As I pulled a warm slice of Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting from the oven, the comforting aroma of fall immediately filled my kitchen, wrapping me in a cozy embrace. This delightful cake is not just a seasonal treat; it's a delicious way to gather loved ones around the table, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. With its quick prep time and that dreamy cream cheese frosting, you'll find yourself returning to this recipe again and again—perfect for those busy weekday evenings or a special weekend celebration. Are you ready to transform simple ingredients into a heartwarming dessert that’s sure to impress? Let's dive in!
Why is this Pumpkin Spice Cake special?
Comforting Whiff: The luscious scent of spices wafts through your home, instantly creating a warm atmosphere that invites family and friends to indulge.
Quick & Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delightful cake with minimal fuss, making it an ideal choice for both novice and seasoned bakers.
Perfectly Frosted: The rich cream cheese frosting complements the spiced cake perfectly, balancing sweetness with a creamy texture that's pure bliss.
Versatile Delight: Whether it's a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this cake is sure to be a hit, bringing smiles to faces of all ages!
Bountiful Serving: Generously serves 12, ensuring there's plenty to go around, perfect for sharing with those you love.
Pumpkin Spice Cake Ingredients
• A warm invitation to bake!
For the Cake
- All-purpose flour – This is the base that gives the cake its structure.
- Baking powder – Helps the cake rise and achieve that fluffy texture.
- Baking soda – Provides additional leavening and works with the acidity of pumpkin.
- Salt – Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon – Adds that signature warm spice flavor we all love in pumpkin dishes.
- Ground nutmeg – A little nutmeg goes a long way, bringing depth to the spice profile.
- Ground ginger – Offers a lovely warmth and zest, taking the flavor to another level.
- Ground cloves – Just a pinch of cloves rounds out the autumn spice mix.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake, helping to create a tender crumb.
- Brown sugar – Adds moisture and a rich flavor profile to the cake.
- Canned pumpkin purée – Be sure to use pure pumpkin for the best texture and taste in your Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.
- Vegetable oil (or melted butter) – Keeps the cake moist and adds richness.
- Large eggs – Contributes to the structure and moisture of the cake.
- Vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
- Milk (whole or 2%) – Adds moisture and richness to the batter.
For the Frosting
- Cream cheese – This is the star ingredient that makes the frosting creamy and tangy.
- Unsalted butter – Adds richness and smoothness to your frosting.
- Powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting and gives it that fluffy texture.
- Vanilla extract – A touch of vanilla makes the frosting even more delightful.
- Heavy cream or milk – Adjusts the frosting consistency to your liking.
For the Topping
- Caramel sauce – Drizzle generously for a decadent touch that pairs beautifully with the flavors.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans – Offers a delightful crunch and nutty flavor for added texture.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, take a 9×13-inch baking pan and grease it with butter or cooking spray, then dust it lightly with flour, or line it with parchment paper. This ensures your Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting releases smoothly after baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves until well combined. This aromatic blend creates a delicious spice base for your cake. Set the bowl aside, allowing the flavors to meld while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin purée, vegetable oil (or melted butter), eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Use a whisk to blend these ingredients thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. This mixture will bring moisture and flavor to your Pumpkin Spice Cake.
Step 4: Blend Together
Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a rubber spatula, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few flour streaks are okay! This keeps the cake fluffy and light, creating the perfect texture for your delightful Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly into the corners with a spatula. You’ll want the surface to look nice and smooth. This ensures uniform baking and helps your cake rise evenly for that perfect slice everyone will love.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the top; it should be golden brown and slightly spring back when gently pressed. This is the moment to savor the enticing fragrance wafting through your kitchen!
Step 7: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling process will take about 30 minutes and is crucial to prevent the frosting from melting, ensuring your Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting remains beautifully layered.
Step 8: Make the Frosting
While the cake cools, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. This forms the base of your luscious frosting, providing that rich and tangy flavor everyone adores.
Step 9: Incorporate Sugar and Cream
Gradually add the powdered sugar while mixing on low speed to avoid a sugary cloud. Once combined, mix in the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Beat the frosting until it's light, fluffy, and easily spreadable, adjusting with more cream if necessary for a dreamy consistency.
Step 10: Frost the Cake
Once your cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using an offset spatula. The frosting should envelop the cake in a silky layer, inviting all to indulge in this beautiful Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.
Step 11: Add Caramel Drizzle
After frosting, take your caramel sauce and drizzle it generously over the cream cheese layer. This addition adds a luxurious touch and enhances the flavors beautifully, making each slice even more tempting.
Step 12: Finish with Nuts
Finally, sprinkle the chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and texture. This not only enhances the visual appeal of your Pumpkin Spice Cake but also adds a delightful nutty flavor that interacts wonderfully with the richness of the frosting. Slice, serve, and watch as smiles spread around the table!
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Spice Cake
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Measure Precisely: Accurate measurements ensure your Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting turns out perfectly. Use a kitchen scale for best results.
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Don't Overmix: Gently fold your wet and dry ingredients together until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so handle with care!
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs, milk, and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps create a smoothly blended batter and a fluffy texture.
