Name: Light Pumpkin Roll Recipe | Recipes.net
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 9 h 35 min
Yield: 13
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup all-purpose flour; ½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp Baking Soda; ½ tsp ground cinnamon; ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice; ¼ tsp ground allspice; ½ tsp vanilla; ¼ tsp salt; 3 eggs; ¾ cup granulated sugar; ⅔ cup canned pumpkin; non-stick spray; ¼ cup powdered sugar; 6 oz light cream cheese; ¾ cup powdered sugar; 6 oz fat-free Fage Greek Yogurt; ½ cup chopped walnuts; 1 tsp vanilla extract; powdered sugar

This light pumpkin roll recipe is a delightful combination of soft sponge cake and a rich cream cheese filling, flavored with warming spices. The pumpkin gives the cake a gorgeous color and moist, tender crumb. An ideal dessert for the fall season, it's surprisingly light, making it a perfect end to a hearty meal.

Photos of Light Pumpkin Roll Recipe | Recipes.net

While most of the ingredients in this recipe might be in your pantry, canned pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice might need a special trip. Canned pumpkin, unlike fresh pumpkin, is cooked and pureed pumpkin flesh with no added seasonings or sugar. Pumpkin Pie Spice, a blend of warming spices, can be found in the spice aisle of most supermarkets. If unavailable, you can make your own by mixing cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice.

Essential Ingredients for Light Pumpkin Roll Recipe

All-purpose flour: A basic ingredient used for the structure of the cake.

Baking powder and baking soda: Leavening agents that help the roll rise.

Canned pumpkin: Adds moisture and flavor to the roll.

Eggs: They add structure and help with leavening.

Granulated sugar: Sweetens the roll and helps to tenderize it.

Ground Cinnamon, Pumpkin pie spice and Allspice: These warm spices enhance the flavor of the pumpkin.

Light cream cheese: Used in the filling for its tangy flavor and creamy texture.

Fat-free greek yogurt: Adds creaminess to the filling without the extra calories.

Chopped Walnuts: They add a delightful crunch to the creamy filling.

Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling and dusting on top gives the roll a nice finish.

One reader, Amalia Horner says:

This light pumpkin roll recipe from recipes.net is a game-changer! The cake is fluffy, and the cream cheese filling is divine. The combination of spices and pumpkin creates a delightful fall treat. Plus, it's guilt-free with the light cream cheese and fat-free Greek yogurt. I highly recommend it!

Amalia Horner

Techniques Required

How to prepare the pumpkin roll batter: Sift the dry ingredients together and beat the eggs and sugar until thick and fluffy. Gently fold in the sifted flour mixture and spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.

How to roll the pumpkin roll: Sprinkle a clean dish towel with confectioners' sugar, then immediately upon removing the cake from the oven, invert the pumpkin roll onto the towel. Carefully remove the parchment paper, sprinkle the cake with confectioners' sugar, and roll it up with the towel while it is still hot and pliable.

How to make the cream cheese filling: Beat the cream cheese, yogurt, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. Then add the sugar and beat until smooth before folding in the chopped walnuts.

How to assemble the pumpkin roll: Unroll the pumpkin roll, spread the filling, and re-roll it. Transfer it to a serving platter, cover, and chill in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.

How to serve the pumpkin roll: Just before serving, lightly dust the pumpkin roll with powdered sugar.

How To Make Pumpkin Roll, Lightened Up

Pumpkin spice-flavored sponge cake filled with cream cheese filling, this pumpkin roll recipe is lighter than regular ones and perfect for Thanksgiving.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Chill Time: 9 hours

Total: 9 hours 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

¾cupall-purpose flour
½tspbaking powder
½tspbaking soda
½tspground cinnamon
½tsppumpkin pie spice
¼tspground allspice
½tspvanilla
¼tspsalt
3eggs,large
¾cupgranulated sugar
⅔cupcanned pumpkin
non-stick spray
¼cuppowdered sugar,to sprinkle on towel
6ozlight cream cheese,at room temperature, not fat free
¾cuppowdered sugar
6ozfat-free Fage Greek Yogurt
½cupchopped walnuts,optional
1tspvanilla extract
powdered sugar,optional for topping

