Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is the quintessential autumn dessert. Its soft, moist texture combined with a rich frosting makes it perfect for fall gatherings and holiday celebrations. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving dinner or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, this cake is sure to impress. The blend of spices and pumpkin creates a flavor profile that’s warm and inviting, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and spices results in a cake that is both aromatic and flavorful.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this cake even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual get-together or a festive celebration, this cake fits right in.
• Decadent Frosting: The brown sugar cream cheese frosting adds an irresistible sweetness that elevates the overall taste.
• Great for Leftovers: This cake stays moist for days, making it ideal for meal prep or enjoying throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything prepared will help streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 9×13 inch baking pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Makes blending ingredients quick and easy, ensuring your batter is well-combined.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients separately before mixing them together.

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 (optional)
• Pumpkin seeds (for garnish)

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.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pan

Grease your baking pan with butter or cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Cinnamon
Ground ginger
Nutmeg
Ground cloves
Ground black pepper

Whisk these ingredients together until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix:
White granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
With an electric mixer, beat until fluffy. Slowly add the vegetable oil and pumpkin puree, mixing until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir gently using a rubber spatula until just combined. Do not overmix!

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool the Cake

Once baked, remove from oven and let cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together:
Unsalted butter
Brown sugar
Add cream cheese and mix until smooth. Gradually add icing sugar until fully combined.

Step 9: Frost the Cake

Once cooled, spread the brown sugar cream cheese frosting over your cake generously.

Step 10: Garnish & Serve

(Optional) Add orange food color to certain sections of frosting or sprinkle with pumpkin seeds for decoration. Slice into twelve pieces and enjoy!

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

This pumpkin spice cake with brown sugar cream cheese frosting is a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or celebrating the holidays, these serving suggestions will elevate your dessert experience.

For a Festive Celebration

• Garnish with Whipped Cream: Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess and a festive look.
• Sprinkle with Cinnamon: A light dusting of cinnamon on top enhances the flavor and adds a seasonal touch.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

• Serve with Hot Coffee: The warm notes of coffee complement the spices in the cake perfectly.
• Enjoy with Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea can balance the sweetness of the cake and create a cozy atmosphere.

Add Seasonal Fruits

• Serve with Pomegranate Seeds: The tartness of pomegranate seeds contrasts beautifully with the sweet cake.
• Include Sliced Apples: Fresh apple slices add crunch and a refreshing taste alongside the moist cake.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Combine with Other Desserts: Place slices of pumpkin spice cake alongside other fall desserts like pecan pie or apple crisp for variety.
• Add Ice Cream Scoops: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can enhance every bite!

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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, keep these tips in mind.

• choice of ingredients: Use fresh pumpkin puree for a richer flavor compared to canned options.
• Boldly measure ingredients accurately: Ensure precise measurements for sugar and flour to achieve ideal texture.
• Boldly check oven temperature: Always preheat your oven to avoid uneven baking; an accurate thermometer helps!
• Boldly cool before frosting: Let the cake cool completely before adding the frosting for better adherence and presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement this pumpkin spice cake.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: Its creamy texture pairs perfectly, providing a delightful contrast to the spiced cake.
2. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel over each slice for an indulgent touch that enhances sweetness.
3. Spiced Nuts: A mix of spiced pecans or walnuts adds crunch and complements the flavors of the cake.
4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the dessert.
5. Hot Apple Cider: Serve warm apple cider as a drink option to bring out those comforting autumn flavors.
6. Chocolate Ganache: For chocolate lovers, serve alongside rich chocolate ganache to create an exciting flavor combination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can ensure your Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room temperature eggs and cream cheese for a smoother batter and frosting. This helps in achieving better incorporation and texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure precise measurements. Incorrect amounts can affect the cake’s rise and flavor.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mix until just combined to prevent a dense cake. Overmixing can lead to gluten development, making your cake tough.
• Ignoring Baking Times: Keep an eye on your cake while it bakes. Every oven is different, so start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time.
• Frosting Too Soon: Let the cake cool completely before applying frosting. Frosting a warm cake can cause it to melt and slide off.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its delicious flavor.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking regularly.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering it until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delightful pumpkin spice cake.

How can I customize my Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting?

You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. Dried fruits such as cranberries also complement the flavors wonderfully.

Can I use different types of sugar?

Yes, you can use coconut sugar or maple sugar as alternatives. They will give a unique taste but maintain similar moisture levels.

What is the best way to decorate my Pumpkin Spice Cake?

Consider adding candied pumpkin seeds or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top of the cream cheese frosting for an attractive finish that enhances flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Make sure other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. You can customize it with nuts, fruits, or even swap out spices according to your preferences. Try this recipe for your next gathering; it’s sure to impress everyone!