As autumn breezes begin to swirl, you can almost taste the season in the air. There’s something heartwarming about the scent of pumpkin spice wafting through the kitchen, instantly evoking cozy memories. This Easy Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake captures that essence perfectly, offering a delightful blend of flavors that resonates with the heart of fall. Each slice reveals a fluffy, tender cake swirled around a rich cream cheese filling, making it not just a dessert, but a centerpiece for gatherings or quiet evenings at home.
What makes this cake so special is its versatility—whether you’re feeding a crowd or indulging in a well-deserved treat for yourself, this recipe is your go-to. Plus, with simple ingredient swaps, it can easily cater to vegan or dairy-free diets. So, let’s dive in and master this seasonal delight that promises to be a comforting staple in your kitchen!
Why is Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake a Must-Bake?
Warm aroma, as your kitchen fills with delightful pumpkin spice, you’ll be transported to a cozy autumn day. Visual appeal: This stunning roll cake makes an impressive centerpiece for any gathering. Endless variations allow you to customize it easily for different dietary needs, making it both versatile and accommodating. Easy to make, even novice bakers can whip this up with minimal fuss. Lastly, perfect for sharing—whether at a festive gathering or just with loved ones, each slice is bound to elicit smiles and compliments!
Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
- Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and distinct pumpkin flavor; always use “100% pure pumpkin” for the best results.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the cake, ensuring it holds its shape when rolled.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness while helping to retain moisture, giving a tender texture.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent, helping the cake rise beautifully.
- Baking Soda – Works with the acidic pumpkin puree for leavening, ensuring a fluffy result.
- Ground Cinnamon – Adds warm spice characteristic of pumpkin desserts, enhancing the autumn flavor.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend – A blend of spices that enhances fall flavors, making this cake irresistibly seasonal.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness for a well-rounded flavor profile.
- Eggs – Provide necessary structure and moisture, contributing to the cake’s fluffiness.
- Vanilla Extract – Contributes depth of flavor, making the cake even more delightful.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and richness, ensuring a tender cake.
For the Filling
- Cream Cheese – Core component of the filling, delivering richness and creaminess; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese filling, creating a delightful contrast to the spiced cake.
This Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake captures the essence of the season beautifully, offering an unforgettable treat that you’ll love to bake!
How to Make Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a jellyroll pan with parchment paper to ensure easy cake removal.
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Prepare Towel: Dust a clean tea towel generously with powdered sugar; this will help prevent sticking when rolling the cake.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well combined and fluffy.
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Beat Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until thickened and pale. Then, gently fold in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract, mixing until well blended.
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Combine Mixtures: Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined; be cautious not to overmix to maintain a light texture.
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Spread and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 14-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched lightly.
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Cool and Roll: Immediately invert the cake onto the sugared towel, peel off the parchment paper, and roll the cake with the towel starting from one edge. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.
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Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth, then mix in the vanilla extract and powdered sugar until creamy and well combined.
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Fill and Chill: Unroll the cooled cake gently, spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface, then re-roll the cake tightly. Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before slicing.
Optional: Drizzle with warm caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Variations
Feel free to tailor this delightful roll cake to your taste buds and dietary preferences!
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cake batter for an extra layer of warm flavor. The blend of spices creates a cozy aroma that perfectly complements the pumpkin.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version. Just make sure to check the packaging for best results in baking!
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Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for added texture and crunch. This variation makes each bite a delightful experience filled with nutty goodness.
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Maple Sweetening: Replace granulated sugar with maple syrup for a more natural sweetness. The syrup lends a uniquely rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin.
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Chocolate Twist: Swirl in some melted chocolate or cocoa powder into the cream cheese filling for a chocolatey twist. This unexpected mix creates a decadent dessert that’s hard to resist.
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Vegan Delight: Use flax eggs and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to create a vegan-friendly version. This way, everyone gets to enjoy the charm of this fall treat without compromise!
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Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the filling for a bright, zesty contrast to the warm spices. It enhances the overall flavor profile and adds a refreshing note.
