As the leaves turn golden and the air fills with a crisp chill, there’s no better time to indulge in the flavors of fall. This Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake embodies the warmth of the season, with its tender, spiced cake wrapped around a luxuriously creamy cream cheese frosting. The first bite will transport you to a cozy kitchen, where laughter and autumn scents mingle together.
This delightful dessert not only impresses with its stunning appearance but also brings a comforting sweetness that is perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Best of all, it’s surprisingly easy to make, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of loved ones. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home-cooking enthusiast, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite as the days grow shorter and the nights get chillier. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s create a masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why Love This Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake?
Delightful and Inviting: This Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience!
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll enjoy the process as much as the outcome.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Its beautiful presentation makes it the showstopper at any autumn celebration, prompting compliments from guests.
- Versatile Flavor: The warm spices and creamy frosting balance perfectly, pleasing diverse palates.
- Crowd Pleaser: Everyone loves a dessert that embodies the essence of fall, making it a surefire hit with family and friends.
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Make Ahead: Prepare this treat in advance and savor the convenience, freeing up your time for more important moments.
Don’t forget to check out my tips for ingredient substitutions if you’re looking to customize it, ensuring every bite is just right!
Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
- Pumpkin Puree – Use 100% pure pumpkin for the best flavor and moisture; avoid pie filling.
- All-Purpose Flour – Essential for structure; no substitutes are recommended for optimal fluffiness.
- Granulated Sugar – This sweetener helps caramelize the cake as it bakes, enhancing the flavor.
- Eggs – Ensure they’re at room temperature to aid in binding and creating a rich texture.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda – These leavening agents are key for a light and airy cake.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend – Add warm fall flavors; mix cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger if you’re out.
- Salt – A pinch balances sweetness and amplifies the delicious flavors.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream Cheese – Use at room temperature to get a smooth and creamy frosting consistency.
- Unsalted Butter – This ingredient adds rich creaminess; also, make sure it’s softened.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavors in the frosting, providing a lovely aroma.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting so it’s easily spreadable.
Don’t forget to whip up this Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake for your next gathering—it’s sure to impress!
How to Make Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 13×17-inch jelly roll pan by lining it with parchment paper and greasing it lightly. This will ensure your cake releases easily after baking.
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Prepare Towel: Dust a clean kitchen towel generously with powdered sugar. This will help prevent the cake from sticking when you roll it up after baking.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well combined. This blend is essential for your cake’s warm flavor and texture.
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Beat Eggs and Sugar: In another bowl, beat together the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes pale and thick. Next, gently fold in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract, creating a lovely, fluffy base.
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Combine Mixtures: Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the egg and pumpkin mixture just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake, so be gentle!
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Spread the Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly while leaving a small border around the edges. Bake for 14-15 minutes, or until the top springs back when lightly pressed.
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Roll the Cake: As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, flip it onto the prepared towel. Gently roll the cake from one end to the other, towel and all, while it’s still hot. Let it cool in this shape to maintain its rolled form.
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Prepare the Frosting: In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until fluffy. Add vanilla and salt, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
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Fill the Cake: Once the cake is cooled, carefully unroll it and spread the cream cheese frosting evenly across the surface. Re-roll the cake tightly without the towel.
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Chill and Serve: Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before slicing. This lets the flavors meld together beautifully!
Optional: Top each slice with a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake?
As the cozy spices waft through your kitchen, you’ll want to complement this delightful cake with the perfect accompaniments.
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Cinnamon Apple Cider: The warmth of spiced apple cider pairs nicely, enhancing the pumpkin’s flavors and keeping guests cozy.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light texture, balancing the rich cream cheese frosting beautifully.
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Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai resonate with your cake, creating a comforting drink pairing that feels like a warm hug.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic combination adds creaminess and a cool contrast to the spiced cake, perfect for those who love indulgence.
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Roasted Pecans: Their crunchy texture gives a delightful contrast to the soft cake, while the nuttiness complements the pumpkin flavor wonderfully.
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Pumpkin Pie: For a true autumn feast, serve a slice of classic pumpkin pie alongside, ensuring all those beloved fall flavors are represented.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of chocolate ganache will add a touch of decadence that surprises the palate while maintaining balance.
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Coffee: A smooth, rich cup of coffee rounds out the meal nicely, making every bite of dessert feel indulgent and memorable.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create a gathering that celebrates the flavors of the season, ensuring your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake takes center stage!
Expert Tips for Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake
- Roll Warm: Always roll your cake while it’s still warm to prevent cracks, ensuring a beautifully intact roll when served.
- Check Cream Cheese: Allow cream cheese and butter to reach room temperature before mixing; it ensures a lump-free, velvety frosting.
