Here’s a cozy, fall‑ready treat: Fluffy Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.
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Why I Love “Fluffy Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting”
I still remember the first time I baked this Fluffy Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting—it filled my kitchen with the kind of warmth that makes autumn feel timeless. The moment I scraped batter into the pan, I knew this cake would become one of my go‑to cozy fall treats. It’s so simple, yet the pumpkin flavor sings, and that cream cheese frosting? It’s the smooth, tangy hug your taste buds didn’t know they needed. That’s why the Fluffy Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting holds such a special place on my baking table.
In this section, we’ll explore what makes this Fluffy Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting irresistible and how you can lean into its charm at home.
What Makes the Cake So Special
The Fluffy Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting tastes like fall in every bite—moist, tender crumb, perfect spice balance, and a soft texture thanks to oil in the batter. It’s forgiving, easy, and delivers cake‑and‑frosting harmony every time.
Comfort Meets Simple Baking
This is one of those pumpkin recipes that works for busy weeknights and festive gatherings alike. You can serve it casually or pair it with a hot drink for extra cozy vibes—just like in my Creamy White Chicken Chili post, it’s comfort without fuss.
Getting Started with the Recipe
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Fluffy Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 9 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Fluffy Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the ultimate cozy dessert. Moist, fluffy, and layered with tangy cream cheese frosting, it’s perfect for fall gatherings or a sweet treat anytime.
Ingredients
1 cup pumpkin purée
2 large eggs
3/4 cup vegetable oil
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground cloves
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For the frosting:
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Ground cinnamon for topping (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin purée, eggs, oil, sugars, and vanilla.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices.
4. Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
8. For the frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
9. Add powdered sugar and vanilla; beat until fluffy.
10. Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
11. Dust with cinnamon, slice into squares, and serve.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
You can substitute maple syrup for half of the sugar for added depth.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: fluffy pumpkin cake, pumpkin cream cheese cake, fall dessert
Gathering What You Need
For this recipe, you’ll need pantry staples—pumpkin purée, oil, sugar, flour, spices, eggs, and block cream cheese and butter for the frosting. You don’t need fancy tools—simple, accessible ingredients create that Fluffy Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting magic.
Step‑by‑Step Bake Time
You’ll whisk wet ingredients, add dry, pour into a square pan, and bake 30–40 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool, then frost with a creamy swirl of cream cheese frosting. And if you’re in a slow‑cooker mood, you might like my Crockpot Lasagna Soup follow‑up post for another cozy twist.
Tips & Variations for the Perfect Cake
Frosting Tweaks and Add‑Ins
Want extra tang? Reduce sugar or add a touch of maple syrup. Looking for texture? A sprinkle of cinnamon on top does the trick. For a softer crumb, you can follow guidance in the Ultimate Best Meatloaf Recipe section on balancing moisture—that same principle applies to cake too.
Storing & Serving Smart
Refrigerate any leftovers to keep that frosting fresh—use the cake within a few days, then warm slices slightly before serving for best flavor. This approach is just as comforting as the one I shared in my Healthy Pumpkin Protein Muffins post—keeps things tasty longer.
FAQ
Can I use canned instead of fresh pumpkin purée?
Absolutely. Fresh pumpkin gives slightly brighter flavor, but canned works perfectly—and saves time.
Can I make it as cupcakes or a layer cake?
Yes—divide batter into cupcake liners (bake ~20–25 minutes) or split into round pans for a layer cake. You might double the frosting for more coverage.
Thanks for reading! This Fluffy Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a fall staple that’s easy to love and easy to bake. Whether for cozy alone time or gathering with friends, it’s a dessert that brings everyone to the table. Happy baking—and enjoy every bite.