Pumpkin Cake is a cozy and moist dessert that brings the warm flavors of fall right to your plate. With a blend of aromatic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, this cake is perfect for any autumn gathering or holiday celebration. It’s easy to make, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, it’s a dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this pumpkin cake is sure to be a seasonal favorite.

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Cake
• Recipe Variations
• FAQs
• Serving Suggestions
• Conclusion

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1-2 tbsp milk, if needed

Instructions

Make the Cake

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Set aside.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Beat until well mixed. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

6. Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
7. Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until well combined. Add the vanilla extract and continue mixing. If the frosting is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk until the desired consistency is reached.
8. Frost the Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake.

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Cake

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the eggs, cream cheese, and butter are at room temperature for the best mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to ensure a tender, moist cake.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the cream cheese frosting to avoid melting.

Recipe Variations

• Pumpkin Spice Bundt Cake: Pour the batter into a greased bundt pan and bake for 50-55 minutes. Drizzle with cream cheese glaze instead of spreading frosting.
• Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cake: Fold 1 cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter before baking for an extra sweet treat.
• Nutty Pumpkin Cake: Add 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for added texture and flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the pumpkin cake a day in advance. Store it unfrosted at room temperature, then frost it just before serving.

Q: How do I store leftover pumpkin cake?
A: Store leftover pumpkin cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Q: Can I freeze pumpkin cake?
A: Absolutely! Wrap the unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and frost before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• With Spiced Whipped Cream: Serve slices of pumpkin cake with a dollop of spiced whipped cream for extra flavor.
• With Hot Beverages: Pair with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or apple cider for a cozy fall treat.
• Decorate for the Holidays: Top the frosted cake with sprinkles, toasted nuts, or a dusting of cinnamon for a festive look.

Pumpkin Cake is a delightful dessert that embodies the warmth and comfort of fall. With its perfectly spiced flavor and creamy frosting, it’s a cake that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether for a holiday gathering or a simple weeknight dessert, this pumpkin cake is sure to become a seasonal favorite in your household. Give it a try, and savor the rich, spiced flavors in every bite!