Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting

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### **Instructions for Making Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting**

#### **1. Prepare Your Pan and Preheat Oven**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a **15×10-inch jelly roll pan** with parchment paper or wax paper. This will help the cake easily come out of the pan without sticking. Lightly grease the paper and set the pan aside.

#### **2. Make the Pumpkin Cake Batter**
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the **eggs** and **granulated sugar** until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the **pumpkin puree** and **vanilla extract**, mixing well to combine.

In a separate bowl, sift together the **flour**, **baking powder**, **baking soda**, **cinnamon**, **nutmeg**, **cloves**, and **salt**. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the batter is smooth and fully incorporated.

#### **3. Bake the Cake**
Pour the pumpkin batter into the prepared jelly roll pan, spreading it evenly to the edges. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched. You can also insert a toothpick in the center to check for doneness—it should come out clean.

#### **4. Roll the Cake While Warm**
Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and immediately turn it out onto a clean kitchen towel that has been dusted with **powdered sugar**. Carefully peel off the parchment paper from the back of the cake. Starting at one edge, gently roll the cake (with the towel inside) into a tight log shape. This will help the cake maintain its shape once it cools.

Allow the cake to cool completely, about 30-45 minutes. This cooling step is crucial to prevent the cream cheese frosting from melting.

#### **5. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting**
While the cake is cooling, make the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the **cream cheese** and **butter** together until smooth and creamy. Add the **vanilla extract** and a pinch of **salt**, and continue mixing. Gradually add the **powdered sugar**, 1/2 cup at a time, until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.

#### **6. Unroll the Cake and Add the Frosting**
Once the cake is completely cool, gently unroll it from the towel. Spread the **cream cheese frosting** evenly over the top of the cake, leaving about 1 inch of space around the edges.

#### **7. Roll the Cake Back Up**
Carefully roll the cake back into a log shape, making sure the cream cheese frosting stays inside. Be gentle during this step to avoid cracking the cake. Once rolled, place the pumpkin roll seam-side down on a serving platter.

#### **8. Chill and Serve**
Place the pumpkin roll in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the roll to set. This also makes it easier to slice. When ready to serve, dust the top with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and presentation.

Slice into generous pieces and serve! Each slice will reveal beautiful, creamy layers of cake and frosting.

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### **Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Roll**

1. **Even Baking**: Make sure to spread the batter evenly in the pan before baking to ensure the cake bakes uniformly.

2. **Rolling Technique**: Roll the cake while it’s still warm to help it hold its shape. A clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar is key to preventing sticking.

3. **Don’t Skip the Chilling**: Chilling the rolled pumpkin cake helps it set properly and makes it easier to slice neatly. The flavors also develop better after some time in the fridge.

4. **Variations**: You can add **chopped nuts** like walnuts or pecans to the cream cheese frosting for added texture and flavor. For a spiced-up version, consider adding a little **cinnamon** or **pumpkin pie spice** to the frosting.

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### **Conclusion**

The **Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting** is a show-stopping dessert that combines all the best flavors of fall in one delicious treat. With its spiced pumpkin cake, creamy filling, and beautiful presentation, it’s perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or any occasion that calls for a festive dessert. Best of all, this recipe is relatively simple to make, yet it’s sure to impress your friends and family.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for a fall-inspired treat, grab a can of pumpkin puree, roll up your sleeves, and indulge in this delightful pumpkin roll. It’s a true autumn classic that will leave everyone asking for seconds!