Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

This Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect dessert for any occasion. It’s moist, flavorful, and infused with warm pumpkin spice, making it a delightful treat for fall gatherings or cozy family dinners. Each slice is topped with a rich caramel cream cheese frosting that elevates the cake to a whole new level of indulgence. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or simply craving something sweet, this recipe is sure to impress!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a warm and inviting taste that everyone will love.
• Moist Texture: This cake stays moist and tender thanks to the vegetable oil and pumpkin puree.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for holiday celebrations, potlucks, or just a cozy night in.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, you can whip up this cake even if you’re not an experienced baker.
• Impressive Presentation: The caramel cream cheese frosting adds elegance that makes this cake look as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will make your experience enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Whisk
• Electric mixer
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without splatter.
• Electric mixer: Makes beating eggs and mixing frosting quick and easy.
• 9×13 inch baking pan: Perfect size for baking this delicious pumpkin cake evenly.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup vegetable oil (or canola)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 15 oz can pumpkin puree

For the Frosting

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 6 oz cream cheese (full fat brick style)
• 1/2 cup salted caramel (see below or buy your own)
• 2-3 cups powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons whipping cream (as needed)

For the Salted Caramel Sauce (if making homemade)

• 1 cup white sugar
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter (cut into 5 pieces)
• 1/2 cup whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt

How to Make Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
3. 2 teaspoons baking powder
4. 1 teaspoon baking soda
5. 1/4 teaspoon salt

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix:
1. 1 cup vegetable oil
2. 1 cup brown sugar
3. 1/2 cup white sugar
4. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Stir in:
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 15 oz can of pumpkin puree

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture while stirring until just combined.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for approximately 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool the Cake

Remove from oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

While cooling, prepare the frosting by beating together:
1. 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter
2. 6 oz cream cheese
3. Add in:
– ½ cup salted caramel
– Gradually mix in powdered sugar until desired consistency is achieved.
4. If too thick, add in whipping cream as needed.

Step 8: Frost the Cake

Once completely cooled, spread the caramel cream cheese frosting over your pumpkin cake generously.

Enjoy every slice of this Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving this Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting is a delight! It pairs beautifully with various accompaniments and can be enjoyed in multiple ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream complements the rich flavors of the cake.
• A scoop of cinnamon ice cream adds an extra layer of warmth.

Drizzled with Extra Caramel Sauce

• A light drizzle of caramel sauce on top enhances the sweetness.
• Serve warm for a gooey, indulgent treat.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Light and fluffy whipped cream balances the cake’s richness.
• Add a sprinkle of pumpkin spice over the whipped cream for added flair.

Served with Coffee or Tea

• Pairing this cake with coffee brings out its spices nicely.
• Enjoy it alongside a chai latte for a cozy afternoon treat.

As a Festive Centerpiece

• Use decorative plates and garnishes to make it visually appealing.
• Perfect for holiday gatherings, this cake shines as a centerpiece.

On a Dessert Platter

• Slice into smaller pieces and arrange on a platter for easy sharing.
• Include seasonal fruits like pears or apples for added color and flavor.

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How to Perfect Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

To achieve the best results, here are some helpful tips for making your Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting even more delicious.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially eggs and dairy, are fresh for optimal taste.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the cake tender and moist.
• Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done baking.
• Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your frosting and adjust sweetness by adding more powdered sugar if needed.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for best freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Cake can enhance your meal. Here are some delightful options that go well together.

1. Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider offers cozy flavors that complement pumpkin perfectly.
2. Roasted Cinnamon Butternut Squash: This dish’s sweetness pairs well with the rich taste of pumpkin cake.
3. Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts: The nutty flavors enhance the spices in your cake while providing a savory contrast.
4. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich mashed potatoes balance the sweetness of dessert, making it great for holiday feasts.
5. Candied Yams: Sweet yams bring an extra touch of autumn flavor to your table alongside this dessert.
6. Pecan Salad: A refreshing salad topped with pecans adds crunch and cuts through the richness of the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using stale ingredients: Always check that your baking powder and spices are fresh. Stale ingredients can ruin the flavor and texture of your cake.
• Skipping the sifting step: Not sifting the flour can lead to a dense cake. Sift your dry ingredients together for a lighter, fluffier texture.
• Not measuring correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you add the right amounts of each ingredient.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can result in a tough cake. Stir until just combined to keep your cake tender and moist.
• Ignoring cooling time: Trying to frost the cake while it’s still warm can cause the frosting to melt. Make sure your cake is completely cool before adding frosting.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pumpkin cake in an airtight container.
• It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; be sure to label them with the date.

Reheating Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Warm individual slices on high for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

No, pumpkin pie filling contains added spices and sugar. Use plain pumpkin puree for this recipe.

How do I make my frosting thicker?

If your caramel cream cheese frosting is too thin, gradually add powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

Yes! Substitute cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese and use coconut or almond milk instead of whipping cream.

Can I add nuts to my Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add great flavor and texture. Just fold them into the batter before baking.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you serve it at a cozy gathering or as a comforting treat at home, it’s bound to impress everyone. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or experimenting with spices!

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Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

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• Author: Lia
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 18 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warmth of autumn with this delightful Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting. Moist and flavorful, this cake features a perfect blend of pumpkin and spices that make it an ideal dessert for fall gatherings or cozy family dinners. Topped with rich caramel cream cheese frosting, each slice is a decadent treat that will impress your guests. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a casual get-together, this cake is sure to be a hit for any occasion.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 15 oz can pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 6 oz cream cheese (full fat brick style)
• 1/2 cup salted caramel
• 2–3 cups powdered sugar
• 1–2 tablespoons whipping cream (as needed)
• 1 cup white sugar (for salted caramel sauce)
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter (cut into 5 pieces, for salted caramel sauce)
• 1/2 cup whipping cream (for salted caramel sauce)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for salted caramel sauce)
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt (for salted caramel sauce)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix vegetable oil, brown sugar, and eggs until well combined. Stir in vanilla extract and pumpkin puree.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Cool cake for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
7. For frosting, beat together softened butter and cream cheese. Mix in salted caramel and powdered sugar until desired consistency is achieved.
8. Once cake is completely cooled, frost generously with caramel cream cheese frosting.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 85g)
• Calories: 295
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 198mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 63mg