As the leaves start to turn and the air gets that crisp autumn bite, my mind drifts to one of my all-time favorite treats—Pumpkin Rolls. There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about this soft pumpkin cake, rolling up effortlessly around a creamy, dreamy filling. Not only are these lovely bites incredibly easy to prepare, but they also add a special touch to any holiday gathering, making them the perfect dessert for Thanksgiving or Christmas. Imagine delighting your family with a festive treat that smells like fall and tastes like a warm embrace. So, are you ready to create kitchen magic with this delightful recipe? Let’s dive in!
Why are Pumpkin Rolls a must-try?
Nostalgic Comfort: Pumpkin Rolls bring back fond memories of family gatherings and holiday celebrations, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can master this delightful treat without stress.
Irresistible Filling: The creamy cream cheese filling perfectly complements the spiced pumpkin cake, offering a harmonious blend of flavors.
Festive Appeal: These rolls are not only delicious but also visually stunning, making them a showstopper for your Thanksgiving or Christmas table.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert, treat for coffee breaks, or even as an indulgent breakfast alongside your favorite cup of tea. For more delicious recipes, don’t miss out on our Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls or Espresso Cinnamon Rolls.
Pumpkin Rolls Ingredients
For the Cake
- Large Eggs – Provide structure and moisture; use room temperature eggs for better emulsion.
- Granulated Sugar – Offers sweetness and aids in browning; substitute with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
- Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and rich flavor; avoid pumpkin pie filling as it contains added spices and sugars.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; pure vanilla is preferred, but imitation works too.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the cake; can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for those avoiding gluten.
- Baking Powder – Provides leavening; ensure it’s fresh for optimal rising in your Pumpkin Rolls.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – Combines warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg; making a homemade blend gives a fresher taste.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
For the Filling
- Cream Cheese – Acts as the rich filling that’s creamy and decadent; ensure it’s softened for easy spreading.
- Salted Butter – Adds richness and moisture to the filling; can use unsalted butter with a pinch of salt if preferred.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and gives the filling a smooth, velvety texture.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor of the cream cheese filling; use pure for the best results.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Rolls
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper to ensure the cake releases easily, then lightly spray the parchment with non-stick spray for added assurance. This preparation sets the stage for your delicious Pumpkin Rolls.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large, room temperature eggs for about 30 seconds until they become frothy. Then, gently fold in the granulated sugar, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract. The mixture should be smoothly combined, creating a delightful, fragrant batter that captures the essence of fall.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Sift the all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt into the pumpkin mixture. Whisk everything together until you achieve a smooth and homogenous batter. This process helps to aerate the flour and ensures that your Pumpkin Rolls will be light and fluffy, showcasing their lovely texture.
Step 4: Spread the Batter
Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to fill the corners. Take a moment to make sure that the layer is uniform, which will help achieve an even bake. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, suggesting perfect doneness.
Step 5: Roll the Cake
As soon as the Pumpkin Roll cake comes out of the oven, carefully roll it up with the parchment from the short side. This step is crucial as it helps the cake maintain its shape without cracking later. Allow it to cool completely, resting on a wire rack for about 2 hours, so it firms up for easier filling.
Step 6: Prepare the Filling
While the cake cools, make your luscious cream cheese filling by beating together the softened cream cheese, salted butter, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract until the mixture is velvety and smooth. The filling should be creamy and spreadable, creating a delightful contrast to the pumpkin cake.
Step 7: Assemble the Rolls
Once the cooled cake is unrolled, gently spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface. Be careful not to tear the delicate cake. After spreading, roll the cake back up tightly, starting from the short end again, and wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap to help keep it fresh and allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 8: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the wrapped Pumpkin Rolls for at least 30 minutes to an hour until they firm up. Once chilled, slice the rolls into even pieces using a serrated knife for clean cuts. Each slice should reveal an inviting swirl of pumpkin cake and creamy filling, ready to be served and enjoyed at your next gathering.
Make Ahead Options
These soft Pumpkin Rolls are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to savor their delightful flavors any day of the week. You can prepare the rolls up to 3 days in advance! Simply bake the cake, let it cool, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap (to maintain freshness and prevent dryness). For the cream cheese filling, mix it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, unroll the cake, spread the chilled filling, roll it back up, and refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to meld the flavors. This saves you precious time, ensuring that your Pumpkin Rolls remain just as delicious and festive!
Pumpkin Rolls: Delicious Variations Await!
Ready to take your Pumpkin Rolls to delightful new heights? Customize them with these tasty variations that will enchant your palate and dazzle your guests.
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Sweet Potato: Swap pumpkin for sweet potato puree for a subtly different flavor that’s equally comforting and rich.
This twist brings a smooth texture and earthy taste, perfect for fall gatherings. -
Chocolate Chips: Fold in mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts for a satisfying crunch and sweetness in the filling, making these rolls even more irresistible.
