Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling: A Festive Delight

A Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling is a showstopping dessert that brings together the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin with the creamy, tangy richness of cream cheese. This rolled cake is as beautiful as it is delicious, making it a favorite for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving feasts, and holiday celebrations.

Originating from the traditional Swiss roll, the pumpkin roll has become a cherished treat in its own right. Its signature spiral design adds elegance to the dessert table, while its moist texture and harmonious flavors make it irresistible. Best of all, it’s simpler to make than it looks, and it stores beautifully, so you can prepare it ahead of time to enjoy with family and friends.

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	3/4 cup
Baking powder	1 tsp
Baking soda	1/2 tsp
Ground cinnamon	2 tsp
Ground nutmeg	1/2 tsp
Ground ginger	1/4 tsp
Salt	1/4 tsp
Eggs	3 large
Granulated sugar	1 cup
Pumpkin puree (not pie filling)	2/3 cup
Vanilla extract	1 tsp
Powdered sugar (for dusting)	1/4 cup

Cream Cheese Filling:

Ingredient	Quantity
Cream cheese (softened)	8 oz
Unsalted butter (softened)	4 tbsp
Powdered sugar	1 cup
Vanilla extract	1 tsp

Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree for the best texture and flavor. Fresh spices are key to enhancing the warm, aromatic profile of the roll.

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Equipment Needed

To create the perfect Pumpkin Roll, you’ll need:

1. Jelly roll pan (10×15 inches): Essential for baking the thin layer of cake.
2. Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes rolling the cake easier.
3. Whisk or electric mixer: Helps ensure the batter and filling are smooth.
4. Sifter: For dusting powdered sugar evenly over the cake.
5. Clean kitchen towel: Used to roll the cake while it’s warm to prevent cracks.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until thick and pale, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract to the egg mixture and mix until smooth.
5. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients using a spatula, being careful not to overmix.

2. Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly pressed. Avoid overbaking, as this can cause cracks when rolling.

3. Roll the Cake

1. While the cake is baking, lay a clean kitchen towel on a flat surface and dust it generously with powdered sugar.
2. When the cake is done, carefully invert it onto the prepared towel while it’s still warm. Gently peel off the parchment paper.
3. Starting from the short side, roll the cake and towel together into a tight spiral. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.

4. Make the Cream Cheese Filling

1. Beat the cream cheese and butter in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fully incorporated and fluffy.

5. Assemble the Pumpkin Roll

1. Once the cake is completely cool, carefully unroll it and remove the towel.
2. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface of the cake, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Reroll the cake (without the towel), using gentle pressure to create a tight spiral.

6. Chill and Serve

1. Wrap the rolled cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
2. Before serving, dust the outside with powdered sugar for a festive finish. Slice into even pieces and serve chilled or at room temperature.

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Tips and Variations

Tips for Success

• Prevent Cracks: Rolling the cake while it’s warm helps it maintain its shape and prevents cracks from forming.
• Smooth Filling: Ensure the cream cheese and butter are fully softened to create a silky filling without lumps.
• Neat Slices: Use a serrated knife to cut clean slices, wiping the blade between cuts for a polished look.

Creative Variations

• Chocolate Pumpkin Roll: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and swirl melted chocolate into the cream cheese filling.
• Nutty Twist: Sprinkle finely chopped pecans or walnuts over the cream cheese filling before rolling.
• Spiced Maple Filling: Replace the vanilla in the filling with maple extract and add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth.

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Serving Suggestions

The Pumpkin Roll’s elegant spiral design makes it a stunning centerpiece for any dessert table. Serve it on a decorative platter dusted with extra powdered sugar and garnished with cinnamon sticks or mini pumpkins for a festive touch.

Pair it with warm beverages like spiced chai, pumpkin spice latte, or hot apple cider to complement its flavors. For an after-dinner dessert, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.

This dessert is perfect for potlucks, dinner parties, or as a homemade gift. Simply wrap slices in parchment paper and tie with twine for a charming presentation.

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Pairings

The warm spices and creamy filling of a Pumpkin Roll pair beautifully with a variety of drinks:

1. Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee complements the sweetness of the cake and filling.
2. Mulled Wine: The warm spices in mulled wine mirror the flavors in the pumpkin roll.
3. Pumpkin Ale: A seasonal pumpkin ale adds a fun, festive twist.
4. Non-Alcoholic Options: Spiced tea, hot chocolate, or apple cider are cozy and comforting choices.

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Storage and Reheating

Short-Term Storage

• Wrap the Pumpkin Roll tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Long-Term Storage

• Freeze the roll for up to 1 month. Wrap it in plastic wrap and then foil to protect it from freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Serving Tip

• Allow the roll to come to room temperature for 10–15 minutes before slicing for the best texture and flavor.

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Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1 slice)
Calories	280
Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	38g
Protein	4g
Sugars	28g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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Conclusion

A Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling is the perfect combination of elegance, flavor, and seasonal charm. With its soft, spiced pumpkin cake and rich cream cheese filling, it’s a dessert that’s sure to impress. The classic spiral design makes it as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat.

This recipe is easier than it seems, and the results are always worth the effort. Try it for your next holiday gathering, and don’t forget to share photos of your creation—you’ll be starting a new tradition your family and friends will look forward to year after year!

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