Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect addition to your fall dessert table. Its soft, moist texture and warm spices create a comforting treat that’s ideal for Thanksgiving, Halloween gatherings, or simply enjoying on a cozy afternoon. The rich brown sugar cream cheese frosting adds a delightful sweetness that elevates this cake to a new level of indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavors: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a deliciously cozy taste that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual family dinner, this cake fits right in.
• Simple to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can enjoy creating this scrumptious dessert.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it plain, with frosting, or topped with pumpkin seeds for added texture.
• Moist and Tender Texture: The use of pumpkin puree ensures each slice is incredibly moist and flavorful.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is crucial.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool makes it easy to achieve a fluffy cake batter and creamy frosting without much effort.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of bowls to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

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 (optional)
• Pumpkin seeds (for garnish)

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.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the white granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix until smooth.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition; then stir in vanilla extract and pumpkin puree.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, ground cloves, and black pepper.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray.
2. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
3. Bake in preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Let cakes cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Frosting

1. In a mixing bowl, beat unsalted butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add brown sugar and cream cheese; continue beating until smooth.
3. Slowly incorporate icing sugar until fully blended; add orange food color if desired.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled:
1. Place one layer on a serving plate and spread an even layer of frosting on top.
2. Add the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
3. Garnish with pumpkin seeds for added crunch.

Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting!

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

Serving pumpkin spice cake with brown sugar cream cheese frosting can elevate your dessert experience. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy afternoon treat, here are some delightful ways to serve this delicious cake.

Warm with a Cup of Coffee

• Pairing this cake with a warm cup of coffee enhances the flavors. The spicy notes of the cake complement the rich taste of coffee perfectly.

Topped with Additional Frosting

• For those who can’t get enough frosting, add an extra dollop of brown sugar cream cheese frosting on top. It adds a decadent touch that everyone will love.

Garnished with Pumpkin Seeds

• Sprinkle some roasted pumpkin seeds on top for added crunch and flavor. This simple garnish makes your presentation pop while adding texture.

Served with Whipped Cream

• A side of freshly whipped cream can make each slice even more indulgent. The lightness of the cream balances the cake’s richness beautifully.

Chilled for Refreshment

• Serve slices chilled for a refreshing dessert option during warmer days. The cool frosting combined with the spiced cake is sure to please.

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

To create the perfect pumpkin spice cake with brown sugar cream cheese frosting, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: Fresh puree offers better flavor than canned options. If using canned, ensure it’s pure pumpkin without additives.

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and frosting.

• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready! This ensures your cake is perfectly baked.

• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow your cake to cool down entirely before adding frosting. This prevents it from melting and ensures even coverage.

• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh and delicious for several days!

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

Pairing sides with your pumpkin spice cake can enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent side dish suggestions:

1. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm drink that complements the spices in the cake perfectly.

2. Roasted Butternut Squash Salad: A salad featuring roasted squash adds a savory contrast to the sweetness of the cake.

3. Pecan Pie Bites: Mini desserts provide variety while keeping in line with fall flavors.

4. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses offers a savory balance against sweet desserts.

5. Cranberry Sauce: This tart sauce contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of pumpkin spice cake.

6. Maple Glazed Carrots: Sweet and earthy, these carrots enhance the autumnal theme.

7. Pumpkin Soup: Start your meal with a warm bowl that echoes pumpkin flavors from dessert.

8. Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Creamy and sweet, they make an excellent side that pairs harmoniously with spiced desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking a Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir just until combined for a lighter texture.
• Incorrect Measurements: Using the wrong amounts of ingredients can ruin the flavor and texture. Always measure accurately using kitchen scales or measuring cups.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Starting with an unheated oven can affect baking time and cake rise. Preheat your oven for at least 15 minutes before baking.
• Ignoring Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold eggs or butter can lead to uneven mixing. Let eggs and butter sit out for about 30 minutes before using them.
• Skimping on Frosting: A thin layer of frosting may not hold the flavors well. Generously frost your cake for a balanced taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the cake in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the fridge without losing moisture.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place the slice on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm but not hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, covering it, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting.

Can I use fresh pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can substitute fresh pumpkin puree for canned. Ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

How can I customize the frosting?

You can add spices like nutmeg or vanilla extract for extra flavor. You might also try adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips.

Is this cake suitable for Thanksgiving?

Absolutely! This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect as a festive dessert option.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is an inviting treat perfect for autumn gatherings and holiday celebrations. Its moist texture, combined with sweet frosting, makes it irresistible. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or adjusting spices to suit your taste!