This pumpkin roll is the ultimate seasonal dessert, blending spiced pumpkin cake with a velvety cream cheese filling in a beautiful spiral. It takes just 40 minutes to create from scratch, and its impressive appearance makes it ideal for holiday gatherings. You’ll find the aroma alone brings instant autumn comfort.

I first encountered this dessert while traveling through New England during peak foliage season. The memory of that cozy kitchen, filled with the scent of cinnamon and warm pumpkin, inspired me to perfect my own version. Now, this pumpkin cake roll holds a cherished place on my holiday table alongside classics like my creamy pumpkin pie and cranberry orange bread. It’s the perfect centerpiece for Thanksgiving dessert spreads or Christmas gatherings, offering that beautiful blend of tradition and wow factor that makes celebrations special.

Four Reasons This Pumpkin Roll Shines

Made From Scratch Flavor: Fresh spices and real pumpkin create depth you can’t get from box mixes.
Surprisingly Simple Technique: The rolling method seems fancy but is genuinely approachable for bakers of all levels.
Make-Ahead Magic: It actually improves after resting, making holiday prep stress-free.
Crowd-Pleasing Presentation: That beautiful spiral never fails to impress guests at gatherings.

Everything for Your Perfect Pumpkin Roll

Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full listing of ingredients, instructions, notes, and estimated nutritional information.

For the Pumpkin Cake

3 large eggs: Bring to room temperature for maximum volume when beating.
1 cup granulated sugar: Creates the light, airy texture in the cake base.
2/3 cup pumpkin puree: Use pure pumpkin, not pie filling, for best results.
3/4 cup all-purpose flour: Measured correctly to avoid a dense cake texture.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Provides the necessary lift for the thin cake layer.
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The dominant spice that defines this autumn dessert.
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds warmth and complexity to the spice blend.
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves: Use sparingly as it’s potent but essential.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors.

For the Cream Cheese Filling

8 ounces cream cheese: Must be fully softened for silky smooth filling.
1/2 cup unsalted butter: Also softened to blend seamlessly with cream cheese.
2 cups powdered sugar: Sift it to avoid lumps in your filling.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure vanilla adds the best flavor dimension.

Pumpkin Roll

Learn how to make a perfect pumpkin roll with creamy filling. This classic dessert features spiced pumpkin cake rolled with cream cheese frosting.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25

Cook Time 15

Total Time 2 40

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 10 slices

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

oven
jelly roll pan
parchment paper
electric mixer
mixing bowl
whisk
offset spatula
kitchen towel
wire rack
plastic wrap
measuring cups
measuring spoons

Ingredients

Cake

3 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
2/3 cup pumpkin puree not pie filling
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp ground cloves
1/2 tsp salt

Filling

8 oz cream cheese softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter 1 stick, softened
2 cups powdered sugar sifted, plus more for dusting
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 15x10x1-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, allowing it to extend slightly over the short ends. Lightly grease the parchment paper and dust it evenly with a small amount of all-purpose flour.
In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale yellow, about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the pumpkin puree until well combined.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt until evenly distributed. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet pumpkin mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined and no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix.
Evenly spread the pumpkin batter into the prepared jelly roll pan, using an offset spatula to ensure a smooth, uniform layer. Bake for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the cake springs back lightly when gently touched in the center and the edges are slightly golden.
While the cake bakes, lay a clean kitchen towel flat on your countertop and generously dust it with about 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar. Immediately upon removing the hot cake from the oven, carefully invert it onto the prepared towel. Gently peel off the parchment paper. Starting from one of the short ends, tightly roll up the warm cake, with the towel inside, into a spiral. Place the rolled cake seam-side down on a wire rack and allow it to cool completely for at least 1 hour.
To prepare the filling, in a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened unsalted butter with an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth, light, and creamy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Gradually beat in the sifted powdered sugar until fully incorporated and the mixture is fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract until smooth.
Once the cake is completely cool, carefully unroll it onto a clean flat surface. Evenly spread the cream cheese filling over the entire surface of the cake, leaving about a 1/2-inch border around all edges.
Starting from the same short end you began with, carefully re-roll the cake, this time without the towel, into a tight spiral. Wrap the finished pumpkin roll tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the filling to set and the flavors to meld.

Notes

Dust with additional powdered sugar before slicing and serving, if desired.

Keyword cake, cream cheese frosting, pumpkin roll

Ways to Customize Your Pumpkin Roll

Chocolate Swirl Version: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to half the batter for a marble effect.
Nutty Crunch Variation: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the filling before rolling.
Ginger Spice Option: Add 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger to the batter for extra zing.

My Best Tips for Pumpkin Roll Success

Proper Pan Preparation: Ensure parchment paper overhangs the pan for easy cake removal after baking.
Timely Rolling Technique: Roll the cake immediately after baking while still warm and flexible.
Filling Consistency: Beat cream cheese and butter until completely smooth before adding sugar.
Chilling Time: Don’t skip the refrigeration step, as it sets the shape and flavors.

How to Keep Your Pumpkin Roll Fresh

Store: Refrigerate in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic for up to 5 days.
Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic then foil and freeze for up to 3 months intact.
Reheat: Serve chilled or let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare completely 2 days ahead, as the flavors improve over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make pumpkin roll without cracking?

Yes, the key is rolling the cake while it’s still warm and flexible. The dusting of powdered sugar on the towel also helps prevent sticking and cracking. Don’t overbake the cake, as a dry cake is more prone to cracking when rolled.

How far in advance can I make a pumpkin roll?

You can make it up to 2 days in advance. The flavors actually improve as they meld together in the refrigerator. Keep it tightly wrapped to prevent it from drying out, and dust with additional powdered sugar just before serving.

Can I freeze pumpkin roll with cream cheese filling?

Absolutely, pumpkin roll freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. The texture and flavor remain excellent after freezing.

Why did my pumpkin roll crack when I rolled it?

Cracking usually occurs if the cake overbaked or cooled too long before rolling. Make sure to roll it immediately after removing from the oven while still warm and pliable. Using the towel method with powdered sugar creates a flexible rolling surface.

Other Favorite Autumn Treats to Try

Why This Pumpkin Roll Earns Its Place

With its perfect balance of spiced cake and creamy filling, this pumpkin roll delivers both stunning appearance and incredible flavor. It’s surprisingly simple to master yet impressive enough for your most special occasions. I hope this becomes a cherished tradition in your home just as it has in mine, creating warm memories with every slice.

Easy Pumpkin Roll Recipe