As the air turns crisper and vibrant leaves blanket the ground, it’s time to cozy up to the kitchen and embrace the flavors of fall. This Autumn, I’ve found my heart (and my taste buds) completely captivated by my Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake. With a soft, fluffy texture wrapped around a luscious cream cheese filling, this delightful treat is as easy to make as it is visually stunning. Imagine serving this cake at your next gathering, evoking warm memories with every slice while bringing smiles to friends and family. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it also comes together quickly, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the season and less time stressing over dessert. Are you ready to create a fall masterpiece that’ll earn you some serious kitchen bragging rights? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
Why is this cake perfect for fall?
Comforting Flavors: The warm spices of cinnamon and pumpkin pie blend evoke the essence of autumn in every bite.
Easy to Make: This recipe is designed for home cooks of any skill level, ensuring that you can whip up a stunning dessert without any fuss.
Impressive Appearance: The rolled design creates a beautiful presentation that’s sure to impress your guests at gatherings.
Adaptable Delight: Feel free to play around with ingredients! Try adding chocolate chips or even use applesauce for a unique twist.
Quick Prep Time: With minimal effort, you can have this cake ready to go in under an hour, giving you more time to enjoy the cozy season.
Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create this delightful dessert!
For the Cake
- Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and flavor; use “100% pure pumpkin” for the best results.
- All-Purpose Flour – Adds structure and stability to the cake.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake; can substitute with granulated erythritol for a low-calorie version.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Essential leavening agents for lightness.
- Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and depth of flavor typical of fall.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend – Enhances the pumpkin flavor with aromatic spices like nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness for a fuller flavor.
- Eggs – Binds ingredients together while adding richness.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds notable depth to the cake’s flavor.
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- Cream Cheese – Forms the rich filling; use softened cream cheese for smooth mixing.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the filling for the perfect consistency.
- Butter – Provides richness to the frosting; ensure it’s softened to blend well.
This Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake bursts with cozy flavors that are perfect for gatherings, but it’s simple enough to make any day of the week!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure the ideal baking temperature. While the oven heats, prepare a 13×17” jellyroll pan by lining it with parchment paper and lightly greasing it to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for easily removing your soft, fluffy pumpkin spice roll cake once baked.
Step 2: Dust the Towel
Next, take a large tea towel and dust it evenly with 1/4 cup of powdered sugar. This will help prevent your cake from sticking as you roll it up after baking. This step not only adds sweetness but also keeps your pumpkin spice roll cake surface smooth and beautiful.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. This mixture is key to achieving the light, airy texture of your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake, so ensure it’s well combined for even distribution of flavors.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes pale and thick, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Then, stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until smooth. This rich, velvety batter will create the moist base of your cake.
Step 5: Combine the Mixtures
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, taking care not to overmix. Stop as soon as the flour is incorporated to maintain a light texture. This step is vital for ensuring that your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake rises perfectly and stays fluffy, so take your time.
Step 6: Spread the Batter
Pour the batter into the prepared jellyroll pan and spread it evenly using a spatula. Bake this delightful mixture in your preheated oven for 14-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back lightly when touched. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are slightly golden and it looks set in the middle.
Step 7: Roll the Cake
Once baked, quickly turn the hot cake onto the prepared towel while it’s still warm. Starting at one end, carefully roll the cake up tightly in the towel. This technique will help you form a nice shape and prevent cracking later on. Allow it to cool completely while rolled.
Step 8: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the remaining powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy. This luscious filling is what makes your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake truly irresistible.
Step 9: Fill and Roll Again
Unroll the cooled cake gently from the towel and spread the cream cheese filling evenly across the surface. Then, carefully re-roll the cake without the towel to maintain its beautiful swirl. Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour to set and meld the flavors.
Step 10: Slice and Serve
After chilling, unwrap your rolled cake and slice it into generous pieces. For an extra touch, dust the top with powdered sugar before serving. This delightful Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake is now ready to be enjoyed, bringing warmth and happiness to your cozy gatherings.
What to Serve with Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake
As autumn chills the air and invites gatherings, enhance your dessert experience with delightful complements that elevate every slice.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that highlights the rich flavors of the cake.
Spiced Chai Latte: This comforting drink echoes the warm spices in your cake, creating a perfect harmony for cozy gatherings.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The sweetness and creaminess of vanilla ice cream offer a refreshing contrast to the spiced cake, making every bite unforgettable.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A warm drizzle of caramel enhances the cake’s flavors, adding a velvety touch that’s pure indulgence.
Candied Nuts: Crunchy, sweet nuts can add a delightful texture while providing an earthy balance to the pumpkin spice flavors.
Maple Bourbon Cocktails: This cocktail brings the essence of fall together with a rich, sweet tone that complements the spiced cake beautifully.
Apple Cider: A chilled glass of apple cider, whether spiced or unspiced, captures the essence of fall and enhances the cake’s warmth.
Pumpkin Pie Ice Cream: If you want to stay on theme, pumpkin pie ice cream mirrors the cake’s flavors, making for a perfect match.
