The aroma of autumn is in the air, and that unmistakable hint of spice transports me right to my grandmother’s kitchen. This Libby’s Pumpkin Roll Recipe is a cherished family favorite, perfect for cozy gatherings and holiday celebrations. With its tender pumpkin cake and luscious cream cheese filling, this dessert not only dazzles the eyes but also warms the heart. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it the ideal choice for those busy fall days when you crave something festive and comforting. Imagine unrolling this delightful treat to reveal its beautiful spiral—the perfect centerpiece for any dessert table! As we dive into this delicious pumpkin roll, I can’t help but wonder: what new memories will you create when you share this scrumptious dessert with your loved ones?
Why is This Pumpkin Roll Recipe a Must-Try?
Ease of Preparation: You’ll find that this pumpkin roll recipe is remarkably simple, requiring minimal baking skills while still delivering an impressive result.
Festive Flavors: The warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg create a seasonal aroma that invites everyone to the table for a slice.
Visual Appeal: With its stunning spiral, this dessert is sure to be the show-stopper at your next gathering, making it a great alternative to fast food options.
Creative Variations: Feel free to elevate the filling with your favorite mix-ins—chocolate chips or nuts add delightful textures.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a holiday potluck or just a cozy family dinner, this dessert brings people together, making it a wholesome choice to share. Just like our Foster Cinnamon Rolls or Mexican Taco Soup, it’s bound to become a hit!
Pumpkin Roll Ingredients
For the Cake
• Large Eggs – Provides structure and moisture to the cake; try egg substitutes for a lower cholesterol option.
• Sugar – Sweetens both the cake and filling; you can use stevia or erythritol as a sugar alternative.
• Water – Adds moisture; replace with milk for an even richer flavor.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Enhances the pumpkin flavor with warm autumn spices; a homemade blend works beautifully.
• Cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth; you may substitute with allspice if needed.
• Nutmeg – Provides a distinctive, aromatic quality; fresh nutmeg delivers a more vibrant flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour – Serves as the structural backbone of the cake; swap with a gluten-free flour blend for a GF option.
• Baking Powder – Acts as the leavening agent to help the cake rise.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
• Libby’s 100% Pure Pumpkin Purée – The star ingredient adding flavor and moisture; fresh pumpkin purée works as a substitute.
For the Filling
• Cream Cheese – Offers a rich, tangy flavor in the filling; use vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
• Confectioners’ Sugar – Used for dusting and providing a decorative touch; essential for an appealing finish.
• Cool Whip – Adds a light, fluffy texture to the filling; consider homemade whipped cream for a fresh twist.
This Pumpkin Roll Recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a festive addition to your dessert table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Libby’s Classic Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Filling
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, line a 15″x10″ jelly roll pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper hangs over the edges for easy lifting later. This preparation is essential for a smooth release of your delicious pumpkin roll once it’s baked.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat 3 large eggs until they are thick and frothy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Gradually add in 1 cup of sugar, 2/3 cup water, and 1 cup of Libby’s 100% Pure Pumpkin Purée, mixing until all ingredients are well combined and smooth. The mixture should have a vibrant orange hue and be uniform in texture.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This blend of dry ingredients enhances the flavor of your pumpkin roll, so take a moment to mix thoroughly until evenly distributed before folding it into the wet mixture.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the combined batter into the prepared jelly roll pan, carefully spreading it into an even layer. Bake in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched lightly. It should appear set and slightly golden around the edges, giving you the perfect foundation for your pumpkin roll.
Step 5: Roll and Cool
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and immediately invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel that has been generously dusted with confectioners’ sugar. Starting at one short end, carefully roll the cake with the towel, ensuring it maintains its shape. Allow the rolled cake to cool for about 30 minutes, which sets its form.
Step 6: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Gently fold in 1 cup of Cool Whip until just combined, creating a luscious filling that complements the flavors of your pumpkin roll beautifully.
Step 7: Unroll and Fill
Once the pumpkin roll is completely cooled, gently unroll it from the towel and lay it flat on a clean surface. Spread your cream cheese filling evenly over the surface, ensuring coverage right to the edges. This rich, creamy layer will become the centerpiece of your delightful pumpkin roll and should be applied delicately.
Step 8: Reroll the Cake
Carefully reroll the filled pumpkin cake, starting from one end and rolling it tightly while avoiding any gaps. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful spiral effect. Once rolled, place the pumpkin roll seam-side down on a serving platter, and then chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set the filling and improve slicing.
Step 9: Slice and Serve
After chilling, remove the pumpkin roll from the refrigerator and place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into 1-inch pieces to reveal the stunning swirl of cake and cream cheese filling. Serve chilled, optionally dusting with additional confectioners’ sugar for a lovely finishing touch—your pumpkin roll is now ready for family and friends to enjoy!
Make Ahead Options
These Libby’s Pumpkin Roll treats are a dream for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cake and filling up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to savor every moment without the stress. To do this, bake the cake and allow it to cool completely, then gently roll it with a clean towel (dust with confectioners’ sugar to prevent sticking) and refrigerate it wrapped in plastic. You can also whip up the cream cheese filling ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply unroll the cake, spread the filling, and re-roll it; chill for at least an hour before slicing. This ensures your pumpkin roll is just as delicious and visually stunning as when freshly made, making it an excellent option for busy fall days!
