Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake – theamazingfood Recipe
If you’ve been dreaming of that perfect cozy fall dessert to brighten up your afternoon or steal the show at your next gathering, then you absolutely have to try this Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake – theamazingfood. Imagine a soft, spiced pumpkin cake rolled tightly around a luscious cream cheese filling that’s velvety smooth with just the right touch of cinnamon and vanilla. It’s the ultimate seasonal treat that combines warm autumn flavors with a light, fluffy texture, all wrapped up in a stunning spiral that’s as pretty as it tastes. Trust me, once you make this, it will become your go-to pumpkin recipe every single season.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your hands on simple, quality ingredients is all it takes to whip up this charming pumpkin roll that bursts with classic fall flavors. Each element plays a vital role—flour and leaveners create the perfect light sponge, while the pumpkin puree and spice blend bring that unmistakable aroma and color that make autumn desserts irresistible.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and tender crumb for the cake.
- 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise evenly and gently.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Works with the baking powder for a perfect lift and texture.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Infuses warm spice notes that complement the pumpkin beautifully.
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice blend: A flavorful mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves for that unmistakable fall flavor.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
- 3 large eggs: Add richness and help bind the cake batter.
- 1-1/4 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake without overpowering.
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree: Brings moisture, color, and that treasured pumpkin flavor.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a smooth, aromatic depth to the cake.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting towel): Prevents sticking and adds a subtle sweetness during rolling.
- 8 oz cream cheese (room temperature): Creates the silky base for the luscious filling.
- 1/4 cup salted butter (softened): Adds creaminess and slight saltiness to balance the sweetness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for filling): Enhances the flavor of the cream cheese filling.
- 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds a hint of spice to the filling, tying it perfectly with the cake.
- Pinch of sea salt: Intensifies the cream cheese filling’s flavors.
- 3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the filling to perfect spreading consistency.
How to Make Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake – theamazingfood
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Towel
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a 13×17” jelly roll pan with parchment or wax paper—this ensures an even bake and easy cake removal later. Lightly grease the parchment to prevent sticking. Next, sprinkle 1/4 cup of powdered sugar generously over a large clean tea towel laid flat. This sugary barrier will be your secret weapon to prevent the cake from sticking when rolling, setting you up for a flawless finish.
Step 2: Mix the Dry and Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Separately, beat the eggs and granulated sugar on high speed until pale and thick; this airy mixture is what makes the cake so delightfully tender. Then fold in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until smoothly combined, creating that moist, flavorful base we all crave in a pumpkin roll.
Step 3: Combine and Bake the Cake
Gently stir your dry ingredients into the wet pumpkin mixture, taking care not to overmix so the cake stays light and fluffy. Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly but leaving a small border around the edges to let it rise properly. Bake for 14 to 15 minutes until the cake springs back lightly when touched and looks set. This quick bake time keeps the texture soft, perfect for rolling without cracking.
Step 4: Roll the Cake in the Sugared Towel
Right after you pull the warm cake out of the oven, carefully invert it onto the powdered sugar-dusted towel. Peel away the parchment paper immediately so it doesn’t stick. Starting from the short side, roll the cake up in the towel snugly and evenly; this step is crucial to create those beautiful swirls and to avoid cracks. Let the rolled cake cool completely on a wire rack—this patience ensures the cake won’t break when filled.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
Meanwhile, prepare the filling by beating butter until fluffy, then adding room temperature cream cheese and continuing to beat until smooth. Stir in vanilla, sea salt, and a hint of cinnamon to complement the pumpkin flavor. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well with each addition to achieve a perfectly creamy and sweet filling that spreads like a dream but holds firm in the cake.
Step 6: Fill, Roll and Chill the Pumpkin Roll
When the cake is completely cool, gently unroll it from the towel and spread the luscious cream cheese filling evenly, reaching close to the edges. Re-roll the cake tightly (this time without the towel) to create those classic pumpkin roll spirals. Place it seam side down on a serving plate and refrigerate for at least an hour to set the filling and make slicing neat and effortless.
Step 7: Serve the Pumpkin Roll
Once chilled, slice your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake – theamazingfood with a sharp serrated knife for clean edges. Dust the top with a little extra powdered sugar if you’re feeling fancy, and admire that gorgeous swirl before indulging. It’s best served cold to maintain its shape and flavors—you’ll find each bite is a delightful balance of spice, sweetness, and creamy filling.
