Description

There's something inherently comforting about the aroma of pumpkin baking in the oven, and when it transforms into a delightful pumpkin roll, it's pure magic! The pumpkin roll is a delicious autumnal dessert that comes wrapped in a swirl of creamy goodness, making it not just a treat for the palette, but also a feast for the eyes. Originating from the classic Swiss roll, this version captures the essence of fall with its spices and rich pumpkin flavor, all wrapped around a luscious cream cheese filling.

Picture this: a soft, tender cake, flecked with warm spices, blending perfectly with a sweet and tangy filling, creating a harmonious marriage of flavors and textures. It transports you straight to a cozy kitchen, where the warmth of the oven wraps around you, inviting you to share this sweet creation with loved ones.

Whether you're preparing for a holiday gathering, a potluck, or simply indulging in a weekend bake, this pumpkin roll is sure to become a cherished addition to your recipe collection. And if you're nervous about rolling a cake, fear not! This recipe is user-friendly, and the step-by-step instructions will guide you through the process with ease. Let's embark on this baking adventure together!

Ingredients

• For the Dough:
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• For the Filling:
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Variations and Substitutions:
• If you're looking to tweak the ingredients, consider these substitutions:
• - For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• - Maple syrup can be used instead of granulated sugar for a more unique flavor.
• - Pecans or walnuts can be added to the filling for a delightful crunch.
• - To amp up the spice, try adding a dash of ginger or clove to the batter.

Preparation Method

Before you dive into mixing and baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure the perfect baking environment once your batter is ready.

To get started, take a medium-sized bowl and whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. The combination of these dry ingredients will create a warm and fragrant base for your pumpkin roll. It might be tempting to skip this step, but taking the time to mix the dry ingredients ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes thick and pale, a process known as "creaming." This step is important as it introduces air into the batter, resulting in a light and airy cake. Then, add the canned pumpkin puree to the egg and sugar mixture. The pumpkin not only contributes to the flavor but also keeps the cake moist and tender. Stir it in gently until it's well combined.

Now it’s time to incorporate your dry ingredients. Gradually add the dry mixture to the pumpkin mixture, using a spatula to fold it in gently. This is the moment to embrace the idea of “just combined” — overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and nobody wants that!

Next, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. Lightly grease the parchment to ensure easy removal after baking. Spread the batter evenly onto the prepared baking sheet, using a spatula to smooth the top. The batter should be about an inch thick across the whole surface.

Bake your creation in the preheated oven for 13 to 15 minutes. Watch closely for that telltale sign: when the cake springs back lightly when touched, it’s done! While the cake is busy baking, prepare a clean kitchen towel by generously sprinkling it with powdered sugar. This will prevent sticking when you roll the cake.

Once the cake is out of the oven, it's time for the magic. Quickly turn it out onto the prepared kitchen towel, carefully peeling away the parchment paper underneath. Starting from one of the short ends, gently roll the cake up in the towel, creating a spiral. This step might feel a bit tricky, but take it slow, and don’t worry — it’ll come together beautifully. Let the rolled cake cool completely on a wire rack in this shape.

While it cools, prepare the luscious filling. In a clean bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until you've achieved a smooth and creamy consistency. The cream cheese provides that rich, tangy flavor that pairs so well with the sweetness of the pumpkin roll. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is beautifully combined. The filling should be spreadable but thick enough to hold its shape when applied to the cake.

When your pumpkin roll has thoroughly cooled, unroll it carefully, removing the towel. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface. Here’s where you can get creative — you might want to add a sprinkle of cinnamon or some chopped nuts at this point! Once the filling is applied, gently roll the cake back up, leaving the towel behind this time.

To enhance the flavors and allow everything to meld together, chill the pumpkin roll in the refrigerator for at least an hour before slicing. This chilling period allows the cream cheese filling to firm up a bit, making it easier to cut neat slices.

Tips and Conclusion

For an extra special presentation, dust the finished pumpkin roll with a sprinkle of powdered sugar right before serving. It adds a touch of elegance that makes this dessert not only tasty but visually appealing.

If you find yourself with leftovers (if that's even possible!), the pumpkin roll can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just ensure it's wrapped well to prevent it from drying out. You can also freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to two months. Let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight whenever you need a sweet treat!
The joy of preparing a pumpkin roll is not just about the final product but the entire experience—from mixing the batter to rolling the cake, and finally slicing into that beautiful swirl. Each bite is a jubilant celebration of fall flavors, bringing warmth and comfort to any occasion.

As you enjoy your pumpkin roll, perhaps share it with friends or family and relish the joy it brings to the table. If you're excited about more autumn-inspired recipes, check out our collection of fall desserts that promise to delight. From caramel apple pie to spiced pear tart, let the flavors of the season inspire future baking adventures.

Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your pumpkin roll experience with us! We’d love to hear about your creative twists on this classic recipe.