Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake

If you adore the cozy flavors of autumn wrapped up in a dessert, then the Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll CakeIngredients recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. This delightful treat combines a light, tender pumpkin-spiced cake with a luscious cream cheese filling that melts in your mouth with every bite. It’s a showstopper for holiday dinners, Sunday brunches, or any moment you want to celebrate fall flavors with friends and family. The balance of spices, creamy filling, and that gorgeous rolled presentation make this dessert as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This fall pumpkin spice roll cake is surprisingly simple to prepare, thanks to straightforward ingredients that work harmoniously together. Each component brings its own magic, from the warm spices that evoke an autumn day to the creamy filling that adds richness and sweetness.

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides a tender yet sturdy base for the roll;
• 1/2 tsp baking powder and 1/2 tsp baking soda: Helps the cake rise perfectly light and fluffy;
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon and 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice blend: Infuse the cake with quintessential fall warmth;
• 1/4 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors;
• 3 large eggs: Give structure and richness;
• 1-1/4 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps create a tender crumb;
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree: Provides moisture and that essential pumpkin flavor;
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds depth and rounds out the spices;
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting towel): Prevents sticking while rolling the cake;
• 8 oz cream cheese (room temperature): Key to a smooth, luscious filling;
• 1/4 cup salted butter (softened): Adds creaminess and flavor to the frosting;
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings brightness to the cream cheese filling;
• 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon: A subtle hint of spice in the filling;
• Pinch of sea salt: Balances the sweetness beautifully;
• 3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese frosting to perfection.

How to Make Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Towel

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when your batter is mixed. Line a 13×17” jellyroll pan with parchment or wax paper and lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Dust a large tea towel generously with 1/4 cup powdered sugar—this step is crucial because it will keep your warm cake from sticking while you roll it later. Setting up your tools properly right from the start guarantees smooth sailing through the rest of the recipe.

Step 2: Mix the Dry and Wet Ingredients

Combine your dry ingredients in one bowl—flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice blend, and salt. Whisk to distribute those spices evenly so every bite is packed with that cozy aroma. In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar vigorously until the mixture is pale and thick, about two minutes—this creates the fluffy texture your cake needs. Next, fold in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract, blending it until smooth. This sets the stage for the soft, spiced cake layer.

Step 3: Combine and Bake the Cake

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, taking care not to overmix; you want the cake tender, not tough. Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan but leave a slight 1/4 inch border to prevent spillover. Pop it in the oven and bake for 14 to 15 minutes. Once done, the cake should spring back lightly when touched; this means it’s perfectly baked without drying out. Timing here is key to ensuring the cake can be rolled without cracking.

Step 4: Roll the Cake in the Sugared Towel

As soon as the cake comes out, invert it onto the powdered sugar-coated towel and carefully peel away the parchment paper. Starting at the short edge, roll the cake with the towel inside—this helps the cake keep its shape as it cools without cracking. Let it cool completely on a wire rack. This step can feel a bit nerve-wracking if you’re new to rolling cakes, but trust me, the towel trick is a game-changer for neat, beautiful rolls.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

Beat softened butter until fluffy, then add cream cheese and continue beating until the mixture is silky smooth. Incorporate vanilla extract, sea salt, and a hint of cinnamon—the spice in the filling makes the entire dessert sing! Gradually add powdered sugar in batches, beating well each time until you have a creamy, spreadable frosting. This filling is rich but balanced, complementing the spicy pumpkin cake perfectly.

Step 6: Fill, Roll and Chill the Pumpkin Roll

Gently unroll your cooled cake and spread the cream cheese filling evenly across it without going all the way to the edges. Carefully re-roll the cake without the towel, forming a snug spiral that showcases that beautiful swirl of cake and filling. Place it seam-side down on a serving dish and refrigerate for at least an hour. This chilling step helps the filling set and makes slicing the roll into perfect rounds effortless.

Step 7: Serve the Pumpkin Roll

When ready to impress, slice the chilled roll with a sharp serrated knife to reveal those gorgeous spirals. If you’re feeling fancy, dust the top with a little more powdered sugar for an elegant wintery look. Serving this dessert cold keeps the roll firm and highlights the tangy richness of the cream cheese filling alongside the warm spices of the cake—every bite is autumn perfection.

How to Serve Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake

Garnishes

Elevate your fall pumpkin spice roll cake with simple garnishes like a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. For a more festive touch, add chopped toasted pecans or a drizzle of salted caramel sauce. These touches add texture and flavor contrast while making your dessert look impressively inviting.

Side Dishes

This roll pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an indulgent treat. For a lighter accompaniment, fresh orange slices or a crisp apple salad provide a refreshing counterpoint that brightens the entire dessert experience and keeps your palate excited.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the roll into individual servings and arranging them on a rustic wooden board for a charming autumn dessert spread. You can also serve slices on decorative plates with a sprig of fresh rosemary or mint for an herbaceous pop of color and fragrance. For gatherings, place the whole roll on a cake stand and decorate with mini pumpkins or cinnamon sticks for a festive, seasonal centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once sliced, store your pumpkin spice roll cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the cream cheese filling fresh and the cake moist. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for making ahead or enjoying as a leftover treat.

Freezing

You can freeze the entire roll or slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge. This is wonderful for prepping ahead of time or for extending the life of this seasonal delight.

Reheating

Since this cake contains cream cheese filling, it’s best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer it slightly warmer, let slices sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can change the texture of the filling and cake.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned for the pumpkin puree?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook and puree the fresh pumpkin first. Canned pumpkin is convenient and consistent, but homemade puree can add a lovely freshness if you prepare it correctly by roasting and pureeing the pumpkin flesh until smooth.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice blend?

No worries! You can make your own blend by mixing cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves or allspice. This DIY approach allows you to control the spice levels and tailor them to your taste perfectly.

Can I substitute the cream cheese filling with whipped cream?

Whipped cream alone won’t hold the roll together as well, but you could make a stabilized whipped cream or a mascarpone-based filling for a lighter alternative. Keep in mind, cream cheese gives the filling structure and a tangy flavor essential to this recipe.

How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?

The key is rolling the cake warm with the sugared towel inside immediately after baking. This trains the cake to hold its rolled shape and prevents cracks. If it cools before rolling, the cake becomes less pliable and may crack.

Can I make this roll gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Be sure to check for any added xanthan gum or other stabilizers needed for structure; otherwise, this recipe translates beautifully gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll CakeIngredients—the way it wraps up the essence of autumn in every swirl and bite. From the enticing aroma of spices to the creamy, dreamy filling, this recipe is a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re baking it for a crowd or simply treating yourself, I encourage you to dive in and create this delicious seasonal treasure. It’s sure to become a beloved staple in your fall baking rotation, bringing smiles and cozy memories to your table.

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