As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, the desire for comforting, seasonal treats grows stronger. This is the perfect time to dive into my favorite autumn dessert: the Easy Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling. I stumbled upon this delightful recipe during a bustling fall afternoon when my craving for something sweet and cozy was impossible to ignore. With its soft, spiced cake wrapped around a luscious cream cheese filling, this pumpkin roll is as satisfying to make as it is to eat.

Whether you’re hosting a festive Thanksgiving dinner or simply enjoying a quiet evening with a warm cup of chai, this dessert is sure to impress. It embodies the essence of fall, bringing together those nostalgic flavors we all adore while remaining incredibly simple to prepare. So, if you’re ready to impress family and friends with a homemade treat that feels special yet is easy enough for a weeknight baking adventure, let’s get started on crafting this pumpkin roll masterpiece!

Why is Best Pumpkin Roll Recipe With Easy Cream Cheese Filling a Must-Try?

Seasonal Delight: This recipe captures the essence of fall with its warm pumpkin flavors and fragrant spices, making it a perfect choice for autumn gatherings.

Effortless Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create an impressive dessert that looks and tastes gourmet.

Crowd Favorite: Rich cream cheese filling enveloped in a moist roll is sure to delight guests at any gathering, ensuring happy faces all around.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to mix it up by adding nuts or trying different fillings; the possibilities are endless!

Make Ahead: This pumpkin roll can be made in advance, allowing you more time to enjoy those special occasions.

Indulge in this delightful treat and check out our serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience!

Best Pumpkin Roll Ingredients

For the Cake

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the roll; be careful not to overmeasure for a light texture.
Baking Soda – Helps the cake rise; always check for freshness to ensure it works.
Baking Powder – Works in tandem with baking soda for a fluffy roll.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Adds that warm, aromatic flavor; can substitute with cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
Salt – Balances sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor in your best pumpkin roll recipe.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake and adds moisture; adjust to taste for less sweetness.
Eggs – Provide moisture while binding the cake ingredients together.
Pumpkin Puree – The star ingredient; use canned for convenience, or make your own for extra flavor.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the roll.

For the Cream Cheese Filling

Cream Cheese – The base for the smooth filling; opt for full-fat for creaminess.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the filling; feel free to adjust based on your sweetness preference.

How to Make Best Pumpkin Roll Recipe With Easy Cream Cheese Filling

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 15” x 10” jelly roll pan with parchment paper, which will help you easily roll the cake later.
Whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt in a mixing bowl until well combined, ensuring a light and airy cake.
Combine the sugar and eggs in another bowl, whisking until thick and pale, before stirring in the delicious pumpkin puree and aromatic vanilla extract.
Fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients gently until just combined; this keeps your cake light and fluffy, avoiding any dense texture.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 14-15 minutes, or until it springs back when gently pressed in the center.
Roll the cake with the parchment paper while warm, creating a tight roll to retain its shape, and then set it aside to cool on a wire rack.
Mix the cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla in a bowl until smooth; this rich filling will be the star of your dessert!
Unroll the cooled cake carefully, spread the cream cheese filling evenly, and then roll it back up without the parchment paper for a lovely presentation.
Wrap the pumpkin roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing to allow the flavors to meld perfectly together.

Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Best Pumpkin Roll Recipe With Easy Cream Cheese Filling?

Elevate your pumpkin roll experience with delightful pairings that balance flavors and textures, creating a memorable dessert spread.

Spiced Chai: The warm spices of chai complement the rich pumpkin flavor and creamy filling, making each bite a cozy experience.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and enhances the sweetness, creating a perfect marriage with the pumpkin roll.
Nutty Brownies: Serve alongside fudgy nut brownies for contrasting textures and flavors—soft and moist meets rich and chewy.
Cinnamon Ice Cream: The cool creaminess of cinnamon ice cream pairs beautifully, offering a refreshing counterpoint to the warm spices in the roll.
Coffee or Latte: A steaming cup of coffee or latte rounds out the dessert nicely, balancing the sweetness and enriching the overall warmth of the meal.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce atop the roll for an indulgent touch that adds richness and a hint of sweetness to each slice.
Pickled Cranberries: Try a small bowl of pickled cranberries on the side for a tart contrast—it’s a thoughtful balance to the sweet pumpkin roll.
Chopped Nuts: A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts on the plate adds a lovely crunch that complements the soft texture of the dessert.
Harvest Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad featuring apples, pears, and pomegranates brings vibrance and a burst of freshness, enhancing your fall-themed spread.