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F and place oven rack in the center of the oven.
Spray a 15×10-inch baking pan with non-stick spray, line it with parchment paper, then spray a little more non-stick spray and lightly flour the parchment paper.
Sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, allspice, and salt into a large bowl.
Beat the eggs and sugar together in an electric mixer or hand mixer. Beat on high speed for five minutes, or until thick, pale yellow, and fluffy.
Beat in the vanilla extract and pumpkin puree.
Using a spatula, gently fold in the sifted flour mixture. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, evenly spreading the cake batter with a spatula or knife.
Bake about 13 to 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the cake, when lightly pressed, springs back.
Sprinkle a clean dish towel with confectioners’ sugar.
Immediately upon removing the cake from the oven invert the pumpkin roll onto the clean dish towel.
Carefully remove the parchment paper from the bottom of the cake and sprinkle lightly with confectioners sugar; roll the pumpkin roll up with the towel, while it is still hot and pliable. Place on a wire rack to cool.
Beat the cream cheese, yogurt, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. Add the sugar and beat until smooth; fold in the walnuts.
Refrigerate at least 1 hour.
Unroll the pumpkin roll, spread with the filling, and re-roll.
Transfer to your serving platter; cover and chill in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.
Just before serving, lightly dust with powdered sugar.

Nutrition

Calories: 216.73kcal
Fat: 9.17g
Saturated Fat: 3.58g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.91g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.53g
Carbohydrates: 30.16g
Fiber: 0.93g
Sugar: 23.02g
Protein: 4.56g
Cholesterol: 53.05mg
Sodium: 176.34mg
Calcium: 50.88mg
Potassium: 87.61mg
Iron: 0.92mg
Vitamin A: 161.59µg
Vitamin C: 0.62mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Your Light Pumpkin Roll

When rolling the pumpkin roll, ensure to do it while it's still warm. This makes it more pliable and reduces the chances of it cracking. Also, using a dish towel sprinkled with confectioners' sugar not only prevents the cake from sticking to the towel but also gives it a sweet outer layer. For an even distribution of the filling, use an offset spatula to spread the cream cheese mixture. This will ensure every bite has a balance of the pumpkin cake and the creamy filling.

Time-Saving Tips for Making a Light Pumpkin Roll

Prep ahead: Prepare the filling and cream cheese mixture the day before to save time on the day of baking.

Uniform shape: Use a ruler to evenly spread the cake batter in the pan for a consistent thickness, ensuring even baking and a uniform roll.

Chill strategically: Place the pumpkin roll in the freezer for 15-20 minutes to speed up the cooling process before adding the filling.

Use parchment paper: Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and to prevent sticking, saving time on cleanup.

Double the recipe: Make two pumpkin rolls at once and freeze one for later, saving time on future dessert preparations.

Substitute Ingredients For Light Pumpkin Roll Recipe | Recipes.net

all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can be used as a healthier alternative to all-purpose flour, adding more fiber and nutrients to the recipe.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda: Baking soda can be used as a substitute for baking powder by adding an acidic ingredient such as buttermilk or yogurt to activate it.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Baking powder can be used as a substitute for baking soda by using a larger quantity and adding an acidic ingredient to balance the flavors.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can be used as a substitute for cinnamon, providing a warm and slightly sweet flavor to the recipe.
pumpkin pie spice - Substitute with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger: A combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger can be used to replace pumpkin pie spice, providing a similar warm and spicy flavor.
ground allspice - Substitute with cinnamon and nutmeg: A combination of cinnamon and nutmeg can be used as a substitute for ground allspice, providing a similar warm and aromatic flavor.
vanilla - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can be used as a substitute for vanilla, adding a nutty and sweet flavor to the recipe.
salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt can be used as a substitute for regular salt, providing a cleaner and less intense salt flavor.
eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a substitute for eggs, adding moisture and binding properties to the recipe.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a substitute for granulated sugar, providing a lower glycemic index and a hint of caramel flavor.
canned pumpkin - Substitute with butternut squash puree: Butternut squash puree can be used as a substitute for canned pumpkin, providing a similar sweet and nutty flavor.
non-stick spray - Substitute with butter or oil: Butter or oil can be used to grease the pan as a substitute for non-stick spray, preventing the cake from sticking.
powdered sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar: Granulated sugar can be used as a substitute for powdered sugar by blending it to a fine powder, providing a similar sweetness and texture.
light cream cheese - Substitute with neufchâtel cheese: Neufchâtel cheese can be used as a substitute for light cream cheese, providing a similar creamy texture and flavor with lower fat content.
powdered sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a substitute for powdered sugar, providing a natural sweetness and moisture to the recipe.
fat-free fage greek yogurt - Substitute with low-fat plain yogurt: Low-fat plain yogurt can be used as a substitute for fat-free Greek yogurt, providing a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.
chopped walnuts - Substitute with pecans: Pecans can be used as a substitute for chopped walnuts, providing a similar nutty flavor and crunchy texture.
vanilla extract - Substitute with maple extract: Maple extract can be used as a substitute for vanilla extract, adding a sweet and rich maple flavor to the recipe.

