Name: Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 cup canned pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling); 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter); 3 large eggs, room temperature; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%); 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk; 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

As the leaves turn gold and the air becomes crisp, nothing embodies the cozy spirit of fall quite like a slice of Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. This wonderfully moist and fluffy pumpkin spice cake is infused with warm autumn spices, making it the perfect dessert to welcome the seasonal change. The rich cream cheese frosting, adorned with a luscious caramel drizzle and crunchy walnuts, creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures that will tantalize both your taste buds and your senses.

This pumpkin spice cake is not only irresistibly delicious but also incredibly simple to make. With just a few ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up this delightful treat without breaking a sweat. Perfect for holiday gatherings, birthday parties, or simply enjoying at home with a cup of coffee or tea, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, allowing everyone to indulge no matter their dietary preferences!

So gather your ingredients, invite your family or friends, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that captures the essence of autumn in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice Cake

Perfectly Moist: Thanks to the pumpkin purée, this cake remains incredibly moist and tender.
Warm Autumn Spices: Infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, each bite evokes the heartwarming flavors of fall.
Rich Cream Cheese Frosting: The cream cheese frosting adds a luscious creaminess that perfectly complements the spiced cake.
Beautiful Presentation: Topped with caramel drizzle and crunchy walnuts, this cake is as stunning to look at as it is to eat.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a bakery-worthy dessert right at home.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the delectable art of making Pumpkin Spice Cake, it’s crucial to set yourself up for success in the kitchen. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), which ensures that your cake bakes evenly. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it with butter and dusting it with flour or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Gathering your tools is equally essential. You’ll need mixing bowls, a whisk, a rubber spatula, and an electric mixer for achieving that smooth cream cheese frosting. Don’t forget measuring cups and spoons to ensure precise ingredient ratios; this greatly affects the outcome of your cake. Having all your ingredients measured out and ready to go will streamline the process and keep things organized. With your workstation prepped and ready, you are well on your way to creating a show-stopping fall dessert.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1 cup canned pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Pan

Begin your journey by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take the 9×13-inch baking pan and grease it thoroughly with butter or cooking spray. For added assurance against sticking, dust the greased pan with flour or line it with parchment paper, allowing for easy removal of your warm pumpkin spice cake once baked.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This step ensures that the leavening agents and spices are evenly dispersed throughout the flour, which is vital for the desired texture and flavor in your cake. Set this bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin purée, vegetable oil (or melted butter), eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Using a whisk, blend these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This harmonious mixture is the base of your cake, packed with flavors that will shine through once baked.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly fold the dry ingredients from the first bowl into the wet mixture. Gently mix until just combined—being careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser cake. The batter should be slightly lumpy, but all the flour should be incorporated. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Keep an eye on your cake during the last few minutes, as baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven.

Step 6: Cool and Frost

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. While the cake cools, you can prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar while mixing on a low speed, followed by the vanilla extract and a couple of tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Beat the mixture until it reaches a light and fluffy consistency.

Step 7: Finish with Frosting and Toppings

Once the cake has completely cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. Drizzle your caramel sauce atop the frosting and sprinkle with chopped walnuts or pecans for that added crunch. Slice, serve, and enjoy every delicious bite of your Pumpkin Spice Cake!

Variations

Protein: Add a scoop of protein powder to the batter for a nutrient boost.
Vegetables: Incorporate grated zucchini or carrots for extra moisture and nutrition.
Spices: Experiment with pumpkin pie spice or add a pinch of cayenne for a hint of heat.

Cooking Notes

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
For an extra special touch, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
This cake can be made ahead of time and freezes well; just frost before serving for the freshest taste.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your pumpkin spice cake with a warm cup of spiced chai or your favorite autumn beverage.
Cut into squares and serve on festive plates for holiday gatherings.

Tips

Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature to achieve even mixing and baking.
Use high-quality cream cheese for the frosting for the best flavor and texture.
To keep the cake moist, avoid overbaking—check for doneness a few minutes early.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 370
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 180mg

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just be sure to cook and puree the pumpkin until smooth, measuring out one cup for the recipe.

What can I substitute for the vegetable oil?

You can substitute melted butter for a richer flavor or use applesauce for a healthier option.

How should I store the cake?

Store leftover pumpkin spice cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.

Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake unfrosted for up to three months. Just be sure to frost it after thawing for the best taste.

Conclusion

Your journey into the delightful world of baking has led you to an irresistible creation: the Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. As seasonal festivities approach, this cake not only enriches your holiday table but also creates warm memories with loved ones. With its soft, flavored layers and delicious topping, it beckons with each forkful. Don’t forget to try different variations and share your experiences!

We hope you enjoy making and indulging in this cake as much as we do. If you loved this recipe, please leave a comment below sharing your thoughts or variations you’ve tried, and don’t hesitate to spread the love by sharing this delightful treat recipe with your friends and family. Happy baking!