There’s something magical about the combination of pumpkin spice and cream cheese frosting. The aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves filling the air as the cake bakes is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. But when you add a tangy, creamy frosting to the mix, it becomes an irresistible treat. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or simply craving a cozy dessert, this moist pumpkin spice cake with cream cheese frosting is sure to hit the spot. You may also enjoy pumpkin zucchini muffins as a perfect companion to this cake.
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Why I Love This Pumpkin Spice Cake
Baking is a time to indulge in the comforting, nostalgic feeling of homemade treats, and this pumpkin spice cake is a personal favorite. It brings back memories of crisp fall afternoons, when the leaves turn orange and the air feels like it’s begging for a warm, spiced dessert. The secret to the cake’s moistness lies in the pumpkin puree, which not only adds flavor but helps retain moisture, ensuring every bite is soft and delicious. For another delicious cake, check out mini cloud cakes, which are light and fluffy.
Pumpkin spice is often synonymous with fall, but this cake can be enjoyed all year round. The combination of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg creates a rich, comforting flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the tangy cream cheese frosting. The frosting is thick, smooth, and just sweet enough to complement the spice of the cake. Trust me, this cake will become a beloved dessert in your household. If you’re in the mood for a bit of variety, try moist zucchini brownies for another decadent treat.
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Moist Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This moist pumpkin spice cake with cream cheese frosting is the perfect dessert for fall. Rich with warm spices and topped with smooth cream cheese frosting, this cake is incredibly moist and full of flavor.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp cloves
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour your cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, salt).
4. In another bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until combined.
6. Pour the batter into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cakes cool completely before frosting with cream cheese frosting.
Notes
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or crushed pecans for extra flavor and texture.
This cake can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: Pumpkin Spice Cake, Cream Cheese Frosting, Fall Dessert
Ingredients for Success in Pumpkin Spice Cake
To get the most out of your cake, you’ll need a few key ingredients that make all the difference. For the cake, you’ll need pumpkin puree, flour, sugar, and a few warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The pumpkin gives the cake its signature color and moisture, while the spices bring that unmistakable fall flavor. If you’re after another savory dish, consider trying cinnamon queen chicken for a mouthwatering main course.
To make the frosting, you’ll need cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. The cream cheese adds a tangy richness, balancing the sweetness of the cake. If you haven’t already tried this frosting on other cakes, it’s time to give it a go. The combination of cream cheese and butter can also elevate other desserts, like mini cloud cakes.
How to Mix Your Pumpkin Spice Cake
It’s important not to overmix the batter. Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, which we definitely want to avoid. Also, remember to use room temperature ingredients when making the frosting to ensure smooth and easy spreading. This cake comes together quickly, and the effort put into each step results in a tender, flavorful dessert. If you love baked goods with spices, you may want to try pumpkin zucchini muffins as a healthy alternative.
How to Achieve Perfect Frosting
The secret to achieving smooth cream cheese frosting is patience. Begin by beating the butter and cream cheese together until light and fluffy. Then, gradually add powdered sugar until you reach the desired sweetness and consistency. This frosting should be thick enough to spread easily without running off the sides of the cake. Don’t forget to try frosting on mini cloud cakes for a perfect topping!
Baking and Decorating Your Pumpkin Spice Cake
Once your batter is ready, pour it into prepared cake pans. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. After cooling, spread your cream cheese frosting generously over the top of the cake. For added visual appeal, consider decorating with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few crushed walnuts for a delightful crunch. The frosting should not only taste amazing but also look inviting. If you’re after another great fall recipe, try mini cloud cakes for a light dessert.
For another touch of flavor, consider adding edible flowers, candied pecans, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. The possibilities are endless, and the goal is to make your pumpkin spice cake as visually appealing as it is delicious. If you enjoy fall flavors, you’ll love moist zucchini brownies that also pack a punch of flavor.
Baking Tips for the Best Pumpkin Cake
One of the best baking tips for this cake is to use parchment paper at the bottom of the pans. This ensures that the cake won’t stick, making it easier to remove once it’s cooled. Another tip is to check for doneness by lightly pressing on the top of the cake. If it springs back, it’s ready. Be sure to also try cinnamon queen chicken for another flavorful experience.
Decorating Your Cake to Impress
When it comes to decorating, less is often more. A simple spread of frosting with a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg can be just as elegant as intricate decorations. However, if you want to get creative, try adding edible decorations like candied pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra flair. Don’t forget that mini cloud cakes offer a fantastic option for frosting decoration as well.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of frosting?
Absolutely! If cream cheese isn’t your thing, you can opt for a simple buttercream frosting or even a vanilla glaze.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, and the flavor may even improve the next day.
Is there a gluten-free option for this cake?
You can easily substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.
Conclusion
The moist pumpkin spice cake with cream cheese frosting is a timeless dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a fall gathering or just indulging in a sweet treat on a quiet afternoon, this cake brings comfort and flavor in every bite. The cream cheese frosting adds a delightful tang, creating a well-balanced dessert that’s sure to please everyone. Give it a try, and I’m sure it’ll become a favorite in your recipe collection!