Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

This Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Its moist texture and rich flavor, enhanced by pumpkin spice, make it a standout dessert. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress. The luscious caramel cream cheese frosting adds a decadent touch that elevates every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Flavorful: This cake is incredibly moist and packed with the warm flavors of fall.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for gatherings, birthdays, or simply as an afternoon snack with coffee or tea.
• Stunning Presentation: The combination of pumpkin cake and caramel frosting looks beautiful on any table.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This cake serves up to 15 people, making it ideal for sharing with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting successfully, having the right tools is essential. These will help ensure that your cake comes out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Electric mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are crucial for combining your dry and wet ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: A whisk helps incorporate air into your batter, making the cake light and fluffy.
• Baking pan: An appropriate baking pan ensures even cooking throughout the cake.

Ingredients

For the Pumpkin Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup vegetable oil (or canola)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 15 oz can pumpkin puree

For the Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 6 oz cream cheese (full fat brick style)
• 1/2 cup salted caramel (see below or buy your own)
• 2–3 cups powdered sugar
• 1–2 tablespoons whipping cream (as needed)

For Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce

• 1 cup white sugar
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter (cut into 5 pieces)
• 1/2 cup whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt

How to Make Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking pan with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

Whisk until well blended.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together:
1 cup vegetable oil (or canola)
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup white sugar
Add in:
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Mix until fully combined.

Step 4: Add Pumpkin Puree

Fold in:
1 can pumpkin puree

Mix well until there are no lumps.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted in the center. Allow cooling completely before frosting.

Step 7: Make Frosting

For the frosting, beat together:
1/2 cup unsalted butter
6 oz cream cheese

Add:
1/2 cup salted caramel
Then gradually mix in:
Powdered sugar until smooth. Add whipping cream as necessary for desired consistency.

Step 8: Frost Your Cake

Once cooled, spread the caramel cream cheese frosting evenly over your pumpkin cake. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this delicious cake.

For a Cozy Gathering

• Coffee Pairing: Serve slices of pumpkin cake alongside freshly brewed coffee for a warm, comforting treat.
• Tea Time Delight: Pair with herbal or spiced teas for a soothing afternoon snack.

Special Occasions

• Birthday Celebrations: Decorate with festive sprinkles and candles to make it a showstopper birthday cake.
• Holiday Festivities: Garnish with cinnamon sticks and fall-themed decorations for a seasonal touch.

Simple Yet Elegant

• Plate Presentation: Serve on a rustic wooden board with slices arranged artfully, topped with drizzles of caramel sauce.
• Individual Servings: Cut into squares and serve on small plates for easy handling at parties.

Save this!

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

To ensure your Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh pumpkin puree and quality spices to enhance flavor.
• Measure Carefully: Accurate measurements of flour and sugar are crucial for the right texture.
• Allow Cooling Time: Let the cake cool completely before applying the frosting to prevent melting.
• Chill the Frosting: Refrigerating the cream cheese frosting can help achieve a thicker consistency that spreads easily.
• Frost Generously: Don’t be shy—add extra layers of frosting for a richer taste!
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

Pair your Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting with complementary side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some excellent options.

1. Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a luscious texture that contrasts beautifully with the dense cake.
2. Cinnamon Ice Cream: This creamy treat brings out the spices in the cake, making each bite even more delightful.
3. Spiced Nuts: A mix of roasted nuts coated in cinnamon sugar offers crunchy contrast and enhances autumn flavors.
4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can balance the sweetness of the cake, providing a light, zesty accompaniment.
5. Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling chocolate ganache over individual slices creates an indulgent twist on this classic dessert.
6. Caramel Sauce Dip: Serve additional caramel sauce on the side for those who love an extra drizzle over their cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking powder, spices, and flour. Stale ingredients can ruin the cake’s taste and texture.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for accurate measurements, especially for flour and sugar.
• Skipping the room temperature step: Ensure your eggs, butter, and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and better texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined to avoid developing gluten, which can lead to a tough cake.
• Not testing for doneness: Rely on a toothpick to check if your cake is done. Insert it in the center; if it comes out clean or with few crumbs, it’s ready!

Save this!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Cover the cake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain moisture.

Freezing Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 15-30 seconds until warm but not hot.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover it with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! You can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just make sure it is well-cooked and blended until smooth.

What can I substitute for vegetable oil?

You can use melted coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce as alternatives in equal amounts.

How do I make my frosting thicker?

Add more powdered sugar gradually until you reach your desired thickness while mixing continuously.

Can I make this Pumpkin Cake without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water).

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delightful but also versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor. It’s perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying at home! Try this recipe today and experience its cozy warmth that brings joy to any occasion.