Creamy Pumpkin Swirl one of my favorite dessert and the Creamy Pumpkin Swirl always brings me back to my childhood kitchen. I remember watching my grandmother make this dessert every fall, especially around the holidays. She’d always let me help, even if it was just sprinkling the confectioners’ sugar on top. I didn’t know it then, but those moments were the start of my love for baking. The warm, sweet smell of pumpkin and spices would fill the house, making everything feel cozy and inviting.
Adding My Own Twist
As I grew older, I wanted to make the recipe my own. I experimented with different fillings, but nothing beat the classic cream cheese version. The tangy sweetness of the cream cheese mixed with the cinnamon and cloves in the cake made the perfect balance. I also decided to add a bit more spice to the batter, like a pinch of ginger, just to give it an extra kick. It’s amazing how a small change can bring a whole new depth to a familiar recipe.
A Special Treat for Gatherings
Whenever I bring the Creamy Pumpkin Swirl to gatherings, it’s always a hit. There’s something special about the way it looks—rolled up with the creamy filling peeking out, dusted with powdered sugar. It’s simple but elegant, and I love seeing the smiles on people’s faces when they take their first bite. The best part? It’s easy to make, even though it looks like it took hours. It’s the perfect dessert for holidays or any time you want to impress guests.

A New Favorite for the Next Generation
Now, I make the Creamy Pumpkin Swirl with my own children, just like my grandmother did with me. They love helping in the kitchen, and I can see the same excitement in their eyes as they sprinkle sugar on the cake. It feels like passing down a little piece of our family tradition. I hope that one day they’ll make this dessert for their own families, keeping the tradition alive while adding their own twists. The Creamy Pumpkin Swirl isn’t just a dessert—it’s a family treasure.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-Creamy Pumpkin Swirl
- Make sure to spread the batter evenly across the jelly-roll pan for a consistent thickness, which helps prevent cracking when rolling.
- After baking, it’s important to immediately turn the cake onto the towel and roll it while it’s still warm to avoid cracks.
- Let the cream cheese and butter sit out until they reach room temperature. This ensures the filling is creamy and smooth, without any lumps.
- Chill the roll for at least an hour before slicing. This helps firm up the cream cheese filling and gives cleaner slices for presentation.
- Dust the cake with confectioners’ sugar using a fine sieve to create a light, even coating that looks professional and elegant.
- For a more complex flavor profile, you can sprinkle a bit of nutmeg or ginger into the batter or the filling.
FAQ-Creamy Pumpkin Swirl
Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the roll a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it moist.
What if my cake cracks when I roll it?
If the cake cracks slightly, don’t worry! The filling will help hold it together, and you can dust the finished roll with more confectioners’ sugar to cover imperfections.
Can I freeze the pumpkin swirl roll?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can use almond flour for a gluten-free version, replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index, and opt for a vegan cream cheese to make it dairy-free.









