As the leaves begin to turn and a crispness fills the air, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven of baking wonder. There’s something magical about creating a Pumpkin Roll, with its fluffy, spiced cake spiraling around a creamy, light filling made even more delightful with Greek yogurt. This recipe serves a dual purpose: one roll for sharing with friends and family, and another just for you—a sweet reward for your efforts. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that carries the essence of autumn straight to your table. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a peaceful evening at home, this pumpkin roll is sure to elevate your autumn dessert game. Are you ready to roll up your sleeves and whip up this seasonal delight?
Why is this Pumpkin Roll so special?
Lightened Delight: This pumpkin roll is a perfect balance of indulgence and health, thanks to the Greek yogurt that makes the filling creamy yet guilt-free.
Autumn Flavor Explosion: It’s infused with warm spices, bringing the cozy, comforting essence of fall into every bite.
Versatile Treat: Make it your own! Swap the Greek yogurt for mascarpone or toss in some chocolate chips for a unique twist.
Two Rolls in One: With one roll designated for sharing, you can keep the second all to yourself—a delicious little secret!
Easy to Make: Even novice bakers will find this recipe approachable and rewarding, resulting in a show-stopping dessert. Serve it alongside some Cinnamon Roll Cookies for a delightful dessert spread!
Pumpkin Roll Ingredients
• Get ready to delight in the flavors of autumn with this fun and scrumptious Pumpkin Roll recipe!
For the Cake
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure and texture; substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
- Baking powder & Baking soda – Essential leavening agents for a fluffy roll; ensure they’re fresh for the best rise.
- Cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, allspice – Infuses classic fall flavors; feel free to adjust the spices to your taste.
- Salt – Enhances sweetness and overall flavor balance.
- Eggs – Binds the ingredients together, creating a light texture; use room temperature eggs for optimal incorporation.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake while contributing to its fluffy texture.
- Canned pumpkin (puree only) – Provides moisture and that signature pumpkin flavor; avoid pumpkin pie filling for best results.
- Vanilla extract – Adds depth of flavor; opt for pure vanilla whenever possible.
- Non-stick spray + parchment paper – Prevents sticking; an essential step for easy cake removal.
For the Filling
- Light cream cheese – Creates a smooth and creamy filling; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Sifted powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the filling for a delightful taste and texture.
- Fat-free Greek yogurt – Lightens the filling while adding creaminess; choose a thick brand to keep it from becoming runny.
- Chopped walnuts (optional) – Adds a nice crunch and flavor; easily omit for a nut-free version.
- Extra powdered sugar – For dusting the cake rolls before serving for added sweetness and visual appeal.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Roll
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that warms up, prepare two jelly roll pans by lining them with parchment paper and spraying them lightly with non-stick spray. This setup helps ensure your delicious Pumpkin Roll doesn’t stick when it comes time to invert the warm cake.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, allspice, and salt. This blend of dry ingredients creates a flavorful base for your Pumpkin Roll. Make sure there are no lumps, as a smooth mix will give the cake a lovely texture.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, beat together the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes fluffy and pale, about 4 to 5 minutes. Then, stir in the canned pumpkin and vanilla extract until well combined. This wet mixture will provide moisture and flavor, forming the foundation of the pumpkin cake.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the egg and pumpkin blend. Use a spatula to combine these ingredients carefully, ensuring you don’t overmix. Once just combined, spread the batter evenly into the prepared pans, aiming for a smooth surface that will bake evenly.
Step 5: Bake the Cakes
Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 13 to 15 minutes. You’ll know the cakes are done when they spring back lightly when touched. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as a moist cake is essential for a successful Pumpkin Roll.
Step 6: Cool and Roll the Cakes
As your cakes bake, prepare clean kitchen towels dusted with powdered sugar. Once baked, quickly remove the cakes from the oven and invert them onto the sugared towels, peeling off the parchment paper. Roll each cake up with the towel, starting from one end, and let them cool completely. This step helps the cakes keep their shapes.
Step 7: Make the Creamy Filling
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the filling by beating the light cream cheese until smooth in a mixing bowl. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, fat-free Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract, mixing well until the filling is creamy and combined. If desired, fold in chopped walnuts for a nutty twist.
Step 8: Assemble the Pumpkin Roll
Once the cakes have cooled, carefully unroll them from the towels. Spread the creamy filling evenly across the soft cake. Afterward, gently re-roll the cake without the towel, taking care to keep the filling inside. Wrap the rolls in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up the filling.
Step 9: Slice and Serve
When you’re ready to serve, remove the Pumpkin Rolls from the refrigerator and dust with extra powdered sugar for added sweetness. Slice them with a serrated knife, wiping the knife between cuts for clean slices. This beautiful dessert is now ready to delight your guests or satisfy your own sweet tooth!
Pumpkin Roll Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your Pumpkin Roll—there’s so much joy in customizing your baking masterpiece!
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a deliciously inclusive treat.
- Richer Filling: Swap the Greek yogurt for mascarpone cheese to create an even creamier, more indulgent filling.
- Spice It Up: Add extra spice by incorporating nutmeg or ginger powder. It enhances the autumn essence in every bite.
- Chocolate Twist: Mix in chocolate chips or chunks into the filling or batter for a delightful contrast to the pumpkin flavor.
- Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts entirely or replace them with sunflower seeds if nuts are a concern, keeping your filling crunchy without allergens.
- Vegan Option: Use aquafaba (chickpea water) as an egg substitute and coconut cream for the filling for a vegan-friendly adaptation.
- Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Instead of powdered sugar, dust your rolls with cinnamon sugar right before serving for an extra flavor burst.
- Caramel Drizzle: Elevate your presentation by drizzling your rolls with caramel sauce right before serving, making each slice irresistible.
And if you’re looking for other delightful dessert options, consider whipping up some S’mores Crescent Rolls or a batch of Apple Pumpkin Streusel for a cozy autumn spread!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Rolls are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can bake the cakes and roll them up in towels up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them soft and fresh, thanks to the powdered sugar dusting which prevents sticking. Alternatively, the creamy filling can be prepared up to 3 days ahead; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply unroll the cakes, spread the freshly prepared filling, re-roll, and chill for at least an hour before slicing. This way, you can enjoy a delightful autumn treat without the last-minute rush!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Roll
Experience the joy of sharing and savoring flavors that beautifully complement this captivating dessert.
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Whipped Cream:
A dollop of light and airy whipped cream adds an extra creaminess, enhancing the sweet and spiced notes of the pumpkin roll. -
Caramel Sauce:
Drizzling warm caramel over your slices introduces a decadent sweetness that pairs spectacularly with the spiced pumpkin flavor. -
Cream Cheese Frosting:
Spread a light layer of cream cheese frosting on the side for an additional tangy sweetness that ties together the flavors beautifully. -
Apple Cider:
A warm glass of spiced apple cider captures the essence of autumn and provides a warm, comforting drink alongside your roll. -
Chai Tea:
Served warm, chai tea’s aromatic spices resonate with the pumpkin roll, offering a delightful contrast that enhances each bite. -
Chocolate Chip Cookies:
For a sweet treat duo, serve alongside soft, chewy chocolate chip cookies, creating a harmony of textures and flavors reminiscent of childhood. -
Maple Syrup:
A light drizzle of maple syrup over the pumpkin roll gives a sweet Earthiness that elevates your dessert experience to new heights. -
Pumpkin Spice Latte:
Complement your roll with this seasonal favorite drink, embodying all the cozy flavors of fall, making each mouthful even more festive. -
Chopped Pecans:
Sprinkling some crunchy pecans over your slices adds a nutty texture that contrasts nicely with the soft pumpkin cake, rounding out the experience.
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Roll
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Avoid Overbaking: Keeping a close eye on your cake is crucial. Overbaking can lead to dryness and make your Pumpkin Roll difficult to roll without cracking.
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Use Plenty of Powdered Sugar: Generously dust your towels with powdered sugar before rolling. This simple step prevents the cake from sticking, ensuring a smooth roll.
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Chill Before Slicing: Let the filled rolls chill for at least an hour or overnight for enhanced flavors and easier slicing. This makes the Pumpkin Roll even more delightful.
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Careful Unrolling: If the cake cracks during unrolling, don’t worry! A little filling can disguise minor cracks when you re-roll it, keeping your presentation beautiful.
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Quality Ingredients Matter: Using fresh baking powder and quality Greek yogurt will elevate the taste and texture of your Pumpkin Roll, making it a true autumn treat.
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Roll
Fridge: Store your Pumpkin Roll in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will keep it moist and fresh, ready for your next sweet craving.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing their delightful flavor.
Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy your Pumpkin Roll, thaw it overnight in the fridge. This gentle method helps maintain its wonderful texture.
Reheating: If you prefer it slightly warm, pop individual slices in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds. Just enough to bring back that cozy, comforting taste!
Pumpkin Roll Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin should I use for the Pumpkin Roll?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Look for 100% pure pumpkin puree; it provides moisture and that signature pumpkin flavor without added sugars and spices that can alter the taste of your roll.
How should I store my Pumpkin Roll after baking?
Very good question! Store your Pumpkin Roll in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its delicious moisture and flavor for those afternoon cravings or impromptu dessert opportunities!
Can I freeze the Pumpkin Roll for later enjoyment?
Definitely! To freeze, wrap your Pumpkin Roll tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This method keeps it fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for a slice of autumn, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge to retain its moisture.
Why is my cake cracking when I unroll it?
Don’t worry, this can happen! If your cake cracks, it’s often due to overbaking. Make sure you check for doneness as soon as the edges start to brown and the center springs back when touched. If there are minor cracks, you can disguise them with a bit of filling when you re-roll the cake!
Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
Great point! Yes, you can easily make this Pumpkin Roll nut-free. Just omit the chopped walnuts from the filling, and you’re good to go. The recipe remains delicious and satisfying without any nut components.
How can I ensure the filling doesn’t turn out watery?
Excellent question! To keep the filling creamy and not runny, be sure to use a thick brand of fat-free Greek yogurt. Incorporate it well with the cream cheese and sifted powdered sugar until smooth, and you’ll have a delightful filling that complements your Pumpkin Roll perfectly!
Irresistible Pumpkin Roll Recipe – Deliciously Lightened Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare two jelly roll pans by lining with parchment paper and spraying with non-stick spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, allspice, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, beat together the eggs and granulated sugar until fluffy and pale, then stir in pumpkin and vanilla extract.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and spread evenly into prepared pans.
- Bake cakes for 13 to 15 minutes and check for doneness by lightly touching; they should spring back.
- Prepare clean kitchen towels dusted with powdered sugar. Invert the cakes onto the sugared towels and roll each cake up with the towel.
- Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract.
- Carefully unroll the cakes and spread the creamy filling evenly, then re-roll without the towel and refrigerate.
- When ready to serve, dust with extra powdered sugar and slice with a serrated knife.
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