Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly captures the warm, cozy flavors of autumn, this Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender, moist cake infused with classic pumpkin pie spice, studded with nuts and dried fruits for delightful texture, and finished with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting that ties it all together. It’s the kind of dessert that fills your kitchen with the scent of fall and leaves everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just craving something special, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for seasonal celebrations and beyond.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to create a rich, flavorful dessert. Each component plays a key role in building the perfect balance of taste, texture, and vibrant autumn color, making your baking experience both straightforward and rewarding.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and softness that make this cake tender.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise to a light, fluffy perfection.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Works with baking powder to ensure the right texture and lift.
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice: The signature spice blend brings warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to every bite.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet and spicy flavors in the cake.
• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree: Adds moistness and that rich pumpkin flavor essential for fall desserts.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake without overpowering the pumpkin.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds a subtle caramel note and extra moisture.
• 1 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and soft, an excellent alternative to butter here.
• 4 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the fluffy texture.
• 1/4 cup milk: Makes the batter silky and smooth.
• 16 oz cream cheese (softened): The creamy base for the decadent frosting.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and smoothness to the frosting.
• 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Amplifies the flavor of the frosting with a delicious aroma.
• Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness in the frosting.
• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts: Adds crunch and nuttiness that contrast beautifully with the soft cake.
• 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries: For bursts of sweet and tangy chewiness.
• 1 teaspoon orange zest: Offers a bright, citrusy twist to brighten up each slice.

How to Make Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready when the batter is mixed. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or one 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking and to give you that perfect, easy-to-release cake once baked.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Combining these now helps those flavors distribute evenly throughout the cake, meaning every bite is perfectly spiced and balanced.

Step 3: Combine the Pumpkin Mixture

In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree with the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. This blend forms the moist, flavorful base that makes the cake so tender and rich. Mixing these well ensures a smooth, cohesive batter.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Milk

Beat in the eggs one by one—this step is crucial to properly incorporate air, which keeps the cake light. Then stir in the milk to add just the right amount of liquid for a silky batter.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into your pumpkin mixture. It’s important not to overmix here — combine just until no flour streaks remain. This simple step preserves the cake’s tender crumb, ensuring it doesn’t become dense or tough.

Step 6: Add Nuts, Dried Fruits, and Orange Zest

For extra texture and flavor, fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts along with your raisins or dried cranberries and the orange zest. These add surprises in each bite that keep the pumpkin cake exciting and delicious.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pour your batter into the prepared pans and smooth out the surface. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes if you’re using round pans, or 35 to 40 minutes for a 9×13-inch pan. You’ll know the cake is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake cools, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, continue beating until fluffy. Finally, stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to elevate the frosting’s flavor. The result is a velvety, tangy topper that complements the spicy pumpkin cake beautifully.

Step 9: Frost and Assemble

Once the cake layers are completely cool, spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top of one layer, then place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake. Don’t be shy — the frosting is what makes this cake irresistibly delicious.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle additional chopped nuts or a dusting of cinnamon on top of the frosting for a lovely finish that offers extra crunch and warmth. A few fresh cranberries or a twist of orange peel can add a pop of color and freshness that’s just as striking as it is tasty.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with warm beverages like spiced chai tea, freshly brewed coffee, or even a glass of cold milk. For a complete dessert spread, add whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to bring in creamy contrasts that highlight the cake’s spicy-sweet notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices topped with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of edible gold dust for a festive touch. Or turn it into bite-sized cupcakes for easy sharing at parties. The versatility of this Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe makes it perfect for any occasion!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh and safe. It’ll stay moist and flavorful for up to four days, making it an excellent treat to enjoy later or to share with others.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting. The cream cheese frosting doesn’t freeze as well, so it’s best to prepare that fresh.

Reheating

For a warm slice, gently reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 15 seconds. This brings out the aroma and softens the frosting just enough without melting it completely, giving you a cozy fall dessert experience any time.

FAQs

Can I substitute the pumpkin puree with fresh pumpkin?

Absolutely! If using fresh pumpkin, cook it until soft and puree it until smooth. Keep in mind that fresh pumpkin may have a slightly different moisture content, so you may need to adjust the liquid slightly in your batter.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend, you can create a delicious gluten-free version. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to keep the cake’s structure intact.

Can I use different nuts or omit them?

Feel free to customize! Walnuts, pecans, or even toasted almonds work great. If you have nut allergies or simply prefer no nuts, omitting them won’t compromise the cake’s flavor—though nuts do add a lovely crunch.

How far in advance can I make this cake?

You can bake the cake layers a day or two ahead and store them wrapped tightly in the refrigerator. Frost it the day you plan to serve for the freshest taste and texture. This makes it a convenient dessert for busy schedules.

What’s the best way to get a smooth frosting finish?

Use a spatula warmed in hot water, then dried, to gently smooth the frosting. This helps create that professional, silky look without dragging or tearing the frosting layer.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is truly a shining star of any fall table, offering comforting flavors wrapped in a perfectly moist, tender cake with creamy frosting that feels like a warm hug. It’s straightforward enough for even beginners and impressive enough to wow your guests. I hope you give it a try and find as much joy in baking and sharing it as I have!

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