- Generous Powdered Sugar: Dust the towel with powdered sugar liberally to avoid sticking during the rolling process of the cake.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the batter until just combined to maintain the lightness of your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake.
- Chill Before Slicing: Let the rolled cake chill in the fridge for at least an hour; this makes slicing easier and enhances flavor melding.
How to Store and Freeze Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake
- Room Temperature: Store the rolled cake at room temperature for up to 2 days, wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain moisture and freshness.
- Fridge: Keep the Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This keeps the frosting creamy and the cake delicious.
- Freezer: The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil for added protection. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, gently microwave it for about 10-15 seconds. This will revive the flavors and make the frosting a little gooey again!
Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Variations
Feel free to experiment and personalize your creation with these delightful twists!
- Sweet Potato: Substitute pumpkin with pureed sweet potato for a unique, slightly sweeter flavor that still embodies fall.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch that complements the soft cake. The nutty flavor elevates the overall experience!
- Chocolate Chips: Fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips for a rich, indulgent treat that adds a hint of decadence to your cake. Just imagine that lovely melting chocolate as you take a bite!
- Spicy Kick: For a little zest, incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes into the batter, giving a surprising heat that balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Coconut Cream: Swap out cream cheese frosting for coconut whipped cream, offering a tropical twist that will make your palette dance with joy! This gives the dessert a light and airy finish.
- Almond Flour: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, replace all-purpose flour with almond flour. Keep in mind this will change the texture slightly, yielding a denser cake with a fantastic nutty flavor.
- Maple Syrup: Instead of granulated sugar, use maple syrup for added warmth and depth of flavor, creating a more robust dessert. It’s a sweet embrace of autumn in every bite!
- Dairy-Free: Make the frosting with dairy-free cream cheese and coconut oil instead of unsalted butter for a delicious option suitable for lactose-intolerant loved ones.
There’s no limit to the creativity you can bring to your Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake! Enjoy discovering your favorite twist!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing this Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake ahead of time is a smart way to save precious hours when entertaining or enjoying a busy week! You can bake the cake and roll it up up to 24 hours in advance, storing it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The cream cheese frosting can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days—just give it a quick whisk before use to restore its fluffy texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply unroll the chilled cake, spread your frosting, re-roll, and enjoy a beautiful, delicious dessert with minimal effort!
Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Recipe FAQs
How can I tell if my pumpkin puree is fresh?
Absolutely! To ensure you’re using the best pumpkin puree, look for vibrant color and smooth texture. Avoid any cans with dark spots or dents. Fresh puree should have no added sugars or spices—just pure pumpkin. Taste a little; it should have a robust flavor!
What is the best way to store leftover Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake?
Very! The rolled cake can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep the moisture in and maintain the creaminess of the frosting. If you’re planning to eat it later, consider placing it in an airtight container for added freshness.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake?
Yes! You can freeze your cake for up to 3 months. First, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, then encase it in aluminum foil. It’s best to thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy it again. This will preserve its delightful texture and taste.
What should I do if my cake cracks while rolling?
No worries! If you notice cracks forming, don’t panic. Ensure you’re rolling the cake while it’s still warm, as this prevents it from breaking. If cracks do occur, simply use frosting to fill in the gaps when you’re decorating. It’ll taste just as delicious and will still look beautiful!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! Always double-check ingredients for allergies, especially if you have guests with dietary restrictions. This cake contains dairy and eggs, which are common allergens. If you’re serving pets, remember to keep this dessert out of their reach, as ingredients like chocolate and certain spices can be harmful to them.
Can I make substitutions for the cream cheese frosting?
For sure! If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute the cream cheese frosting with whipped cream or even a dairy-free cream alternative. Just make sure to sweeten to taste and whip until fluffy for that signature creamy texture!
Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake That’ll Wow at Your Next Gathering
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat Oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 13x17-inch jelly roll pan by lining it with parchment paper and greasing it lightly.
- Dust a clean kitchen towel generously with powdered sugar to prevent the cake from sticking when rolled.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, beat together the eggs and granulated sugar until pale and thick. Fold in pumpkin puree and vanilla extract.
- Carefully fold dry ingredients into the egg and pumpkin mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly and bake for 14-15 minutes.
- As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, flip it onto the prepared towel and gently roll it from one end to the other.
- In a bowl, beat together cream cheese and unsalted butter until fluffy, add vanilla and salt, then gradually mix in powdered sugar until smooth.
- Once the cake is cooled, unroll it and spread the cream cheese frosting evenly, then re-roll it tightly without the towel.
- Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before slicing.