The Ultimate Homemade Pumpkin Roll Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting

Prepare to impress with this incredibly soft and perfectly spiced pumpkin roll. It’s an effortless fall dessert featuring a tender homemade pumpkin cake meticulously rolled around a rich, tangy cream cheese frosting. Mastering the art of rolling a flawless pumpkin roll is simpler than you think, and we’re here to share all the secrets to achieve a beautiful, crack-free spiral every single time. This recipe is destined to become a cherished fall tradition in your kitchen.

There are countless reasons to adore and serve this pumpkin roll. First and foremost, its exquisite flavor and delightful texture make it an undeniable crowd-pleaser. Every bite offers a harmonious blend of warm spices and creamy sweetness. Secondly, its stunning appearance, with its elegant spiral of cake and frosting, instantly elevates any dessert table. This pumpkin roll recipe effortlessly combines the cozy warmth of your favorite pumpkin cinnamon rolls with the rich, creamy decadence of a pumpkin delight. We’ve simplified the entire baking process, making it incredibly easy to follow and remarkably foolproof. You’ll feel like a seasoned pastry chef once you’ve successfully rolled and presented this autumnal masterpiece!

Why You’ll Adore This Easy Pumpkin Roll Recipe

This pumpkin roll isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your fall baking list:

• Rich, Authentic Pumpkin Flavor: Our recipe delivers a deep, satisfying pumpkin taste that is prominent without being overpowering. The perfect blend of real pumpkin puree and classic pumpkin pie spice creates an unmistakably delicious flavor that truly captures the essence of autumn. It’s the ideal way to satisfy those seasonal pumpkin cravings.
• Visually Stunning Presentation: Beyond its incredible taste, this pumpkin roll is a feast for the eyes. The elegant spiral of light, airy pumpkin cake generously filled with vibrant white cream cheese frosting makes it a show-stopping centerpiece on any dessert spread. It’s guaranteed to elicit “oohs” and “aahs” from your guests!
• Effortlessly Holiday-Ready: Searching for that perfect treat to impress family and friends at Thanksgiving, Halloween, or any fall gathering? Look no further. This pumpkin roll is not only delicious but also easy to make ahead, freeing up your time to enjoy the festivities. It’s the ultimate autumn-inspired dessert to wow everyone.
• Surprisingly Simple to Master: Don’t let its impressive appearance fool you. This recipe breaks down the process into clear, manageable steps, making it accessible even for novice bakers. With our detailed instructions and expert tips, you’ll achieve a perfectly rolled cake every time, boosting your baking confidence.

Essential Recipe Ingredients

If you’re a fan of the delightful sweet, savory, and creamy combination found in desserts like pumpkin cheesecake, then this pumpkin roll recipe will undoubtedly win your heart. Below, I’ve highlighted the crucial ingredients for both the cake and the filling. For the complete list with precise measurements, please refer to the detailed recipe card at the end of this article.

For the Moist Pumpkin Cake

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundational dry ingredient, providing structure to the cake. Measure it correctly to avoid a dense cake.
• Granulated Sugar & Light Brown Sugar: The combination of these sugars not only provides sweetness but also adds moisture and a subtle caramel note, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of the pumpkin cake.
• Ground Cinnamon: A touch of extra cinnamon amplifies the cozy, warm spice profile that is synonymous with fall baking.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: This blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves is essential for that classic autumn flavor. You can easily make your own homemade pumpkin pie spice or use your favorite store-bought version.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These leavening agents work in harmony to give the cake its light, tender, and airy texture, making it pliable enough to roll without cracking.
• Salt: A pinch of salt is vital to balance the sweetness and bring out the depth of the pumpkin and spices.
• 100% Pumpkin Puree: This is the star of the show! Ensure you use pure canned pumpkin puree and NOT pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices. The texture and flavor will be significantly different if you use pie filling.
• Eggs: Large eggs bind the ingredients together, add richness, and contribute to the cake’s structure and moisture. For best results, use them at room temperature.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: Opt for pure vanilla extract over imitation for a superior, more complex flavor that complements the pumpkin and spices beautifully.

For the Luscious Cream Cheese Filling

• Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese is key for a rich, tangy, and stable frosting. It’s crucial that it’s at room temperature to ensure a smooth, lump-free consistency when mixed.
• Unsalted Butter: Also at room temperature, butter adds richness and contributes to the creamy texture of the frosting. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness.
• Powdered Sugar (Confectioners’ Sugar): Essential for both sweetness and structure, powdered sugar dissolves easily, creating a silky-smooth frosting. Do not substitute with granulated sugar.
• Heavy Cream: A splash of heavy cream helps achieve that incredibly light, airy, and luscious consistency, making the frosting wonderfully spreadable.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: Enhances the sweet and tangy notes of the cream cheese, adding depth to the frosting’s flavor.

