Name: Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake That's Cozy and Irresistibly Delicious
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 can Plain Pumpkin Puree (avoid using pumpkin pie filling); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (measure accurately); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (or use brown sugar for a deeper flavor); 3 large Eggs (room temperature); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (ensure it's not expired); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (ensure it's not expired); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice (adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (for balance); 1/4 cup Butter (softened); 8 oz Cream Cheese (room temperature); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (opt for pure extract); 2 cups Powdered Sugar

As the crisp autumn air settles in, the kitchen becomes a comforting cocoon filled with the warm scents of cinnamon and nutmeg. That’s when I turn to my beloved Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake. This delightful dessert is surprisingly easy to whip up, making it perfect for cozy gatherings or just a treat to savor at home. With its light, fluffy texture wrapped around a luscious cream cheese filling, this cake perfectly embodies the flavors of the season. Plus, it’s a make-ahead marvel that can grace your table without stress, leaving you free to enjoy precious moments with family and friends. Curious to discover how to create this autumn masterpiece? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is this cake a fall favorite?

Deceptively Easy: The Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake is surprisingly simple to make, ensuring even novice bakers can impress family and friends without stress.

Irresistible Flavors: You’ll enjoy the warm embrace of autumn spices mixed with a rich cream cheese filling that makes every bite a seasonal delight.

Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this cake is bound to be a crowd-pleaser that leaves everyone reaching for seconds.

Make-Ahead Marvel: It can be prepared in advance, offering a time-saving solution that lets you enjoy more moments with your loved ones.

Versatile Treat: Pair it with a warm beverage like spiced chai or ice cream for an elevated dessert experience, or even explore variations such as a chocolate twist to satisfy different cravings!

Make this your go-to autumn recipe, and if you’re in the mood for more deliciousness, check out the Lemon Velvet Cake or Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies for additional treats!

Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

Plain Pumpkin Puree – adds moisture and flavor; avoid using pumpkin pie filling to keep spices balanced.
All-Purpose Flour – provides structure; be sure to measure accurately to ensure a light texture.
Granulated Sugar – sweetens the cake; brown sugar can be used for a deeper, molasses-like flavor.
Eggs – bind the ingredients together and add moisture; use room temperature eggs for easier mixing.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda – essential leavening agents; ensure they’re not expired for optimal rise.
Ground Cinnamon & Pumpkin Pie Spice – infuse warm, autumnal flavors; feel free to adjust the spice levels to suit your taste.
Salt – enhances overall flavor; don’t skip this crucial component for balance.

For the Cream Cheese Filling

Butter – contributes a creamy texture; make sure it’s softened to blend smoothly.
Cream Cheese – the star of the filling; must be at room temperature for perfect mixing.
Vanilla Extract – adds depth and flavor; opt for pure extracts for best results.
Powdered Sugar – sweetens the filling; helps achieve the desired consistency.

This Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake is an enticing dessert that captures the essence of the season with every slice. Dive into this delectable recipe, and let the warm, inviting aromas fill your kitchen!

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

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a jellyroll pan (13”x17”) with parchment paper, pressing it down to ensure it sticks, and lightly grease the paper to prevent sticking. This preparation is essential for making your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake effortlessly come out of the pan.

Step 2: Prepare Towel
While the oven heats, grab a clean tea towel and sprinkle a generous layer of powdered sugar on it. This will help prevent your cake from sticking once it’s rolled. Set aside the towel where it’s easily accessible for the next step.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. This mixture is key to ensuring even distribution of the leavening agents and spices, which will create the warm flavors in your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake. Set the bowl aside.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, beat the room temperature eggs and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer for about 2 minutes until the mixture is pale and thick. Next, gently fold in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract, making sure to combine everything well for a smooth batter.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding them gently with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense texture. Aim for a just-combined batter that will give your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake its light and airy quality.

Step 6: Bake Cake
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan using an offset spatula for a smooth surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 14-15 minutes, or until the cake is set and springs back lightly when touched. A perfectly baked cake will hold its shape without sinking.

Step 7: Cool & Roll Cake
Once baked, carefully turn the cake onto the powdered sugar-dusted towel, peeling away the parchment paper as you go. Starting at one edge, roll the cake up with the towel, creating a tight spiral. Allow it to cool completely while rolled, which will help it maintain its shape for filling later.

Step 8: Prepare Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and room temperature cream cheese together until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, then gradually add the powdered sugar, continuing to beat until it’s well combined and fluffy, creating a delicious filling for your cake.

