Ah, the irresistible allure of pumpkin spice – a blend of warming spices that ushers in the cozy vibes of fall. Back in 1934, McCormick company introduced Pumpkin Pie Spice, originally meant for enhancing pumpkin pies. Fast forward to 2010, and the pumpkin spice trend took off, leading to a plethora of pumpkin spice-flavored products flooding the market.
As a seasoned food blogger, I’m excited to share my take on this beloved flavor with a Spiced Pumpkin Cake recipe. Moist and fragrant, this cake embodies the essence of autumn. Paired with a luscious homemade cream cheese frosting, it’s a delightful treat perfect for Thanksgiving, Halloween, or any fall gathering. With just one bowl and no mixer required, this recipe is a breeze to whip up, ensuring a moist and flavorful cake every time. Get ready to indulge in the comforting flavors of pumpkin spice with this easy and delicious dessert.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Cake
Pumpkin spice cake is a delightful treat that embodies the warm flavors of fall. Below are the essential ingredients you will need to create this delicious cake along with a rich cream cheese frosting to top it off.
Main Cake Ingredients
- 18 ounces All-Purpose Flour
- 2 teaspoons Baking Soda
- 2 teaspoons Baking Powder
- 1 Tablespoon Cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons Cloves
- 2 teaspoons Nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon Ginger
- 1 ½ teaspoons Salt
- 8 large Eggs (room temperature)
- 14 ounces Granulated Sugar
- 3 ounces Light Brown Sugar
- 15 ounces Pumpkin Puree
- 4 ounces Vegetable Oil
- 1 Tablespoon Vanilla Extract
- 5 ounces Buttermilk (room temperature)
- 6 ounces Melted Butter
- 16 ounces Cream Cheese (room temperature)
- 8 ounces Unsalted Butter (room temperature)
- 32 ounces Powdered Sugar (sifted)
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Create a cozy and flavorful pumpkin spice cake using these key ingredients and indulge in the velvety cream cheese frosting for the perfect finishing touch.
Equipment Needed
For preparing this scrumptious Pumpkin Spice Cake recipe, you’ll need some essential equipment to ensure a smooth baking process. Here are the items required:
- Three 8-inch cake pans
- Parchment paper (for lining the pans)
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Cooling rack
Having these tools on hand will make baking this delightful Pumpkin Spice Cake a breeze. Now that we have all the necessary equipment ready, let’s move on to the next steps in creating this delectable autumn dessert.
Preparation Steps
Preparing the Ingredients
First, gather all the ingredients needed for the pumpkin spice cake recipe: flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, nutmeg, salt, eggs, white sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, pumpkin puree, oil, and sour cream. Ensure the eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature for optimal blending.
Pre-Greasing and Flouring the Cake Pans
To prepare the cake pans, preheat the oven to 350ºF (177ºC) and apply cake goop or another preferred pan release. If you’re using two 8-inch pans, remember to adjust the baking time accordingly. Properly greasing and flouring the pans will ensure the cakes release smoothly after baking for a delightful pumpkin spice cake.
Baking the Cake
Let’s dive into the exciting process of baking this delicious pumpkin spice cake. Below, you’ll find detailed instructions on mixing the batter and baking the cake to perfection.
Mixing the Batter
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a bundt pan by greasing it with cooking spray or butter. Sprinkle flour or granulated sugar onto the pan and shake off the excess.
- In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves (optional), and salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, stir together pumpkin, buttermilk, and vanilla until they form a smooth mixture.
- Using an electric mixer, beat butter and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
- Add eggs and beat for an additional minute, scraping the bottom of the bowl to ensure thorough mixing.
- Reduce the mixer speed to low and alternately add the flour and pumpkin mixtures in batches, starting and ending with the flour. Mix until the batter is just smooth; be careful not to overbeat.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface.
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes. To test for doneness, insert a wooden pick or skewer into the center of the cake – it should come out clean.
- Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan on a cooling rack for at least a few minutes before carefully removing it from the pan to cool completely.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
To make the creamy and tangy cream cheese frosting for the spiced pumpkin cake, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature. Cold cream cheese won’t blend well and can affect the frosting’s texture.
- Preparing the Ingredients:
- Take 8 ounces of cream cheese out of the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature.
- Bring ½ cup of unsalted butter to room temperature as well for easy blending.
- Mixing the Frosting:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter.
- Beat them together using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Adding Sweetness:
- Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar to the mixture, beating well after each addition.
- Ensure the frosting is smooth and free of lumps before proceeding.
