Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is not just a treat; it’s an experience filled with warm spices and delightful sweetness. I love making this cake for family gatherings, and it’s always a hit during the holidays. The aroma of cinnamon and ginger wafting through the house will have everyone eagerly waiting for a slice.

This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting and delicious. It’s also great for sharing with friends or serving at Thanksgiving dinner—everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to make: This cake comes together quickly and easily, making it a fantastic choice for bakers of all levels.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the moist texture and rich flavors.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare it a day in advance, so it’s ready when you need it!
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering, this cake fits right in.
• Irresistible frosting: The brown sugar cream cheese frosting adds a luscious touch that elevates each bite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! These are simple, wholesome items that make this Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting truly special.

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 decoration)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it to your liking.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Spice it up: Experiment with additional spices like cardamom or allspice for a unique flavor twist.
• Swap the frosting: Try using whipped cream or a dairy-free alternative if you prefer something lighter.
• Make cupcakes: Transform this recipe into delightful cupcakes for easy serving at parties!

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that your cake bakes evenly, giving it that perfect rise and moist texture.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the white granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition until well blended. Pour in the vegetable oil and pumpkin puree, mixing until everything is nice and smooth. This step builds the foundation of flavors in your cake.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and black pepper. Mixing these dry ingredients separately helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices throughout the cake.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to over-mix! Folding instead of stirring helps keep your cake light and fluffy.

Step 5: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter into a greased cake pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell will fill your kitchen with warmth—a true signal that your cake is on its way!

Step 6: Prepare the Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

While your cake cools down, let’s whip up that luscious frosting! In a bowl, beat together unsalted butter and brown sugar until creamy. Then add cream cheese and mix until smooth. Gradually incorporate icing sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Frost Your Cake

Once your cake has completely cooled, spread that sweet brown sugar cream cheese frosting generously over the top (and sides if you like!). Finish off with some pumpkin seeds sprinkled on top for decoration.

And there you have it—your very own Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting! Enjoy every slice as you celebrate fall flavors with family and friends.

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

Creating the perfect pumpkin spice cake is easier than you think with a few helpful tips!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin works well, using fresh pumpkin puree can enhance the flavor and moisture of your cake, making it even more delicious.

• Measure ingredients accurately: Baking is a science; precise measurements ensure consistent results. Using a kitchen scale can help you get the exact amounts needed for each ingredient.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ones until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy one.

• Allow your cake to cool completely: Before frosting, let your cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful presentation.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels to suit your taste! If you love cinnamon or ginger, add a little more for an extra kick.

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

Presenting your pumpkin spice cake beautifully can make all the difference at gatherings or family dinners. Here are some delightful ways to serve this seasonal treat!

Garnishes

• Pumpkin seeds: Sprinkle roasted pumpkin seeds on top of your frosted cake for an added crunch and visual appeal.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon on top of the frosting enhances its warmth and ties in with the flavors of the cake.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice can make for an indulgent touch that complements the spices perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Spiced apple cider: This warm beverage pairs wonderfully with pumpkin spice cake, enhancing its comforting flavors and keeping everyone cozy.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dairy-free alternative that adds richness without overpowering the flavors of your cake. It’s light, airy, and complements the spice profile beautifully.
• Roasted autumn vegetables: A side of roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes brings a savory balance to your dessert table while celebrating fall produce.
• Vanilla ice cream: A classic pairing that offers a creamy contrast to the spiced cake and melts in your mouth with every bite!

With these serving ideas and pro tips, you’ll be ready to impress friends and family with your delicious Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for meal prep and can easily be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy it fresh for any occasion. Here’s how to store your delicious creation:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, slice the cake into portions and wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, remove a slice from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• For a quick warm-up, microwave on low power for 15-20 seconds, or until warmed through.
• Enjoy as is or top with additional frosting if desired!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful dessert.

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

Absolutely! While the brown sugar cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully with this cake, you can also try vanilla buttercream or a simple glaze for a different flavor profile.

How long will my Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting stay fresh?

When stored properly in the fridge, your cake will remain fresh for up to 5 days. If frozen, it can last up to 3 months!

Can I substitute ingredients in this pumpkin spice cake recipe?

Yes! You can replace white sugar with coconut sugar or use applesauce instead of oil for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that these substitutions may alter the final texture and flavor slightly.

Is this Pumpkin Spice Cake suitable for special diets?

This cake is free from pork, alcohol, and animal-derived gelatin, making it suitable for many dietary preferences. However, always double-check ingredients if you have specific allergies or intolerances.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking this delightful Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting. It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience that fills your home with warmth and inviting aromas. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself (because you deserve it!), this cake is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and happy baking!