Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect way to celebrate fall and the holiday season. Its soft and moist texture combined with the rich, creamy frosting makes it a delightful dessert for gatherings, special occasions, or even a cozy night in. With warm spices and a hint of pumpkin flavor, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a comforting taste that embodies the essence of fall.
• Moist and Soft Texture: This cake stays wonderfully moist, making each bite tender and enjoyable.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for Thanksgiving, birthdays, or just an afternoon snack, this cake fits any occasion.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even beginner bakers can create this delicious dessert with ease.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The unique flavors of pumpkin spice and brown sugar cream cheese frosting are sure to win over any guest.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes baking more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Baking pans
• Spatula
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing ingredients, ensuring a smooth batter.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling or mess.
• Baking pans: Properly sized pans help the cake bake evenly.

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 your cake bakes evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine white granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix until well combined.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.
3. Stir in pumpkin puree until smooth.
4. In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, ground cloves, and ground black pepper.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture while stirring gently until just combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Grease your baking pans with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Pour the batter evenly into prepared pans.
3. Bake in preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

1. In a mixing bowl, beat unsalted butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add brown sugar and icing sugar while mixing on low speed.
3. Add cream cheese and beat until smooth and fluffy.
4. If desired, mix in orange food color to achieve your preferred hue.

Step 5: Assemble and Decorate

1. Once cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate.
2. Spread an even layer of frosting on top before adding the second layer.
3. Frost the top and sides of the cake as desired.
4. Sprinkle with pumpkin seeds for decoration before serving.

Enjoy this delightful Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting at your next gathering!

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

Pumpkin spice cake with brown sugar cream cheese frosting is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

For Coffee Lovers

• Pair it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee for a comforting afternoon treat.
• Try adding a dash of cinnamon to your coffee to complement the cake’s flavors.

As a Festive Dessert

• Serve slices on festive plates during Thanksgiving or Halloween celebrations.
• Garnish with pumpkin seeds and a sprinkle of cinnamon for visual appeal.

With Ice Cream

• Top each slice with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the ice cream for added sweetness.

At Breakfast

• Enjoy it as a sweet breakfast option alongside yogurt and fresh fruit.
• Toast slices lightly and spread with extra cream cheese frosting for extra flavor.

For Snack Time

• Cut into small squares and serve as bite-sized snacks at parties.
• Pair with tea for an elegant afternoon snack.

A La Mode

• Offer it warm, topped with whipped cream or additional frosting for a decadent touch.
• Add nuts or chocolate shavings on top for texture and flavor diversity.

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

To ensure your pumpkin spice cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps all components blend smoothly and creates a better texture.
• Measure flour correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level off to avoid dense cake.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Test doneness properly: Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is done baking.
• Cool completely before frosting: Allow the cake to cool fully so that the frosting doesn’t melt off.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature 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 elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts bring savory notes that balance sweetness.
2. Apple Salad: A fresh apple salad adds crunch and tartness, complementing the rich flavors of the cake.
3. Cheese Platter: Include cheeses like brie or goat cheese to provide creamy contrasts to the spiced cake.
4. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce pairs beautifully, enhancing both flavor and color on your plate.
5. Spiced Nuts: Serve a mix of spiced nuts as an appetizer; their crunchiness contrasts nicely with the soft cake texture.
6. Pumpkin Soup: Start your meal with warm pumpkin soup to create a themed dining experience before indulging in dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially with a delightful recipe like Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Incorrect measurement of ingredients: Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy. This ensures your cake turns out perfectly every time.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect the batter’s consistency. Allow eggs and cream cheese to reach room temperature before mixing.
• Skipping the frosting cooling period: Applying cream cheese frosting on a warm cake can cause it to melt. Let the cake cool completely before frosting for the best results.
• Ignoring oven calibration: An uncalibrated oven can lead to uneven baking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperatures.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Label the bags with the date for easy reference.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat slices for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for 15-20 seconds until warmed through; be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree! Just ensure it is cooked and blended until smooth.

How do I customize the flavor of my Pumpkin Spice Cake?

You can add nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips for an extra twist on this classic recipe!

Is there a gluten-free version of Pumpkin Spice Cake?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free option.

What is the best way to store leftover frosting?

Store any leftover brown sugar cream cheese frosting in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it right before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for fall gatherings or holiday celebrations, you can easily customize it by adding your favorite spices or toppings. Try this recipe today and enjoy its cozy flavors!

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Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

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• Author: Lia
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is the ultimate fall dessert, capturing the essence of autumn in every bite. This deliciously moist cake, featuring rich pumpkin flavor and warm spices, is perfectly topped with a creamy brown sugar cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a cozy evening at home, this cake will undoubtedly impress your family and friends. Indulge in this seasonal delight that combines comfort and celebration, making it an ideal centerpiece for your holiday table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 150 g white granulated sugar
• 150 g brown sugar
• 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
• 150 g unsalted butter
• 80 g brown sugar
• 160 g cream cheese
• 220 g icing sugar
• orange food color
• pumpkin seeds

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your baking pans.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine sugars and oil until smooth. Add eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract and pumpkin puree; mix well.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and spices. Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
4. Divide batter between prepared pans and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. For the frosting, beat butter until creamy, then gradually add sugars and cream cheese until fluffy.
6. Once cakes are cooled, frost layers generously before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
• Calories: 370
• Sugar: 32g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 55mg