How to Serve Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake – theamazingfood

Garnishes
For a beautiful finishing touch, sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar or lightly toast some pecans or walnuts to scatter on top. If you’d like to add some contrasting color, a few fresh cranberries or an orange zest twist look fantastic while enhancing the autumn theme.
Side Dishes
This pumpkin roll pairs perfectly with a cup of hot spiced tea or rich coffee, making it a cozy afternoon treat. For a party spread, complement it with whipped cream or a dollop of cinnamon-spiced yogurt to add creaminess and a touch of tang.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the roll into bite-sized pinwheels for an elegant appetizer plate or arrange on a rustic wooden board with slices of apples and pears to create a fall-inspired dessert centerpiece. You can also wrap slices individually in parchment for cute take-home favors at celebrations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover pumpkin roll tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 4-5 days, and the flavors actually deepen, making it an even better treat the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the whole rolled cake or individual slices by wrapping them securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It freezes well for up to 2 months and thaws overnight in the fridge without losing any deliciousness.
Reheating
Since this is best enjoyed chilled, reheating is usually not necessary. However, if you prefer a softer texture, let the slice come to room temperature before serving or warm gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds—just be careful not to melt the filling.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Fresh pumpkin can work, but be sure to cook and puree it thoroughly, then drain off any excess moisture before measuring. Canned pumpkin offers consistent moisture and texture, which helps with the cake’s structure.
What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice blend on hand?
You can easily make a substitute by mixing ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice in appropriate ratios. This personalized blend will keep your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake – theamazingfood tasting just as wonderful.
Do I have to refrigerate the cake after rolling with the filling?
Yes, chilling solidifies the cream cheese filling, helping slices hold their shape better and ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. It’s worth the wait!
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum, and the pumpkin roll turns into an inclusive treat for gluten-sensitive friends without sacrificing taste.
How can I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?
The key is to roll it while it’s still warm and use the powdered sugar-dusted towel method. Rolling it snugly but gently helps form soft spirals without cracks.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend enough trying the Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake – theamazingfood this season! It’s a heartwarming dessert that feels like a hug on a plate with every bite. Whether you’re a pumpkin lover or new to the fall baking craze, this roll cake brings together flavors and textures that are truly memorable. Get your ingredients ready, invite some friends, and make this your new autumn tradition—you’ll be so happy you did!
PrintFall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake – theamazingfood Recipe
A delectable Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake featuring a moist pumpkin-flavored sponge rolled with a creamy cinnamon-spiced cream cheese filling, perfect for cozy autumn gatherings and holiday celebrations.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking, Rolling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Cake:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice blend
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1–1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting towel)
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup salted butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch sea salt
- 3 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan and Towel: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 13×17” jelly roll pan with parchment or wax paper and lightly grease it with butter or nonstick spray. Generously sprinkle 1/4 cup powdered sugar on a large tea towel and set it aside. This sugar-dusted towel will help prevent the cake from sticking after baking.
- Mix the Dry and Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice blend, and salt. In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar using a stand or hand mixer until pale and thick, about 2 minutes. Fold in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Combine and Bake the Cake: Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan, leaving a 1/4-inch border. Bake for 14-15 minutes or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
- Roll the Cake in the Sugared Towel: Immediately remove the cake from the oven and carefully invert it onto the powdered sugar-dusted towel. Peel off the parchment paper gently. Starting from the short side, roll the cake and towel together snugly. Let it cool completely on a wire rack while preparing the filling.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: Beat the softened butter until light and fluffy. Add the room temperature cream cheese and beat until smooth and lump-free. Mix in vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt. Gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the ground cinnamon to complement the pumpkin flavor.
- Fill, Roll and Chill the Pumpkin Roll: Once the cake has cooled completely, carefully unroll it. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the cake surface, almost reaching the edges. Gently re-roll the cake without the towel into a tight spiral. Place the roll seam-side down on a serving plate and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
- Serve the Pumpkin Roll: After chilling, slice the pumpkin roll using a sharp serrated knife. Optionally dust with additional powdered sugar for a beautiful finish. Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Be careful not to overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Rolling the cake while it’s still warm prevents cracking.
- Ensure the cake is completely cooled before applying the filling to avoid melting the cream cheese mixture.
- Chilling the roll helps the filling set and makes slicing neater.
- Use fresh pumpkin pie spice blend or make your own for the best flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of roll)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 35 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 43 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: pumpkin roll, pumpkin spice cake, cream cheese filling, fall dessert, pumpkin dessert, autumn baking, holiday cake

