The Ultimate Cozy Autumn Dessert for Holidays and Gatherings

Autumn is a season of cozy scents, warm textures, and flavors that wrap you up in comfort. One of the most iconic flavors of this season is pumpkin spice — a perfect blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves that evokes memories of crisp leaves, crackling fires, and late-night baking. What better way to celebrate fall than with a Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake, filled with luscious cream cheese frosting and rolled into a stunning spiral of autumnal delight?

This dessert is the embodiment of the season. It balances the soft, spiced pumpkin cake with a rich, slightly tangy cream cheese filling. The result is not just a cake — it’s an experience. Every slice offers a visual treat with its beautiful spiral, a comforting aroma, and a bite that is soft, sweet, and delicately spiced.

Why This Cake is Special

Unlike traditional layer cakes, a cake roll is elegant yet approachable. Its single-layer structure allows the pumpkin flavor to shine without being overpowered by frosting. Rolling it creates a stunning swirl, making it visually impressive for gatherings, holiday tables, or casual autumn tea time.

Pumpkin puree: Moistens the cake and adds that unmistakable pumpkin flavor.
Warm spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves bring depth and cozy warmth.
Cream cheese filling: Sweet, tangy, and creamy, balancing the lightly spiced cake.
Light texture: The sponge is soft but firm enough to roll without cracking when handled properly.

Ingredients

3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
3 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
2/3 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Powdered sugar, for dusting

Cream Cheese Filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat eggs and granulated sugar until thick and pale, about 3–5 minutes.
Mix in pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined.
Gently fold in the dry ingredients until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light.
Pour batter evenly into the prepared pan, spreading it to the edges. Smooth the top.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cake springs back lightly when touched. Do not overbake to prevent cracking.
While the cake is baking, prepare a clean kitchen towel and dust it generously with powdered sugar.
Immediately after removing the cake from the oven, invert it onto the prepared towel and carefully peel off the parchment paper.
Starting at the short end, roll the cake gently with the towel inside. Let it cool completely in this rolled position.
For the filling, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until light and fluffy.
Carefully unroll the cooled cake and spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface.
Re-roll the cake without the towel, tucking in the edges for a clean spiral.
Wrap the roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set the filling.
Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar for a snowy, festive look. Slice with a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts for neat slices.

Tips for Success

Use fresh pumpkin puree for the best flavor.
Don’t overmix the batter; this keeps the cake light and spongy.
Roll the cake while warm to prevent cracks.
Chill the cake roll to set the filling and make slicing cleaner.
Add optional toppings like a drizzle of caramel, chopped pecans, or a light dusting of cinnamon sugar for extra flair.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a warm cup of spiced chai, coffee, or hot cocoa.
Perfect centerpiece for Thanksgiving dessert tables or autumn brunches.
Pair with roasted nuts or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Why This Dessert Captures Fall

The Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake is more than a dessert — it’s comfort in every bite. From its aroma that fills your kitchen to its soft, spiced texture and sweet cream cheese filling, it embodies everything we love about autumn. Sharing this cake with friends and family is like sharing a little bit of warmth and love. It’s a classic made cozy, perfect for holidays, gatherings, or quiet evenings at home.