Sourdough Pumpkin Roll: A Perfect Fall Delight

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When autumn hits, there’s something special about the aroma of pumpkin spices wafting through the kitchen. One recipe that combines the warmth of fall flavors with the tangy, complex goodness of sourdough is the sourdough pumpkin roll. This dessert takes the classic pumpkin roll to the next level by incorporating sourdough starter, creating a moist, flavorful cake that’s irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for something new to try, a sourdough pumpkin roll might be the ultimate fall treat for you.

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Why Use Sourdough?

Sourdough starter, a fermented mixture of flour and water, is known for the unique depth it adds to baked goods. Adding sourdough to a pumpkin roll introduces a subtle tang that balances out the sweetness of the pumpkin and cream cheese filling. The starter also helps keep the cake soft and moist. Plus, if you’re an avid sourdough baker, this recipe offers a perfect way to use up some of your extra starter, making it both sustainable and scrumptious. Don’t have a sourdough starter? Learn to make a 50% hydration (dry) starter HERE. It’s so simple to maintain and no flour waste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make a delicious sourdough pumpkin roll:

For the Cake:

• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sourdough starter (fed or discard)
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 2 tbsp coconut oil
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 5 tbsp butter, softened
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt

How to Make Sourdough Pumpkin Roll

Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper.

Make the Pumpkin Roll Batter

In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the pumpkin puree, coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla, and sourdough starter, mixing until smooth and well combined.

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture until just combined, taking care not to overmix.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.

Roll the Cake

Once the cake is done, immediately roll the cake (starting from the narrow end) along with the parchment paper. Careful! It’s hot! This helps the cake cool in a rolled shape, making it easier to fill later. Let it cool completely.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and salt, mixing until light and creamy.

Fill and Roll

Once the cake is fully cooled, carefully unroll it. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the cake, leaving a small border around the edges. Gently re-roll the cake without the parchment, being careful not to squeeze out the filling. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour to set.

Serve and Enjoy

When ready to serve, dust the top with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish. Slice into rounds to reveal the creamy swirl inside.

Tips for the Perfect Sourdough Pumpkin Roll

• Use a Ripe Sourdough Starter: While discard works, a recently fed starter adds more flavor and softness.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the cake. Overbaking can make it more difficult to roll without cracking. That being said, cracks happen….Don’t stress about it 🙂
• Chill Before Slicing: Refrigerating the roll for an hour or more helps keep the filling firm, which makes slicing easier and cleaner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sourdough pumpkin roll recipe is a unique twist on a fall favorite. The sourdough adds a nuanced flavor that pairs perfectly with pumpkin spice and creamy filling. Whether you’re sharing it with friends, bringing it to a holiday gathering, or enjoying it with a cup of coffee, this roll is sure to impress.

Final Thoughts

A sourdough pumpkin roll is a delightful addition to any autumn dessert lineup. It combines tradition with innovation, creating a taste that’s both comforting and unique. If you’ve never tried incorporating sourdough into a dessert, this recipe is the perfect place to start – the result is a spiced, creamy, and utterly delicious treat that tastes like fall in every bite. So go ahead, preheat that oven, and let the aroma of pumpkin spice fill your home!

Looking for another delicious sourdough dessert? Try these delicious recipes:

• sourdough carrot cake roll
• sourdough chocolate zucchini bread
• sourdough nut rolls