Sourdough Pumpkin Roll: Perfect Fall Dessert

Sourdough pumpkin roll is the ultimate fall dessert that combines the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin with the tangy, comforting taste of sourdough. The soft, fluffy cake, paired with a creamy maple cream cheese filling, creates an irresistible treat that’s perfect for cozy gatherings or holiday celebrations. What makes this recipe stand out is the use of sourdough starter, which not only adds depth to the flavor but also brings along the health benefits of fermented grains. Whether you’re a sourdough enthusiast or simply looking for a healthier twist on a classic pumpkin roll, this recipe is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Sourdough Pumpkin Roll

This sourdough pumpkin roll is an absolute winner for anyone craving a fall-inspired dessert. It’s quick to make, requires minimal ingredients, and can be made with either an active sourdough starter or sourdough discard, making it perfect for those who regularly bake with sourdough. The fermentation process enhances the bioavailability of nutrients, making this cake not just a treat but a more digestible option compared to traditional pumpkin rolls. Plus, the creamy maple-flavored filling adds the perfect balance of sweetness, making each bite an indulgent yet wholesome experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pumpkin Cake:

• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure and light texture of the cake.
• Pureed pumpkin: Adds moisture and that quintessential fall flavor.
• Maple syrup: A natural sweetener that complements the pumpkin and spices.
• Sourdough starter: Adds a subtle tang and helps with the fermentation process, enhancing flavor.
• Pumpkin pie spice: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves that brings the warm, cozy flavor of fall.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances sweetness.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure.
• Vanilla extract: Adds depth to the flavor of the cake.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cake without overpowering the pumpkin flavor.
• Baking soda: Helps the cake rise and become light and fluffy.

For the Maple Cream Cheese Filling:

• Cream cheese: The base for the filling, providing a rich, creamy texture.
• Butter: Adds richness and smoothness to the filling.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor profile of the filling.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling and helps it maintain a smooth, spreadable consistency.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

• Flour: You can swap all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour if you need a gluten-free option.
• Sugar: For a more naturally sweetened version, substitute maple syrup or coconut sugar.
• Pumpkin spice: If you don’t have pumpkin spice, you can easily make your own by combining ground cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg.
• Cream cheese: Use dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan version of this pumpkin roll.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter: The night before, mix together flour, sourdough starter, pureed pumpkin, and maple syrup in a bowl. Cover and let ferment for 8 to 24 hours.
2. Add the Remaining Ingredients: The next day, to the fermented mixture, add salt, eggs, vanilla, pumpkin spice, and sugar. Mix until well combined. Then, sprinkle in the baking soda and mix it through.
3. Bake the Cake: Spread the batter evenly on a 13 x 18-inch sheet pan lined with parchment paper. Bake at 375°F for 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Roll the Cake: Once baked, carefully roll the cake in the parchment paper while it’s still hot. This helps prevent cracks in the cake when you unroll it later. Allow it to cool completely in this rolled position.
5. Make the Cream Cheese Filling: While the cake cools, whip together cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
6. Assemble the Pumpkin Roll: Once the cake has cooled, unroll it gently, spread the cream cheese filling evenly, and roll it back up.
7. Serve: Slice into generous pieces and enjoy the rich, spiced flavor of your homemade sourdough pumpkin roll.

Tips & Tricks

• To prevent cracking, be sure to roll the cake as soon as it comes out of the oven. Cooling it in the rolled shape helps maintain its structure.
• If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the sugar or use naturally sweetened options like coconut sugar.
• For a lighter texture, use a stand mixer when incorporating the ingredients.
• Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. You can also freeze the roll for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. Let it thaw for 18-24 hours before serving.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This sourdough pumpkin roll pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot cider or coffee, making it the perfect fall treat for breakfast, dessert, or even a midday snack. For a fun twist, try drizzling some caramel sauce over the top, or add a sprinkle of chopped pecans for a crunchy texture contrast. If you’re looking to make the roll ahead of time, you can prepare it up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Health Benefits of Sourdough in Your Pumpkin Roll

In addition to being delicious, sourdough provides several health benefits. The fermentation process breaks down phytic acid in grains, which can enhance the absorption of nutrients like folate and iron. Sourdough also promotes better digestion due to its natural probiotics, making this sourdough pumpkin roll not just a tasty treat, but a more digestible and nutritious option than many other sweet desserts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the sourdough pumpkin roll is an exceptional fall treat that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin, spices, and sourdough in a delightful dessert. This recipe offers a healthier take on the traditional pumpkin roll by incorporating the benefits of sourdough fermentation, making it not only delicious but also more digestible. With its soft, spongy texture and indulgent cream cheese filling, this dessert is perfect for fall gatherings or simply enjoying with a warm drink. Whether you’re a seasoned sourdough baker or a newcomer, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress everyone at your table. Don’t forget to share this delectable pumpkin roll with loved ones—it’s bound to become a seasonal favorite!

FAQ About Sourdough Pumpkin Roll

More Relevant Recipes

• Pumpkin Pie Dip – Easy Recipe: This creamy, delicious dip captures the essence of a pumpkin pie, making it a perfect fall treat to enjoy with crackers, cookies, or fresh fruit. It’s simple to prepare and offers all the flavors you love from a pumpkin pie in a dip form.
• Pumpkin Snickerdoodles – Fall Cookie Recipe: These soft and chewy pumpkin snickerdoodles are infused with cinnamon and pumpkin spice, making them the perfect cookie to bake during the fall season. The balance of sweetness and spice will complement the flavors of the sourdough pumpkin roll beautifully.
• Pumpkin Bread with Maple Glaze – Recipe: This moist pumpkin bread is topped with a decadent maple glaze that adds a sweet finish to the warm, spiced bread. The combination of pumpkin and maple is a fall flavor favorite, making it a great alternative or complement to the sourdough pumpkin roll.

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