Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Hands down, the Pumpkin Bundt Cake is the best pumpkin cake you’ll ever try! This moist bundt cake boasts a delicious pumpkin flavor complemented by warm spices and a luscious cream cheese glaze. It’s easier to make than pumpkin pie and perfect for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a rich, comforting taste that embodies the essence of fall.
- Moist Texture: Using oil instead of butter keeps this cake incredibly moist, making it delightful with every bite.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up this stunning dessert without stress.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as is, or add a drizzle of glaze for extra sweetness; it’s perfect for any occasion.
- Great for Leftovers: This cake stays fresh for days, making it an ideal treat to enjoy throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To create the ultimate Pumpkin Bundt Cake, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes baking smoother and helps achieve the best results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Bundt pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (or whisk)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Bundt pan: The unique shape enhances presentation and helps create a perfectly baked cake with even texture.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing batter, ensuring all ingredients are combined thoroughly for optimal flavor.
- Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down sides of bowls to incorporate every bit of batter, preventing waste.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice (or make your own – see recipe notes)
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup vegetable oil (or canola)
– 1 cup white sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 3 large eggs
– 1 15 oz can pure pumpkin (NOT pumpkin pie filling)
– 1 tablespoon butter (softened)
– 3 oz cream cheese (softened)
– 1 cup powdered sugar (or more as needed)
– 1–2 tablespoons milk
How to Make Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure the oven is fully heated before placing your cake inside.
Step 2: Prepare the Bundt Pan
Grease and flour your bundt pan generously. This step is crucial to ensure that your cake releases easily after baking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Whisk together until well blended.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together:
1 cup vegetable oil
1 cup white sugar
3/4 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1 can pure pumpkin
Mix until smooth using an electric mixer or whisk.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan. Bake in preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Glaze
Let the cake cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack. Once cooled completely, prepare your cream cheese glaze by mixing softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and softened butter together until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake before serving.
Now you have a delightful Pumpkin Bundt Cake ready to impress! Enjoy each slice during those cozy fall evenings or share with friends at gatherings.
How to Serve Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Serving a delicious Pumpkin Bundt Cake can elevate any gathering or festive occasion. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delightful dessert.
With a Cream Cheese Glaze
- Drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the cake right before serving for added sweetness and flavor.
Pair with Whipped Cream
- Serve slices alongside a dollop of freshly whipped cream to enhance the cake’s moist texture.
Add Fresh Fruit
- Top each slice with fresh fruit like sliced apples, pears, or berries for a refreshing contrast.
Offer Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the spices in the cake and adds a creamy texture.
Use Caramel Sauce
- Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cake for an indulgent treat that brings out the pumpkin flavor.
Serve with Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy slices of Pumpkin Bundt Cake with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Making a perfect Pumpkin Bundt Cake is easy with these simple tips to ensure your cake turns out moist and flavorful every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Always use fresh eggs and pure pumpkin puree for the best taste and texture.
- Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy, avoiding a dense texture.
- Grease Your Pan Well – Properly grease your bundt pan to ensure easy removal after baking.
- Cool Before Glazing – Allow your cake to cool completely before adding glaze to prevent it from melting away.
- Add Nuts or Chocolate Chips – For added texture, consider folding in walnuts or chocolate chips into the batter.
- Store Correctly – Keep leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Bundt Cake can create a delightful spread. Here are some great options that complement this dessert beautifully.
- Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses like brie and sharp cheddar pairs well with the sweet flavors of pumpkin.
- Savory Scones – Cheese scones or herb scones provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
- Autumn Salad – A mixed greens salad with cranberries and pecans adds freshness and crunch.
- Roasted Vegetables – Warm roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes enhance fall flavors on your table.
- Pumpkin Soup – A comforting bowl of pumpkin soup can seamlessly tie into your pumpkin-themed meal.
- Biscuits – Fluffy buttermilk biscuits serve as a great side, offering a buttery taste that complements desserts nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Pumpkin Bundt Cake can be easy, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Using pumpkin pie filling – Many people confuse canned pumpkin with pumpkin pie filling. Always use pure pumpkin puree for the best results.
- Skipping the spices – The warm spices elevate the flavor of your cake. Don’t skip the pumpkin pie spice or any other spices you enjoy!
- Not measuring ingredients accurately – Baking is a science. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure accuracy.
- Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light, fluffy texture.
- Using a cold oven – Preheat your oven before baking. A cold oven can ruin your cake’s texture and rise.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep the cream cheese glaze separate until ready to serve.
Freezing Pumpkin Bundt Cake
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating Pumpkin Bundt Cake
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop – Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Pumpkin Bundt Cake so moist?
The combination of vegetable oil and pure pumpkin puree keeps this cake incredibly moist and flavorful.
Can I make this Pumpkin Bundt Cake gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.
How do I know when my Pumpkin Bundt Cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready!
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Fold in walnuts or chocolate chips into the batter for added texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Bundt Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or adjusting spices to suit your taste. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy family dinners, this cake is sure to bring joy and warmth to your table. Give it a try!
Pumpkin Bundt Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Description
Experience the ultimate fall indulgence with our Pumpkin Bundt Cake, a delightful dessert that boasts a moist texture infused with rich pumpkin flavor and warm spices. Topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze, this cake is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for any gathering, from festive holidays to cozy evenings at home. With its impressive appearance and comforting taste, this Pumpkin Bundt Cake will quickly become a seasonal favorite. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with whipped cream or ice cream, every slice is a celebration of autumn’s best flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup white sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin
- Cream cheese glaze ingredients (butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a bundt pan.
- In one bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix vegetable oil, white and brown sugars, vanilla extract, eggs, and pumpkin until smooth.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture; stir gently until combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for ten minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once cooled completely, drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
