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As the air turns crisp and the leaves start to dance with shades of gold and amber, my thoughts sway toward one irresistible recipe: the Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake. Just the name evokes a sensory cascade—envisioning the warm embrace of cinnamon and nutmeg mingling with the sweet scent of pumpkin, all wrapped in a delicate sponge cake. I can’t help but smile, recalling the thrill of serving this delightful treat at fall gatherings, where it never fails to bring compliments and smiles.

Picture this: you’ve just spent the afternoon crafting your culinary masterpiece, and as you slice into the soft, pillowy cake, the luscious whipped cream begins to peek out, teasing everyone’s taste buds. Whether you’re enjoying it after a cozy family dinner or sharing a slice with friends over coffee, this cake promises to be the star of the table. Ready to create some sweet memories? Let’s dive into this fabulous recipe that’s perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or simply to indulge in every day.

Why is Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake a Must-Try?

Irresistible flavors come alive in this seasonal gem, combining the warmth of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Effortless preparation allows even novice bakers to shine. Crowd-pleaser appeal means it’s the highlight at any gathering, sparking joy and compliments. Versatile variations make it easy to switch up the filling or add chocolate chips, while stored leftovers retain their delightful taste for days. Dive into this recipe, and you’ll discover why it’s a holiday favorite.

Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; for gluten-free, substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise and achieve the perfect texture.
Baking Soda – Enhances leavening and creates a light, fluffy cake.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice to this Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake.
Ground Nutmeg – Complements cinnamon for a rich, aromatic flavor.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavors in the cake.
Large Eggs (3) – Adds moisture and structure; use room temperature for better volume.
Granulated Sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens and provides moisture to the cake.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Adds depth to the flavor profile.
Pumpkin Purée (2/3 cup) – The main flavor and moisture contributor; always use pure pumpkin purée.

For the Filling

Heavy Whipping Cream (1 cup) – Gives a rich, smooth texture to the filling; can substitute with non-dairy cream.
Granulated White Sugar (2 tbsp) – Sweetens the whipped cream for a delightful taste.
Cinnamon (1 tsp) – For additional flavoring in the whipped cream.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a well-baked foundation for your cake. Meanwhile, grease a 15 x 10 inch baking tray and line it with parchment paper.
Prepare the Towel: Lay a damp tea towel on a cooling rack and dust it generously with powdered sugar. This will help prevent the cake from sticking when you roll it.
Sift the Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. This step infuses the ingredients and ensures a light texture in the cake.
Beat the Eggs and Sugar: In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the large eggs and granulated sugar on high speed until thick and tripled in volume, about 5 minutes. This creates a light and airy base for your cake.
Mix in Pumpkin and Vanilla: Gently beat in the vanilla extract and pumpkin purée into the egg mixture. Once thoroughly combined, gently fold the sifted flour mixture in until just incorporated.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the cake springs back when lightly pressed.
Roll the Cake: As soon as you remove the cake from the oven, carefully roll it in the damp tea towel while it’s still warm. This helps shape it into a roll. Place it seam-side down on a wire rack to cool completely.
Whip the Cream: In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream with sugar until soft peaks form, then gently fold in the cinnamon. This creamy filling will elevate the flavors of your cake.
Fill and Roll Again: Once the cake is completely cool, unroll it gently. Spread the whipped cream filling evenly over the cake, then carefully roll it back up without the towel. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Serve and Enjoy: Before slicing, dust the top of the roll cake with icing sugar for an elegant touch. Slice and serve to oohs and aahs around your table!

Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Variations

Feel free to get creative with this delightful dessert! Exploring new flavors or dietary adjustments can elevate your Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake experience.

Chocolate Chip Delight: Add mini chocolate chips to the cake batter before baking for a decadent twist that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap the whipped cream for a rich cream cheese frosting to enhance the cake’s flavor and give it a wonderfully tangy finish.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a delightful nutty texture that complements the fall spices beautifully.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: Swap cinnamon and nutmeg with pumpkin pie spice for a quick and convenient flavor boost that keeps the essence of fall.
Maple Whipped Cream: For a unique twist, sweeten your whipped cream with maple syrup instead of sugar, giving it a deliciously warm and inviting flavor.
Dairy-Free Version: Substitute heavy whipping cream with coconut or almond cream for a rich and creamy filling that’s completely dairy-free.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes to the batter for an unexpected spicy kick that elevates your cake to new heights.
Fruit Burst: Incorporate finely chopped apples or pears into the filling for a fruity surprise that brings a fresh element to every bite.

