Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling
Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling: A Fall Favorite You’ll Fall in Love With
There’s something magical about the fall season—the crisp air, golden leaves, and the comforting aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through the kitchen. One dessert that truly captures the essence of autumn is the Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling. This classic treat is a delightful combination of soft, spiced pumpkin cake and a luscious cream cheese filling, rolled into a beautiful spiral that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving gathering or just indulging in a cozy dessert at home, this Pumpkin Roll is guaranteed to impress.
But don’t let its elegant appearance fool you—this dessert is surprisingly simple to make. With just a few basic ingredients and a little rolling technique, you can create a bakery-worthy treat in your own kitchen. It’s the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and seasonal charm, making it a go-to dessert for any fall occasion. So grab your mixing bowl, dust off your baking pan, and let’s dive into creating a dessert that’s sure to become a family favorite!
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Perfect Pairings for Your Pumpkin Roll
A dessert as rich and flavorful as a Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling deserves the perfect companion to enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious pairing suggestions to complement the warm spices and creamy filling:
Hot Beverages: Pair your pumpkin roll with a cozy drink like a spiced chai latte, pumpkin spice latte, or classic black coffee. The warmth and spice of these beverages enhance the cinnamon and nutmeg flavors in the roll.
Cold Drinks: For a refreshing twist, serve it with a glass of cold apple cider or a creamy vanilla milkshake. These options balance the richness of the cream cheese filling.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on the side can turn this dessert into a decadent treat perfect for special occasions.
Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an elegant touch.
Cheese Pairing: For an unexpected but delightful pairing, serve thin slices of pumpkin roll alongside a creamy brie or mascarpone cheese for a sophisticated dessert platter.
These pairings not only complement the flavors of the pumpkin roll but also elevate the entire dining experience, making it an unforgettable treat for any occasion!
Healthier Alternatives for Your Pumpkin Roll
If you’re looking to enjoy the comforting flavors of a Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling while keeping things lighter, here are some simple substitutions and adjustments to make this dessert a bit healthier:
Swap Out the Sugar: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar, maple syrup, or a natural sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener for a lower glycemic option without compromising sweetness.
Use Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half (or all) of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients.
Lighten Up the Filling: Opt for reduced-fat or Neufchâtel cream cheese in the filling. You can also replace part of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a creamy texture with less fat and more protein.
Cut Down on Butter: Use unsweetened applesauce in place of some (or all) of the butter in the cake batter. This helps reduce fat while maintaining moisture.
Reduce Sodium: Skip the salt or use a low-sodium baking soda alternative to cut back on sodium without altering the flavor.
Go Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend to make this recipe gluten-friendly without compromising its fluffy texture.
Pumpkin Puree from Scratch: Make your own pumpkin puree at home to avoid any added preservatives or sugars found in canned options.
These healthier alternatives allow you to indulge in the joy of a homemade pumpkin roll while staying mindful of your nutritional goals. The best part? These substitutions don’t skimp on flavor, so you can still savor every delicious bite!
Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling
Equipment
- Jelly Roll Pan (10x15 inches): Essential for baking the thin, even layer of cake required for rolling.
- Parchment Paper: Prevents the cake from sticking to the pan and makes it easier to remove.
- Mixing Bowls: At least two—one for dry ingredients and one for wet ingredients.
- Whisk or Electric Mixer: For blending ingredients smoothly. An electric mixer works best for whipping eggs and sugar.
- Rubber Spatula: Ideal for folding the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and spreading the cream cheese filling.
- Clean Kitchen Towel: Used to roll the cake while it’s still warm. Dust it generously with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
- Cooling Rack: Allows the rolled cake to cool evenly.
- Knife or Offset Spatula: For spreading the cream cheese filling smoothly over the unrolled cake.
- Plastic Wrap: To wrap the finished roll and let it chill before serving.
- Serrated Knife: For slicing the roll into clean, even pieces.
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Roll:
- 3/4 Cup All-purpose flour
- 1/2 Tsp Baking powder
- 1/2 Tsp Baking soda
- 1/4 Tsp Salt
- 1/2 Tsp Ground cinnamon
- 1/2 Tsp Ground nutmeg
- 1/2 Tsp Ground ginger
- 3 Large eggs
- 1 Cup Granulated sugar
- 2/3 Cup Pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 Tsp Vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 Oz Cream cheese (softened)
- 1 Cup Powdered sugar
- 6 Tsp Unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 Tsp Vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare Your PanPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).Line a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper. Grease the paper lightly to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: Make the BatterIn a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until thick and pale. Stir in pumpkin puree and vanilla extract.Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Step 3: Bake the CakePour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Spread it gently to create an even layer.Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched.
- Step 4: Roll the CakeWhile the cake is still hot, sprinkle a clean kitchen towel generously with powdered sugar.Carefully invert the cake onto the towel and peel off the parchment paper.Starting at the short end, roll the cake (with the towel) into a tight spiral. Let it cool completely.
- Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese FillingBeat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract together until smooth and fluffy.
- Step 6: Assemble the Pumpkin RollGently unroll the cooled cake and spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface.Re-roll the cake (without the towel) tightly. Wrap the roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Step 7: Serve and EnjoyDust the roll with powdered sugar before slicing.Slice with a serrated knife for clean, picture-perfect spirals.
Share the Love with Pumpkin Roll
There’s something truly special about creating a dessert that not only tastes amazing but brings people together. This Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration of fall flavors, warm kitchens, and cherished moments shared with loved ones. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday gathering, a cozy family night, or just because, this dessert is sure to brighten everyone’s day.
As you take that first bite, the blend of spiced pumpkin and creamy filling will remind you why homemade desserts are worth the effort. Don’t forget to share your masterpiece with friends and family, and if you’re feeling inspired, we’d love to hear your baking stories or see your creations. Let this recipe become a part of your seasonal traditions, spreading joy one slice at a time!