Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall. With its soft and moist texture, this cake is perfect for gatherings, holiday dinners, or simply enjoying at home. The rich flavor of pumpkin, combined with warm spices and creamy frosting, makes it a standout dessert that everyone will love!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Cake
• For the Frosting
• How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare Your Cake Pans
• Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
• Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
• Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
• Step 6: Bake the Cakes
• Step 7: Cool the Cakes
• Step 8: Make the Frosting
• Step 9: Frost the Cake
• Step 10: Garnish and Serve
• How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting
• Pair with Coffee
• Add a Scoop of Ice Cream
• Garnish with Fresh Whipped Cream
• Serve with Caramel Sauce
• Include Seasonal Fruits
• Present on a Festive Platter
• How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting
• Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting
• Reheating Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes pumpkin spice cake unique?
• Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
• How do I decorate my Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting?
• Is this recipe suitable for Thanksgiving?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices makes every bite comforting and delicious.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a fall festival or Thanksgiving dinner, this cake fits right in.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and steps, even beginner bakers can create this masterpiece.
• Versatile Frosting: The brown sugar cream cheese frosting adds a unique twist that elevates the cake.
• Make Ahead Option: This cake stores well, allowing you to bake in advance for busy days.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 9-inch round cake pans
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool helps achieve a light and fluffy batter quickly, ensuring even mixing.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess; having multiple sizes allows for better organization.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls to make sure no ingredients are left behind.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 150 g White granulated sugar
• 150 g Brown sugar
• 2 tsp Vanilla extract
• 3 Eggs
• 180 ml Vegetable oil
• 400 g Pumpkin puree
• 230 g All purpose flour
• 2 tsp Baking powder
• 1 tsp Baking soda
• 2 tsp Cinnamon
• 1 tsp Ground ginger
• ¼ tsp Nutmeg
• ¼ tsp Ground cloves
• ⅛ tsp Ground black pepper

For the Frosting

• 150 g unsalted butter
• 80 g Brown sugar
• 160 g Cream cheese
• 220 g Icing sugar
• Orange food color
• Pumpkin seeds

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from start to finish.

Step 2: Prepare Your Cake Pans

Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray. You can also line them with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine all dry ingredients:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Baking soda
4. Spices: cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, ground cloves, and black pepper

Whisk together until well blended.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together:
1. White granulated sugar
2. Brown sugar
3. Vegetable oil
4. Eggs
5. Vanilla extract
6. Pumpkin puree

Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture while mixing on low speed. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

Pour equal amounts of batter into each prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool the Cakes

Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 8: Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Brown sugar
3. Cream cheese

Once creamy, gradually add in icing sugar until fully incorporated. Add orange food color as desired.

Step 9: Frost the Cake

Once cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top before placing the second layer on top. Finish by frosting the top and sides of the cake.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Top with pumpkin seeds for added crunch and flavor before slicing into 12 delicious pieces! Enjoy your Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting at any festive gathering!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving your Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate any gathering or holiday celebration. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this delicious dessert.

Pair with Coffee

• A warm cup of coffee complements the spices in the cake perfectly, enhancing the overall flavor.

Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream pairs wonderfully, adding creaminess that balances the moist cake.

Garnish with Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top with lightly sweetened whipped cream for an extra layer of richness and a beautiful presentation.

Serve with Caramel Sauce

• Drizzle caramel sauce over each slice for a sweet and decadent touch that enhances the pumpkin flavor.

Include Seasonal Fruits

• Fresh apples or pears can add a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the cake, making each bite refreshing.

Present on a Festive Platter

• Arrange slices on a decorative platter and sprinkle pumpkin seeds for a festive look that will impress your guests.

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How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

To ensure your Pumpkin Spice Cake is as delicious as possible, keep these tips in mind for perfect results.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow eggs and cream cheese to reach room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure accurately: Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to get precise amounts for consistent results.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Check doneness early: Start checking your cake about 5 minutes before the suggested baking time. A toothpick should come out clean when done.
• Cool completely before frosting: Let your cake cool completely before applying frosting. This prevents melting and ensures smoother application.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Spice Cake can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a savory crunch that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cake.
2. Butternut Squash Soup: A warm bowl of soup can complement the autumn flavors found in pumpkin spice cake.
3. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce pairs beautifully, balancing the sweetness of both the cake and frosting.
4. Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy mashed sweet potatoes provide another layer of fall flavors that harmonize well.
5. Garden Salad: A fresh salad with vinaigrette offers brightness, cutting through the richness of the cake.
6. Cheese Platter: Include various cheeses like sharp cheddar or brie for a savory option alongside your sweet dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a pumpkin spice cake can be delightful, but certain mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the room temperature ingredients: Cold eggs or cream cheese can cause the batter to curdle. Always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth blend.

• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can make your cake dense. Use the spoon-and-level method rather than scooping directly from the bag.

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can result in a tough texture. Stir gently until just combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.

• Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different. Start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended time to avoid overbaking.

• Forgetting to adjust for altitude: If you live at a high altitude, you may need to make changes in baking soda or flour. Research local adjustments for best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep it refrigerated, especially if you have leftover frosting.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place on a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering it for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes pumpkin spice cake unique?

Pumpkin spice cake combines warm spices like cinnamon and ginger with pumpkin puree, creating a moist and flavorful dessert that’s perfect for fall.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can! Just ensure it’s cooked and pureed smoothly before adding it to your batter.

How do I decorate my Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting?

You can sprinkle chopped nuts, drizzle caramel sauce, or add festive decorations like candy pumpkins on top of the frosting.

Is this recipe suitable for Thanksgiving?

Absolutely! This pumpkin spice cake is a wonderful dessert choice that embodies the flavors of the holiday season.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can customize it by adding nuts or adjusting spices according to your taste. Try this recipe today and enjoy its cozy flavors!