Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

The Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect dessert that encapsulates the essence of fall. This delightful layered cake features moist pumpkin layers paired with creamy cinnamon frosting, making it ideal for celebrations or cozy family gatherings. Its warm spices and rich flavors create a comforting treat that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and cinnamon creates a mouthwatering taste that embodies the spirit of autumn.
• Moist Texture: This cake is incredibly moist thanks to pumpkin purée, ensuring a tender bite in every slice.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any fall gathering, this cake suits various events and celebrations.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this impressive dessert without stress.
• Stunning Presentation: Layered cakes are visually appealing, making this dessert a showstopper on any table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cake pans (two 9-inch)
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and energy while whipping up the frosting to a fluffy consistency.
• Cake pans: Ensures even baking and helps achieve perfectly shaped layers for your cake.
• Cooling rack: Allows cakes to cool evenly, preventing sogginess on the bottom.

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
• 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 cake pans to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Baking soda
4. Salt
5. Pumpkin spice

Set aside once well mixed.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine:
1. Dark brown sugar
2. Pumpkin purée
3. Oil
4. Eggs
5. Vanilla extract

Mix until smooth using an electric mixer.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture:
1. Mix on low speed until just combined.
2. Be careful not to overmix; stop once no dry flour remains.

Step 5: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter equally between the prepared pans:
1. Bake in preheated oven for about 25 minutes.
2. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when done.

Step 6: Cool Cakes

Remove from oven and let cakes cool in pans for about 10 minutes:
1. Carefully transfer to a cooling rack.
2. Allow them to cool completely before frosting.

Step 7: Make Frosting

While cakes cool, prepare the frosting:
1. In a large bowl, beat together butter and cream cheese until fluffy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
3. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

Once cakes are cool:
1. Place one layer on a serving plate.
2. Spread an even layer of frosting on top.
3. Add second layer and frost top and sides as desired.

Enjoy your homemade Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting! This delightful dessert will surely impress your guests while celebrating fall flavors in style.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving your Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate your dessert experience. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive party, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

Pair with Hot Beverages

• Coffee: A rich cup of coffee complements the spices in the cake wonderfully.
• Spiced Tea: The warmth of spiced tea enhances the autumn flavors in every bite.
• Hot Chocolate: Indulge in a classic pairing that adds a sweet, creamy touch.

Add Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Apples: Crunchy apples offer a fresh contrast to the moist cake.
• Pears: Soft, juicy pears bring sweetness that balances the spiced flavors.
• Berries: A mix of berries adds tartness and a pop of color to your plate.

Garnish Creatively

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of cream lightens the richness of the frosting.
• Caramel Drizzle: A drizzle of caramel sauce introduces an extra layer of sweetness.

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How to Perfect Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

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

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ingredients like eggs and pumpkin purée blend more easily, resulting in a smoother batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
• Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when done.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allowing the layers to cool fully prevents melting your cream cheese frosting.
• Adjust Spices as Desired: Feel free to tweak spices for your perfect flavor balance.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers covered in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Cake can enhance its flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels: These warm pretzels provide a sweet and salty contrast that guests will love.
2. Maple Roasted Vegetables: The sweetness from maple syrup complements the pumpkin perfectly.
3. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich and buttery mashed potatoes offer a comforting side that contrasts well with dessert.
4. Savory Stuffing: A herbed stuffing can add depth and balance against the sweetness of the cake.
5. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots add a colorful, nutritious element to your meal.
6. Green Salad with Vinaigrette: A light salad helps cleanse the palate between bites of cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting can be simple, but there are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Inaccurate Measurements: Ensure that all ingredients are measured correctly. Use kitchen scales for dry ingredients and measuring cups for liquids to avoid inconsistencies in the cake texture.

• Ignoring Room Temperature Ingredients: Using ingredients like eggs and cream cheese directly from the fridge can affect the blending process. Always bring these items to room temperature for a smoother batter.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined, especially after adding flour, to keep your cake light and fluffy.

• Not Preheating the Oven: Skipping preheating can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat your oven at least 10 minutes before placing the cake inside for optimal results.

• Skipping the Cooling Time: Cutting the cake before it has cooled properly can cause it to crumble. Allow your pumpkin cake to cool completely before frosting it for the best presentation.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover pumpkin cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap slices of pumpkin cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat slices wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make sure my pumpkin cake stays moist?

To ensure your pumpkin cake remains moist, use room temperature ingredients and avoid overbaking. Adding a bit of oil also helps retain moisture.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes, you can use roasted fresh pumpkin as a substitute for canned puree. Just make sure it’s blended until smooth and has enough moisture.

What is the best way to frost this pumpkin layer cake?

Use a spatula or piping bag to spread cinnamon cream cheese frosting evenly between layers and on top of the cake. For a decorative touch, consider adding nuts or chocolate shavings.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends that measure cup-for-cup. You may need to adjust baking times slightly depending on the blend used.

How long does cinnamon cream cheese frosting last?

Cinnamon cream cheese frosting can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Make sure it’s well covered to maintain freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for fall gatherings or any celebration, you can customize this recipe by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even swapping out spices. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!