Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

The Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is the ultimate autumn dessert. This moist and flavorful pumpkin cake is layered with smooth cinnamon cream cheese frosting, creating a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether it’s a fall birthday, Thanksgiving celebration, or just a cozy weekend at home, this cake will be the star of your dessert table. With its warm spices and irresistible flavors, it truly feels like a warm hug in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and cinnamon creates a rich and comforting taste that everyone will love.
  • Moist Texture: This cake remains incredibly moist thanks to the pumpkin purée and oil, ensuring every slice is soft and tender.
  • Versatile for Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because—you can serve this cake anytime.
  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all levels.
  • Beautiful Presentation: The layers of pumpkin cake topped with frosting make for an impressive dessert that looks as great as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

To make the most out of your baking experience, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to create the perfect Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Stand mixer or hand mixer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking pans (two 9-inch round)
  • Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

  • Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools help achieve a fluffy frosting and well-mixed batter without much effort.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success, ensuring your cake turns out perfectly every time.

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). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin spice. Whisk them together until well blended.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the dark brown sugar, pumpkin purée, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Use a stand mixer on medium speed until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Beat on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix—this keeps your cake light and airy.

Step 5: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake in preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Step 6: Prepare Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together softened butter and cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed. Add ground cinnamon and vanilla extract; beat until light and fluffy.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

Once cooled, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides as desired. Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate any gathering. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive celebration, this cake is sure to impress your guests.

For Afternoon Tea

  • Slice and serve: Offer individual slices alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
  • Garnish with nuts: Top each slice with chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.

As a Birthday Cake

  • Layered presentation: Decorate the cake with extra frosting and seasonal decorations like miniature pumpkins for a festive birthday touch.
  • Personalized candles: Add personalized candles that match the theme of the party to make it even more special.

Accompanied by Ice Cream

  • Serve warm with ice cream: Heat up a slice and add a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on top for a comforting dessert experience.
  • Drizzle chocolate sauce: A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce can take this combination to another level of indulgence.

At Holiday Gatherings

  • Festive platter: Create a dessert platter featuring slices of pumpkin cake along with other fall-inspired sweets for variety.
  • Pair with spiced cider: Offer warm spiced apple cider alongside the cake to enhance the autumn flavors.
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How to Perfect Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Making the perfect Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for an outstanding result.

  • Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring that your eggs, oil, and pumpkin purée are at room temperature helps create a better batter consistency.
  • Don’t overmix the batter: Mix until just combined to keep your cake moist and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to tough texture.
  • Check doneness with a toothpick: Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready. This prevents drying out.
  • Cool completely before frosting: Let the layers cool entirely before spreading frosting, which helps prevent melting and sliding.
  • Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the pumpkin spice mix according to your taste preferences for an extra kick.
  • Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days, ensuring freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with Pumpkin Cake can enhance its flavor profile. Here are some excellent options to consider.

  1. Apple Crisp – A warm apple crisp complements the spices in pumpkin cake beautifully, creating a classic fall dessert duo.
  2. Spiced Whipped Cream – Lightly sweetened whipped cream infused with nutmeg or cinnamon adds creaminess and balances the flavors.
  3. Chai Tea Latte – The rich spices in chai tea pair perfectly, bringing warmth and comfort alongside each slice.
  4. Caramel Sauce Dip – A sweet caramel dip served on the side allows guests to indulge further by drizzling over their cake slices.
  5. Cheesecake Bites – Mini cheesecake bites provide creamy contrast while maintaining that cozy autumn vibe.
  6. Maple Syrup Drizzle – A light drizzle of maple syrup over each slice enhances sweetness without overpowering the cake’s flavor.

These suggestions will surely elevate your serving experience! Enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

  • Using cold ingredients: Always use room temperature ingredients. Cold eggs or pumpkin purée can prevent the cake from rising properly.
  • Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy texture.
  • Skipping the spice blend: Don’t skip or skimp on pumpkin spice. It provides essential flavor that makes your cake truly delicious.
  • Not checking doneness: Use a toothpick to check if your cake is done. If it comes out clean, it’s ready; otherwise, give it more time.
  • Ignoring cooling times: Allow the cake layers to cool fully before frosting. Frosting a warm cake can cause it to melt and slide off.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container.
  • The cake will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

  • Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer-safe container.
  • It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
  • Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds. Keep an eye on it to avoid overheating.
  • Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make this pumpkin cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the layers ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freeze them until you’re ready to frost.

What type of pumpkin purée should I use?

Canned pumpkin purée works best for consistency, but you can also make your own from fresh pumpkins if desired.

How do I make homemade pumpkin spice?

Combine 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp nutmeg, 1/2 tsp ginger, and 1/4 tsp allspice together for a quick blend.

Can I substitute cream cheese frosting with another icing?

Absolutely! A vanilla buttercream or whipped cream could be delightful alternatives if you prefer something different.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is not only a treat but also a cozy addition to any gathering. Its moist layers and rich flavors make it perfect for celebrations or as an everyday dessert. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or different spices to suit your taste!

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Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting


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  • Author: Grace
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

Description

Indulge in the ultimate autumn delight with this Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting. This moist pumpkin layer cake is infused with warm spices and topped with a luscious cinnamon cream cheese icing that takes every bite to new heights of flavor. Perfect for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving celebrations, or simply a cozy weekend treat, this cake is sure to impress both family and friends. Its beautiful layers and comforting taste evoke the essence of the season, making it a must-try dessert.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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
  • 450 g dark brown sugar
  • 560 g pumpkin purée (room temperature)
  • 150 g oil (room temperature)
  • 4 eggs (room temperature)
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 300 g butter
  • 150 g full-fat cream cheese
  • 540 g powdered sugar
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round baking pans.
  2. In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin spice.
  3. In another bowl, mix dark brown sugar, pumpkin purée, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
  4. Gradually combine dry ingredients into wet ingredients using a mixer on low speed until just blended.
  5. Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  6. Cool the cakes for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks.
  7. For frosting, beat softened butter and cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla until fluffy.
  8. Frost the cooled cake layers as desired and enjoy!
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 28g
  • Sodium: 245mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

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