Presenting Your Light Pumpkin Roll

Elevate the pumpkin roll with a stunning plating: When presenting the pumpkin roll, consider using a large, elegant platter to showcase the dessert. The platter should complement the colors of the pumpkin roll and provide a sophisticated backdrop for the dish.
Incorporate artistic garnishes: Enhance the visual appeal of the pumpkin roll by incorporating delicate edible flowers and candied nuts as artistic garnishes. These elements will add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the presentation.
Utilize precision slicing: When serving the pumpkin roll, ensure that each slice is precisely cut and presented on the plate with care. The slices should be uniform in size and beautifully arranged to create a visually appealing display.
Emphasize the use of negative space: Incorporate negative space on the plate to allow the pumpkin roll to be the focal point of the presentation. This minimalist approach will draw attention to the dessert and create a sense of balance and harmony on the plate.
Highlight the filling: Showcase the luscious filling of the pumpkin roll by allowing a small portion to elegantly spill out onto the plate, creating a visually captivating display of the dessert's delicious interior.

Storing and Freezing Your Light Pumpkin Roll

Here are the detailed storing and freezing guidelines for the light pumpkin roll recipe:

To store the pumpkin roll, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 5 days. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out.
If you want to freeze the pumpkin roll for later enjoyment, follow these steps:
1. Wrap the uncut pumpkin roll tightly in plastic wrap, making sure there are no air pockets.
2. Place the wrapped pumpkin roll in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
3. Label the bag or container with the date and contents for easy reference.
4. Freeze the pumpkin roll for up to 2 months.
To thaw the frozen pumpkin roll, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. This slow thawing process will help maintain the texture and prevent the cream cheese filling from becoming watery.
Once thawed, unwrap the pumpkin roll and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the flavors to develop and the texture to soften slightly.
If you notice any condensation on the surface of the thawed pumpkin roll, gently blot it with a paper towel before dusting with powdered sugar for a fresh presentation.

How To Reheat Leftovers

To reheat a leftover light pumpkin roll, first let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to take the chill off. This will help it reheat more evenly and prevent the filling from becoming watery.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pumpkin roll on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Loosely cover the pumpkin roll with another piece of parchment paper or foil to prevent it from drying out or browning too much on top.
Bake the pumpkin roll in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until it's heated through. The exact time will depend on the size and thickness of your roll.
Alternatively, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 15-20 seconds, or until it's warm to your liking. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the filling to melt and become runny.
If you find that the pumpkin roll has dried out a bit after reheating, you can brush it lightly with some simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water heated until the sugar dissolves) to add moisture and shine.
Once reheated, let the pumpkin roll cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the filling to set slightly and make it easier to cut neat slices.
If you want to add a special touch, dust the top of the reheated pumpkin roll with a little extra powdered sugar just before serving.

Random Fact about Light Pumpkin Rolls

The pumpkin roll recipe is a classic dessert that originated in the United States. It is often enjoyed during the fall and winter months, especially around Thanksgiving and Christmas. This delicious treat is a perfect combination of moist cake and creamy filling, making it a popular choice for holiday gatherings and special occasions. The pumpkin roll is also a versatile dessert that can be customized with different spices and fillings to suit individual preferences. Whether served as a sweet ending to a meal or enjoyed with a cup of coffee, the pumpkin roll is sure to delight anyone with a sweet tooth.

Is Making Light Pumpkin Rolls at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this pumpkin roll recipe is quite high due to the use of common pantry ingredients and minimal use of expensive items. The main cost lies in the cream cheese and walnuts, but the overall cost for a household of 4 people would be approximately $10-$15. The delightful flavors and the impressive presentation make it a great choice for special occasions or as a treat for the family. I would rate this recipe a solid 8 for its balance of cost and flavor.

