Name: Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake that Will Wow Your Guests
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (Ensure to use pure pumpkin, not pie filling.); 3 large Eggs (Acts as a binding agent for structure.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Sweetens the cake.); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Foundation for the cake's structure.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Leavening agent.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Leavening agent.); 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon (Adds warmth and flavor.); 2 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend (Enhances pumpkin flavor.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Balances sweetness.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Adds depth to the flavor.); 8 ounces Cream Cheese (Ensure at room temperature.); 1/4 cup Butter (Should be softened.); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (Sweetens and thickens the filling.)

As the first crisp leaves tumble to the ground, the inviting scent of autumn spices fills the air, transporting me to warm family gatherings and cozy afternoons. This Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake, luscious with a cream cheese filling, captures that very essence of the season. Surprisingly simple to whip up, this delightful dessert makes a stunning centerpiece for your festive table while being a total crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply treating your family, this easy recipe promises to become a cherished favorite in your home. Can you smell the spices coming together already? Let’s dive into making this gorgeous autumn treat!

Why is this Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake irresistible?

Deliciously Cozy: The flavors of warm spices mingle perfectly with pumpkin, evoking that comforting autumn vibe we all love.
Effortlessly Elegant: This roll cake looks impressive on any dessert table, yet it’s simple enough for home bakers of any skill level.
Family Favorite: It’s family-friendly and loved by all ages—perfect for gatherings where everyone can indulge in seconds!
Versatile Options: Want to switch it up? Try adding chocolate chips or experiment with homemade pumpkin puree for fresher flavor.
Perfect Pairing: Serve it alongside a cup of coffee or a cozy spiced chai tea for an elevated dessert experience. This fall, treat your loved ones to something special that captures the spirit of the season and makes celebrations memorable!

Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Ingredients

• Get ready to bake a delightful autumn dessert!

For the Cake

Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and flavor; make sure to use pure pumpkin, not pie filling.
Eggs – Acts as a binding agent, giving the cake structure and lift.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake and contributes to its tender texture.
All-Purpose Flour – The foundation for building the cake’s structure.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda – These leavening agents help the cake rise and achieve a light texture.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds a warm, inviting flavor that screams autumn.
Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend – Enhances the pumpkin flavor with notes of nutmeg and ginger.
Salt – Balances sweetness and brings out all the flavors.
Vanilla Extract – Adds depth and rounds out the flavor profile.

For the Cream Cheese Filling

Cream Cheese – Provides a rich, tangy taste; ensure it’s at room temperature for smooth mixing.
Butter – Adds creaminess and richness to the filling; should be softened.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the filling, creating a delightful contrast to the spiced cake.

This Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake is a showstopper that embodies the flavors and feelings of the season—let’s get baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This ensures your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake won’t stick while baking, making it easier to roll later. Set aside your prepared pan to be filled soon.

Step 2: Dust the Towel
While the oven is heating, take a clean tea towel and dust it generously with powdered sugar. This will prevent the warm cake from sticking when you roll it up after baking. Having this ready now will make the rolling process much smoother and hassle-free.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice blend, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly, allowing the warm autumn spices to meld together beautifully. This step is essential for a balanced flavor in your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until pale and fluffy, which takes about 2-3 minutes using a hand mixer. Gently fold in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract, ensuring the mixture is well incorporated. This combination will provide the moist base for your cake, enhancing its flavor and texture.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Carefully fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet pumpkin mixture until just combined. Take care here—overmixing can result in a denser cake. The batter should be thick yet pourable; don’t worry if a few lumps remain, as this will keep your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake light and fluffy.

Step 6: Bake the Cake
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared jelly roll pan, smoothing it out with a spatula. Bake for 14-15 minutes or until the cake is set and springy to the touch. Keep an eye on it towards the end of baking to prevent overcooking, leading to a dry texture.

Step 7: Roll the Cake
Once baked, immediately turn the cake onto the prepared powdered sugar-dusted tea towel. Carefully peel off the parchment paper. While the cake is still warm, roll it up tightly starting from one short end. This ensures that the cake retains its shape, preventing cracks as it cools completely.

Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and softened butter until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the vanilla extract and powdered sugar, mixing until the filling is light and fluffy. This decadent filling is what makes your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake an irresistible treat.

Step 9: Unroll and Fill
Once the rolled cake has cooled completely, gently unroll it. Spread an even layer of the cream cheese filling over the surface, ensuring it reaches the edges for maximum deliciousness. This step is crucial for a beautifully balanced cake that boasts a luscious filling in every bite.

Step 10: Re-Roll and Chill
With the filling spread, carefully re-roll the cake tightly, ensuring it keeps its spiral shape. Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the filling set, making slicing easier and more precise when you’re ready to serve.

Step 11: Slice and Serve
After chilling, remove the cake from the fridge and unwrap it. Using a sharp knife, slice it into pieces, showcasing the beautiful swirls of cake and cream cheese filling. Dust the slices with powdered sugar before serving for an added touch of sweetness, making your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake look as delightful as it tastes!

