and color, making it essential to assembling a perfectly spiced, balanced dessert.

• Pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that adds moisture, richness, and that unmistakable autumn flavor.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake evenly while helping achieve a tender crumb.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and provide structure for a flexible cake that rolls well.
• All-purpose flour: Offers the right texture and strength to the cake without weighing it down.
• Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents create lift and lightness in the cake.
• Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves: A warm blend of spices that brings out the rich, cozy pumpkin flavor.
• Salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the spices in the cake.
• Vanilla extract: Adds depth and a subtle sweetness to the overall flavor.
• Cream cheese: Provides the creamy, tangy base for the filling that perfectly contrasts the spiced cake.
• Butter: Adds richness and smoothness to the filling for a luscious finish.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese filling for perfect consistency.

Variations for Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling

Feel free to customize your Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling by experimenting with flavors and ingredients to suit your personal tastes or dietary needs. The recipe is incredibly flexible and welcoming to creativity.

• Spice swaps: Swap cloves for ginger or add cardamom to shift the warm spice profile.
• Gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a celiac-friendly treat.
• Nutty addition: Fold chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter or sprinkle over the filling before rolling.
• Sweet pumpkin filling: Add a dollop of caramel sauce inside the roll for extra decadence.
• Dairy-free filling: Replace cream cheese and butter with vegan alternatives for a plant-based option.

How to Make Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling

Step 1: Prepare the baking sheet

Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it. This will prevent the cake from sticking and help you roll it smoothly later.

Step 2: Mix dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This ensures even distribution of spices and leavening.

Step 3: Beat wet ingredients

In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until thick and light in color. Add pumpkin puree and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.

Step 4: Combine wet and dry ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the pumpkin mixture, folding gently until fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a tender crumb.

Step 5: Bake the cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 13-15 minutes until the cake springs back lightly when touched.

Step 6: Roll the cake

Immediately invert the warm cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment paper and carefully roll the cake and towel together from the short side. Allow to cool completely to set the shape.

Step 7: Prepare the cream cheese filling

Beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add powdered sugar gradually until creamy and fluffy.

Step 8: Fill and re-roll

Unroll the cooled cake carefully and spread the cream cheese filling evenly over it. Roll the cake back up gently without the towel and wrap in plastic wrap to chill and set.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling

• Roll while warm: Rolling the cake while it’s still warm makes it more flexible and prevents cracks.
• Use parchment paper: It prevents sticking and helps achieve a clean roll.
• Cool completely before filling: Avoid melting the cream cheese filling by ensuring the cake is fully cool before spreading.
• Chill before slicing: Wrapping and chilling the rolled cake helps keep its shape when sliced.
• Don’t overbake: A moist cake is key; overbaking can lead to dryness and cracks during rolling.

How to Serve Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling

Garnishes

Dust the top with powdered sugar or sprinkle chopped toasted pecans for added texture and visual appeal. A drizzle of caramel or a few chocolate shavings can also elevate presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair this dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the warm spices. A hot cup of cinnamon-spiced tea or coffee rounds out the cozy autumn experience perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the pumpkin roll into delicate spirals for a buffet display, or serve individual mini pumpkin roll slices in clear cups layered with extra cream cheese frosting for a trendy dessert parfait.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap the Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep it fresh and moist.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfilled cake layer or the fully assembled roll by wrapping it well in plastic and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

If you prefer serving it slightly warm, let the cake come to room temperature, then warm individual slices gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, avoiding heating the cream cheese filling too much.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for the pumpkin roll?

Yes! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and provides consistent moisture and flavor for the cake. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains extra spices and sugars.

How do I prevent cracks when rolling the cake?

The key is to roll the cake while it is still warm and flexible, using a sugar-dusted kitchen towel to prevent sticking. Be gentle when unrolling and re-rolling after filling.

Can I make the cream cheese filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese filling a day ahead, keep it refrigerated, and bring it to room temperature before spreading on the cake for easier application.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a quality gluten-free flour blend, you can make this pumpkin roll gluten-free while maintaining a similar texture.

What is the best way to slice the Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling?

Use a sharp serrated knife and slice gently in a sawing motion to avoid squishing the roll. Chilling the roll prior to slicing also helps maintain clean, neat slices.

Final Thoughts

Making a Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling might just become your new favorite autumn tradition. Its moist, spiced cake paired with a rich, tangy filling is hard to resist and sure to impress loved ones. Embrace the cozy flavors of fall and enjoy this delightful dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

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