Is This Light Pumpkin Roll Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The light pumpkin roll recipe is a healthier twist on the classic dessert, incorporating some nutritious ingredients and reducing the overall calorie count. Here's an analysis of the recipe:

Positives:

The recipe uses canned pumpkin, which is a good source of vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants
Greek yogurt is used in the filling, providing protein and calcium while reducing the amount of cream cheese needed
The recipe calls for less sugar compared to traditional pumpkin roll recipes
Walnuts add healthy fats, fiber, and protein to the filling

Negatives:

The recipe still contains a significant amount of sugar, with both granulated and powdered sugar used
All-purpose flour is used, which is refined and lacks the fiber and nutrients found in whole grain flours
The cream cheese in the filling, although reduced, still contributes to the overall fat and calorie content

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour or oat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
Further reduce the amount of sugar used in both the cake and the filling, or experiment with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey
Use a low-fat cream cheese in the filling to cut down on saturated fat
Increase the amount of Greek yogurt in the filling to boost protein and reduce the need for cream cheese
Add more spices like ginger and nutmeg to enhance the flavor without relying on sugar
Top the pumpkin roll with chopped nuts or seeds instead of powdered sugar for a nutrient-dense garnish

Editor's Opinion on This Light Pumpkin Roll Recipe

This light pumpkin roll recipe is a delightful treat that perfectly balances the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices with a light and fluffy texture. The use of light cream cheese and fat-free Greek yogurt in the filling adds a creamy richness without the extra calories. The addition of chopped walnuts provides a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor. The step-by-step instructions are clear and easy to follow, making this recipe accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. Overall, this pumpkin roll is a wonderful dessert option for those looking for a lighter, yet still indulgent, sweet treat.

Enhance Your Light Pumpkin Roll Recipe | Recipes.net with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Create a creamy and flavorful side dish by adding roasted garlic to your mashed potatoes. The roasted garlic adds a delicious depth of flavor to the classic side dish.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Elevate your meal with a side of grilled asparagus topped with fresh lemon zest. The bright and citrusy flavor of the lemon complements the earthy taste of the asparagus perfectly.

Cranberry Orange Quinoa Salad: Add a refreshing and nutritious side dish to your meal with a cranberry orange quinoa salad. The combination of sweet cranberries and tangy oranges adds a burst of flavor to the quinoa.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Light Pumpkin Rolls

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: A delicious and healthy dish that combines ground meat, rice, and savory seasonings stuffed inside colorful bell peppers, then baked to perfection.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: A refreshing and tropical dessert that combines creamy coconut milk, sweet mango, and nutritious chia seeds for a delightful and guilt-free treat.

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup: A comforting and hearty soup that features tender chicken, earthy wild rice, and a creamy broth for a satisfying and delicious meal.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Light Pumpkin Rolls

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy filling, making it a crowd-pleasing option for any gathering.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic bruschetta topped with a vibrant mixture of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and balsamic glaze. The combination of tangy tomatoes and aromatic herbs on crispy bread creates a burst of flavor in every bite, making it a refreshing and satisfying starter for any meal.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish by combining tender chicken with a rich and velvety Alfredo sauce. Serve it over your favorite pasta for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Beef Stroganoff: Whip up a hearty and flavorful dish by sautéing tender strips of beef with mushrooms and onions, then simmering them in a creamy and tangy sauce. Serve it over egg noodles for a classic and comforting meal.

Why trust this Light Pumpkin Roll Recipe | Recipes.net:

This recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, creating a harmonious blend of pumpkin and warm spices. The use of canned pumpkin ensures convenience without compromising on taste, while the addition of walnuts provides a satisfying crunch. The light and creamy filling, made with light cream cheese and fat-free Greek yogurt, offers a guilt-free indulgence. With a moist and tender cake, this recipe promises a delightful treat for any occasion. Trust in the combination of traditional flavors and a modern twist, making it a reliable choice for a delicious and impressive dessert.

Want to share your experience with this Light Pumpkin Roll Recipe? Head over to the Baking and Desserts section of our forum and join the discussion!

FAQ:

How long does it take to make the light pumpkin roll?

The entire process, from preparation to baking, takes about 30 minutes. After that, you'll need to refrigerate the roll for at least an hour before serving.

Can I substitute the walnuts with a different type of nut?

Absolutely! You can easily swap the walnuts for pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions.

Can I make the pumpkin roll ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the pumpkin roll ahead of time. In fact, it's best to refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight after assembling to allow the flavors to meld together.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin?

While canned pumpkin is convenient, you can certainly use fresh pumpkin puree if you prefer. Just make sure it's well-drained and has a similar consistency to canned pumpkin.

Is it possible to freeze the pumpkin roll?

Yes, you can freeze the pumpkin roll. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving for the best results.