As the crisp autumn leaves dance outside, my kitchen fills with the warm and inviting aromas of cinnamon and nutmeg, transporting me to fond memories of family gatherings and holiday celebrations. This Irresistible Creamy Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling is my go-to dessert for Thanksgiving, a recipe that never fails to impress and delight.
Imagine a tender, spongy cake crafted from moist pumpkin puree, carefully rolled with a luscious cream cheese filling that adds just the right touch of indulgence. Whether it’s the centerpiece of your Thanksgiving feast or a sweet surprise for an afternoon treat, this pumpkin roll is sure to win hearts and taste buds alike.
With easy-to-follow steps and a delightful balance of flavors, I can promise this festive favorite will quickly become a cherished addition to your seasonal repertoire. So, let’s get ready to create something magical in the kitchen that brings joy not just in every bite, but also in the cherished moments spent with loved ones.
Why is this Irresistible Creamy Pumpkin Roll special?
Unforgettable Flavor: The delightful blend of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a warm, festive flavor profile that captures the essence of Thanksgiving.
Simple Steps: Designed for home cooks of all levels, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow, ensuring delicious results every time.
Crowd-Pleasing: This pumpkin roll is perfect for gatherings, impressing guests with its elegant appearance and rich taste.
Versatile Options: Feel free to adapt the filling by adding nuts or even swapping pumpkin for sweet potatoes for variety! If you’re in the mood for more pumpkin delights, check out these Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies.
Make Ahead: Prepare it a day in advance for stress-free entertaining, ensuring your dessert is fresh and ready to impress!
Irresistible Creamy Pumpkin Roll Ingredients
For the Cake
- Canned Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and flavor; you can substitute with freshly cooked pumpkin for a homemade touch.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; consider using brown sugar for a deeper flavor profile.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the cake; opt for a gluten-free flour blend if you prefer a gluten-free version.
- Baking Powder – Leavens the cake for a light texture; no substitutions are necessary.
- Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and flavor; feel free to substitute with apple pie spice for a twist.
- Ground Nutmeg – Enhances aroma and complexity; allspice can be used instead, but the flavor will be slightly different.
- Large Eggs (room temperature) – Act as a binder while providing moisture; using room temperature eggs will improve emulsion.
For the Filling
- Cream Cheese (softened) – The star ingredient of the filling for that creamy goodness; mascarpone can be used for a richer taste.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the filling for a smooth texture; no alternative suggested.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; almond extract is a lovely alternative if you seek a different note.
As you gather these ingredients to make your Irresistible Creamy Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling, experience the exciting journey of transforming simple components into a festive masterpiece!
How to Make Irresistible Creamy Pumpkin Roll
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly spray it with cooking spray for easy removal.
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Prepare Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin puree, eggs, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and all-purpose flour until smooth and well combined.
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Bake Cake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for about 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is lightly golden.
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Cool and Roll: Invert the hot cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Carefully peel off the parchment paper and roll the cake up tightly with the towel inside. Let it cool completely wrapped within the towel.
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Make Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.
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Assemble Roll: Once the cake has cooled completely, gently unroll it. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the cake, then roll it back up without the towel. Wrap the roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour before slicing.
Optional: Dust with additional powdered sugar before serving for an elegant finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Irresistible Creamy Pumpkin Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts seeking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cake up to 24 hours in advance by baking it, allowing it to cool completely, and then rolling it tightly in a clean kitchen towel. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its moisture. The cream cheese filling can also be made up to 3 days ahead; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to assemble, simply unroll the cooled cake, spread the filling, and roll it back up. You’ll enjoy an elegant dessert that tastes just as delicious, effortlessly ready for your guests!
Storage Tips for Irresistible Creamy Pumpkin Roll
Refrigerator: Wrap the pumpkin roll tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil; it will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pumpkin roll wrapped securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the roll overnight in the refrigerator for optimal texture and flavor.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat; serve chilled or at room temperature for the best experience of your Irresistible Creamy Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Roll
- Warm Cake Rolling: Roll the cake while it’s still warm to prevent it from cracking; this ensures a beautiful swirl.
- Powdered Sugar Dusting: Sift powdered sugar onto the towel before rolling to avoid sticking and create a nice finish.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and cream cheese will improve texture and ensure a smooth filling in your Irresistible Creamy Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe.