What to Serve with Libby’s Pumpkin Roll
Imagine a cozy gathering filled with laughter and warmth, where each bite of your delightful pumpkin roll perfectly complements these comforting dishes.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream adds an airy contrast, enhancing the creamy filling and making each slice feel indulgent.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creamy vanilla ice cream offers a delicious temperature contrast that melts beautifully with each bite of pumpkin roll.
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Crisp Apple Slices: Fresh, crunchy apple slices bring a refreshing, tart element that cuts through the richness of the pumpkin roll, creating a balanced bite.
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Spiced Chai Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai tea mirrors the cozy flavors of fall, making it the perfect beverage choice alongside your dessert.
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Sugared Pecans: The sweet, crunchy pecans add a delightful texture and nutty sweetness that accentuate the flavors in your pumpkin roll.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the slices transforms your pumpkin roll into a decadent treat, enhancing the dessert’s seasonal allure.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Enjoying your pumpkin roll alongside a pumpkin spice latte creates a delightful flavor harmony that embraces the essence of fall.
Embrace these pairings to craft a heartwarming dessert experience your friends and family will cherish!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Roll Recipe
Roll it Warm: Ensure that you roll your pumpkin cake while it’s warm; this prevents cracking and keeps the roll intact.
Use Sugar for Dusting: Dust your towel with confectioners’ sugar to avoid sticking. This small step makes a huge difference!
Chill for Clean Slices: After rolling, refrigerate the pumpkin roll for at least an hour to ensure clean, beautiful slices that showcase that lovely spiral.
Experiment with Flavors: Consider adding crushed nuts or spices like ginger or cloves for added depth and personal flair to the pumpkin roll recipe.
Watch Baking Time: Overbaking can lead to a dry cake, so keep an eye on it in the oven, and check at the 12-minute mark!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Roll
Fridge: Store leftover pumpkin roll in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days, ensuring it retains its moisture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pumpkin roll for 2-3 months. Slice it before freezing for easy access to individual portions later.
Reheating: If you prefer a warm treat, allow the pumpkin roll to thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Enjoy your delicious pumpkin roll!
Pumpkin Roll Recipe Variations
Feel free to explore these exciting ways to personalize your pumpkin roll, and let your creativity shine!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a light and fluffy alternative.
- Dairy-Free: Use vegan cream cheese and coconut whipped cream to create a delicious dairy-free filling—just as creamy and delightful!
- Spiced Up: Try adding 1/2 teaspoon of ginger or cloves to your batter for a warm and fragrant twist that enhances the seasonal flavors.
- Nutty Delight: Mix in crushed walnuts or pecans to the cream cheese filling for an added crunch that complements the smoothness perfectly.
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips into the filling or drizzle melted chocolate on top for a decadent chocolaty finish.
- Pumpkin Pie Twist: Use pumpkin pie spice as your sole spice blend instead of individual spices for a more traditional pumpkin pie flavor.
- Fruit Fusion: Incorporate dried cranberries or chopped apples within the filling for an unexpected burst of sweetness and tartness.
- Frosting Alternative: Instead of Cool Whip, whip up a simple vanilla frosting for a thicker, sweeter filling that pairs beautifully with the spiced pumpkin cake.
Don’t forget to consider serving your delicious pumpkin roll with a side of homemade whipped cream, just like with our Crisp Cinnamon Roll or Fat Burning Soup. These variations will help you craft a unique experience with each bite!
Libby’s Classic Pumpkin Roll Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe pumpkin purée for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin purée, look for the brand that specifically states “100% pure pumpkin” on the label. The purée should have a rich, deep orange color without any additives. For the freshest flavor, you can even opt for homemade purée made from roasted pumpkins; just remember to strain any excess moisture for the best results.
How should I store leftover pumpkin roll, and for how long?
Very good question! Store any leftover pumpkin roll in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. This helps maintain its moisture and flavor. If you think you won’t finish it within that window, freezing is an excellent option!
Can I freeze the pumpkin roll, and how do I do it correctly?
Definitely! To freeze your pumpkin roll, first slice it into individual pieces. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. You can freeze it for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, or pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat!
What if my pumpkin roll cracks while rolling?
The more the merrier! If your roll cracks, don’t panic; it’s a common issue. Here’s a tip: ensure you roll your cake while it’s warm, as it becomes more pliable. If it does crack, simply use the filling to cover up the crack when you unroll it and spread the filling. Nobody will notice once it’s sliced, and it still tastes delicious!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely, I recommend checking for allergies! This pumpkin roll recipe contains common allergens such as dairy from the cream cheese and eggs. If you are accommodating someone with dietary restrictions, feel free to use egg substitutes and a dairy-free cream cheese option. Always double-check with your guests to ensure everyone can enjoy this delightful treat.
Can I add any variations to this pumpkin roll recipe?
Yes, indeed! Adding crushed nuts or even chocolate chips to your filling offers delightful textures and flavors. You can also experiment with spices, such as ginger or cloves, to elevate the flavor profile even further. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and enjoy!
Delicious Pumpkin Roll Recipe with Whipped Cream Filling
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 15"x10" jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- Beat the large eggs until thick and frothy, then gradually add sugar, water, and pumpkin purée.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Pour combined batter into the pan and bake for 12-15 minutes, until set and golden.
- Invert the cake onto a towel dusted with confectioners' sugar and roll it while warm.
- Beat cream cheese and confectioners' sugar until light and fluffy, then fold in Cool Whip.
- Unroll the cooled cake and spread the cream cheese filling evenly over it.
- Reroll the filled cake tightly and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Slice the pumpkin roll into 1-inch pieces and serve chilled.