Treat your guests to these delightful pairings and watch as your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake becomes the highlight of every gathering!
How to Store and Freeze Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake
Fridge: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container; it will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Enjoy slices chilled or at room temperature!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped individually in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: If you prefer your cake warm, gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until warmed through.
Moisture Protection: Always ensure your pumpkin spice roll cake is tightly wrapped to keep its delicious moisture and flavor intact.
Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Variations
Get ready to put your own spin on this delightful dessert, enhancing its charm with just a few simple tweaks!
Dairy-Free: Swap cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a delicious non-dairy treat. The subtle coconut flavor can add an exciting twist!
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this cake enjoyably gluten-free. Many blends contain xanthan gum, which helps maintain the cake’s lovely sponginess.
Chocolate Lovers: Add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the batter for a delicious chocolatey surprise in every bite. The rich chocolate pairs wonderfully with the warm spices!
Spice It Up: Introduce a kick by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. Just a hint can elevate your cake into an exciting spicy dessert, perfect for adventurous palates.
Nutty Variation: Incorporate 1/2 cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for an added crunch. The nutty flavor complements the spices beautifully, enhancing the overall texture.
Apple Cinnamon Twist: Replace pumpkin puree with unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas for a fruity variation. The result is a soft, moist roll cake that has a sweet, fruity scent.
Maple Infusion: Use maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a deeper, molasses-like flavor. This enhancement truly accentuates the fall essence!
Frosting Upgrade: Try topping your cake with a cinnamon whipped cream instead of the cream cheese filling for a lighter, airy dessert. The fresh cream feels festive, making it an instant family favorite.
Chai Spice: Consider using chai spice blend instead of pumpkin pie spice for a unique twist. The fragrant spices from chai will transport you right to a cozy café!
No matter which variation you choose, this Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake is sure to delight everyone at your gathering. Enjoy creating your perfect version, and if you’re inspired, you might also love trying other delicious desserts like pumpkin pie or spiced apple cake!
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature to prevent lumps in the filling and achieve a smooth consistency.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, gently fold them together. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light, fluffy texture you want in your fall pumpkin spice roll cake.
Dusting with Powdered Sugar: When rolling the cake, use powdered sugar on both your tea towel and the cake surface to prevent sticking, which helps maintain a beautiful shape.
Cooling Technique: Always roll the cake while it’s warm to avoid cracking. Once rolled, allow it to cool completely in the towel to set properly.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with spices or even add chocolate chips to the batter. These tweaks can elevate your pumpkin spice roll cake and make it uniquely yours.
Make Ahead Options
This Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake is perfect for meal prep, making your busy days sweeter and less stressful! You can prepare the cake base up to 24 hours in advance by baking it, rolling it in the towel, and storing it wrapped in plastic at room temperature to maintain its moisture. Additionally, the cream cheese filling can be made up to 3 days ahead; just refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble. When it’s time to enjoy, simply unroll the cake, spread the chilled filling, re-roll, and chill again for at least 1 hour before serving. This way, your delicious pumpkin spice roll cake will still be just as delightful and flavorful, and you’ll save precious time for what really matters – sharing moments with loved ones!
Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely, use 100% pure pumpkin puree for this recipe. It provides the best moisture and flavor. Avoid using pumpkin pie filling, as it has added sugars and spices that can throw off the balance of your cake.
How should I store my pumpkin spice roll cake?
For sure! Wrap your pumpkin spice roll cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can enjoy it cold or let it come to room temperature for the best flavor.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can! To freeze your fall pumpkin spice roll cake, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. This way, they will be protected from freezer burn and can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
What if my cake cracks while rolling it up?
Oh no! If your cake cracks, don’t worry; it’s more common than you think. Make sure to always roll your cake while it’s warm, as it’s more pliable. If it does crack, you can still fill it and re-roll gently—just embrace those imperfections! A dusting of powdered sugar will hide minor cracks beautifully.
Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Very! This fall pumpkin spice roll cake can be adapted for various dietary needs. If you have nut allergies, it’s naturally nut-free. For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Always double-check labels of ingredients like baking powder or sugar substitutes to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.
Can I use a different filling instead of cream cheese?
Absolutely! If cream cheese isn’t your style, you can swap it out with mascarpone cheese for a lighter, slightly different flavor. You can also use a chocolate ganache or whipped cream if you prefer a sweeter filling. The more the merrier when it comes to finding combinations that make your taste buds sing!
Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake That's Perfect for Cozy Gatherings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 13x17” jellyroll pan by lining it with parchment paper and lightly greasing it.
- Dust a large tea towel evenly with 1/4 cup of powdered sugar to prevent sticking when rolling the cake.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until pale and thick. Stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared jellyroll pan and spread evenly. Bake for 14-15 minutes or until the cake springs back when touched.
- Once baked, turn the hot cake onto the prepared towel while warm and roll it up tightly. Allow it to cool completely rolled up.
- Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until fluffy.
- Unroll the cooled cake and spread the cream cheese filling evenly before carefully re-rolling without the towel.
- Wrap the roll in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour to set.
- Unwrap and slice the cake into generous pieces. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.