Helpful Tricks for Best Pumpkin Roll Recipe

Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool completely before spreading the filling; this prevents tearing and ensures a smooth roll.
Parchment Paper: Always use parchment paper for baking; it makes removal easier and helps maintain the cake’s shape.
Filling Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavored extracts or alternative fillings to personalize your best pumpkin roll recipe to your taste.
Gently Fold: Mix dry and wet ingredients gently to keep the cake light and airy; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
Serve with Style: Enhance your dessert by pairing it with seasonal beverages like spiced chai or serving it with a dollop of whipped cream.

Pumpkin Roll Variations

Feel free to experiment and make this pumpkin roll your own with these delightful twists!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a similar texture that everyone can enjoy.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for a crunchy surprise, enhancing every bite with texture.
Chocolate Twist: Mix in cocoa powder for a chocolatey version of your pumpkin roll – perfect for chocolate lovers!
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the batter for a hint of heat that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Maple Cream: Swap the cream cheese filling with a maple buttercream for a uniquely flavored filling that screams autumn.
Fruit-Filled: Layer in fresh chopped apples or pears with the cream cheese filling for fruity bursts in each slice.
Mini Rolls: Bake in muffin tins for bite-sized pumpkin rolls, perfect for parties or as a fun snack for kids.
Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and coconut oil for the filling to create a vegan-friendly version.

Embrace creativity as you craft your pumpkin roll masterpiece!

How to Store and Freeze Best Pumpkin Roll Recipe With Easy Cream Cheese Filling

Room Temperature: Keep wrapped slices out for up to 2 hours if serving, but for longer storage, refrigerate to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Store leftover pumpkin roll slices in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps the cake moist and the filling creamy.
Freezer: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy, thaw slices in the fridge overnight. For a warm treat, gently microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy chilled.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Pumpkin Rolls with Cream Cheese Filling are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bake the cake and roll it up up to 24 hours in advance, then store it wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. The cream cheese filling can also be prepared ahead of time; just cover it tightly in the fridge up to 3 days before you serve. When you’re ready to assemble, simply unroll the cooled cake, spread the filling, and roll it back up. This method not only saves you time on busy days but ensures your dessert is just as delicious, allowing those wonderful flavors to meld beautifully!

Best Pumpkin Roll Recipe With Easy Cream Cheese Filling Recipe FAQs

How do I select the perfect pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin puree, look for a rich, deep orange color, which indicates ripeness and flavor. Canned pumpkin is convenient; however, if you want to make your own, opt for small cooking pumpkins, roast them until they’re fork-tender, and blend until smooth for a fresher taste.

What’s the best way to store leftover pumpkin roll?
Very good question! To keep your pumpkin roll fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. This will ensure it stays moist for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. If the roll is not consumed within that timeframe, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving!

Can I freeze my pumpkin roll?
Absolutely! Slice the pumpkin roll into individual servings for convenience. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight. If you’d prefer a warm slice, pop it in the microwave for just 10-15 seconds after thawing!

What if my pumpkin roll cracks while rolling?
Don’t worry; this can happen to the best of us! If your roll cracks, simply use your cream cheese filling as a glue to hold it together when rolling it back. Additionally, be sure to let your cake cool completely before spreading the filling to avoid tearing. Using parchment paper generously will also help you roll without damage.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very much so! This pumpkin roll recipe is inherently vegetarian-friendly. However, if you have any dairy allergies, you might try substituting the cream cheese with a vegan alternative made from cashews or tofu. Always check ingredient labels, especially for potential allergens, as many packaged products can contain unexpected ingredients.

Can I make variations of the cream cheese filling?
Absolutely, the more the merrier! You can get creative with your filling by adding flavored extracts like almond or maple, or even mixing in chocolate chips for a sweet surprise. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding chopped nuts for a delightful crunch or a hint of cinnamon for added warmth. The possibilities are endless!