Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Recipe

The Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake is an absolute showstopper that combines the warm, cozy spices of autumn with a light, fluffy pumpkin cake rolled around a luscious cream cheese filling. It’s the perfect treat for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or even a casual afternoon pick-me-up when you crave something sweet and comforting. This recipe captures the very essence of fall in every bite and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser thanks to its beautiful presentation and irresistible flavor. If you’re searching for that seasonal dessert to impress your loved ones, the Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake is your new best friend in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple with a handful of essential ingredients that each play a special role in creating the perfect Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake. From the fragrant pumpkin pie spices that make the cake aromatic, to the creamy filling that adds the perfect balance of tang and sweetness, every element contributes to a classic autumn masterpiece.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the cake’s delicate structure, keeping it soft but sturdy enough to roll.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Work together to give the cake a light, airy texture.
• Ground cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice blend: Deliver the signature warm spices that define the fall flavor profile.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness and spices.
• Eggs: Act as a binder and add richness.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while helping it brown beautifully.
• Canned pumpkin puree: Adds moisture, vibrant color, and that unmistakable pumpkin taste.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a hint of warmth.
• Powdered sugar: Used to dust the towel and garnish, helping with cake handling and presentation.
• Cream cheese: The star of the filling, bringing a creamy, tangy richness.
• Salted butter: Adds smoothness and flavor to the filling.
• Sea salt and ground cinnamon (for filling): Depth and a subtle spice twist in the cream cheese filling.
• Powdered sugar (for filling): Sweetens the filling to the perfect level and makes it silky smooth.

How to Make Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Towel

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a jellyroll pan with parchment paper. Lightly grease that paper so your cake slides out with ease. Next, sprinkle a generous layer of powdered sugar on a large tea towel—this little trick ensures the cake doesn’t stick when it’s time to roll. Trust me, this step will save you some frustration and make rolling your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Dry and Wet Ingredients

Mixing the cake batter is where the magic begins. In one bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt, creating a fragrant spice blend that’s the backbone of the flavor. In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until they turn pale and fluffy—this makes the cake wonderfully light. Then fold in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract for that rich, luscious pumpkin flavor.

Step 3: Combine and Bake the Cake

Gently fold the dry ingredients into your wet mix until just combined so the batter stays airy. Spread it evenly in your prepared pan, leaving a small border so it can rise properly. Bake the cake for 14 to 15 minutes until it springs back lightly to the touch. At this point, your kitchen will fill with that cozy aroma that only a Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake can bring.

Step 4: Roll the Cake in the Sugared Towel

The most important step for creating that perfect spiral starts immediately after baking. While the cake is still warm, carefully flip it onto the sugared towel and peel off the parchment. Roll the cake up with the towel snugly but gently to help it remember the shape. This cooling step prevents cracks and prepares the cake for the creamy filling.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

While the cake cools, prepare the irresistibly smooth cream cheese filling. Beat softened butter until fluffy, then add cream cheese until smooth and lump-free. The addition of vanilla, a pinch of sea salt, and cinnamon gives the filling layers of flavor that perfectly complement the pumpkin spiced cake. Slowly mix in powdered sugar for that sweet, silky texture you want.

Step 6: Fill, Roll and Chill the Pumpkin Roll

Once the cake is cool, unroll it gently and spread the cream cheese filling evenly, almost to the edges, without tearing the delicate cake. Then roll it up again (this time without the towel) into a tight spiral. Place it on a plate seam side down and chill in the fridge for at least one hour—this step helps the filling set, making slicing clean and simple.

Step 7: Serve the Pumpkin Roll

When it’s time to indulge, use a sharp serrated knife to slice your beautifully chilled Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake. A dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a pretty finishing touch. Serve it cold to enjoy every perfect moist, spiced bite with that creamy filling that makes everyone swoon.

How to Serve Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar is all you need to make your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake shine, but you can also add a sprinkle of crushed toasted pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra special touch. Fresh cranberries or a few mint leaves bring color and a hint of freshness to balance the richness.

Side Dishes

Pair this pumpkin roll with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the spices and creamy filling. A cup of hot apple cider or a spiced latte alongside makes this dessert feel like an entire autumn celebration on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving slices on rustic wooden boards for a charming fall vibe or stack individual slices vertically for an elegant-looking presentation. Adding edible flowers or cinnamon sticks to your platter adds flair and invites compliments before the first bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake keeps beautifully for up to 3 days when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making leftovers potentially even better than fresh!

Freezing

You can freeze the roll cake either whole or sliced by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Frozen properly, it lasts up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best texture.

Reheating

Since the cake is best enjoyed chilled, reheating is not typically recommended. If you prefer it slightly warmed, unwrap a single slice and microwave it for about 10 seconds, but keep in mind the cream cheese filling will soften and might lose firmness.

FAQs

Can I make the Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead gives the flavors time to meld, and chilling it overnight makes slicing much easier and cleaner.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice? Can I make my own?

Yes, you can blend cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves to create a pumpkin pie spice substitute that works beautifully in this recipe.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Fresh pumpkin needs to be cooked and pureed first and may contain more moisture. If using fresh, be sure to drain excess liquid for the best cake texture.

Is there a gluten-free version of this pumpkin roll cake?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, but it’s important to choose one designed for cakes to maintain the right texture and structure.

What is the best way to get clean slices when serving?

Use a sharp serrated knife and slice the cake while it’s well chilled. Wiping the knife clean between cuts helps keep each slice neat and beautiful.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about sharing a Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake with friends and family. This recipe is a delightful blend of seasonal spices, creamy filling, and a tender cake rolled into one stunning dessert. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a beloved classic for autumn and beyond. So go ahead—give this recipe a whirl and let your kitchen fill with the warmth and joy that only a pumpkin spice roll cake can bring.

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