How to Craft a Perfect Pumpkin Roll

Creating this stunning dessert is surprisingly straightforward, yielding results that rival any bakery-bought treat. Follow these simple steps for a homemade pumpkin roll that tastes and looks absolutely incredible:

• Prepare the Cake Batter: Begin by thoroughly whisking together all the dry ingredients – flour, both sugars, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, salt, and baking soda – in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
• Bake the Cake: Carefully pour the prepared pumpkin cake batter evenly into a 12×16-inch rimmed baking pan (also known as a jelly roll pan) that has been lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 350ºF (175ºC) for 15-20 minutes, or until the center springs back lightly when touched and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
• Initial Cooling and Rolling: This step is critical for a crack-free roll. Immediately after removing the cake from the oven, place a second sheet of parchment paper over the warm cake. Then, using oven mitts to protect your hands from the heat, gently but firmly roll the warm cake, along with both sheets of parchment paper, into a tight spiral from the short end. Allow the rolled cake to cool completely at room temperature, which helps it set in its rolled shape.
• Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: While the cake cools, prepare the decadent cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, followed by the heavy cream and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is light, fluffy, and perfectly spreadable.
• Fill, Roll, and Chill: Once the pumpkin cake has fully cooled, carefully unroll it. Using an offset spatula, spread the prepared cream cheese frosting evenly over the entire surface of the cake, leaving a small border around the edges. Gently but firmly re-roll the cake back into a tight spiral. Transfer the filled pumpkin roll to the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes (or longer for firmer setting). Before serving, you can dust it with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance.

The Ultimate Secret to Rolling a Perfect Pumpkin Roll

Achieving a beautiful, crack-free pumpkin roll might seem daunting, but it’s incredibly simple with one crucial technique: parchment paper. As soon as your pumpkin cake emerges from the oven, while it’s still warm and pliable, use the very parchment paper it baked on to roll it. The warmth of the cake is your ally here; it makes the cake flexible and prevents it from tearing or cracking. For an extra layer of protection and to ensure the cake doesn’t stick to itself, lay a second sheet of parchment paper directly on top of the warm cake before you begin rolling. This creates a “parchment sandwich,” allowing the cake to cool in its rolled shape without any sticking issues. Rolling while warm is the non-negotiable step for success, so be ready to act swiftly once your timer goes off!

Expert Pumpkin Roll Recipe Tips for Success

To ensure your pumpkin roll turns out absolutely perfect every time, keep these easy-to-follow tips in mind:

• Avoid Overmixing the Cake Batter: Once you’ve combined the wet and dry ingredients, mix them only until they are just incorporated and no streaks of flour remain. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a tough, dense cake that is prone to cracking when rolled. A light, tender cake is key for flexibility.
• Use the Right Baking Pan: A 12×16-inch rimmed baking sheet, often called a jelly roll pan, is essential. The shallow depth and rimmed edges prevent the batter from spreading too thin or spilling over, ensuring an even bake and the correct cake thickness for rolling.
• Roll While the Cake is Warm (Immediately!): This cannot be stressed enough! The moisture and heat in the freshly baked cake make it incredibly pliable. Rolling it almost immediately after it comes out of the oven allows it to set into its spiral shape without developing cracks. If you wait for the cake to cool, it will stiffen and be much more susceptible to breaking.
• Parchment Paper is Your Best Friend: As detailed above, using parchment paper for both baking and initial rolling is the most effective method. It prevents sticking and provides a clean, easy way to guide the cake into its spiral.
• Consider the Tea Towel Method (with caution): Some recipes suggest using a clean, thin tea towel dusted with powdered sugar in place of the top layer of parchment paper. If attempting this, choose a thin, smooth linen towel over a textured terry cloth towel to avoid imprinting the cake. However, parchment paper is generally more reliable.
• Roll the Filling Up Tightly: When it’s time to add the frosting, unroll the cooled cake, spread the filling, and then re-roll it as tightly as you can. A tight roll ensures that beautiful, classic swirl and a generous amount of frosting in every slice.
• Allow the Rolled Cake to Cool Completely Before Filling: While the initial roll is done while warm, the cake MUST be completely cool before you spread the cream cheese frosting. Even slightly warm cake will cause the butter and cream cheese in the frosting to melt, resulting in a runny filling and a roll that won’t hold its shape. Patience here pays off!
• Chill for Optimal Slicing: After filling and re-rolling, chilling the pumpkin roll for at least 30 minutes helps the frosting set and firm up. This makes for much cleaner and easier slicing, giving you those picture-perfect spirals.

