Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of fall, this Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is just the treat you need. The warm spices mingle beautifully with the pumpkin puree, creating a cake that’s not only soft and moist but also bursting with flavor. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this cake will surely bring smiles to everyone’s faces.

What makes this recipe special is its versatility. It’s perfect for holiday celebrations like Thanksgiving or simply as a sweet treat on busy weeknights. Plus, the brown sugar cream cheese frosting adds a delightful sweetness that complements the spiced cake perfectly—making every bite irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Spiced: Every slice is packed with warm spices like cinnamon and ginger, making it a true autumn delight.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, even novice bakers can whip up this lovely cake without fuss.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this tasty treat—it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it ahead of time! It stays moist and flavorful, which makes it perfect for preparing in advance.
• Stunning Presentation: The beautiful frosting and decorations make it an eye-catching centerpiece for your dessert table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting:

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

Variations

One of the best things about baking is how flexible recipes can be! Feel free to try these fun variations for your Pumpkin Spice Cake:

• Add nuts: Stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Use different spices: If you love nutmeg, feel free to bump up the amount or add a dash of allspice.
• Mix in chocolate chips: For a sweet twist, fold in some semi-sweet chocolate chips before baking.
• Try a different frosting: Swap out the brown sugar cream cheese frosting for whipped coconut cream for a lighter option.

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

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your cake pans is essential so that your cake slides out easily once baked. Use parchment paper for an extra layer of non-stick protection!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In one bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, ground cloves, and black pepper. Mixing dry ingredients first ensures the spices are evenly distributed throughout your cake.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another large mixing bowl, beat together white granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until fluffy. Then add in vegetable oil and pumpkin puree along with vanilla extract. This mixture creates a rich base full of flavor that keeps your cake moist.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add your dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Gently fold them together until just combined—overmixing can lead to dense cake! You want it light and airy.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans and bake in your preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. The aroma of spices filling your kitchen will make waiting hard—but trust me; it’s worth it!

Step 6: Make the Frosting

While your cakes cool, prepare the frosting by beating unsalted butter and brown sugar until creamy. Add cream cheese and continue mixing until smooth before gradually adding icing sugar. Don’t forget to mix in orange food color if you want that festive touch!

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, level off the tops of each cake layer if necessary. Spread an even layer of frosting between each layer before applying a generous coat on top and around the sides of the cake. Add pumpkin seeds for decoration—this not only looks great but adds texture too!

And there you have it—your very own Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting! Enjoy every slice with loved ones over cups of tea or coffee as you celebrate all things cozy this fall season!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

Making the perfect pumpkin spice cake is all about the little details, so here are some tips to help you achieve that dreamy texture and flavor!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: Fresh pumpkin puree can enhance the flavor and moisture of your cake compared to canned. If possible, roast a sugar pumpkin and blend it until smooth for the best results.

• Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smoother batter and frosting, leading to a more uniform texture.

• Don’t overmix: Gently fold your wet and dry ingredients together until just combined. Overmixing can result in a dense cake that lacks the lightness we all love!

• Check for doneness using a toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, it’s done. This prevents overbaking, which can dry out your cake.

• Cool completely before frosting: Let your cake layers cool completely on wire racks before frosting them. This step helps prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off.

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

Serving this delicious pumpkin spice cake is just as important as making it! With the right presentation, you can turn this dessert into an inviting centerpiece for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Pumpkin seeds: Toasted pumpkin seeds add a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the spices in the cake.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon on top of the frosting brings an aromatic touch that enhances the fall vibes.
• Candied orange peel: For a pop of color and sweetness, consider adding candied orange peel. It pairs beautifully with both pumpkin and cream cheese flavors.

Side Dishes

• Whipped coconut cream: Light and airy, whipped coconut cream makes for a lovely dairy-free accompaniment that adds richness without overpowering the cake’s flavors.
• Spiced chai tea: A warm cup of spiced chai brings out all those cozy flavors in the cake while providing a comforting beverage option.
• Apple cider: The crisp, sweet-tart notes of apple cider complement the warm spices in your pumpkin spice cake perfectly; serve chilled or warmed up!
• Mixed green salad: A simple mixed green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich sweetness of the cake, balancing your dessert table nicely.

With these serving ideas in mind, you’re all set to impress your guests with not only an exquisite dessert but also an appealing presentation! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for meal prep! Enjoy the convenience of making it ahead of time, ensuring that flavorful goodness is just a slice away whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, keep it in the fridge for up to a week; just remember to cover it well to maintain its moisture.
• Always allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent any condensation from forming.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• This cake can be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure you label the bag with the date!
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• For warm slices, gently reheat individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• If you prefer a whole cake warm, loosely cover it with foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some questions you might have while preparing this delightful dessert!

Can I use a different frosting for my Pumpkin Spice Cake?

Absolutely! While this recipe features brown sugar cream cheese frosting, you can try a simple vanilla buttercream or even a whipped coconut cream for a lighter touch.

How should I store my Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting?

Store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate or freeze as directed above.

Can I make this Pumpkin Spice Cake without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg).

What spices can I add to enhance my Pumpkin Spice Cake?

Feel free to add nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom for extra warmth and flavor. Adjust according to your taste preferences!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting! It’s not just a treat; it’s a way to celebrate fall and create lovely memories with friends and family. Enjoy every moist and spiced bite, and don’t forget to share your delightful creations with those you love. Happy baking!