Pumpkin Roll Recipe
A pumpkin roll is a delightful dessert that perfectly captures the cozy essence of fall. With its soft pumpkin-flavored sponge cake and creamy cream cheese filling, it’s a favorite for gatherings or an indulgent treat at home. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare the Equipment
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the paper.
Pro Tip: Using parchment paper ensures the cake doesn’t stick and makes rolling much easier!
2. Make the Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until fluffy.
- Add canned pumpkin and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully combined.
Pro Tip: Be gentle when folding to avoid overmixing, which can make the cake dense.
3. Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared jelly roll pan. Spread it out gently with a spatula.
- Bake for 13–15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
4. Roll the Cake
- Lay a clean kitchen towel on a flat surface and generously dust it with powdered sugar.
- While the cake is still hot, carefully turn it out onto the towel.
- Peel off the parchment paper, then gently roll the cake (with the towel) from the short side. Let it cool completely, seam side down.
Pro Tip: Rolling the cake while warm prevents cracks and creates the perfect spiral later.
5. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
6. Assemble the Pumpkin Roll
- Once the cake has cooled, carefully unroll it. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the cake, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Gently re-roll the cake (without the towel this time).
- Wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Serving Your Pumpkin Roll
- Slice the roll into 1-inch thick pieces using a sharp serrated knife.
- Dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance!
Pro Tip: For clean slices, wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap the pumpkin roll tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Enjoy this classic pumpkin roll with your loved ones or as a personal indulgence. Its rich, creamy filling paired with the spiced pumpkin cake is bound to become a seasonal favorite. Happy baking!