Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Name: Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup pumpkin puree; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp ground cloves; For the frosting: 8 oz cream cheese, 2 cups powdered sugar

Recipe By:

Eva

Posted:

February 6, 2025

Updated:

February 6, 2025

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Have you ever experienced the warm embrace of a freshly baked cake that fills your kitchen with the scent of autumn? The aroma of spices mingling with sweet pumpkin creates an irresistible invitation to indulge in a slice of Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. This dessert not only delights your taste buds but also evokes memories of cherished moments spent with loved ones during the cozy fall season. Imagine biting into a moist slice adorned with luscious cream cheese frosting while sipping on a warm cup of cider—sheer bliss.

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and gold, this cake becomes more than just a treat; it transforms into a seasonal tradition. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving dinner or a casual gathering among friends, this Pumpkin Spice Cake is bound to steal the spotlight at any occasion. With its rich flavors and velvety texture, every bite promises to transport you to a cozy café on a chilly afternoon. Get ready to embark on a baking adventure that will fill your home with warmth and joy as you create this delightful masterpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfectly Spiced Flavor: The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in this recipe creates the quintessential fall flavor profile that everyone loves.
Moist and Tender Texture: This cake’s secret lies in using real pumpkin puree, ensuring each bite is soft and flavorful.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, even novice bakers can whip up this delicious treat without hassle.
Beautiful Presentation: Topped with creamy frosting and optional decorations like pecans or caramel drizzle, this cake looks as good as it tastes.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pumpkin Puree: Use canned or homemade pumpkin puree for optimal moisture; ensure it’s pure pumpkin without additives.
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your cake; sifted flour helps achieve a light texture.
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness; brown sugar can also be used for added richness.
Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully; check the expiration date for potency.
Baking Soda: Works alongside baking powder to ensure a fluffy texture; don’t skip it.
Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves): These warm spices are crucial for that signature pumpkin spice flavor.
Eggs: They bind all ingredients together while providing moisture; use large eggs for best results.
Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist; you can substitute applesauce for a lighter version if desired.
Cream Cheese: Essential for the frosting; use full-fat cream cheese for creaminess.
Powdered Sugar: Provides sweetness and structure to the frosting; sift before using for smoothness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two round cake pans with cooking spray and line them with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 5: Bake Cakes

Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool in pans for about ten minutes before transferring them to wire racks.

Step 6: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

While cakes cool down, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. If desired, add vanilla extract for extra flavor.

Transfer cooled cakes onto serving plates and generously spread cream cheese frosting between layers and over the top.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

- Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices enhance flavor significantly; replace old spices for optimal taste.

- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature before mixing to achieve better emulsion.

- Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cakes towards the end of baking time—overbaking can lead to dryness.

Add Nuts or Chocolate Chips: For added texture or decadence in your cake batter or frosting.

Enjoy creating this delightful Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Mistakes to avoid

Using stale spices: Freshness is key when creating a delicious Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Using stale spices can lead to a bland flavor profile that undermines the cake’s potential. Always check the expiration dates on your spices and opt for fresh ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. If possible, buy whole spices and grind them just before use for the best flavor.
Overmixing the batter: When making your Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s important to mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can result in a dense, tough cake instead of a light and fluffy texture. Use a gentle folding motion when incorporating dry ingredients into your wet mixture to maintain airiness and ensure optimal rise.
Skipping the cream cheese frosting: The cream cheese frosting elevates the Pumpkin Spice Cake, adding richness and tanginess that complements its warm flavors. Skipping this crucial step would not only diminish the taste but also affect the overall presentation. Ensure you prepare enough frosting to generously cover the cake and consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for an appealing finish.
Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, and precise measurements are essential for success when making a Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Avoid using heaping tablespoons or cups; instead, use kitchen scales or measuring cups designed for dry and wet ingredients to ensure you achieve the perfect texture and taste.

Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream enhances the richness of the cake and adds a light texture.
Coffee or Tea: Enjoy this cake with a warm cup of coffee or tea. The spices in the cake complement the flavors of your favorite hot beverage.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling some caramel sauce over each slice adds an extra layer of sweetness that perfectly balances the spices.

FAQs

FAQs about Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Can I use other frostings with pumpkin spice cake?

Absolutely. While the cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with pumpkin spice cake, you can experiment with other options. Some popular alternatives include vanilla buttercream, maple frosting, or even a light whipped topping. Each frosting brings its unique taste and texture to the cake, so feel free to get creative and find your favorite combination.

How do I store leftover pumpkin spice cake?

To keep your Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help retain its moisture and flavor. The cake can last for about 5 to 7 days in the fridge. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy a slice.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes. You can easily adapt this Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe to be gluten-free. Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum if required by your specific mix. This adjustment allows everyone to enjoy this delightful dessert without sacrificing flavor or texture.

What spices are used in pumpkin spice cake?

The spices typically used in Pumpkin Spice Cake include cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. These warm spices create that signature fall flavor profile associated with pumpkin desserts. You can adjust the quantities based on your taste preferences, but these spices are essential for achieving that cozy autumn vibe.

Conclusion for Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

In summary, Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert perfect for any season but shines especially during fall celebrations. Its moist texture and rich flavors make it an ideal treat for gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Remember to pair it wisely — whether it’s coffee, caramel sauce, or even whipped cream — to enhance your experience further. With easy storage options and adaptable recipes available, you can enjoy this scrumptious cake time and again without any hassle. Happy baking.