Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
This Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect dessert for fall gatherings and celebrations. The moist and flavorful cake is infused with warm pumpkin spice, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. With its rich caramel cream cheese frosting, this cake stands out as a comforting classic that everyone will adore.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Moist and Flavorful: The combination of pumpkin puree and spices creates a deliciously moist cake that bursts with flavor.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for Thanksgiving, birthdays, or just an afternoon treat, this cake fits any occasion.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delightful cake in no time.
- Decadent Frosting: The caramel cream cheese frosting adds a rich sweetness that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
- Great for Sharing: This recipe serves 15 people, making it ideal for parties or family gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Electric mixer
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Makes it easy to blend ingredients smoothly, especially when mixing the frosting.
- Cooling rack: Allows your cake to cool evenly, preventing sogginess at the bottom.
Ingredients
This Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting is hands down, the best pumpkin cake recipe I’ve ever tried. It’s moist, flavorful and filled with pumpkin spice.
For the 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 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 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 a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Pumpkin pie spice
3. Baking powder
4. Baking soda
5. Salt
Whisk together until evenly mixed.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix:
1. Vegetable oil
2. Brown sugar
3. White sugar
Beat in eggs one at a time until well combined. Stir in vanilla extract and pumpkin puree.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool the Cake
Remove from oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare Frosting
While the cake cools, beat together softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add salted caramel and powdered sugar until you achieve desired consistency. Adjust with whipping cream as needed.
Step 8: Frost the Cake
Once cooled, spread the caramel cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake. Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting!
How to Serve Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
Serving your Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting is just as important as making it. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this cake that will impress your family and friends.
With Warm Spices
- Cinnamon Dusting: Lightly dust the top with ground cinnamon for an extra pop of flavor.
- Pumpkin Spice Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream flavored with pumpkin spice for a creamy, festive touch.
Accompanied by Beverages
- Spiced Chai Latte: This warm beverage pairs wonderfully, enhancing the cake’s spices.
- Apple Cider: Hot or cold apple cider complements the pumpkin flavors beautifully, making it perfect for fall gatherings.
As a Dessert Platter
- Mini Cheesecake Bites: Include these on your dessert platter to provide a rich contrast to the lightness of the pumpkin cake.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Add some homemade cookies for those who crave chocolate with their dessert.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
Perfecting your Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting involves attention to detail and some helpful tips.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh pumpkin puree for the best flavor. Canned is convenient but fresh makes a noticeable difference.
- Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing; this helps create a fluffy cake texture.
- Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix just until combined to keep your cake moist and tender. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- Check Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is accurately calibrated; an incorrect temperature can affect cooking time and texture.
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow your cake layers to cool fully before applying the frosting. This prevents melting and sliding of the frosting.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Cake can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement its flavors.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess and balances the rich flavors of the cake.
- Nutty Granola: Sprinkle nutty granola on top for added texture and crunch, creating an interesting contrast.
- Caramel Drizzle Popcorn: Serve alongside caramel popcorn for a fun sweet-and-salty combination that kids love.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad brings freshness and brightness, balancing the richness of the cake.
- Cheese Board: Include a selection of cheeses, crackers, and fruits for a sophisticated pairing that enhances the dessert experience.
- Coffee or Espresso: A cup of coffee or espresso rounds out a dessert plate perfectly, especially after dinner.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making this Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s essential to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect the outcome.
- Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking powder and spices. Stale ingredients can lead to a lack of flavor and poor texture in your cake.
- Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in a dense cake rather than the light and fluffy texture you want.
- Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for dry and wet ingredients to ensure accuracy for the best results.
- Skipping the cream cheese frosting: This frosting is what makes this dessert special! Don’t skip it; it adds a creamy, rich flavor that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
- Not letting the cake cool completely: Allow your cake to cool fully before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep separated layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Freezing Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a pan on low heat with a lid until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting.
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
You can substitute pumpkin pie filling, but it contains added spices and sugar that may alter the flavor profile of your cake.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
Consider using whole wheat flour, reducing sugars, or opting for Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese in the frosting.
What pairs well with Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting?
This cake pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Can I make this as cupcakes?
Absolutely! Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting is not just delicious; it’s also versatile enough to adapt for various occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or chocolate chips or by experimenting with different frostings. Enjoy baking this delightful treat!
Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 15 people 1x
Description
Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting is the ultimate autumn dessert that perfectly embodies the spirit of fall. This moist pumpkin cake is infused with warm spices, creating a comforting and flavorful treat ideal for gatherings and celebrations. Topped with a rich caramel cream cheese frosting, this cake offers a delightful contrast between the spiced cake and sweet icing, making it a favorite among family and friends. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, a birthday, or simply enjoying an afternoon delight, this recipe is easy to make and sure to impress.
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
- 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 caramel sauce)
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter (cut into 5 pieces, for caramel sauce)
- 1/2 cup whipping cream (for caramel sauce)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for caramel sauce)
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt (for caramel sauce)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix oil, sugars, eggs, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree until smooth.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture; stir until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool before preparing frosting by beating together softened butter and cream cheese; gradually add salted caramel and powdered sugar.
- Frost cooled cake evenly with caramel cream cheese frosting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
