Name: Irresistible Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake to Warm Your Heart
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (100% pure pumpkin puree); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour; 1 cup Granulated Sugar (can substitute with brown sugar); 3 large Eggs (beaten until pale yellow); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (ensure freshness); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon (fresh spices yield optimal flavor); 2 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend (can also use other spice blends); 1 pinch Salt (essential for enhancing flavor); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (preferably pure vanilla); 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter (room temperature); 8 ounces Cream Cheese (softened or can substitute with mascarpone); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (sifted)

“Can you smell that?” someone exclaimed as the scent of warm spices wafted through the room. This Fluffy Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an aromatic celebration of autumn that transforms any gathering into a cozy affair. With its soft, airy texture and sweet cream cheese frosting, this cake is both visually stunning and incredibly simple to make. Whether you’re looking for a showstopper for your holiday table or a comforting treat to share with loved ones, this fall pumpkin spice roll cake has you covered. The quick prep time means more moments savoring the season and less time in the kitchen, making it a true crowd-pleaser. So, who’s ready to roll into the flavors of fall?

Why Is This Cake So Special?

Warm, Inviting Aroma: Imagine the delightful scent of cinnamon and nutmeg filling your kitchen as this cake bakes, setting the perfect autumn mood.

Fluffy Texture: With its soft and airy structure, each slice will melt in your mouth, making every bite an indulgent experience.

Easy to Customize: Feel free to add walnuts or even a hint of maple extract for a unique twist, allowing you to make it your own!

Perfect for Gatherings: This cake is a visual stunner that is sure to impress your guests, whether it’s for Thanksgiving or a cozy gathering. Enhance the experience by pairing it with a cup of Oatmilk Pumpkin Spice or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Make-Ahead Convenience: Ideal for busy schedules, you can prepare it in advance and delight in the ease of thawing before serving.

Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and flavor; use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
All-Purpose Flour – For structure; no gluten-free substitute mentioned, as it’s best for a classic texture.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and tenderness; swapping in brown sugar will enhance the flavor profile.
Eggs – Act as a binding agent for moisture; important for fluffiness, so beat until pale yellow.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda – These leavening agents help the cake rise; ensure freshness for effective rising.
Ground Cinnamon and Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend – Flavor enhancers that create the cake’s spicy essence; fresh spices yield optimal flavor.
Salt – Essential for enhancing overall taste; should not be overly pronounced.
Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; pure vanilla is more aromatic than imitation.

For the Cream Cheese Filling

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness to the filling; must be at room temperature to prevent lumps.
Cream Cheese – The main ingredient for creaminess; soften before use, or mascarpone can be a desirable substitute.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetness in the filling; sift before use to avoid any lumps.

By gathering these simple yet essential ingredients, you’re one step closer to creating a delightful Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake that will truly warm your heart.

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, line a 13×17-inch jellyroll pan with parchment paper, ensuring it extends slightly over the edges for easy removal later. Lightly grease the parchment with non-stick spray or butter, as this will help the cake release effortlessly once baked.

Step 2: Prepare the Tea Towel
Take a large, clean tea towel and dust it generously with 1/4 cup of powdered sugar, spreading it evenly. This will keep your pumpkin spice roll cake from sticking once it’s rolled up, so make sure there’s a good layer. Set the towel aside for later—this will be critical once your cake emerges from the oven!

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice blend, and a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture well to combine, and set this dry mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients for your delicious Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake.

Step 4: Beat the Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, beat 3 large eggs and 1 cup of granulated sugar with an electric mixer until the mixture becomes pale yellow and fluffy—this should take about 2-3 minutes. Next, gently mix in 1 cup of pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. It’s important that your wet mixture is well combined before moving on to the next step.

Step 5: Combine and Spread the Batter
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, being careful not to overmix, as this will help keep your cake light and fluffy. Once just combined, pour the batter into your prepared jellyroll pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover the bottom of the pan completely.

Step 6: Bake the Cake
Place the prepared pan in your preheated oven and bake for 14-15 minutes, or until the top springs back when lightly pressed and is just set in the center. Once done, remove the cake from the oven and immediately turn it out onto the prepared tea towel, peeling off the parchment carefully.

Step 7: Roll and Cool
Starting from one of the short edges, roll the warm cake up tightly in the towel, ensuring the sugary side is on the outside. This initial rolling helps maintain the shape. Let the cake cool completely in this rolled position—this usually takes about 30 minutes.

Step 8: Prepare the Filling
While the cake is cooling, make the cream cheese filling by beating together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup of unsalted butter in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy. Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, then gradually add in 2 cups of powdered sugar, beating until the mixture is fluffy and well combined.

Step 9: Unroll and Fill the Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely, carefully unroll it from the towel. Evenly spread the creamy filling over the entire surface of the cake, leaving a small border around the edges. This will help prevent any filling from oozing out when you roll it back up.

Step 10: Re-roll the Cake
Gently roll the cake back up, this time without the towel, starting from the same short edge. This will create your beautiful spiral. Make sure to roll it snugly but not too tight to avoid cracking. Once rolled, place the cake seam-side down on a serving platter.