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Chai Infusion: Incorporate a chai spice blend into the batter for an Indian-inspired twist. The aromatic spices create an exotic flavor that elevates your roll cake to new heights.
How to Store and Freeze Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake
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Fridge: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap to keep moisture in, and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; this way, you can enjoy a slice of autumn anytime!
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the rolled cake wrapped in plastic and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months; simply thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to serve.
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Reheating: If desired, warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to revive the fluffy texture and enhance the rich flavors of the cream cheese filling.
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Serving Fresh: For the best taste experience, slice and serve your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake chilled from the fridge or at room temperature; it makes a lovely centerpiece for gatherings!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeks! You can prepare the cake up to 24 hours in advance by baking it and then cooling it completely. Once cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap to keep it moist. The cream cheese filling can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply unroll the cake, spread the filling, re-roll it, and chill for at least an hour. Following these steps will ensure your dessert is just as delectable and perfectly spiced as if made fresh!
Expert Tips for Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake
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Warm It Up: Roll the cake while it’s still warm to maintain flexibility and prevent cracks—this is key for a beautiful swirl.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for a smooth, creamy filling that blends effortlessly.
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Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter; it can lead to a dense cake. Just mix until combined to keep your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake light and fluffy.
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Perfect Cooling: Allow the cake to cool completely before unrolling; this prevents tearing and ensures a neat filling.
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Variations Galore: Feel free to customize the filling or cake flavors—adding nuts or spices can give your roll cake a wonderful twist!
What to Serve with Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake?
As you savor this delightful roll cake, consider complementing it with these delicious pairings that enhance its cozy, autumnal flavors.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast, making each bite feel even more indulgent.
- Spiced Chai Latte: The warmth and spiced notes of a chai latte perfectly match the cake’s autumn spices, creating a cozy beverage pairing.
- Warm Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the cake intensifies the sweetness and adds a luscious finish that beckons for seconds.
- Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A simple sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top not only adds visual appeal but also a sweet, crisp texture that everyone will love.
- Fresh Pear Slices: The juicy, refreshing taste of pear slices brings balance to the rich flavors of the pumpkin roll, enhancing the cozy vibe.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: For an extra layer of indulgence, serve alongside additional cream cheese frosting, perfect for those who crave a sweeter treat.
- Chai-Spiced Nuts: A handful of chai-spiced nuts provides a crunchy contrast to the soft cake, adding a delightful textural element.
- Hot Apple Cider: Warm, spiced apple cider brings seasonal flavors to the mix, creating a comforting beverage option for fall gatherings.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream offers a deliciously cool contrast to the spiced warmth of the cake, making for a delightful pairing.
Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Recipe FAQs
What kind of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! Always opt for “100% pure pumpkin” or homemade pumpkin puree for the best flavor and moisture. Avoid using pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices that can alter the taste and texture of your cake.
How should I store my Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake?
You can wrap your roll cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps retain moisture and keeps it fresh for those cozy afternoons when you need a slice of comfort.
Can I freeze the Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake?
Very! For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. First, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and you’re all set!
What if my cake cracks when rolling?
Don’t worry! If your cake cracks, it’s often due to cooling too long or not rolling while warm. If that happens, you can gently patch it with your cream cheese filling to conceal any imperfections. It’ll still taste amazing!
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can easily adapt this Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake for vegan diets. Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the filling. It’s a delicious way for everyone to enjoy this fall favorite!
Delicious Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake You’ll Love to Bake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a jellyroll pan with parchment paper.
- Dust a clean tea towel generously with powdered sugar.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until thickened and pale. Then, gently fold in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract.
- Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 14-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched.
- Immediately invert the cake onto the sugared towel, peel off the parchment paper, and roll the cake with the towel starting from one edge.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth, then mix in the vanilla extract and powdered sugar until creamy.
- Unroll the cooled cake gently, spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface, then re-roll the cake tightly.
- Wrap in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before slicing.