Delicious Variation Ideas to Customize Your Pumpkin Roll

While this classic pumpkin roll is perfect on its own, there are plenty of ways to get creative and tailor it to your personal taste. Experiment with these easy variations to make this recipe uniquely yours:

• Add Nuts for Crunch: Before re-rolling the cake with the cream cheese filling, sprinkle a generous layer of finely crushed pecans or walnuts over the frosting. The nuts add a delightful textural contrast and a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin and spices.
• Maple Infusion: For an extra layer of autumnal sweetness, drizzle a touch of pure maple syrup over the cream cheese filling before rolling. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon or two of maple syrup directly into the cream cheese frosting for a subtle maple-flavored twist.
• Decadent Caramel Drizzle: Elevate your pumpkin roll with a luxurious drizzle of homemade salted caramel sauce over the top, either before serving or on individual slices. The salty-sweet caramel perfectly complements the pumpkin and cream cheese.
• Spice It Up: Enhance the spice profile of the cake by adding a pinch of ground ginger, nutmeg, or a tiny dash of allspice to the dry ingredients. Adjust to your preferred level of spice.
• Different Filling Options: If cream cheese isn’t your preferred filling, feel free to substitute it. A classic vanilla buttercream, a light whipped cream, or even a cinnamon-spiced frosting could work beautifully, offering a different flavor dynamic.
• Chocolate Chips: Fold in a handful of mini chocolate chips into the cake batter or sprinkle them over the cream cheese filling for a delightful chocolatey surprise.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Rolls

Storing Your Delicious Pumpkin Roll

• Refrigeration: Due to the cream cheese in the frosting, your pumpkin roll must be stored in the refrigerator. Keep it in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors. Properly refrigerated, it will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days.
• Freezing for Later: This pumpkin roll freezes beautifully for up to 1 month. To freeze, wrap individual slices or the whole roll tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double wrapping helps prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply remove it from the freezer and let it defrost at room temperature for about an hour before serving. It’s perfect for satisfying those pumpkin cravings long after fall has ended!

More Irresistible Pumpkin Desserts to Try

• Air Fryer Pumpkin Pie
• Pumpkin Chocolate Marbled Zebra Bread
• Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins
• Better than Sex Pumpkin Cake

Rate This Recipe
Print Recipe

4.50 from 2 votes

Pumpkin Roll Recipe

By:
Julie Chiou

This soft and spiced pumpkin roll recipe filled with tangy cream cheese frosting is an easy fall dessert! Perfect for holidays and gatherings.

Prep Time:
20 minutes

Cook Time:
0 minutes

Bake time:
20 minutes

Total Time:
40 minutes

Servings:
12 slices

Equipment

• Large rimmed baking sheet (Jelly Roll Pan)
• Hand mixer

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• ¾ cup (94 g) all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (55 g) light brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• ¾ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¾ cup (184 g) pumpkin puree (100% canned pumpkin, not pie filling)
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 ounces (227 g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
• ¼ cup (59 ml) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a large 12 by 16-inch rimmed baking pan (a jelly roll pan) with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends over the edges for easy lifting.
• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Set aside.
  ¾ cup (94 g) all-purpose flour, ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar, ¼ cup (55 g) light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, ¾ teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon baking soda
• In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, and pure vanilla extract until well combined. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients and fold gently with a spatula until just combined and no dry streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
  ¾ cup (184 g) pumpkin puree, 3 eggs, 1 ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Spread the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, extending it to the edges. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the center of the cake is set, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Immediately after removing the cake from the oven, lay a second sheet of parchment paper directly on top of the warm cake. Using oven mitts to protect your hands, carefully and tightly roll the cake from the short end, along with both layers of parchment paper, into a spiral.
• Allow the rolled cake to cool completely to room temperature, which typically takes about one hour. This step is crucial for the cake to hold its shape without cracking when unrolled.
• While the cake cools, prepare the cream cheese filling. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together using a hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and pure vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is light, fluffy, and well combined.
  8 ounces (227 g) cream cheese, 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter, 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar, ¼ cup (59 ml) heavy cream, 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Once the cake is completely cool, carefully unroll it. Gently spread the cream cheese frosting over the entire surface of the cake in an even layer, leaving a small border. Then, carefully re-roll the cake back up into a tight spiral.
• Wrap the finished pumpkin roll tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set and the roll to firm up, making it easier to slice.
• Before serving, dust the pumpkin roll generously with extra powdered sugar if desired for an elegant finish. Slice and enjoy!

Notes

This pumpkin roll should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and due to the cream cheese filling.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1 slice,
Calories: 256 kcal,
Carbohydrates: 36 g,
Protein: 4 g,
Fat: 11 g,
Saturated Fat: 6 g,
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 3 g,
Trans Fat: 1 g,
Cholesterol: 74 mg,
Sodium: 250 mg,
Potassium: 95 mg,
Fiber: 1 g,
Sugar: 28 g

Disclaimers

This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition information can vary for a variety of reasons. For the most precise nutritional data use your preferred nutrition calculator based on the actual ingredients you used in the recipe.

The default measuring system for this website is US Customary. Unit conversions are provided for convenience and as a courtesy only. While we strive to provide accurate unit conversions, please be aware that there may be some discrepancies.