Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
This Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that brings the warmth of fall to your table. With its moist texture and rich flavor, it’s perfect for various occasions, from Thanksgiving feasts to cozy family gatherings. The caramel cream cheese frosting adds an indulgent touch, making this cake a standout dessert that will impress everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Moist and Flavorful: This cake is made with real pumpkin puree and spices, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps make this recipe approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a dessert or a sweet snack with your morning coffee.
- Impressive Presentation: The beautiful frosting and cake layers create an eye-catching dessert for any gathering.
- Perfect for Celebrations: Whether it’s a birthday or holiday, this cake fits right in at the party.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delicious Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups
- Baking pan (9×13 inch)
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: This tool helps achieve a smooth batter quickly, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
- Baking pan: A 9×13 inch pan is ideal for even baking and easy serving of the pumpkin cake.
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin 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 Caramel Cream Cheese 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
- 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). Grease and flour your 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
Whisk until evenly mixed.
Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together:
1 cup vegetable oil (or canola)
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup white sugar
Add:
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 can pumpkin puree
Beat until smooth using an electric mixer.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; avoid overmixing.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool completely before frosting.
Step 6: Prepare Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together:
1/2 cup unsalted butter
6 oz cream cheese
Once smooth, mix in:
1/2 cup salted caramel
Then gradually add:
Powdered sugar until desired sweetness is achieved.
Adjust consistency with whipping cream if necessary.
Step 7: Frost and Serve
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Drizzle additional salted caramel on top if desired before slicing into squares. Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting!
How to Serve Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
This delicious Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering or a festive holiday celebration, serving suggestions can enhance your dessert experience.
Classic Slice
- Serve a generous slice of cake topped with a dollop of caramel cream cheese frosting for a classic presentation.
Coffee Pairing
- Enjoy this pumpkin cake with a warm cup of coffee or chai tea. The spices in the cake complement the flavors of the drink beautifully.
Ice Cream Addition
- Add a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on the side. The creaminess of the ice cream balances the richness of the cake.
Decorative Plate
- Arrange slices on a decorative platter and sprinkle some pumpkin spice on top for an elegant touch when serving guests.
Mini Servings
- Cut the cake into small squares for bite-sized treats, perfect for parties or potlucks, allowing everyone to indulge without overdoing it.
Seasonal Garnish
- Top each slice with chopped pecans or walnuts and a drizzle of caramel sauce. It adds texture and enhances the flavor profile.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
To ensure your Pumpkin Cake is perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh eggs and high-quality pumpkin puree. Fresh ingredients significantly improve taste and texture.
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Measure accurately: Precision in measuring flour and sugar will help you achieve the right consistency. Too much flour can make your cake dense.
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Check doneness: Use a toothpick to test if the cake is done. Insert it into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready to cool.
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Cool completely before frosting: Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack before applying frosting. This prevents melting and ensures better adhesion.
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Adjust sweetness: Feel free to adjust powdered sugar in your frosting according to your taste preference. This allows customization based on how sweet you want it.
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Store properly: Keep leftover cake covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps it fresh and moist for several days.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
Pairing your Pumpkin Cake with delightful side dishes can elevate your dessert experience even further. Here are some excellent options to consider:
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Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds extra creaminess that complements the rich flavors of the pumpkin cake.
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Candied Pecans: Crunchy candied pecans provide delightful texture and enhance the fall flavors of pumpkin spice.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers brightness that balances out the sweetness of the cake.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider is an excellent beverage choice that harmonizes well with pumpkin-based desserts.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, especially creamy brie or tangy goat cheese, creates an interesting contrast with sweet pumpkin flavors.
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Chocolate Ganache Tart: For chocolate lovers, a rich chocolate ganache tart offers indulgence alongside your pumpkin treat.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These savory sprouts provide a nice contrast to the sweetness while adding healthy greens to your meal.
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Caramelized Pears: Sweet caramelized pears can be served warm alongside your slice, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a perfect Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting requires attention to detail. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping the spice: Forgetting pumpkin pie spice can lead to a bland cake. Always use fresh spices for the best flavor.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined for a light, fluffy texture.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Inaccurate measurements can ruin your cake. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for precise amounts.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect cooking time and texture. Preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.
- Not letting the cake cool: Frosting a warm cake can cause melting. Allow your cake to cool completely before frosting.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place wax paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.
Freezing Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat slices for about 15-20 seconds on low power.
- Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting so special?
This recipe is unique because it combines moist pumpkin cake with rich caramel cream cheese frosting, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree; just ensure it is well-cooked and mashed for the right consistency.
How should I store leftover Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting?
Leftover cake should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Can I freeze the Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting?
Absolutely! You can freeze this cake for up to three months. Just make sure it is wrapped properly.
What are some variations I can try with this recipe?
You can experiment by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even swapping the cream cheese frosting for a chocolate ganache.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for any occasion, it invites customization like adding nuts or changing spices. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall!
Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this Pumpkin Cake topped with luscious Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting. Each slice of this moist cake, enriched with real pumpkin puree and warm spices, is a celebration of seasonal goodness. The creamy, caramel-infused frosting adds a decadent touch, elevating it to an irresistible dessert perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, birthdays, or any festive occasion. Whether enjoyed as a sweet snack or a show-stopping centerpiece, this delightful cake is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 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
- 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)
- 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)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix vegetable oil, brown sugar, white sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree until smooth.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet ingredients until just mixed.
- Pour into the prepared pan and bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Mix in salted caramel and powdered sugar until desired sweetness is reached.
- Frost the cooled cake and drizzle additional caramel if desired before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 355
- Sugar: 36g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
