Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
The Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect dessert for any occasion. This cake combines layers of moist pumpkin cake with a rich cinnamon cream cheese frosting, creating a delightful treat that embodies the essence of fall. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply indulging yourself, this cake will surely impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates an irresistible taste that captures the essence of fall.
- Moist Texture: The pumpkin purée ensures that each slice stays moist and tender, making it a crowd-pleaser.
- Versatile Use: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or cozy gatherings—this cake fits any occasion beautifully.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can create this stunning layer cake.
- Impressive Presentation: The beautiful layers and creamy frosting make for a show-stopping dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the baking process seamless and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- 9-inch round cake pans
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: This tool makes whipping up the batter and frosting effortless, ensuring a smooth consistency.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls helps organize ingredients while mixing different components of the recipe.
- Spatula: A spatula is vital for scraping down the sides of mixing bowls and ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 360 g all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp + 2 tsp pumpkin spice (see notes below recipe to make homemade pumpkin spice)
- 450 g dark brown sugar
- 560 g pumpkin purée (room temperature)
- 150 g oil (room temperature)
- 4 eggs (room temperature)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Frosting
- 300 g butter
- 150 g full-fat cream cheese
- 540 g powdered sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
How to Make Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your cake pans will help prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Baking soda
4. Salt
5. Pumpkin spice
Whisk these together until evenly mixed.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, blend:
1. Dark brown sugar
2. Pumpkin purée
3. Oil
Beat these together until smooth. Then add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing for a tender cake.
Step 5: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter equally into prepared pans and bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
Step 6: Cool Cakes
Allow cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 7: Make the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together:
1. Butter
2. Cream cheese
Until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and ground cinnamon; mix until smooth.
Step 8: Assemble the Cake
Once cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting on top, then place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake as desired.
Now you have an irresistible Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting ready to serve! Enjoy every bite of this delectable fall treat!
How to Serve Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
Serving your delightful Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate the experience. Here are some creative ideas to make your dessert stand out.
For a Cozy Gathering
- Coffee Pairing: Serve slices of pumpkin cake alongside hot coffee or spiced lattes for a warm touch.
- Whipped Cream: Top the cake with fresh whipped cream for added richness and texture.
As a Festive Dessert
- Cranberry Sauce: Drizzle homemade cranberry sauce over each slice for a tart contrast to the sweet frosting.
- Candied Nuts: Sprinkle candied pecans or walnuts on top for an extra crunch and festive flair.
For a Sweet Brunch
- Fruit Salad: A side of seasonal fruit salad complements the flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon beautifully.
- Tea Selection: Offer a variety of teas, such as chai or herbal infusions, that pair well with the warm spices.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
To create the perfect Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting, follow these simple tips for an outstanding result.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and pumpkin puree, are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix your batter just until combined to keep your cake moist and light in texture.
- Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for even cooking.
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow your cake layers to cool fully before adding frosting to prevent melting.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Cake can enhance the overall meal. Here are some excellent suggestions that work beautifully together.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a savory element that balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Stuffed Acorn Squash: This dish provides hearty flavors that complement pumpkin while being visually appealing.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes bring comfort and richness that pairs well with desserts.
- Apple Crisp: A warm apple crisp offers additional fall flavors without overpowering your pumpkin cake.
- Spinach Salad: A light spinach salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the heaviness of dessert.
- Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses can create a sophisticated pairing, enhancing both taste and presentation.
- Pumpkin Soup: Serve small cups of pumpkin soup as an appetizer for a cohesive meal theme that celebrates fall flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using ingredients that are not at room temperature can lead to uneven mixing and texture issues. Ensure your pumpkin purée, eggs, and oil are all at room temperature before you begin.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make your cake dense rather than light and fluffy. Mix until just combined to keep it moist and airy.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Packing flour into the measuring cup can lead to using too much flour, resulting in a dry cake. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
- Skipping the cooling time: If you frost a warm cake, the frosting will melt and slide off. Allow your cakes to cool completely before applying the cinnamon cream cheese frosting.
- Using stale spices: Fresh spices enhance flavor significantly. Always check your spices for freshness, especially pumpkin spice, to ensure the best taste.
- Underestimating baking time: Oven temperatures can vary. Always check your cake for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
- Wrap each layer of cake tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in an airtight container.
- You can freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5-8 minutes until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting.
Can I use homemade pumpkin purée?
Yes! Homemade pumpkin purée works wonderfully in this recipe, providing fresh flavor.
How do I make my Pumpkin Cake moist?
Ensure you don’t overmix the batter and use room temperature ingredients for optimal moisture.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
For a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese in the frosting.
How can I customize my Pumpkin Cake?
Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even chocolate chips for added texture and flavor!
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for any fall gathering or celebration. Its rich flavors and moist layers create an irresistible dessert experience. Don’t hesitate to customize it by adding your favorite nuts or spices. Enjoy this delightful treat year-round!
Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting. This delightful dessert features layers of moist pumpkin cake, infused with warm spices, and topped with a rich, creamy frosting that is sure to impress at any gathering. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply a sweet treat any day, this cake combines seasonal ingredients to create an irresistible experience. Easy to make and visually stunning, it’s the ideal centerpiece for your next celebration or a comforting dessert to enjoy at home.
Ingredients
- 360 g all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp + 2 tsp pumpkin spice
- 450 g dark brown sugar
- 560 g pumpkin purée (room temperature)
- 150 g oil (room temperature)
- 4 eggs (room temperature)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 300 g butter (for frosting)
- 150 g full-fat cream cheese (for frosting)
- 540 g powdered sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin spice.
- In another bowl, combine dark brown sugar, pumpkin purée, oil, and eggs; mix until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
- For the frosting, beat together butter and cream cheese until creamy; gradually add powdered sugar and cinnamon until smooth.
- Once cooled, stack and frost the cake layers as desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