- Serrated Knife Advantage: For effortless slicing, use a serrated knife; this maintains the elegant swirl and presentation of your pumpkin roll.
- Chill Before Slicing: Let the rolled cake chill in the fridge for at least an hour—this helps set the filling and makes slicing easier.
What to Serve with Irresistible Creamy Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling?
Elevate your Thanksgiving feast by pairing this delightful dessert with complementary dishes that enhance its decadent flavors.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh, lightly sweetened whipped cream on each slice adds a delightful creaminess that pairs perfectly with the rich filling.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Warm, spiced apple cider brings out the autumn essence, creating a cozy drink that enhances the flavors of the pumpkin roll.
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Ginger Snap Cookies: Their crunchy texture and spicy sweetness offer a delightful contrast to the soft, creamy roll, creating a memorable dessert experience.
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Pecan Pie: A slice of classic pecan pie brings a nutty richness, creating a perfect balance of sweet and creamy with the pumpkin roll’s flavors.
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Cinnamon Ice Cream: Creamy cinnamon ice cream adds an indulgent touch; its chill and spice beautifully complement the warmth of the pumpkin roll.
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Autumn Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like pears and apples adds a light, fruity touch, making for a vibrant bite alongside the rich dessert.
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Nutty Coffee: Brew a pot of nutty coffee or a caramel latte to awaken the palates with a warm beverage that enhances the sweet and spicy flavors.
These pairings will not only round out your meal but also create a warm, inviting atmosphere that embraces the spirit of Thanksgiving.
Irresistible Creamy Pumpkin Roll Variations
Feel free to explore and personalize this delightful recipe to fit your tastes and dietary needs!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a fantastic gluten-free version without losing flavor.
- Sweet Potato Twist: Swap pumpkin for sweet potato puree for a different flavor that still captures that cozy autumn vibe.
- Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the cream cheese filling for a satisfying crunch and flavor boost.
- Spice it Up: Add fresh ginger or ground cloves to the batter for an extra layer of warmth and depth in flavor.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Use vegan cream cheese and coconut milk to make this treat dairy-free while retaining its creamy goodness.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent twist, melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over the finished pumpkin roll before serving.
- Fruit Infusion: Mix in some dried cranberries or raisins into the filling for a sweet contrast to the creaminess.
- Citrus Zing: Add a hint of orange or lemon zest to the filling for a refreshing, zesty note that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
Irresistible Creamy Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe pumpkin for my recipe?
When choosing canned pumpkin puree, look for brands that list “100% pure pumpkin” without added sugar or spices. If using fresh pumpkin, choose smaller varieties like sugar pumpkins, avoiding any with soft spots or blemishes. A ripe pumpkin should feel firm and heavy for its size, indicating good moisture content.
How long can I store my pumpkin roll in the fridge?
You can store your Irresistible Creamy Pumpkin Roll tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Ensure it’s well-sealed to retain freshness and moisture. Personally, I love making it a day or two in advance for the flavors to meld beautifully!
Can I freeze the pumpkin roll and how should I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze your pumpkin roll, wrap it securely in plastic wrap first, followed by aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can be safely frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor, then slice and serve.
What should I do if my cake cracks while rolling?
If your cake cracks while rolling, don’t worry! This can happen even to the best of us. To avoid this, make sure to roll the warm cake gently and not too tightly. If it does crack, simply fill in the gap with the cream cheese filling once unrolled, and it will be hidden once you re-roll the cake.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! If you’re making this dessert for guests with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt it. For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, remember that cream cheese contains dairy—consider vegan cream cheese if catering to a dairy-free audience.
Is there a way to enhance the flavor profile of my pumpkin roll?
Certainly! To elevate flavors, consider adding a pinch of ground ginger or cloves to the batter for a spicier kick. Alternatively, mixing in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the cream cheese filling can add a delightful crunch. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe—it’s all about creating your perfect flavor!
Irresistible Creamy Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly spray it with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin puree, eggs, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and all-purpose flour until smooth and well combined.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for about 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is lightly golden.
- Invert the hot cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Carefully peel off the parchment paper and roll the cake up tightly with the towel inside. Let it cool completely wrapped within the towel.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Once the cake has cooled completely, gently unroll it. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the cake, then roll it back up without the towel. Wrap the roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour before slicing.
Nutrition
Notes
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