The Memory Behind This Treat
The first time I made a Creamy Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake was on one of those crisp autumn evenings when the leaves seemed to dance in the breeze. My kitchen was filled with the comforting aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin, reminiscent of the fall markets I used to visit with my grandmother. She always had a knack for finding the ripest pumpkins, and we’d spend hours in her cozy kitchen, transforming them into pies, soups, and yes, even roll cakes.
This cake, however, has a special place in my heart. It was a rainy day, and after a particularly hectic week, I craved something both soothing and indulgent. I remember unrolling that delicate cake for the first time, nervous yet excited, and spreading the smooth cream cheese filling to create a perfect swirl. As I took the first bite, the blend of spiced pumpkin and creamy filling transported me back to those nostalgic market visits, making the world outside my window seem a little more magical.
Making this dessert has now become an annual ritual, marking the beginning of fall in my household. It’s not just a cake; it’s a celebration of memories and the simple joys of baking. If you’re new to this, don’t worry! Just follow along, and by the end, you’ll have your own masterpiece to cherish and share with loved ones. For more autumn-inspired treats, check out my Pumpkin Pie and Caramel Apple Tart recipes.
How To Make It (Mix & Ingredients)
Creating this Creamy Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake is like embarking on a cozy autumn journey. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Prepare a jelly roll pan by greasing it and lining it with parchment paper, ensuring the edges extend for easy lifting later. This simple trick saves you from sticky disasters!
In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice. These spices bring warmth and depth to the cake, echoing the essence of fall. In a separate bowl, blend the wet ingredients—3 large eggs, 1 cup granulated sugar, 2/3 cup canned pumpkin, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract—until smooth. This mixture should be vibrant and thick, with a delightful pumpkin aroma.
Step-by-step preparation of the Creamy Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake.
Gently combine the wet and dry mixtures, stirring just until there are no dry streaks. Don’t overmix; we want a tender, moist cake to roll easily. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep a watchful eye; a toothpick should come out clean for the perfect sponge.
Roll the cake while it’s hot, using the parchment paper to guide you. A tight roll now ensures the Creamy Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake stays neat and presentable. Let it cool completely before unrolling and adding that luscious cream cheese filling. Remember, patience is key, and your efforts will soon pay off with every delightful slice!
Also Read: Thanksgiving Cookies With Pumpkin Pie: A Delicious Twist
Make-Ahead & Storage
When it comes to the Creamy Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake, a little planning can make the experience even more delightful. One of the best things about this dessert is its ability to be made ahead of time. You can prepare the cake a day or two before an event, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. To do this, complete the cake and frosting steps, then roll it up snugly and wrap it in plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
For longer storage, consider freezing your pumpkin roll. Once it’s fully assembled and wrapped in plastic, place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. This method retains the cake’s moistness and the smooth cream cheese frosting remains perfectly creamy.
If you have leftovers (a rarity, I assure you), keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This ensures your pumpkin roll stays fresh, allowing you to savor every last bite. And remember, if you’re looking for another make-ahead dessert, you might enjoy trying my classic Chocolate Swiss Roll or the family-favorite Lemon Roll Cake as well!
Best Ingredients & Party Variations
When it comes to crafting the Creamy Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake, choosing the best ingredients is key to achieving that perfect blend of flavors and textures. Start with high-quality pumpkin puree—homemade if you’re feeling adventurous, but canned will do the trick. The spices are the heart of this dessert, so opt for fresh pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon to give your roll cake an aromatic lift. And don’t forget the cream cheese for the filling; it should be soft and at room temperature to create that dreamy, smooth texture.
Now, let’s talk party variations! If you’re hosting a fall gathering, why not jazz up your roll cake with a maple-infused cream cheese filling? Just add a tablespoon of pure maple syrup to the mix. For a nutty twist, sprinkle finely chopped pecans or walnuts on top before rolling. This adds a delightful crunch and makes the cake look extra festive.
For those who love a bit of indulgence, drizzle a caramel sauce over the finished cake right before serving. It’s an easy way to elevate your dessert and have your guests swooning. And if you’re looking to make it extra special, serve with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. These variations allow you to tailor the Creamy Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake to any occasion, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing dessert.
FAQ’s About Creamy Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake
What’s the secret to rolling a Creamy Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake without cracking?
Rolling the cake while it’s still warm is key to preventing cracks. As soon as it comes out of the oven, use the parchment paper to gently roll it up. This allows the cake to cool in the rolled shape, making it more flexible. Be sure to roll slowly and evenly, using a light touch. If it does crack, don’t worry—the filling can help hide any imperfections.
What is the filling in a Creamy Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake made of?
This delightful filling is a smooth blend of cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar. The cream cheese provides a tangy contrast to the sweet, spiced cake, while the butter adds richness. Make sure both the cream cheese and butter are softened before mixing to achieve a perfectly creamy texture. A hint of vanilla ties everything together, creating a luscious filling that complements the pumpkin spice.
Why does a Creamy Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake sometimes feel sticky?
The stickiness often comes from the cake’s inherent moisture and the sugar content. The pumpkin puree helps keep the cake tender, but it can also make the surface a bit tacky. Dusting with powdered sugar before rolling can help manage this. Also, letting the cake cool completely before filling it will reduce stickiness, ensuring a smooth assembly process.
Can you make a Creamy Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake with a spice cake mix?
Absolutely, a spice cake mix can be a convenient shortcut. You’ll want to adjust the spices to ensure that the pumpkin flavor shines. Add canned pumpkin to the mix to maintain that classic pumpkin roll texture. Follow package instructions for the cake, but keep the filling recipe the same for a delightful result. This method is perfect for those who want to save a bit of time without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion
There’s something truly magical about the creamy pumpkin spice roll cake that turns simple ingredients into a heartfelt masterpiece. As you slice through its pillowy layers and savor that perfect blend of spices, it’s more than just a dessert—it’s a moment shared. Whether it’s a cozy afternoon with your kids or a gathering with friends, this cake has a way of bringing people together, creating cherished memories with every bite.
I hope you’re inspired to try this recipe in your own kitchen. Trust me, the warmth and aroma filling your home will be worth every step. Plus, seeing the smiles on your loved ones’ faces is the best reward of all.
For more delicious recipes like this, follow us on social media! Together, we’ll keep the joy of baking alive, one delicious treat at a time.
PrintDiscover the Magic of Creamy Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake
- Total Time: 115
- Yield: 1 roll 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy Pumpkin Roll Recipe has a soft, moist texture and is filled with smooth cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
2/3 cup canned pumpkin
1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
1 cup powdered sugar, plus more for dusting
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a jelly roll pan with nonstick spray and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice.
3. In a separate bowl, mix eggs, sugar, vanilla, and pumpkin until smooth.
4. Combine dry and wet ingredients, stirring until no dry streaks remain. Spread batter evenly in the prepared pan.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Lift the cake with parchment paper onto a flat surface and roll it up. Allow to cool completely.
7. For frosting, mix cream cheese, butter, vanilla, and powdered sugar until smooth. Unroll cake, spread filling, and re-roll without parchment paper.
8. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
9. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.
Notes
The pumpkin roll can be made and refrigerated for 1-2 days.
Freeze wrapped in plastic for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Sugar: 42 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 53 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 106 mg


