Spicy Pumpkin Roll
A moist and flavorful pumpkin roll with a spicy pecan filling, perfect for autumn gatherings or holiday desserts. The combination of pumpkin, warm spices, and creamy cheese creates a delightful treat that balances sweetness and spice, appealing to those who enjoy rich, textured cakes with a nutty crunch.
Ingredients
- 3 eggs ⓘ
- 1 cup sugar ⓘ
- 2/3 cup mashed pumpkin ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ⓘ
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour ⓘ
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon baking powder ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1 cup chopped pecans ⓘ
- 3 to 4 tablespoons sifted powdered sugar
- 8 ounces softened cream cheese ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons softened butter or margarine ⓘ
- 1 cup sifted powdered sugar ⓘ
Instructions
- Grease a 15 x 10-inch jellyroll pan, line with waxed paper, then grease and flour the paper.
- Beat eggs in a large bowl at high speed until thick; gradually add 1 cup sugar and beat for 5 more minutes.
- Stir in mashed pumpkin and vanilla extract.
- Combine all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and sprinkle with chopped pecans.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12 to 15 minutes until the cake is set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter. If you don't have pumpkin pie spice, you can mix cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger as a substitute. Make sure to beat the eggs thoroughly for a light texture. If you prefer, walnuts can be used instead of pecans for a different flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of the Spicy Pumpkin Roll with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat. It pairs beautifully with a warm cup of spiced chai tea or coffee. For an added touch, consider drizzling with caramel sauce or serving alongside Baked Artichoke Spread for a delightful appetizer spread.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the pumpkin roll tightly in plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving, and feel free to dust with powdered sugar just before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Pumpkin Roll contains roughly 347 calories, with 2g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 761mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pumpkin roll ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pumpkin roll a day in advance. Just ensure it is well-wrapped to keep it fresh. You can also freeze it for longer storage and thaw it before serving for an easy dessert option.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt, which will give a tangy flavor. Alternatively, vegan cream cheese or a nut-based spread can work as dairy-free substitutes.
How can I prevent the roll from cracking?
To prevent cracking, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before rolling it up. Use a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar to help with the rolling process, and be gentle when unrolling it to fill.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).