Libby’s Pumpkin Roll

Libby’s Pumpkin Roll is an iconic holiday dessert that’s cherished for its moist, spiced pumpkin cake rolled around a creamy, sweet cream cheese filling. This beautiful swirl of flavors and textures has made the pumpkin roll a beloved treat, especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Made famous by Libby’s, a popular brand known for its high-quality pumpkin puree, this pumpkin roll combines the warmth of pumpkin pie spices with a fluffy cake texture and the rich tanginess of cream cheese. It’s surprisingly easy to make and looks impressive, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Libby’s Pumpkin Roll is a classic dessert that’s both elegant and comforting. The spiced pumpkin cake has a light, tender crumb, while the cream cheese filling adds a luscious, creamy contrast. The best part is that it’s easy to prepare, requiring only a few steps to create a professional-looking dessert. Libby’s Pumpkin Roll also stores well, making it convenient to prepare in advance for busy holiday schedules. With every bite, you’ll taste the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, balanced by the creamy sweetness of the filling—a perfect combination that everyone will love.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Chill time: 1 hour
• Total time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Yield: 10 servings
• Serving Size: 1 slice

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 280
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 24g

Ingredients

For the Pumpkin Cake

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2/3 cup Libby’s 100% Pure Pumpkin

For the Cream Cheese Filling

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Rolling and Garnishing

• Powdered sugar, for dusting
• Additional powdered sugar or cinnamon, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar on high speed for 2-3 minutes until thick and pale.
4. Add the pumpkin puree to the egg mixture and gently fold until just combined.
5. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.

Step 2: Bake the Pumpkin Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula, ensuring it reaches the edges.
2. Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched. Avoid overbaking, as this can make the cake dry and prone to cracking when rolled.

Step 3: Roll the Cake

1. While the cake is still warm, carefully lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper and place it on a flat surface.
2. Dust a clean kitchen towel generously with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Flip the cake onto the towel, then peel off the parchment paper.
3. Starting from the short end, gently roll the cake and towel together, forming a spiral. Allow the cake to cool completely in this rolled position, which will help it keep its shape and prevent cracking when filled.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Taste the filling and adjust sweetness if desired by adding a bit more powdered sugar.

Step 5: Assemble the Pumpkin Roll

1. Once the cake is completely cool, carefully unroll it and spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges to prevent the filling from oozing out.
2. Gently re-roll the cake (without the towel), keeping it tight but being careful not to press too hard, so the filling stays in place.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

1. Wrap the pumpkin roll tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up and allow the flavors to meld.
2. When ready to serve, unwrap the pumpkin roll and dust the top with powdered sugar for a festive look. Slice and enjoy!

Ingredient Background

The ingredients in Libby’s Pumpkin Roll are carefully selected to achieve a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Libby’s 100% Pure Pumpkin adds moisture and a natural sweetness, while also providing the signature pumpkin flavor. The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves gives the cake a warm, spicy aroma reminiscent of pumpkin pie. The cream cheese filling adds a tangy richness that complements the sweetness of the cake. Powdered sugar is used to keep the cake from sticking to the towel and to add a decorative dusting on top, enhancing both appearance and taste.

Technique Tips

To ensure your pumpkin roll turns out perfectly, follow these helpful technique tips. Beating the eggs and sugar thoroughly is essential to create a light, airy batter, so don’t rush this step. When adding the dry ingredients, gently fold them in to avoid deflating the batter. Rolling the cake while it’s warm allows it to “memorize” the rolled shape, making it easier to roll with the filling later. Chilling the roll before slicing helps it hold its shape and makes for cleaner slices. Lastly, using a serrated knife to slice the roll prevents the cake from squishing and maintains the swirl pattern.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

For a unique presentation, try slicing the pumpkin roll into rounds and arranging them on a platter for individual portions. You can also top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an elegant touch. If you’re hosting a holiday party, consider serving the pumpkin roll as part of a dessert buffet alongside other seasonal treats like pecan pie and gingerbread cookies. For a festive twist, drizzle caramel sauce over the top or add a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture.

Additional Tips for Success

For the best results, make sure to use room temperature ingredients for the filling, as cold cream cheese and butter can result in lumps. If the cake cracks slightly while unrolling, don’t worry—once it’s filled and rolled back up, minor cracks will be hidden by the powdered sugar dusting. Refrigerate the pumpkin roll for at least an hour to help it set, but it can also be made a day ahead. When slicing, use a sharp, serrated knife and clean it between cuts for neat slices.

