Classic Pumpkin Roll Recipe

Fall just wouldn’t feel complete without a slice of sweet, spiced Pumpkin Roll gracing your table. This homemade pumpkin roll recipe is everything you could want in a seasonal dessert: light, tender pumpkin cake wrapped around a luxurious cream cheese filling, with every slice revealing a perfect swirl. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner, prepping for a Christmas gathering, or simply craving a cozy afternoon treat, this classic pumpkin roll cake is destined to impress.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need: step-by-step instructions, pro tips to avoid cracking, creative variations, and expert advice on storing and freezing your pumpkin roll for ultimate freshness. Plus, I’ll answer all your burning questions along the way! Ready to bake the ultimate pumpkin dessert for fall? Let’s get rolling!

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Pumpkin Roll Cake with Cream Cheese Filling

There are dozens of pumpkin dessert recipes out there, but there’s a reason this classic pumpkin roll has stood the test of time. Here’s what makes it truly special:

• Beautiful Presentation: The elegant swirl makes every slice picture-perfect.

• Rich Flavor: Pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and cloves bring cozy autumn warmth to every bite.

• Creamy Filling: The tangy-sweet cream cheese filling complements the cake without overpowering it.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepping this a day in advance makes hosting stress-free.

• Freezer-Friendly: It freezes beautifully, perfect for prepping weeks ahead.

Whether you’re baking it for a holiday feast or a quiet night in, this pumpkin roll is pure fall magic.

The Heart of Fall: Memories Baked Into Every Slice of Pumpkin Swiss Roll

When I think of this pumpkin roll, I’m immediately transported to my family kitchen—cinnamon and cloves filling the air, leaves swirling outside, a worn towel dusted with powdered sugar on the counter.

Baking a pumpkin Swiss roll is more than just making dessert; it’s a seasonal tradition. A celebration of slowing down, savoring cozy moments, and sharing something homemade with the people you love.

That’s why I’m so excited to share this perfected version with you—so you can make your own memories, too. ✨

Essential Ingredients for a Homemade Pumpkin Roll with Soft Cake and Rich Cream Cheese Frosting

You don’t need anything fancy  just good quality ingredients and a little love.

Pumpkin Cake Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons powdered sugar (for dusting towel)

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)

• ½ teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon ground cloves

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 3 large eggs (room temperature)

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• ⅔ cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling!)

Cream Cheese Filling Ingredients:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Garnishes:

• Additional powdered sugar for dusting

• Crushed nuts for added texture

• Edible flowers or fresh mint leaves for a festive finish

Must-Have Tools and Equipment for Making a Pumpkin Roll at Home

Here’s what you’ll need before you get started:

• 13×18-inch half-sheet jelly roll pan

• Parchment paper

• Electric mixer (stand or hand mixer)

• Mixing bowls (medium and large)

• Thin cotton kitchen towel (important!)

• Rubber spatula

• Wire cooling rack

• Fine mesh sifter (for dusting powdered sugar)

• Serrated knife (for clean slicing)

Pro Tip: Make sure your towel is smooth, not terry cloth, to prevent the cake from sticking or wrinkling!

Step-By-Step Guide: How to Make the Best Pumpkin Roll Recipe from Scratch

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process for baking your own perfect homemade pumpkin roll:

Prepare the Pumpkin Cake Batter for Baking in a Jelly Roll Pan

First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Grease a 13×18-inch jelly roll pan, line it with parchment paper, then lightly grease and flour the paper itself. This double-layer of nonstick protection is key for a clean cake release.

Mix the Pumpkin Cake Batter for Moist and Fluffy Results

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• Flour

• Baking powder

• Baking soda

• Cinnamon

• Cloves

• Salt

In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar for 3–5 minutes until thick, pale, and doubled in volume. Gently beat in the pumpkin puree until fully combined.

Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Use a spatula to preserve that precious air you whipped into the eggs!

Bake the Pumpkin Roll Cake Until Light and Springy

Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan.

Bake for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.

Roll the Warm Pumpkin Cake Without Cracking

Immediately after baking:

• Loosen the cake edges.

• Invert it onto your prepared, powdered-sugar-dusted towel.

• Gently peel off the parchment paper.