Step 9: Fill & Roll Cake Again
Unroll the cooled cake gently and spread the cream cheese filling evenly using a spatula. Re-roll the cake tightly without the towel, ensuring it keeps its shape. Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap or parchment paper and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set the filling.

Step 10: Slice & Serve
Once the cake is chilled, use a serrated knife to slice it into pieces. These slices will reveal the beautiful spiral of your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake. Dust each slice with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness before serving!

Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Variations

Feel free to tweak this recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Replace cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream, and use coconut cream in the filling for a delightful twist.
Nutty Flavor: Add toasted walnuts or pecans to the filling for a satisfying crunch and rich flavor that complements the spices beautifully. Each bite will bring a lovely, nutty texture.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring the same measurement is used. This allows everyone to indulge without worry!
Sugar-Free: For a healthier option, swap granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like erythritol or another sugar substitute. Just keep an eye on the sweetness level as these can vary!
Spiced Up: For a little extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cake batter. It will elevate the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg, adding an exciting surprise.
Chocolate Lovers: Create a chocolate version by sifting in some cocoa powder (about 1/4 cup) into the batter. This adds a rich, decadent flavor that pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin.
Seasonal Fruits: Mix in some chopped apples or crushed cranberries into the batter before baking for a fruity surprise. The juiciness enhances the cake’s moist texture and flavor.

For a delightful pairing, enjoy this cake with a cup of spiced chai or fetch a scoop of Cheesecake Ice Cream on top to make every bite even more heavenly!

What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake

As the warm flavors of fall swirl around your kitchen, let’s create a delightful meal that complements this autumn treat.

Spiced Chai Latte: Warm, aromatic, and perfectly spiced, this drink echoes the pumpkin spices and enhances the comforting vibe.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla adds a delightful contrast to the roll cake, bringing a cool sensation to the cozy spices.
Candied Pecans: Their crunchy texture sweetens the experience and introduces a delightful nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the cake’s softness.
Fresh Apple Salad: Crisp apples with a citrus dressing add brightness and a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the roll cake perfectly.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzling homemade caramel over each slice provides an indulgent touch that beautifully marries with the cake’s flavors.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a luscious element, enhancing the creamy filling while maintaining an airy texture.

Invite family and friends to savor these pairings alongside your slice of Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake, creating cherished moments shared over warmth and laughter.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake ahead of time is a lifesaver for busy cooks! You can bake the cake and roll it up up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cool it as directed, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator to keep it moist. The cream cheese filling can also be made up to 3 days ahead; just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to serve, unroll the chilled cake, spread the filling, re-roll it tightly, and let it chill for about 30 minutes. This way, you’ll have a stunning, delicious dessert ready with minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy your time with loved ones!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake

Fridge: Wrap your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps the cake moist and fresh.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the wrapped cake for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy a slice of this delightful dessert.

Portioning: If you have leftovers, consider slicing the cake before freezing. This allows you to grab a convenient portion whenever you crave a fall treat.

Reheating: If you prefer it warm, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Enjoy the delightful aroma as it fills your kitchen!

Expert Tips for Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake

Warm Rolling: Always roll the cake while it’s still warm to prevent cracks and retain the fluffy texture.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and butter for the filling are at room temperature for a smooth blend, enhancing the overall taste and consistency.
No Overmixing: Be cautious not to overmix the batter; this will help keep your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake light and airy.
Generous Powdered Sugar: Dust the towel abundantly with powdered sugar before rolling to prevent the cake from sticking and tearing.
Check Leavening Agents: Verify that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. Old leavening agents can affect the rise of your cake, leading to less than satisfactory results.
Chill After Filling: Allow the rolled cake to chill after filling; this helps to set the cream cheese filling for clean slices when serving.

Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree, opt for plain pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that could throw off the balance of your cake. Look for a bright, vibrant orange color without any dark spots on the can. Freshness is key, so check for a expiration date as well.

How should I store the Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake?
Very importantly, to keep your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days this way. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before devouring!

Can I freeze the Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake, wrap it securely in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. If you want to make it easier later on, slice it before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw individual slices overnight in the refrigerator for best results!

What if my cake cracks while rolling?
I often encounter this too! If your cake cracks while rolling, don’t worry; it happens to the best of us. Ensure you’re rolling it while it’s still warm, which helps prevent cracks. If it does crack, try to gently press it back together, or you can use the icing and sprinkle powdered sugar to mask any imperfections when serving.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very much so! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily modify the Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake. For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour mix. Additionally, for a dairy-free version, use a vegan cream cheese alternative and dairy-free butter. Just remember to check labels for allergens!