Are you ready for one of the most RIDIC-ULICIOUS fall desserts ever? 🎃

This pumpkin roll is the recipe I make every single year — and honestly, it never lasts long. It’s soft, warmly spiced, and filled with that dreamy cream cheese filling that makes everyone sneak “just one more slice.”

This recipe was adapted from the classic Libby’s pumpkin roll that so many of us grew up with. However, over the years, I’ve tweaked the method to make it easier and more foolproof — especially when it comes to rolling (because nobody wants cracks in their pumpkin roll!).

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It’s perfect for:

And the best part? It’s a fantastic make-ahead dessert, which makes hosting so much easier.

pumpkin-roll.

Why This Pumpkin Roll Works Every Time

This pumpkin roll recipe has:

And when you follow my rolling tips below, it slices beautifully every time.


Tips for a Beautiful Pumpkin Roll (No Cracks!)

Let’s talk about the most important part — rolling it without cracking.

1. Roll It Immediately

As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, it needs to be rolled while it’s hot. This step trains the cake into shape.

2. Let It Cool Completely Before Filling

After rolling it up plain, let it cool fully. If you rush this step, the filling will melt.

3. Roll It Tightly

Once the cream cheese filling is spread, roll it back up as tightly as possible. This gives you those gorgeous spiral slices.


Why I Use Parchment Paper (Not a Towel)

I know many recipes use a kitchen towel — but I always use parchment paper. Here’s why:

In other words? It just works better.


Ingredients for Pumpkin Roll

For the Cake

For the Cream Cheese Filling


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How to Make This Easy Pumpkin Roll

Step 1: Prep the Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a 15 x 10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat:

Beat until thick and slightly fluffy. Then add:

Mix until combined.

Step 4: Combine

Gently stir the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake

Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan.

Bake for 11–13 minutes, or until the top springs back when lightly touched.

Step 6: Roll While Hot

While baking, sprinkle powdered sugar over a clean sheet of parchment paper.

Immediately turn the hot cake onto the sugared parchment. Carefully peel off the pan parchment.

Roll the cake up tightly in the sugared parchment (it will be hot). Let cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Filling

Beat together:

Beat until smooth and creamy.

Step 8: Fill and Roll Again

Carefully unroll the cooled cake.

Spread filling evenly over the surface.

Roll it back up tightly (without parchment this time).

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 9: Finish and Serve

Just before serving, dust with powdered sugar.

Slice into beautiful spirals and watch everyone smile.


Make Ahead + Storage


pumpkin-roll-on-black-plate

FAQ

Why did my pumpkin roll crack?

Most cracks happen when:

Can I make this pumpkin roll ahead?

Yes! In fact, it’s better after chilling. It slices cleaner and tastes even better the next day.

Can I freeze pumpkin roll?

Absolutely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze up to 2 months.

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pumpkin-roll.

Easy Pumpkin Roll Recipe

Nettie
The perfect autumn treat with this easy pumpkin roll recipe, adapted from Libby's Pumpkin Roll recipe. Create this impressive dessert effortlessly and savor the flavors of the season.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 -slices
Calories 216 kcal

Ingredients
  

For The Cream Cheese Filling

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350 ℉. Line a 15 x 10 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease. Set aside.
  • In a medium bowl whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon. Set aside.
  • Beat the sugar and eggs until thickened. Add pumpkin and mix well. Stir in the flour mixture.
  • Spread the batter evenly in the pan. Bake for 11-13 minutes. Meanwhile, sprinkle a sheet of parchment paper with powdered sugar. When the cake is done, remove from oven and immediately turn it onto the sugared parchment paper. Carefully roll it up beginning at the short end and let it cool completely.
  • While the cake cools, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla. Unroll the cake and spread the entire surface with the cream cheese frosting. Roll it back up gently and tightly. Refrigerate for one hour.
  • Just before serving, sprinkle powdered sugar on top. Slice into 3/4-inch slices.

Notes

When it comes to the nutrition information provided for recipes, it’s important to keep in mind that it’s just an estimate. The actual nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Be mindful that any nutritional information provided is intended as a general guideline rather than exact values.
 If you make this pumpkin roll, I’d love to know! Tag me and let’s mix it up! 🎃✨

Nutrition

Serving: 1-sliceCalories: 216kcalCarbohydrates: 37gProtein: 3gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 62mgSodium: 176mgPotassium: 58mgFiber: 1gSugar: 29gVitamin A: 2363IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 26mgIron: 1mg
Keyword cake roll, dessert roll, fall dessert, pumpkin roll, thanksgiving dessert
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