As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, nothing says autumn quite like the warm, comforting flavors of a homemade pumpkin cake. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this pumpkin cake recipe is a must-try. It's moist, perfectly spiced, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that will have everyone asking for seconds. Read on to discover everything you need to know to make the best pumpkin cake, from ingredients to presentation tips, and be sure to follow every step for a cake that's sure to impress.
What is Pumpkin Cake?
Pumpkin cake is a deliciously moist and flavorful dessert made primarily with pumpkin puree and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. It’s a quintessential fall treat that perfectly captures the essence of the season. The cake is often topped with cream cheese frosting, which adds a tangy sweetness that complements the spiced pumpkin flavor beautifully. Whether served as a simple sheet cake or a more elaborate layer cake, pumpkin cake is a versatile dessert that can be dressed up or down for any occasion.
Ingredients List for Pumpkin Cake
To make the perfect pumpkin cake, you'll need the following ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour: This provides the structure for the cake.
- 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
- 1 cup of brown sugar: Adds moisture and a deeper flavor.
- 1 cup of vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
- 4 large eggs: Provides structure and helps the cake rise.
- 1 can (15 ounces) of pumpkin puree: The star of the cake, offering moisture and flavor.
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda: Works with the baking powder for leavening.
- 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice.
- 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg: Enhances the pumpkin flavor.
- ½ teaspoon of ground cloves: Adds depth and complexity to the spice profile.
- ½ teaspoon of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: Adds a rich, aromatic flavor.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened: The base for the frosting, offering a tangy flavor.
- ½ cup of unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and creaminess.
- 4 cups of powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and gives it structure.
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: Adds flavor and aroma.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about baking is that you can easily adapt recipes to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try with this pumpkin cake recipe:
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum to help with structure.
- Lower Sugar Option: Reduce the granulated sugar to 1 cup and the brown sugar to ¾ cup. You can also use a sugar substitute like Stevia or Monk Fruit in the same quantities.
- Dairy-Free Frosting: Replace the cream cheese and butter in the frosting with dairy-free alternatives like vegan cream cheese and margarine.
- Pumpkin Spice Overload: Increase the cinnamon to 3 teaspoons, and add ½ teaspoon of ground ginger for an extra kick.
- Add-Ins: Mix in 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture, or stir in 1 cup of chocolate chips for a bit of indulgence.
- Maple Cream Cheese Frosting: Replace 1 cup of powdered sugar with ½ cup of maple syrup for a more natural sweetener and a rich, autumnal flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Creating a perfect pumpkin cake requires some attention to detail, but it’s well worth the effort. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure your cake turns out moist, flavorful, and beautifully frosted.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easier removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Make sure all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, beat the eggs and both sugars (granulated and brown) until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add in the oil, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until everything is well combined.
Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing slowly until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser cake.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula, then bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool the Cakes
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for preventing the frosting from melting.
Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until fully incorporated. Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Step 8: Frost the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the cake. For a more rustic look, you can leave the sides unfrosted, or create decorative swirls with a spatula.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced bakers can sometimes make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for when making pumpkin cake:
- Using Pumpkin Pie Filling Instead of Pumpkin Puree: Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices, which can throw off the balance of the cake. Always use pure pumpkin puree.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing the batter too much can lead to a dense, tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Not Allowing the Cakes to Cool Completely: Frosting a warm cake will cause the frosting to melt and slide off, so patience is key.
- Skipping the Sifting of Powdered Sugar: If you skip sifting, your frosting might end up with lumps, which can ruin the texture of the finished cake.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Pumpkin cake is not only delicious, but it can also be a show-stopper when it comes to presentation. Here’s how to serve and present your pumpkin cake to impress your guests:
How to Serve Pumpkin Cake
- Serve at Room Temperature: For the best texture and flavor, allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving.
- Pair with Coffee or Tea: The warm spices in the cake pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea.
- Add a Scoop of Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent treat, serve a slice of pumpkin cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Presentation Ideas for Pumpkin Cake
- Top with Candied Pecans: Sprinkle candied pecans on top of the frosting for added crunch and a beautiful presentation.
- Garnish with Cinnamon Sticks: Place a few cinnamon sticks on top of the cake or around the serving plate for a rustic, autumnal touch.
- Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the top of the cake before serving.
- Decorate with Pumpkin Seeds: Lightly toasted pumpkin seeds can add a nice visual contrast and a bit of crunch to your cake.
- Use a Cake Stand: Elevate your pumpkin cake on a decorative cake stand to make it the centerpiece of your dessert table.
Pumpkin Cake Recipe Tips
To ensure your pumpkin cake turns out perfectly every time, here are some additional tips:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the ingredients combine more easily and results in a smoother batter.
- Don’t Skip the Spices: The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves is what gives pumpkin cake its signature flavor, so don’t skimp on them.
- Measure Accurately: Baking is a science, so be sure to measure your ingredients carefully, especially the flour. Too much flour can make the cake dry.
- Test for Doneness: Every oven is different, so start checking your cake for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is done.
- Store Properly: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this pumpkin cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the cake layers ahead of time and store them, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months. Frost the cake the day you plan to serve it.
Q: Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure your homemade pumpkin puree is smooth and not too watery. If it’s on the wet side, drain it in a fine-mesh sieve before using it in the recipe.
Q: What’s the best way to frost the cake without crumbs getting in the frosting?
A: Apply a thin "crumb coat" of frosting to seal in the crumbs, then refrigerate the cake for about 30 minutes before applying the final layer of frosting.
Q: Can I use this recipe to make cupcakes?
A: Yes, this recipe works great for cupcakes. Simply fill the cupcake liners about two-thirds full and bake for 18-22 minutes.
Q: How can I make sure my cake is moist?
A: Using the right amount of oil and pumpkin puree, and not overbaking the cake, are key to keeping it moist. Also, be sure to measure your flour correctly; too much can make the cake dry.
Conclusion
There you have it—a comprehensive guide to making the perfect pumpkin cake. With its rich, moist texture and warm, spiced flavor, this cake is sure to become a staple in your fall baking repertoire. Whether you're serving it at a holiday gathering, a cozy autumn dinner, or just because, this pumpkin cake is guaranteed to impress. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get baking! Once you’ve tried this recipe, you’ll understand why pumpkin cake is a beloved favorite during the fall season. Enjoy every delicious bite!
PrintPumpkin Cake Recipe
This pumpkin cake recipe is a must-try for fall, packed with pumpkin puree and warm spices. It's easy to make and yields a soft, moist cake perfect for dessert or coffee breaks. Follow our simple instructions for a cake that will quickly become a seasonal favorite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Ground cinnamon
- Ground nutmeg
- Ground ginger
- Salt
- Pumpkin puree
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Eggs
- Vegetable oil
- Vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven and prepare a baking pan.
- Whisk together the dry ingredients in a large bowl.
- In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients, then mix in the pumpkin puree.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture until fully combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool before serving or frosting.
Notes
- For extra flavor, top with cream cheese frosting.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 200mg
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