Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle
One bite of this Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle and you’ll never want another cake ever again. This delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy fall gathering or a festive holiday celebration. The unique combination of spices and the creamy frosting topped with rich caramel makes this cake truly stand out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The warm spices and creamy frosting create a deliciously memorable dessert.
- Versatile Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a treat for yourself!
- Easy to Make: Simple steps that make baking enjoyable for both beginners and experienced bakers.
- Showstopper Presentation: Beautiful layers drizzled with caramel will impress your guests.
- Comforting Ingredients: Pumpkin puree adds moisture and flavor, making every slice tender and mouthwatering.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into baking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process of making your Pumpkin Cake.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Cake pans (8-inch)
- Piping bag or squeeze bottle
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Makes creaming ingredients easy, ensuring a smooth batter.
- Rubber spatula: Essential for scraping down the sides of bowls to incorporate all ingredients.
- Cake pans: Proper size ensures even baking and beautiful cake layers.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ginger
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Salted Caramel Drizzle
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons butter, room temperature
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 8 oz butter, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 7 cups powdered sugar
How to Make Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans and set them aside.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine:
pumpkin puree
granulated sugar
vegetable oil
eggs (make sure they are at room temperature)
vanilla extract
Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
all-purpose flour
baking powder
baking soda
cinnamon
nutmeg
ginger
salt
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers
Evenly pour the batter into the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting.
Step 6: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat:
1. Heat the sugar while stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes.
2. Once melted and golden in color, remove from heat and stir in butter carefully (the mixture will bubble).
3. Add heavy cream, stirring until fully combined. Return to low heat for about 30 seconds while stirring continuously.
4. Remove from heat again, stir in salt, and let it cool at room temperature.
Step 7: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting
In your stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment:
1. Beat butter and cream cheese on high speed until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
2. Mix in vanilla extract, salt, and powdered sugar; whip until smooth (another 2 minutes).
Step 8: Assemble Your Cake
Place the first layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous dollop of frosting on top before layering the next cake. Repeat this process with all three layers. Finish by frosting the outer sides of the cake.
Step 9: Add Salted Caramel Drizzle
Pour slightly cooled salted caramel into a piping bag or squeeze bottle:
1. Starting from the center of the cake, create a spiral pattern outward towards the edges.
2. Make small zig-zag movements as you reach the edge for an elegant finish.
Step 10: Optional Decoration
For an extra touch, decorate your cake with fresh figs, pomegranate seeds, or blackberries for color and flavor!
Enjoy making this delightful Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle!
How to Serve Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle
Serving pumpkin cake with cream cheese frosting and salted caramel drizzle is all about enhancing its rich flavors. Whether it’s for a festive gathering or a cozy family dinner, these suggestions will elevate your dessert experience.
Pair with a Warm Beverage
- Coffee: The boldness of coffee complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
- Spiced Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai brings out the warm spices in the cake.
- Hot Chocolate: Indulge in a rich hot chocolate for a comforting experience.
Add Fresh Fruits
- Berries: Raspberries or blueberries add a tart contrast to the sweet cake.
- Figs: Fresh figs provide a luxurious touch and pair well with cream cheese frosting.
- Pomegranate Seeds: These add crunch and a pop of color, making your dessert visually appealing.
Use Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture balances the dense pumpkin cake perfectly.
- Cinnamon Ice Cream: Enhance the spice profile with this delightful pairing.
Garnish Creatively
- Whipped Cream: A dollop on top adds lightness to each slice.
- Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans for added crunch and flavor.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle
To achieve the ultimate pumpkin cake experience, follow these tips for perfect results every time.
- Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: Opt for homemade puree to enhance flavor and texture.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Don’t Overmix Batter: Stir just until combined to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
- Check Oven Temperature: Always verify that your oven is calibrated correctly for even baking.
- Cool Layers Completely: Allow each layer to cool before frosting to avoid melting your frosting.
- Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle
Pairing side dishes with pumpkin cake can create a harmonious dining experience. Here are some excellent choices to serve alongside your delicious dessert.
- Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon and nutmeg enhance the fall flavors.
- Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses, especially creamy varieties like Brie, pairs nicely with the sweetness of the cake.
- Apple Crisp: This warm dessert introduces a fruity element that complements pumpkin well.
- Autumn Salad: A salad featuring mixed greens, roasted squash, and cranberries offers a fresh contrast.
- Caramelized Brussels Sprouts: The savory notes balance out the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
- Pumpkin Soup: For true pumpkin lovers, serving soup enhances the seasonal theme while keeping it cozy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle can be delightful, but small mistakes could ruin your efforts. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.
- Using Non-Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold eggs and cream cheese can lead to a lumpy frosting. Always set them out ahead of time for a smooth mix.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too vigorously can create a dense cake. Stir just until the ingredients are combined for a light texture.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using too much flour or sugar can throw off your cake. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Frosting a warm cake leads to melting frosting. Allow your cake layers to cool completely before decorating.
- Ignoring Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary, which affects baking time. Always use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy for perfect results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The pumpkin cake can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap.
- Freeze for up to 2 months; just ensure they are well-protected from freezer burn.
Reheating Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place the cake on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds or until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Place slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about making this delicious dessert, here are some frequently asked questions regarding the Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
Yes! Just cook and puree your pumpkin until smooth. Make sure it’s well-drained before using it in the recipe.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring it has xanthan gum included for proper texture.
What if I don’t have salted caramel sauce?
You can make a quick version by melting sugar, adding butter and cream, or you can use store-bought caramel sauce as an alternative.
How do I decorate my Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle?
Add seasonal toppings like nuts, chocolate shavings, or seasonal fruits such as figs or pomegranates for an attractive finish.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle is not just delicious; it’s also versatile! You can customize it by adding spices or different toppings according to your taste preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy its cozy flavors!
Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 people 1x
Description
Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle is the ultimate dessert to celebrate the flavors of fall. This moist and flavorful cake is infused with warm spices, perfectly complemented by a rich cream cheese frosting and a decadent salted caramel drizzle. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply indulging yourself, this cake promises to be a showstopper that will leave everyone craving more. Easy to make, yet impressive in presentation, it’s the perfect treat for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion. Dive into this delightful recipe and savor each slice of autumn bliss!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger)
- Cream cheese (for frosting)
- Heavy cream (for caramel)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans.
- In a large bowl, mix pumpkin puree, sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes.
- For the salted caramel sauce: melt sugar over medium heat until golden; stir in butter and cream; cool slightly before adding salt.
- For the cream cheese frosting: beat softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy; add powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.
- Layer cooled cakes with frosting in between; frost the outer sides and drizzle with salted caramel.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