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Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the cream cheese frosting from melting and losing its perfect texture.
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Customize Your Frosting: If you like a sweeter frosting, gradually add more powdered sugar until it reaches your desired sweetness. Adjusting the consistency with heavy cream is key!
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Add Extra Toppings: Enhance flavor by adding chocolate chips or dried fruits into the batter for an unexpected twist to your Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Pumpkin Spice Cakes with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cake batter and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring freshness without sacrificing flavor. Simply mix the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately, store them in airtight containers, and combine before baking. If you want even more convenience, the frosted cake can be made up to 3 days ahead; just frost it and cover it tightly with plastic wrap to maintain its creamy texture. When ready to serve, let the cake come to room temperature for the best taste and texture, ensuring this homemade treat remains just as delicious and warming as when first baked!
Pumpkin Spice Cake Variations & Substitutions
Embrace the joy of personalization as you create your own delightful twist on this classic dessert!
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a deliciously inclusive option.
- Vegan: Substitute flax eggs for the three large eggs and use plant-based milk and oil to create a vegan-friendly version. Your loved ones won’t even know the difference!
- Nut-Free: Swap out the walnuts or pecans for sunflower seeds or simply omit them. This keeps your cake safe for nut allergies while still being tasty.
- Spice Swap: Add a dash of cardamom or allspice for a unique flavor twist that kicks your pumpkin cake up a notch!
- Chocolate-Lover's Delight: Fold in mini chocolate chips or use cocoa powder in the batter for a rich, chocolatey version of this spiced cake.
- Frosting Fun: Try a maple-flavored frosting in place of cream cheese for a sweet, seasonal twist that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
- Fruity Addition: Mix in some applesauce or diced ripe bananas to add moisture and an extra layer of flavor. It’s a sneaky way to include more fruit!
- Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Before adding the frosting, sprinkle the top with a blend of cinnamon and sugar for a sweet crunch that takes it to the next level.
Let your creativity flow and make this cake your own!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Nothing pairs better with this sweet seasonal treat than delightful complements that enhance its flavors and textures.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Perfect for a cozy dinner, they provide a smooth contrast to the cake's spiced sweetness. A bit of garlic adds depth that contrasts beautifully.
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Autumn Salad: A fresh mix of greens, cranberries, and pecans delivers a bright, zesty crunch that balances the cake's richness. The tart notes uplift the dish and create vibrant colors on your table.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Warm up your evenings with this fragrant drink, offering cozy cinnamon and clove notes that mirror the cake's flavor profile.
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Cheese Plate: A selection of sharp cheddar and creamy Brie adds savory depth, creating an intriguing flavor play with the sweet frosting.
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Pumpkin Pie Milkshake: Embrace the fall theme with this sweet, creamy shake that echoes the cake's flavors and adds a fun twist to dessert!
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: With their chewy texture, these cookies provide a delightful contrast while complementing the pumpkin spices, making it a perfect pairing for any gathering.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside the cake brings a cold, sweet contrast, making every bite of cake melt in your mouth.
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Hot Cocoa: Topped with whipped cream and cocoa powder, this cozy drink complements the cake and adds warmth to your dessert experience. 🍫
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Maple Pecan Pie: For those who want to extend the sweetness, this pie mirrors the cake's flavors while offering a different texture—a beautiful arrangement for any autumn gathering!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Cake
Room Temperature: Keep the frosted cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. Ensure it’s in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, slice the cake and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and enjoy at room temperature, or warm slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a cozy taste of your Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting!
Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin purée should I use?
Absolutely! Be sure to use pure canned pumpkin purée for the most delightful texture and flavor in your Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices that can affect the overall taste of your cake.
How do I store leftover cake?
You can keep your frosted Pumpkin Spice Cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. If you need to extend its freshness, store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, freezing is a great option! I recommend slicing the cooled cake into individual pieces. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Your cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator or warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
What should I do if my cake is too dense?
If your cake turns out denser than expected, it might have been overmixed. For next time, gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined, leaving a few flour streaks – this keeps your cake light and fluffy. Also, ensure that you’re using fresh leavening agents like baking powder and baking soda to achieve that perfect rise.
Is this Pumpkin Spice Cake safe for those with nut allergies?
You can easily modify the recipe! If you or your guests have nut allergies, simply omit the chopped walnuts or pecans from the topping. The cake itself, as written, is nut-free, so it should be safe for anyone avoiding nuts. Enjoying it worry-free is what it’s all about!
Indulgent Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Delight
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- mixing bowls
- whisk
- Rubber spatula
- electric mixer
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 can canned pumpkin purée
- ½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
For the Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk adjust to consistency
For the Topping
- ½ cup caramel sauce for drizzling
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for topping
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and prepare your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your baking pan.
- Mix dry ingredients in a bowl: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves.
- Combine wet ingredients: sugar, pumpkin purée, oil, eggs, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
- Fold dry ingredients into wet mixture gently until just combined.
- Pour batter into the pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 30 minutes.
- Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and cream, mixing until fluffy.
- Spread frosting over the cooled cake evenly.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the frosted cake.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts on top for added crunch.
