Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

The Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect treat for any occasion. This delightful cake features layers of moist pumpkin goodness topped with a rich and creamy cinnamon frosting. Ideal for fall gatherings, birthdays, or simply to enjoy at home, its warm spices and vibrant flavors will leave everyone wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and cinnamon creates a warm, inviting taste that delights the senses.
• Versatile Occasion Fit: Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a cozy family dessert night, this cake fits right in.
• Easy to Follow: With simple steps and common ingredients, anyone can whip up this delicious cake in no time.
• Moist and Flavorful Layers: Each slice is packed with moisture and flavor, ensuring no one can resist going back for seconds.
• Beautiful Presentation: The layered design of the cake makes for an impressive centerpiece that will wow your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, ensure you have the right tools on hand. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking pans
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool ensures that your batter is mixed evenly and smoothly, making it easier to achieve the perfect texture.
• Baking pans: Using the right size ensures even baking and helps create beautiful layers for your cake.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting, gather the following 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). Prepare your baking pans by greasing them lightly or lining them with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix 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 dry ingredients together until they are well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix:
1. Dark brown sugar
2. Pumpkin purée
3. Oil
4. Eggs
5. Vanilla extract

Using an electric mixer, beat until smooth and fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture while mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Cakes

Divide your batter evenly between your prepared baking pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool the Cakes

Once baked, remove cakes from oven and let them cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare Frosting

While cakes are cooling, prepare your frosting by beating together:
1. Butter
2. Cream cheese

Mix until creamy and smooth before gradually adding powdered sugar and ground cinnamon. Beat until fluffy.

Step 8: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, place one layer of cake on a serving platter. Spread a generous amount of cinnamon cream cheese frosting over it. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.

Enjoy every slice of this amazing Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving your Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate the experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this cake that will complement its rich flavors.

For a Cozy Evening

• Pair with Hot Beverages: Enjoy slices of the cake with hot tea or coffee for a comforting treat.
• Serve with Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess.

At Celebrations

• Decorate with Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the frosting for added crunch and flavor.
• Layer with Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce over each slice to enhance the sweetness and add depth.

As a Gift

• Slice and Package: Wrap slices in decorative paper for a lovely homemade gift.
• Create Cake Jars: Layer pieces of cake in jars with frosting for a charming presentation.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting your Pumpkin Cake is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your cake turns out wonderfully each time.

• Bold Ingredients Matter: Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
• Bold Spice Balance: Adjust pumpkin spice according to your taste. A little more or less can alter the flavor profile beautifully.
• Bold Mixing Technique: Mix the batter until just combined to prevent a tough cake. Overmixing can lead to dense results.
• Bold Cooling Time: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and helps achieve clean layers.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

To create a delightful spread, consider these side dishes that pair beautifully with Pumpkin Cake.

1. Bold Apple Crisp: A warm apple crisp adds fruity sweetness that complements the pumpkin flavors.
2. Bold Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve alongside vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast to the spiced cake.
3. Bold Chai Spiced Nuts: These spiced nuts offer a crunchy, savory balance that enhances every bite of cake.
4. Bold Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad can lighten up the richness of the cake, providing a refreshing taste.
5. Bold Maple Syrup Drizzle: A drizzle of maple syrup can intensify the warm flavors in your dessert.
6. Bold Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits as a light side dish that pairs well with the cake’s richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting can be simple, but there are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients – Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and pumpkin purée, are at room temperature. This helps the batter mix evenly and rise properly.
• Overmixing the batter – Mix just until the dry ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy one.
• Skipping the baking powder check – Always check that your baking powder is fresh. Old baking powder can result in a flat cake with no rise.
• Not measuring flour correctly – Use the spoon and level method to measure flour accurately. Too much flour can make the cake dry and crumbly.
• Ignoring oven temperature – Preheat your oven fully before baking. An oven that’s not hot enough can affect how your cake rises and bakes.
• Frosting too soon – Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting. Frosting a warm cake can melt the cream cheese frosting and create a mess.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat slices on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat as it may dry out.
• Stovetop – Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and heat for about 5 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin purée, but ensure it’s well-cooked and blended smoothly before using it in the recipe.

How do I make homemade pumpkin spice?

To make homemade pumpkin spice, combine equal parts cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Adjust based on your flavor preference.

Can I substitute other types of frosting?

Absolutely! Feel free to try different frostings like whipped cream or chocolate ganache for a tasty twist on this Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting.

What size cake pans should I use?

For this recipe, two 9-inch round cake pans work perfectly. Make sure to grease them well before adding the batter.

How do I know when my cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your cake is ready!

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts or swapping out spices according to your taste. Perfect for fall gatherings or any special occasion, we encourage you to try this delightful recipe!