Grandma Carol’s Pumpkin Roll: A Delicious Holiday Tradition

Nothing says fall quite like the rich aroma of pumpkin and spices wafting through the kitchen. One of our family’s most cherished recipes is Grandma Carol’s pumpkin roll, a delightful treat that brings a comforting sense of nostalgia to every holiday gathering. With its beautiful swirl of cream cheese filling and tender, spiced pumpkin cake, this pumpkin roll is a dessert that both looks and tastes incredible. Today, we're excited to share Grandma Carol’s treasured recipe so that you can bring this delicious holiday tradition into your own home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes Grandma Carol’s pumpkin roll so special? It’s not only a delicious dessert, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make. While it might look like a complex dessert, the rolling technique is simple once you get the hang of it. Plus, this pumpkin roll is perfectly spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, bringing out the warmth and richness of pumpkin. Here’s why this recipe will become a go-to for you and your family:

• Perfectly spiced for a warm, seasonal flavor
• Beautiful swirl presentation that impresses guests
• Easy-to-follow instructions make it beginner-friendly
• Can be made ahead, freeing up time on busy holiday days

Grandma Carol’s Pumpkin Roll

This pumpkin roll features a soft, spiced pumpkin sponge cake wrapped around a creamy, sweet filling. It’s ideal for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or whenever you want a dessert that brings a bit of autumnal flair.

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3 large eggs
• 2/3 cup canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 4 tbsp butter, softened
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to make adjustments, here are a few substitution ideas:

• Flour: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend if you prefer a gluten-free option.
• Butter: Swap with coconut oil for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Spices: If you’re out of individual spices, use 1.5 tsp pumpkin pie spice instead.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 15x10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
3. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, pumpkin, and vanilla extract until smooth and well-combined.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the cake tough.
5. Spread batter and bake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
6. Prepare for rolling: Lay a clean kitchen towel flat and sprinkle generously with powdered sugar. Immediately turn the baked cake onto the towel, peel off the parchment paper, and roll up the cake with the towel from the short end. Let it cool completely in this rolled form.
7. Make the filling: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
8. Unroll and fill: Carefully unroll the cooled cake and spread the cream cheese filling evenly across the surface.
9. Roll and chill: Gently roll the cake back up without the towel, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least an hour to set.

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips to make your pumpkin roll turn out perfectly every time:

• Use canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, to avoid excess sweetness and spices.
• Sprinkle plenty of powdered sugar on the towel to prevent sticking and ensure easy rolling.
• Make sure the cake is fully cooled before adding the filling to avoid melting.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Cooling and Assembly Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Grandma Carol’s pumpkin roll is a treat that can stand alone, but it pairs beautifully with:

• Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of homemade whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Hot Beverages: Serve with coffee, tea, or hot apple cider for a cozy autumn pairing.
• Fruit Garnish: Top with a few fresh berries or pomegranate seeds for a festive touch.

Serving Size

This recipe makes about 10-12 slices, perfect for a small family gathering or holiday dessert spread.

Storage and Reheating

To enjoy Grandma Carol’s pumpkin roll at its best, follow these storage tips:

• Refrigerate: Keep the pumpkin roll wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and stored in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Reheating: For a softer texture, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this pumpkin roll in advance?

Yes! This pumpkin roll actually tastes better after chilling, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert for holidays. Simply prepare, wrap, and refrigerate up to two days before serving.

Why is my pumpkin roll cracking?

Cracks can happen if the cake cools before being rolled. Be sure to roll it immediately after baking and allow it to cool in the rolled form.

What if I don’t have a jelly roll pan?

You can use a similar-sized baking sheet, but be sure to monitor the cooking time as it may vary depending on the pan thickness.

Conclusion

Grandma Carol’s pumpkin roll is a timeless dessert that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. With its perfectly spiced pumpkin cake and smooth, creamy filling, it’s a recipe that truly deserves a place in your holiday traditions. Try it out and let us know how it turned out in the comments below! We’d love to hear any family traditions or tips you might have. Don’t forget to subscribe for more recipes that bring the magic of homemade desserts to your kitchen.