Chocolate and pumpkin together create a magical combination that will surprise your taste buds. -
Spiced Up: Sprinkle additional spices like cayenne or red pepper flakes into the cake batter for a fiery kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
This unexpected heat will have your guests coming back for more! -
Maple Syrup: For a deeper sweetness, replace half of the powdered sugar in the filling with maple syrup, infusing the rolls with a warm, autumnal flavor.
The natural sweetness of maple will elevate this dessert to new aromatic heights. -
Nutty Crunch: Add crushed walnuts or pecans to the cream cheese filling for delightful texture and nutty flavor.
Each slice will offer a lovely crunch that contrasts with the soft cake. -
Melted Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted chocolate over the rolls for an indulgent finish that looks stunning on any table.
This simple addition turns your rolls into a gourmet treat perfect for special occasions. -
Cinnamon Cream Cheese: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon to the cream cheese filling for an additional burst of flavor that complements the pumpkin nicely.
This small tweak enhances the warmth of the spices, making each bite even more nostalgic.
For even more inspiration, check out our scrumptious Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls or indulgent Espresso Cinnamon Rolls. Enjoy your baking adventure!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Rolls
As you bring home these delightful Pumpkin Rolls, elevate your gathering with a curated selection of complementary dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture of mashed potatoes balances the sweetness of the Pumpkin Rolls, creating a perfect contrast at your holiday table.
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Spiced Apple Cider: This warm, comforting drink infuses your meal with autumnal flavors, enhancing the festive spirit of the season.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts provide a savory crunch, cutting through the richness of the dessert and offering a delightful texture contrast.
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Maple Glazed Carrots: Sweet and earthy, these tender carrots complement the spiced cake, uniting seasonal flavors in every bite.
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Warm Pecan Pie: For dessert lovers, a slice of this classic pie adds richness, while the nuttiness echoes the comforting spices in the Pumpkin Rolls.
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Classic Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal favorite brings a cozy drink option, echoing the flavors of fall and inviting a cafe-style experience at home.
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Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of homemade caramel adds warmth and decadence, elevating the rolls into an indulgent treat for any sweet tooth.
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Charcuterie Board: Include a variety of cheeses, meats, and fruits to create a savory contrast, perfect for nibbling alongside your luscious Pumpkin Rolls.
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Rolls
- Roll While Hot: Rolling the cake immediately while it’s still warm helps to prevent cracks, ensuring a smooth finish.
- Knife Technique: Use a serrated knife and clean it between cuts for perfectly neat slices of your Pumpkin Rolls.
- Pumpkin Puree Consistency: Check that your pumpkin puree is thick and not watery; strain it if necessary to achieve a better texture.
- Make Ahead: These delicious Pumpkin Rolls can be prepared in advance; they store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Customize the Filling: Experiment with flavor by adding chocolate chips or nuts to the cream cheese filling for an extra layer of delight!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Rolls
Fridge: Keep your Pumpkin Rolls wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container; they’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days, perfect for indulging any time.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the rolls in plastic wrap and then in foil or a freezer-safe bag; they can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Slicing is easiest when chilled!
Reheating: If you prefer them warm, gently reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or in an oven set to low heat until just warm.
Pumpkin Rolls Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin puree, look for a thick consistency and deep, vibrant color—this typically indicates freshness and quality. Avoid pumpkin pie filling since it contains added sugar and spices that can alter your roll’s taste. You can also make your own puree by cooking and pureeing fresh pumpkin if you’re in the mood for a kitchen project!
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What’s the best way to store Pumpkin Rolls?
Very! To keep your Pumpkin Rolls fresh, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They will stay delectable in the fridge for up to 4 days. Be sure to keep them chilled to avoid any drying out or spoilage.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Rolls?
Definitely! To freeze Pumpkin Rolls, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place the wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag or cover with aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
What should I do if my Pumpkin Roll cracks while rolling?
No worries! If your Pumpkin Roll cracks, it’s often due to rolling it when it’s too cold or letting it cool too long before rolling. To fix this, you can gently press the cracks together once filled or use a bit of extra cream cheese filling to bridge any gaps. Rolling the cake while it’s still warm makes a big difference!
Can any dietary restrictions be accommodated when making Pumpkin Rolls?
For sure! If someone has gluten intolerance, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, if you’re looking to reduce sugar, consider using coconut sugar as a replacement for granulated sugar. Just keep in mind that different sweeteners may alter the texture slightly.
Irresistibly Soft Pumpkin Rolls with Creamy Filling Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly spray with non-stick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs until frothy, then fold in the granulated sugar, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract.
- Sift the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt into the mixture and whisk until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Bake for approximately 15 minutes.
- Roll the cake with the parchment from the short side immediately after removing from the oven. Let cool on a wire rack for about 2 hours.
- Beat together the cream cheese, salted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until velvety and smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the cooled cake, then roll it tightly again and wrap in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before slicing into pieces.
