By Madison Sottile

Autumn is in full swing! As the leaves fall and the desire for cozy nights rises, we settle in to the holiday season. Weekends full of potlucks and gatherings can leave you at a loss for creative meals and the longing to participate. As Thanksgiving approaches, the dilemma of what to bring can be overwhelming.

Instead of spending hours searching for a simple yet impressive dish, look no further than this recipe. The solution to a potluck? A pumpkin roll: a sweet and festive dessert that tastes like autumn and will impress your friends.

This recipe combines classic fall flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon and cream cheese that are sure to be a hit.

Ingredients:

• 3 eggs
• ⅔ cup canned pumpkin
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon 
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ¾ cup sugar
• ¾ cup flour
• 4 tablespoons butter 
• 8 oz cream cheese
• ½ teaspoon vanilla
• ¾ cup powdered sugar

Directions

1. First, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, grease a 10 by 15 inch cookie sheet and line with wax paper.
2. Next, in a large bowl, mix together the following ingredients: eggs, canned pumpkin, cinnamon, baking soda, sugar, and flour.
3. When thoroughly mixed, pour the mixture onto the cookie sheet. Spread it out evenly to ensure accurate baking. Optionally, you can sprinkle on chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans). Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes. 
4. While this is baking, begin to make the filling. Combine the butter, cream cheese, vanilla and powdered sugar in a separate bowl. Mix together until smooth. 
5. Place a towel on a flat surface and sprinkle granulated sugar onto it. Allow the cake to cool for 5 minutes before flipping the cookie sheet gently onto the towel. Peel off the wax paper. Roll up the towel with the cake inside. Let sit for 15 minutes at room temperature.
6. Unroll the towel and spread the filling. Roll it back up and refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy!