Name: Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 eggs; 1 cup granulated sugar; ⅔ cup canned pumpkin; 1 tsp lemon juice; ¾ cup flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 2 tsp cinnamon; ½ tsp salt; 2 tsp pumpkin spice seasoning; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup butter, softened; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 4-5 cups powdered sugar; 2-3 tsp milk

If you adore the cozy flavors of autumn, then this Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Recipe will quickly become your new favorite treat! It boasts a tender, spiced pumpkin sponge cake rolled around a luscious, tangy cream cheese filling that perfectly balances sweetness with a hint of zest. Whether you want to wow guests at your next gathering or simply indulge in a festive dessert, this pumpkin roll is irresistibly delightful and surprisingly easy to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A slice of pumpkin roll cake sits on a white plate with a soft, moist, orange-brown pumpkin sponge rolled tightly around a thick, creamy white filling, forming two visible layers with a textured swirl pattern. The slice shows detailed crumb texture, and a fork holds a small bite of the cake, showing both the sponge and creamy layers. In the background, part of the rolled cake is visible, and a light brown crumb mixture rests in a white bowl on a white marbled surface with some scattered crumbs around the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients may look simple, but each one plays an essential role in crafting the perfect pumpkin roll. From the warm spices that paint the batter with autumn hues to the creamy filling that melts in your mouth, every component contributes to the magic of this recipe.

3 eggs: Whisked until fluffy, they provide the structure and lightness for the sponge cake.
1 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the spices.
⅔ cup canned pumpkin: The star ingredient that brings moisture, color, and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor.
1 tsp lemon juice: Brightens the batter and subtly balances the sweetness.
¾ cup flour: The base of the sponge, creating a tender texture that holds the roll together.
1 tsp baking powder: Gives the cake a gentle rise, keeping it soft and spongy.
2 tsp cinnamon: Brings warm, aromatic spice essential to pumpkin desserts.
½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors shining through the batter.
2 tsp pumpkin spice seasoning: A blend of spices that delivers the signature fall flavor in every bite.
8 oz cream cheese (softened): For a rich, tangy filling that’s ultra creamy and smooth.
½ cup butter (softened): Adds a silky texture and slightly buttery taste to the filling.
2 tsp vanilla extract: Elevates the cream cheese filling with fragrant sweetness.
4-5 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect spreadable consistency.
2-3 tsp milk: Used to soften the filling to silky perfection.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 375℉. Line a 15 x 10-inch baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cake doesn’t stick later on. Next, whisk the eggs at high speed for about 5 minutes until they’re beautifully fluffy; this step is key to a light sponge. Gradually add in the granulated sugar and keep mixing. Then, blend in the canned pumpkin and a splash of lemon juice—it adds brightness and a subtle zing that livens up the pumpkin’s sweetness.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and pumpkin spice seasoning. This ensures there are no lumps and that the spices are evenly distributed, giving your cake an even, rich pumpkin flavor with every bite.

Step 3: Mix and Bake

With your mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry ingredient mix into the wet batter. Pour this gorgeous batter into your prepared baking sheet and smooth it out evenly. Bake for about 12 to 15 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be springy and fragrant when it’s ready!

Step 4: Roll the Cake

Once out of the oven, let the cake cool for 10 minutes. Then, place a clean dish towel on your countertop and sprinkle it with powdered sugar—this prevents sticking. Carefully flip the cake onto the towel, remove the parchment paper, and starting at one short end, gently roll up the cake in the towel. This rolling step while warm creates that iconic pumpkin roll shape and prevents cracking. Chill the rolled cake in the refrigerator to set.

Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

While the cake chills, beat the softened cream cheese, softened butter, and vanilla extract together until smooth. Slowly incorporate the powdered sugar, and add milk tablespoon by tablespoon until your filling is silky and spreadable but still holds its shape.

Step 6: Assemble the Pumpkin Roll

Unroll your chilled cake carefully, peel away the towel, and spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface. Roll the cake back up, this time without the towel, to encase that luscious filling. Place it seam side down on a serving platter and refrigerate for at least an hour to let everything set beautifully.

How to Serve Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Recipe

The image shows two slices of a brown cake roll with a white cream filling swirled inside, placed on a white plate with a white marbled surface beneath. In the background, there is a small wooden bowl filled with brown sugar and two cinnamon sticks resting beside it on an orange textured cloth. The cake has a soft and slightly crumbly texture with smooth, creamy filling in the center, and the layers of the cake and cream are clearly visible in a spiral shape. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar over the top right before serving for a snowy, festive look that instantly elevates your pumpkin roll’s appearance. For an extra special touch, try adding a few toasted pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.

Side Dishes

This pumpkin roll shines splendidly alongside a cup of hot coffee, spiced chai, or a creamy latte. For gatherings, consider serving it with a side of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to complement the pumpkin’s spiced sweetness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning centerpiece, slice the roll into thick pieces and arrange them on a rustic wooden board with autumn leaves or small pumpkins for a warm, inviting display. You can even drizzle caramel sauce over the slices to add a luscious, sticky sweetness that pairs brilliantly with the cream cheese filling.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover pumpkin roll keeps beautifully in the refrigerator when wrapped tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to 4 days while maintaining the soft texture and rich flavors you love.

Freezing

If you want to save it longer, wrap the rolled cake firmly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Recipe holds up well frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to enjoy the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds if you prefer your pumpkin roll a bit softer. Avoid overheating to keep the cream cheese filling from melting too much.

FAQs

Can I make the pumpkin roll gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Just be sure it contains xanthan gum for the right texture, and keep an eye on baking time as gluten-free batters can bake a bit differently.

Is it okay to use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, but remember to cook and puree the fresh pumpkin thoroughly until smooth and drain any excess moisture. The texture should match canned pumpkin to avoid a soggy batter.

How do I prevent cracking when rolling the cake?

Rolling the cake while it’s still warm and using a powdered sugar-dusted towel to roll helps prevent cracks. Also, gently rolling without forcing the cake makes a huge difference.

Can I make the cream cheese filling ahead of time?

Definitely. The filling can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature and give it a quick whisk to restore creaminess before spreading on the cake.

What’s the best way to slice the pumpkin roll?

Use a sharp serrated knife and slice slowly with a gentle sawing motion. Chill the roll thoroughly before slicing for cleaner cuts and a neater presentation.

Final Thoughts

Friends, this Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Recipe is a celebration of fall flavors rolled into one stunning dessert. Its soft, fragrant cake and rich, creamy filling make every bite a joy. I promise once you try making this, it will become a beloved seasonal staple you’ll look forward to year after year. So, preheat your oven, gather those simple ingredients, and treat yourself to this unforgettable pumpkin delight!

Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need