Pumpkin Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you have a soft spot for all things cozy and seasonal, this Pumpkin Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is going to feel like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine moist layers packed with fragrant pumpkin and classic fall spices, all wrapped up in luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting that’s rich yet refreshingly smooth. It’s the perfect treat for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply whenever you crave that taste of autumn magic. Once you try this cake, it will quickly become your go-to recipe to impress with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Let’s dive into this delightful dessert you’ll want to savor again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Pumpkin Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are—each component brings something wonderful to the table. The spices create that unmistakable warm aroma, pumpkin adds both moisture and color, and the cream cheese frosting ties everything together with a tangy sweetness that balances perfectly.

• 3 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and crumb for tender layers.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise to fluffy perfection.
• 2 teaspoons baking soda: Works with the acids to lighten the batter.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Delivers classic fall warmth and spice.
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a subtle zing to deepen flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Brings a nutty, cozy scent essentials for pumpkin desserts.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and tender crumb texture.
• 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while helping with browning.
• 4 large eggs: Bind ingredients and add moisture for a perfect cake rise.
• 1 cup pumpkin puree: The star ingredient for moistness and beautiful orange color.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Adds tenderness and a slight tang to balance sweetness.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances overall flavor depth.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Base for the delectable frosting with a silky texture.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds a creamy richness to the frosting.
• 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for easy spreading.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the frosting’s flavor beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Incorporated in the frosting for a subtle spice harmony.

How to Make Pumpkin Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans—this step ensures your cake layers will come out cleanly and ready to stack. Having everything prepped ahead makes the baking flow smooth and stress-free.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. This blend is your flavor foundation, evenly distributing the spices and leavening agents to create that perfectly tender and flavorful crumb you want with every bite.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process is key because it aerates the mixture, helping the cake layers rise beautifully while giving you that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs One at a Time

Beat in the eggs individually, making sure each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps maintain the emulsion and keeps your batter smooth and velvety.

Step 5: Mix in Pumpkin, Buttermilk, and Vanilla

Blend in the pumpkin puree, tangy buttermilk, and fragrant vanilla extract. The pumpkin ensures your cake stays moist but not heavy, while the buttermilk adds a subtle depth of flavor that plays off the spices perfectly.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until combined. Be careful not to overmix here; you want the batter to be smooth, but a light hand keeps the cake tender.

Step 7: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly among your prepared cake pans. Pop them into the oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool the Cakes

Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely. This step is essential to prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off when applied.

Step 9: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat together softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating thoroughly until luscious and spreadable. Finally, mix in vanilla extract and cinnamon to give the frosting a subtle hint of spice that complements the cake perfectly.

Step 10: Assemble Your Cake

Once the layers are fully cooled, stack them with generous amounts of frosting between each layer. Spread the remaining frosting evenly over the top and sides, smoothing it out or keeping it textured for a rustic look. Don’t forget to decorate your masterpiece—cinnamon sticks or a light dusting of nutmeg add an elegant touch.

How to Serve Pumpkin Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

Add a little flair to this cake with thoughtful garnishes. Cinnamon sticks tucked into the frosting or a sprinkle of toasted pecans on top can highlight the spice profile beautifully. Even a few fresh cranberries or candied ginger pieces can bring a pop of color and interest.

Side Dishes

Serve your Pumpkin Layer Cake with a simple cup of hot coffee or spiced chai tea to balance the sweetness and warm the soul. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream alongside the slice adds creaminess and makes for an indulgent treat perfect for colder evenings.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, try layering the cake on a beautiful cake stand and surround it with seasonal decorations like mini pumpkins and autumn leaves. You can also pipe decorative rosettes with the cream cheese frosting or add edible gold leaf for a touch of elegance that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This cake keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Wrapping slices individually helps retain moisture and flavor, so each bite tastes as fresh as the first.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead, the cake layers can be frozen for up to 2 months before frosting. Wrap each cooled layer tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to assemble and frost.

Reheating

Since this is a frosted cake, reheating is typically not necessary. However, if you’d like to serve it slightly warmer, let slices come to room temperature or warm a small piece in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, being careful not to melt the frosting.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree is a convenient and reliable choice that works perfectly in this Pumpkin Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains sugars and spices.

Can I substitute regular milk for buttermilk?

You can make a simple buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This keeps the cake tender and gives the proper tang the recipe calls for.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend of equal measurement, preferably one designed for baking. Just be mindful that the texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.

How thick should I frost each layer?

Generously spread about 1/3 to 1/2 inch of frosting between each cake layer to ensure each slice is moist and balanced. You don’t want the frosting to overpower the pumpkin flavor, but plenty of it for that creamy finish.

Can this cake be made in advance for a party?

Yes! You can bake the layers a day or two ahead and store them wrapped in the fridge. Assemble and frost the day of the event to keep the fresh appearance and texture. This helps reduce last-minute kitchen stress.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about sharing a slice of homemade Pumpkin Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe with your loved ones. It’s more than just dessert—it’s a celebration of flavors that remind us of comfort, warmth, and togetherness. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying this recipe for the first time, the joy of bringing this classic cake to your table is something everyone deserves. So go ahead, bake this beauty, and embrace the delicious magic of pumpkin season in every bite!

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