Recipe Variations

This Libby’s Pumpkin Roll recipe is versatile and can be customized to your taste preferences. For a twist on the classic filling, try adding a tablespoon of maple syrup or a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice to the cream cheese mixture. You can also add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the filling for a crunchy contrast. If you’re a chocolate lover, add a handful of mini chocolate chips to the filling or drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the roll. For a lighter version, substitute low-fat cream cheese and reduce the sugar in the filling slightly.

Freezing and Storage

Libby’s Pumpkin Roll is perfect for making ahead and can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer. To refrigerate, wrap the assembled roll tightly in plastic wrap and store for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, unwrap and dust with powdered sugar. To freeze, wrap the roll in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving, then dust with powdered sugar just before slicing.

Healthier Twist Ideas

For a lighter version of Libby’s Pumpkin Roll, consider using a lower-sugar or sugar-free sweetener in the filling, such as stevia or monk fruit sweetener. You can also use low-fat or light cream cheese to reduce the fat content. If you prefer whole-grain options, replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and a plant-based butter substitute. Reducing the powdered sugar in the filling and on top can also lower the overall sugar content without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Libby’s Pumpkin Roll is a stunning dessert to serve during fall and winter gatherings, especially Thanksgiving and Christmas. Arrange the pumpkin roll on a decorative platter, dusted with powdered sugar for a snow-like effect. Garnish with seasonal touches like fresh cranberries, cinnamon sticks, or edible leaves for a festive look. You can also serve slices alongside coffee, tea, or a seasonal drink like mulled cider or eggnog. For a holiday dessert table, consider pairing the pumpkin roll with other treats, such as pecan bars, apple pie, and gingerbread cookies, for a full array of seasonal flavors.

Special Equipment

To make Libby’s Pumpkin Roll, you’ll need a few basic tools to ensure the best results. A jelly roll pan (typically 10×15 inches) is essential for baking the cake to the right thickness. Parchment paper is highly recommended to prevent sticking, as it allows you to lift the cake out of the pan easily. An electric mixer or hand mixer is helpful for beating the eggs and whipping the cream cheese filling, while a sifter or fine mesh strainer ensures the powdered sugar is evenly distributed. Lastly, a serrated knife will help you slice the roll without compressing it, preserving the beautiful swirl.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the pumpkin roll without a jelly roll pan?
If you don’t have a jelly roll pan, you can use a baking sheet with high sides, but make sure the batter is spread evenly to prevent uneven baking.

2. How can I prevent the cake from cracking?
Rolling the cake while it’s still warm helps prevent cracking. If it does crack, don’t worry—any cracks can be hidden with the filling and powdered sugar.

3. Can I make this dessert in advance?
Yes, the pumpkin roll can be made a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator wrapped in plastic wrap, and dust with powdered sugar just before serving.

4. Can I use a different filling instead of cream cheese?
Yes, you can try whipped cream, chocolate ganache, or a flavored buttercream as alternative fillings for a different flavor profile.

5. How do I keep the cake from sticking to the towel?
Dust the towel generously with powdered sugar before rolling the cake to prevent sticking. You can also use parchment paper instead of a towel.

6. Can I make a gluten-free version of this recipe?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Be sure to use one that’s specifically designed for baking.

7. How long will the pumpkin roll keep in the refrigerator?
The pumpkin roll can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh.

8. Can I add nuts to the cake batter?
Yes, you can fold chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, into the batter for added texture. Just be sure to chop them finely so they don’t interfere with rolling.

Conclusion

Libby’s Pumpkin Roll is a timeless holiday dessert that combines the cozy flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and cream cheese into a beautiful, festive roll. With its delicate swirl and perfect balance of sweet, spiced cake and tangy filling, this dessert is as delightful to look at as it is to eat. It’s a simple recipe with an impressive outcome, making it perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or any occasion that calls for a show-stopping dessert. With helpful tips, customization ideas, and storage instructions, you’ll be able to make and enjoy Libby’s Pumpkin Roll with ease. So get ready to bake, roll, and indulge in this classic holiday treat!

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