Embrace the warmth of the season and adjust this recipe to suit your taste buds or dietary needs!

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Pumpkin Spice Roll Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bake and roll the cake up to 24 hours in advance, allowing it to cool completely and then store it wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature to keep it fresh. The whipped cream filling can be prepared up to 3 days ahead; simply whip the cream and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, unroll the cake, spread the chilled whipped cream filling, and roll it back up. Just remember to dust the top with icing sugar before slicing for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy the time-saving benefits of this make-ahead dessert that’s just as delicious when prepared in advance!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake

Roll While Warm: Make sure to roll the cake while it’s still warm to avoid cracking; this step is crucial for achieving that perfect spiral.
Egg Beating Technique: Beat the eggs until they are pale yellow and thick—this ensures a light and airy Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake.
Use Pure Pumpkin: Always opt for pure pumpkin purée rather than pie filling for authentic flavor; it makes all the difference in taste.
Cooling Method: Allow the rolled cake to fully cool seam-side down, which prevents it from unrolling and keeps its shape intact.
Variations Galore: Consider adding chocolate chips to the batter for an extra touch of sweetness or swap whipped cream for cream cheese frosting for a rich twist.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake?

As autumn unfurls, let’s create a meal bursting with seasonal flavors that perfectly complements this delectable dessert.

Warm Apple Cider: This spiced drink echoes the comforting flavors of fall, adding a festive and cozy touch that enhances each bite of cake.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce juxtaposes beautifully with the sweetness of pumpkin, refreshing your palate while inviting another slice.
Creamy Butternut Squash Soup: This warm and velvety soup provides a rich contrast that balances the cake’s sweetness, creating a harmonious dining experience.
Roasted Maple Brussels Sprouts: Their caramelized sweetness from the maple syrup enhances the earthy notes in pumpkin while providing a satisfying crunch.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside a slice of cake warms the heart, melting together with the rich whipped filling for an indulgent treat.
Ginger Snap Cookies: These crunchy cookies bring an additional spice element that resonates with the flavors of the cake, making them a delightful side.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Elevate your dessert experience with this warm drink, full of rich flavors that pair seamlessly with the Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake.
Caramel Drizzle: A light drizzle of caramel on top of each slice adds an irresistible touch that heightens the cake’s flavor profile and sweetness.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake

Room Temperature: Keep the Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake at room temperature for up to 2 hours if serving at a gathering. After that, refrigerate to avoid spoilage.
Fridge: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days without losing its deliciousness.
Freezer: For longer storage, slice the cake and wrap each piece in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen slices in the refrigerator overnight. Enjoy cold, or warm them briefly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a cozy treat!

Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the best taste, use pure pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling. Look for cans labeled “100% pumpkin” to ensure you’re getting the real deal. Fresh pumpkin is also an option if you prefer to roast and puree it at home, but canned pumpkin is more convenient and maintains consistent flavor.

How do I store leftover Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake?
I often recommend wrapping the roll cake tightly in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to enjoy its moistness and flavor. If you’re serving it at a gathering, it can stay out for up to 2 hours at room temperature.

Can I freeze Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake?
Yes, you can! To freeze, slice the cake and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever you crave it. The cake will stay good for up to 2 months. To thaw, leave the slices in the refrigerator overnight. If you’d like, warm them up in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a cozy treat!

What should I do if my cake cracks while rolling?
Very! If your cake cracks while rolling, don’t panic. This can happen if it’s overbaked or not rolled quickly enough. You can use whipped cream to patch the cracks as you fill the cake; just spread the filling generously over the surface. If all else fails, consider serving it in slices with a dollop of whipped cream on top—still delicious!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Indeed! If you’re serving the Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake to those with dietary restrictions, you can easily make adjustments. Substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version of the cake. For dairy-free options, use non-dairy heavy whipping cream for the filling. Just be mindful of allergies to ingredients like eggs or nuts—it’s always a good idea to check with your guests beforehand.

Can I add ingredients to customize my Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake?
Absolutely! This cake is quite versatile. You could fold in some chocolate chips into the batter for an extra decadent treat or swap the whipped cream for cream cheese frosting for a richer flavor experience. You might also choose to replace cinnamon and nutmeg with pumpkin pie spice for an even more simplified approach!