• Roll the cake with the towel into a tight spiral starting from the short side.

Let the rolled cake cool completely, seam side down, on a wire rack.

Make the Smooth and Creamy Pumpkin Roll Filling

While the cake cools, beat together:

• Softened cream cheese

• Softened butter

• Sifted powdered sugar

• Vanilla extract

Beat until silky smooth. Resist the temptation to taste-test too much—this filling is dangerously delicious!

Assemble and Reroll the Classic Pumpkin Roll Dessert

Once cooled, carefully unroll the cake.

Spread the cream cheese filling evenly across the cake, leaving a ½-inch border to prevent overflow.

Roll the cake back up tightly (without the towel this time).

Chill and Serve the Perfect Pumpkin Roll for a Stunning Presentation

Wrap your rolled cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight).

Before serving, unwrap, dust with powdered sugar, and slice into beautiful spirals with a serrated knife.

Result: A stunning, homemade pumpkin roll that looks as good as it tastes!

Pro Tips for a Flawless Homemade Pumpkin Roll Every Time

• Use room temperature ingredients for the smoothest batter and filling.

• Don’t overmix — gentle folding keeps your cake light.

• Roll while warm to prevent cracks.

• Generously dust your towel with powdered sugar — better too much than too little!

• Chill before slicing for the cleanest cuts.

Common Mistakes When Making a Pumpkin Roll and How to Fix Them

Problem: Cake cracks while rolling.
Solution: Roll it while still warm and flexible.

Problem: Cake sticks to towel.
Solution: Dust the towel very heavily with powdered sugar.

Problem: Filling oozes out.
Solution: Allow cake to cool completely before filling; chill after rolling.

Problem: Cake is too dense.
Solution: Don’t overmix the batter once you add the flour.

How to Store Your Pumpkin Roll Cake: Refrigeration, Freezing, and Thawing Tips

Storing in the Fridge:

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap.

• Keep refrigerated for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing Instructions:

• Wrap the pumpkin roll in plastic wrap, then in foil.

• Freeze for up to 2 months.

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before slicing and serving.

Bonus Tip: Slice the roll before freezing for easy grab-and-go portions!

Creative Twists on the Classic Pumpkin Roll: Variations with Nuts, Maple, and Chocolate

Nutty Pumpkin Roll:

• Add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter before baking.

Maple Cream Cheese Filling:

• Replace vanilla extract with 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup in the filling.

Chocolate Pumpkin Roll:

• Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder to the cake batter.

• Substitute half the cream cheese with chocolate hazelnut spread for the filling!

Ginger-Spiced Pumpkin Roll:

• Add a pinch of ground ginger to the cake batter for an extra cozy zing.

How to Present and Decorate a Pumpkin Roll Cake for Fall Parties and Holiday Tables

Want to make your pumpkin roll party-ready?

• Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg over the powdered sugar.

• Add fresh mint leaves or tiny edible flowers for a pop of color.

• Top with crushed candied pecans for crunch and sparkle.

• Display on a wooden board for rustic fall vibes.

Perfect Drink Pairings and Desserts to Serve with a Classic Pumpkin Roll

Drinks to Pair:

• Spiced chai latte

• Hot apple cider

• Pumpkin spice latte

• Creamy eggnog

Other Desserts to Serve:

• Pumpkin pie

• Apple crisp

• Maple pecan bars

• Cranberry orange bread

Your Pumpkin Roll FAQs Answered

Can I make a pumpkin roll ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it’s better after chilling overnight.

Why does my cake crack when rolling?
It’s either too cool or slightly overbaked. Roll it immediately while warm.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, but drain excess moisture thoroughly for the best texture.

How long can pumpkin roll sit out?
No more than 2 hours—after that, refrigerate due to the cream cheese filling.

Conclusion

There’s no better way to celebrate the cozy spirit of fall and the festive magic of the holidays than by baking a homemade Classic Pumpkin Roll. With its light, spiced pumpkin sponge, creamy filling, and breathtaking swirl, this dessert is sure to become a beloved tradition at your table just like it is at ours.

So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself (and your loved ones) to this unforgettable, picture-perfect fall dessert. Happy Baking!