Creamy Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Recipe

If you’ve been dreaming of a cozy, festive treat that perfectly captures the essence of autumn, look no further than this Creamy Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Recipe. It’s a delightful combination of tender pumpkin-infused sponge cake rolled up with a luscious, spiced cream cheese filling that melts in your mouth. Each bite delivers a burst of warm spices balanced with a creamy sweetness, making it a standout dessert for any occasion. This cake is as impressive as it is comforting, turning simple ingredients into a show-stopping centerpiece for your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Creamy Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, from the warm spices that create that unmistakable pumpkin flavor to the silky cream cheese filling that adds richness and smooth texture.

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the delicate structure for a soft, yet sturdy sponge cake.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake rise gently for a light texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Adds extra lift and fluffiness to the batter.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that imparts warmth and depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Enhances the spice profile with fragrant notes.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Adds a subtle, aromatic punch.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• 3 large eggs: Bind ingredients and give an airy lift to the cake.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter without overpowering the pumpkin flavor.
• 2/3 cup canned pumpkin: Brings moisture, color, and that essential pumpkin taste.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with subtle sweetness.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates the creamy, tangy base for the filling.
• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted: Sweetens the filling with a smooth finish.
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and silkiness to the cream cheese filling.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the richness of the filling.
• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: Infuses the filling with cozy autumn flavors.
• Confectioners’ sugar for dusting: Gives the finished cake a beautiful, snowy touch.

How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Prepare Your Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 15 x 10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, then grease the paper lightly to prevent sticking. This step ensures your delicate pumpkin sponge cake comes out effortlessly when baked.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well will evenly distribute the spices and leavening agents, setting the stage for a perfectly spiced cake.

Step 3: Beat the Eggs and Sugar

Using an electric mixer, beat the eggs and granulated sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is thick, pale, and doubled in volume. This aeration is key to giving your pumpkin roll its light texture. Next, mix in the canned pumpkin and vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Gently fold the flour and spice mixture into the pumpkin batter. To keep the cake tender, stir just until the ingredients are combined—overmixing can lead to a dense texture, which we want to avoid.

Step 5: Bake the Pumpkin Cake

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared jelly roll pan and smooth the surface. Bake for about 13 to 15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched. The secret to a perfect roll cake is baking it just enough to be firm but still pliable.

Step 6: Roll the Cake While Warm

Once out of the oven, immediately turn the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with confectioners’ sugar. Carefully peel off the parchment paper, then, starting from a short side, roll up the cake and towel together while the cake is still warm. Let it cool completely on a wire rack—this helps the cake hold its shape as you add the filling.

Step 7: Prepare the Creamy Filling

Beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This luscious filling is the heart of the Creamy Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Recipe, providing rich flavor and a velvety texture.

Step 8: Fill and Roll the Cake

Gently unroll the cooled cake, then spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface, leaving a half-inch border around the edges. Carefully roll the cake back up without the towel, ensuring the filling stays in place for a beautiful spiral effect.

Step 9: Chill to Set

Wrap the filled cake roll tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. Chilling allows the cream cheese filling to firm up and makes slicing neat and easy.

Step 10: Finish and Serve

Before serving, dust the cake with a little confectioners’ sugar for a picture-perfect finish. Slice to reveal the swirls of cake and filling, and enjoy a slice of fall in every bite.

How to Serve Creamy Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your Creamy Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Recipe, consider garnishing with toasted pecans or a sprinkle of finely chopped crystallized ginger to add crunch and a hint of spice. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a dusting of extra pumpkin pie spice can also enhance both the look and flavor.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream flavored lightly with vanilla. A cup of freshly brewed spiced chai or espresso complements the cake’s warm spices beautifully, turning your dessert experience into a cozy occasion.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the pumpkin roll on a rustic wooden board or a beautiful cake stand to highlight its swirls. For parties, slice the roll into smaller bites and arrange them artistically with edible flowers or small fruit like figs and pomegranate seeds for a festive touch. You can also slice and layer on a plate with dollops of the filling to turn it into a layered trifle.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, store any leftovers in the refrigerator. The cake stays moist and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic make-ahead dessert for busy weekends or holiday gatherings.

Freezing

You can freeze the rolled and wrapped cake to enjoy later. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge to maintain its texture and flavor.

Reheating

This pumpkin roll is best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer it slightly warmed, unwrap and place a slice in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This helps soften the filling slightly without melting it completely, delivering a cozy treat that’s still perfectly creamy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned for this cake?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin, but make sure to roast it and puree it thoroughly, then drain any excess moisture so your batter maintains the right consistency. The flavor will be just as delicious, with a fresher pumpkin taste.

Is it necessary to roll the cake while warm?

Rolling the cake while it’s warm is essential to prevent cracking. When the cake is still pliable, it bends easily without breaking. Cooling the roll in this shape helps maintain a smooth, crack-free spiral once filled.

Can I make the filling dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the cream cheese and unsalted butter with dairy-free alternatives like vegan cream cheese and margarine. The texture might be slightly different, but the cake will still taste amazing and keep that creamy consistency.

How far in advance can I prepare this pumpkin roll?

You can assemble the cake and filling a day ahead of serving. Just keep it wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and it’s perfect for stress-free entertaining.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice for the filling?

If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, mix together ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves in equal parts to create your own blend. This homemade spice mix will bring the same warm, comforting aromas that the filling needs.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Recipe is such a joy to make and share. Its delicate cake, paired with the rich and spiced cream cheese filling, captures the very best of fall flavors with every slice. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying it with a quiet cup of tea, this dessert will surely become a beloved favorite. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!

Print