- Enhancing the Flavor:
- Mix in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to add a hint of sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Adjusting Consistency:
- If the frosting seems too thick, you can add a tablespoon of milk to achieve the desired consistency.
- Blend the frosting until it is light, fluffy, and easy to spread.
- Frosting the Cake:
- Once the spiced pumpkin cake has completely cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top.
- Use an offset spatula for a smooth finish, covering the entire surface of the cake.
- Optional Decorations:
- For a decorative touch, sprinkle some cinnamon or pumpkin spice on top of the frosting.
- Add a few pecan halves or walnuts to enhance the visual appeal of the cake.
The luscious cream cheese frosting perfectly complements the warm spices of the pumpkin cake, creating a mouthwatering autumn dessert that is sure to please everyone at your table.
Assembling the Cake
Assembling the pumpkin spice cake is the fun part where everything comes together beautifully to create a delightful dessert. Follow these steps to layer and frost the cake, adding the final touches and decorations for a visually appealing and scrumptious outcome.
Layering and Frosting
- Layering the Cake: Start by trimming the domes off your cooled pumpkin cake layers to create a flat surface. Fit a piping bag with a coupler for easy switching between piping tips. Add a layer of cream cheese frosting with an offset spatula, aiming for an even ¼-inch thickness. Place the second cake layer on top, add more frosting, and finish with the final cake layer.
- Crumb Coat: Cover the entire cake with a thin layer of cream cheese frosting to seal in loose crumbs. Chill the cake in the fridge or freezer for about 20 minutes to firm up the frosting.
- Final Frosting: Apply the final layer of cream cheese frosting using an offset spatula. Smooth the sides with a bench scraper for a clean finish and then even out the top.
- Adding Details: Use a piping bag to create a wood grain design on the sides of the cake. Pipe a decorative border around the top of the cake with dollops of frosting.
- Decorative Elements: Enhance the cake’s visual appeal by placing marzipan pumpkins on top for a festive touch.
Remember, the art of layering, frosting, and decorating the pumpkin spice cake adds an extra layer of charm to this delicious treat, making it not only a delight to eat but also a feast for the eyes.
Serving Suggestions
After creating this scrumptious pumpkin spice cake with a luscious cream cheese glaze, it’s essential to serve it in a way that truly elevates the flavors and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to make your pumpkin spice cake even more delightful:
1. Warm and Cozy:
Serve the pumpkin spice cake slightly warm for a comforting and inviting experience. The warmth enhances the aroma of the spices and the richness of the cream cheese glaze, making each bite a cozy delight.
2. A La Mode:
Pair a slice of pumpkin spice cake with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of the warm cake with the cold, creamy ice cream creates a satisfying flavor and temperature balance that is sure to please your taste buds.
3. Coffee Affair:
Enjoy your pumpkin spice cake with a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee. The combination of the aromatic cake with the robust flavors of coffee creates a perfect harmony for a delightful dessert or a decadent breakfast treat.
4. Fall Flair:
Add a touch of seasonal flair to your pumpkin spice cake presentation by garnishing each slice with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few pieces of caramelized pecans. These simple additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a layer of flavor complexity to the dessert.
5. Party Platter:
If you’re hosting a gathering or celebration, consider cutting the pumpkin spice cake into smaller, bite-sized pieces and arranging them on a decorative platter. This allows guests to enjoy a taste of this heavenly dessert without committing to a full slice.
6. Festive Finale:
For festive occasions like Thanksgiving or Halloween, consider decorating the serving platter with autumn leaves or miniature pumpkins. This not only adds a festive touch but also makes your pumpkin spice cake the centerpiece of the dessert table.
By incorporating these serving suggestions, you can elevate the experience of enjoying your pumpkin spice cake and create memorable moments for yourself and your guests.
Storage Tips
Keep your delicious pumpkin spice cake fresh for longer by following these storage tips:
Refrigerating
To maintain the freshness of your pumpkin spice cake, store it in the refrigerator. Cover the cake tightly to prevent it from drying out. It can be refrigerated for up to 5 days, ensuring it stays moist and delicious throughout the week.
Freezing and Thawing Instructions
For longer storage, you can freeze your pumpkin spice cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving. This method will keep your cake fresh and ready to be enjoyed whenever you crave a delightful pumpkin treat.
Conclusion
I’ve covered the ins and outs of Spiced Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, from its rich history to serving suggestions. By following the storage tips provided, you can enjoy this delectable treat for days to come. Whether refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months, your cake will stay fresh and flavorful. Just remember to thaw it properly before indulging. With these handy tips, you can savor the taste of fall anytime you crave a slice of pumpkin spice bliss.