Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

This Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that perfectly balances the rich flavors of pumpkin and spices with a creamy, indulgent frosting. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a gathering, or simply craving something sweet, this cake is an excellent choice. Its moist texture and warm spices make it stand out among other desserts, ensuring your guests will be coming back for seconds!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: This cake combines pumpkin and caramel for a rich taste that’s hard to resist.
• Perfectly Moist: With the right ingredients, this cake stays moist and delicious for days.
• Versatile Occasion: Ideal for Thanksgiving, birthdays, or any fall gathering.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps make it accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Stunning Presentation: The caramel cream cheese frosting adds an eye-catching touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having everything at your fingertips will make the process enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer
• Baking pan (9×13 or two 9-inch round pans)
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool helps achieve a fluffy batter quickly and easily, saving time on mixing by hand.
• Baking pan: The right size ensures even baking and helps you achieve the perfect texture in your cake.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup vegetable oil (or canola)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 15 oz can pumpkin puree

For the Frosting

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 6 oz cream cheese (full fat brick style)
• 1/2 cup salted caramel (see below or buy your own)
• 2-3 cups powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons whipping cream (as needed)

For the Salted Caramel Sauce

• 1 cup white sugar
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter (cut into 5 pieces)
• 1/2 cup whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt

How to Make Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from start to finish.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

Whisk these together until well blended.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
1 cup vegetable oil (or canola)
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup white sugar
Add in:
4 large eggs
And then stir in:
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Finally, mix in:
1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree

Ensure all wet ingredients are fully combined.

Step 4: Create the Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; avoid over-mixing to keep your cake light and fluffy.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased baking pan. Bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let it cool completely before frosting.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together:
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
6 oz cream cheese
Blend until smooth. Gradually add:
2–3 cups powdered sugar
Mix until creamy, adding:
Whipping cream as needed for consistency.
Finish by folding in:
1/2 cup salted caramel

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, frost your Pumpkin Cake generously with the caramel cream cheese frosting. Drizzle additional salted caramel on top if desired for an extra special touch!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving your Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate the experience for you and your guests. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance this delicious dessert.

Family Gatherings

• Slice it up: Offer generous slices for family gatherings. The moist texture and rich frosting will be a hit among all ages.

Coffee Breaks

• Pair with coffee: Enjoy a slice with a cup of freshly brewed coffee. The flavors of pumpkin spice complement the drink perfectly.

Special Occasions

• Festive presentation: Decorate the cake with additional caramel drizzle and nuts for birthdays or holidays, creating a stunning centerpiece.

Afternoon Tea

• Mini servings: Cut the cake into smaller pieces for an afternoon tea setting. Pair it with herbal teas for a cozy treat.

Potlucks

• Bring it along: This cake is perfect for potlucks. Its unique flavor will stand out among other desserts, making it a crowd-pleaser.

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How to Perfect Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting your Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting is key to impressing your friends and family. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out just right.

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: Freshly made pumpkin puree enhances the flavor compared to canned varieties.

• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and fluffiness.

• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid tough cake texture. This helps keep the cake moist.

• Check doneness carefully: Use a toothpick inserted in the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is done baking.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

When serving Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting, pairing it with the right side dishes can create an unforgettable meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm beverage that complements the flavors of pumpkin spice perfectly.

2. Roasted Nuts: A mix of walnuts and pecans adds a crunchy contrast to the soft, moist cake.

3. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop on top balances sweetness and adds creaminess to each bite.

4. Caramelized Pears: These sweet, tender fruits enhance the autumnal vibe of the dessert.

5. Ginger Snap Cookies: Their spiciness pairs delightfully with pumpkin flavors, offering an extra crunch.

6. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses provides a savory balance to the rich frosting.

7. Herbal Tea Selection: Offering various herbal teas can enhance the flavors without overpowering them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking powder and spices. Stale ingredients can ruin the flavor and texture of your cake.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure you have the right amounts, especially for flour and sugar.
• Skipping the cream cheese frosting: The caramel cream cheese frosting is what makes this cake special. Don’t skip it or substitute it with something else.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Ovens can vary in temperature. Use an oven thermometer to make sure your cake bakes evenly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the cake in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• If frosted, keep it covered to prevent drying out.

Freezing Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

• Slice the cake before freezing for easy serving later. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm through for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting special?

This cake is moist and flavorful, enhanced by pumpkin spice and topped with rich caramel cream cheese frosting that truly elevates its taste.

Can I use homemade caramel sauce?

Absolutely! Homemade caramel adds a personal touch and can enhance the flavor of your frosting even more.

How do I know when my pumpkin cake is done?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour for similar results.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting is not just another dessert; it’s an experience that combines warmth, flavor, and nostalgia in every bite. You can customize it by adding nuts or chocolate chips or even adjusting the spices to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for any autumn gathering or family celebration!

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Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

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• Author: Tina
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warmth of autumn with this Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting. This delightful dessert features a moist, spiced pumpkin cake layered with a rich and creamy caramel cream cheese frosting that perfectly complements the cake’s flavors. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, hosting a cozy gathering, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to impress. Its stunning presentation and decadent taste make it a standout choice for any occasion. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 15 oz can pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 6 oz cream cheese (full fat brick style)
• 1/2 cup salted caramel
• 2–3 cups powdered sugar
• 1–2 tablespoons whipping cream (as needed)
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter (cut into 5 pieces)
• 1/2 cup whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In one bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix the oil, brown sugar, white sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree until smooth.
4. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture until just blended.
5. Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake for around 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. To make frosting, beat softened butter and cream cheese until smooth; gradually add powdered sugar and salted caramel until creamy.
7. Frost the cooled cake generously with the caramel cream cheese frosting.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 80mg