What to Serve with Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake

A warm slice of pumpkin spice roll cake makes for a delightful centerpiece, but pairing it with complementary sides elevates the whole experience.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery, smooth potatoes provide a savory contrast to the sweet spiced cake, rounding out your meal beautifully.
Apple Crisp: The warm, spiced apple filling echoes the cake’s flavors, creating a harmonious dessert duo that’s perfect for autumn gatherings.
Spiced Chai Tea: Warm, fragrant chai with its notes of cinnamon and cardamom enhances the pumpkin spice experience, making your dessert feel cozy and comforting.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the spiced roll cake, providing a cool contrast that balances the warm flavors beautifully.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These slightly sweet, earthy veggies bring a wonderful crunch, adding a fresh element to your meal and offsetting the cake’s sweetness superbly.
Hot Cocoa: Rich, chocolatey hot cocoa makes for a perfect drink pairing that delights your taste buds with its luxurious creaminess—ideal for any fall gathering.
Pumpkin Soup: Start your meal with a comforting bowl of pumpkin soup, which highlights the flavors of the season and prepares your guests for the sweet treat to come.
Autumn Salad: A crisp autumn salad with pears and walnuts offers a refreshing, textural surprise, balancing the richness of the cake and complementing its spices.

Expert Tips for Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake

Rollover Warm: Roll the cake while it’s still warm to prevent cracking. This helps maintain its beautiful shape and ensures easy handling.
Room Temperature Filling: Make sure all cream cheese and butter ingredients are at room temperature for a silky-smooth filling. Cold ingredients can lead to lumps!
Flour Measurement: When measuring flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off. Packing flour can lead to a dense cake in your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake.
Careful Mixing: Be cautious not to overmix the batter; this will help keep your cake light and fluffy. A few lumps are alright!
Chill Before Serving: Chilling the rolled cake for at least 30 minutes helps the filling set and slicing easier. It also enhances the flavor blend!

How to Store and Freeze Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake

Fridge: Wrap the roll cake tightly in plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to 5 days. This keeps it moist and flavorful, allowing those autumn spices to deepen.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the rolled cake wrapped in plastic and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for the best texture.

Reheating: If desired, slices can be gently warmed in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a delightful, cozy treat.

Serving Tip: Enjoy your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake cold or at room temperature; both ways allow the lovely flavors to shine!

Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this dessert uniquely yours, with flavors and textures that truly delight!

Homemade Puree: Replace canned pumpkin puree with your own homemade version for a fresher taste. Roasting your pumpkin brings out an incredible depth of flavor.
Nuts Galore: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cream cheese filling for an extra crunch. The nutty texture pairs beautifully with the soft cake, making every bite exciting.
Chocolate Chips: Stir in mini chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet surprise. This delightful twist adds a touch of richness that your chocolate-loving friends will adore.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper into the spice mix for an unexpected warmth. This subtle heat creates a delicious balance with the sweetness of the cake.
Maple Essence: Swap out vanilla extract for maple extract in the filling for a unique flavor profile. This adds a cozy, earthy note reminiscent of fall syrup gatherings.
Dairy-Free Delight: For a dairy-free version, use vegan cream cheese and coconut milk. The result is a satisfyingly creamy filling while catering to your dairy-sensitive friends.
Fruity Twist: Spread a layer of apple or pear butter beneath the cream cheese filling. This fruity addition offers a beautifully tart contrast to the sweet pumpkin and creamy filling.
Dessert Board Idea: Serve slices alongside a variety of cheeses, nuts, and dried fruits for a stunning dessert board. It’s perfect for gatherings where every guest can find their ideal flavor pairings!

For more autumn-inspired recipes, check out my delightful Spiced Pumpkin Pancakes or try a cozy Pumpkin Spice Smoothie.

Make Ahead Options

Planning ahead with this Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake is a game changer for busy home cooks! You can prepare the cake base up to 24 hours in advance; just bake it, let it cool, then tightly wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate. The cream cheese filling can also be made a day before and kept in the fridge (just give it a good mix before spreading). When you’re ready to serve, simply unroll the cooled cake, spread the chilled filling, re-roll, and let it sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes to set. This way, your cake will still be just as delicious, perfectly fluffy, and ideal for effortless entertaining!

Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture in your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake, always choose pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices. Look for a brand that lists only “pumpkin” as the ingredient—this will give you the freshest taste and the best baking results.

How should I store the pumpkin roll cake?
You can keep your roll cake fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to lock in moisture. I often do this right after it cools, which helps preserve the flavor and texture of those lovely autumn spices!

Can I freeze the pumpkin spice roll cake?
Very! The roll cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap it first in plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. This will help maintain its delightful flavor and texture.

What should I do if the cake cracks while rolling?
Don’t fret! If your cake cracks, it’s often due to rolling it while too cool. For the best results, roll it tightly while it’s still warm. If cracks do occur, just piece it together with the cream cheese filling when you assemble it. A little frosting will hide a multitude of cake sins!

Is this recipe suitable for those with allergies?
If you’re concerned about allergies, remember that this Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake contains eggs and dairy from the cream cheese and butter. For egg substitutions, try using flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer. To make it dairy-free, use vegan cream cheese and plant-based butter. Always double-check labels for any hidden allergens!

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned?
Yes, you absolutely can! Homemade pumpkin puree can bring a fresher flavor to your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake. To make it, simply roast a small pumpkin, scoop out the flesh, and blend it until smooth. Make sure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture in your cake. Enjoy the comforting taste of home!