Step 11: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the rolled cake for at least 1 hour to firm up the filling and cake, making slicing easier. Before serving, dust the top of your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake with additional powdered sugar for a sweet, festive touch, and enjoy the delightful flavors of autumn!

Expert Tips for Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake

Warm Rolling: Roll the cake while it’s still warm to prevent cracking. This simple trick ensures a beautiful spiral and maintains the cake’s delicate texture.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all filling ingredients, especially cream cheese and butter, are at room temperature. This will help create a smooth, lump-free filling that’s easy to spread.
Use a Serrated Knife: For clean, beautiful slices, always use a serrated knife. This gentle approach helps keep the roll intact and showcases the lovely swirls.
Powdered Sugar Duster: Dusting your tea towel with powdered sugar is crucial for preventing sticking. Don’t skip this step; it makes rolling the cake much easier!
Avoid Overmixing: Be cautious not to overmix the batter when combining dry and wet ingredients. This will keep your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake light and fluffy.

What to Serve with Fluffy Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake?

Warm your guests’ hearts and taste buds this fall by creating delightful pairings that amplify the flavors of your pumpkin spice masterpiece.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these mashed potatoes provide a comforting balance to the sweetness of the cake.
Spiced Chai Tea: The rich spices in chai complement the pumpkin flavors, creating a warm, cozy beverage that invites conversation.
Whipped Cream: A generous dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on top enhances the cake’s cream cheese filling, adding a luscious texture.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzling warm caramel over the cake adds an indulgent sweetness that highlights the warm spices beautifully.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream contrasts nicely with the airy cake, creating a delightful warmth and coolness in each bite.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pumpkin spice roll cake, adding a festive touch.

For a true fall experience, consider serving these pairings in a cozy atmosphere filled with laughter, nostalgia, and a warm cup of tea or coffee at your side.

Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Variations

Customize your cake to fit your flavor cravings and dietary needs while enjoying the warm, spiced love of this delightful dessert!

Brown Sugar: Swap granulated sugar for brown sugar to deepen the flavor; it adds a subtle molasses note that compliments the spices beautifully.
Nutty Twist: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and added depth; the nuts will elevate the cake and provide delightful textural contrast.
Maple Extract: Swap vanilla extract for maple extract; this simple change infuses the cake with a rich sweetness reminiscent of cozy fall breakfasts.
Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend; ensure it contains xanthan gum to maintain the right texture while still enjoying the fluffy goodness.
Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based butter for the filling; this variation makes the cake accessible for those avoiding dairy while still being delicious.
Fruity Filling: Stir in some finely chopped dried cranberries or raisins into the cream cheese filling; it adds a pop of natural sweetness and a lovely tartness.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of cayenne-infused extract into the batter for those who crave a warm, spicy twist to their dessert.

Feel free to explore these variations to make this fall pumpkin spice roll cake uniquely yours! And if you’re looking for more delicious pumpkin-themed treats, check out these scrumptious Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins or indulge in some delightful Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies. Happy baking!

Make Ahead Options

For busy home cooks, preparing the Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake ahead of time saves precious moments on the day of serving! You can make the cake itself up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake it, roll it up in the towel, and let it cool completely. Once cool, store it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. Additionally, the cream cheese filling can be prepared 3 days ahead; just keep it sealed in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its rich creaminess. When you’re ready to serve, gently unroll the cake, spread the filling, re-roll, and chill for an hour to ensure perfect slices. This way, your cake will be just as delicious and beautifully moist, ready to impress your guests!

How to Store and Freeze Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake

Fridge: Keep the roll cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This preserves its moisture and flavor, making it a great treat for days ahead.

Freezer: You can freeze the uncut roll cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it first in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy.

Reheating: If you prefer warm slices, gently microwave individual pieces for about 10-15 seconds. This will refresh the cake and enhance the warm spices, bringing that autumn aroma back to life!

Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! For this recipe, always opt for 100% pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling. The latter includes sweeteners and spices that can alter the intended flavor and texture of your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake. Look for cans labeled as “pure pumpkin” on the ingredients list to get the best results.

How should I store leftover pumpkin spice roll cake?
To keep your delicious cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay good in the fridge for up to 5 days, allowing you to enjoy those autumn flavors leisurely. If you want to savor it longer, you can also freeze the uncut roll cake for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze the pumpkin spice roll cake?
Absolutely! Freezing is a wonderful option for this cake. To do so, wrap the whole uncut roll tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Label it with the date, and it will be ready to go for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.

What are some common troubleshooting tips for this recipe?
If you find your cake cracking while rolling, it may be due to rolling it when it’s too cool. Always roll the cake while it’s still warm to maintain elasticity. Additionally, be mindful to mix your batter just until combined; overmixing can yield a denser cake rather than the light and fluffy texture you want for your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake.

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Very! Since this cake contains ingredients such as eggs, dairy, and pumpkin, it’s best to keep it away from pets, especially dogs and cats, as these ingredients aren’t advisable for them. If serving to guests with allergies, make sure you clearly communicate the ingredients, and consider making a gluten-free alternative using a certified gluten-free flour blend to accommodate those dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.