Perfect Pumpkin Spice Cake Recipe

Nothing says autumn like the warm, comforting aroma of pumpkin spice cake filling your kitchen with its irresistible scent. This incredibly moist and fluffy cake captures all the beloved flavors of fall in every single bite.

Did you know that pumpkin spice has been America’s favorite fall flavor for over 20 years? This delightful cake combines real pumpkin puree with perfectly balanced spices to create a dessert that’s both nostalgic and absolutely delicious.

What makes this pumpkin spice cake truly special is its foolproof recipe that delivers bakery-quality results every time. It’s surprisingly simple to make, requires just 15 minutes of prep time, and creates the perfect centerpiece for any family gathering or cozy evening at home.

Unlike our popular apple cinnamon bundt cake, this recipe uses cream cheese frosting that perfectly complements the warm spices. Get ready to fall in love with the most amazing pumpkin spice cake you’ve ever tasted!

What is Pumpkin Spice Cake?

Ever wondered why we call it “pumpkin spice” when it’s really the spices that steal the show? This delightfully named cake gets its moniker from the perfect marriage of pumpkin puree and warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

Here’s a fun fact: the original pumpkin spice blend was created for pumpkin pie, but clever bakers discovered it made cakes absolutely magical too! As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this cake certainly proves that point. Ready to create some kitchen magic?

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice Cake

The Perfect Autumn Comfort Dessert

This pumpkin spice cake delivers everything you crave in a fall dessert. The tender, moist crumb melts in your mouth while warm spices dance on your taste buds. Each slice offers the perfect balance of pumpkin flavor and aromatic spices that make your kitchen smell like a cozy autumn day.

Budget-Friendly Homemade Goodness

Making this cake at home costs a fraction of what you’d pay at a bakery. With simple pantry staples and affordable ingredients like canned pumpkin and basic spices, you can create a show-stopping dessert for under $8. Plus, one cake serves 12 people generously!

Irresistible Cream Cheese Frosting

The crowning glory of this cake is its luscious cream cheese frosting. This silky, tangy-sweet topping perfectly balances the warm spices and adds a professional bakery finish. Unlike our classic vanilla cake, this version’s frosting incorporates a hint of cinnamon that elevates every bite.

Ready to create your own autumn masterpiece? This recipe is so straightforward that even beginner bakers will achieve perfect results every single time!

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cake

Quick Overview

This pumpkin spice cake is incredibly easy to make and delivers outstanding results every time. The secret lies in using real pumpkin puree and the perfect blend of warming spices that create an incredibly moist, tender crumb.

Preparation Time:

• Prep: 15 minutes
• Baking: 25-30 minutes
• Cooling: 45 minutes
• Decorating: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Key Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Cake

For the Cake:

• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• ¼ cup milk
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3-4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Kitchen Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter and dust with flour, or line with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures easy cake removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and salt. Set aside this fragrant spice mixture.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients In another large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until completely smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Create the Batter Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Don’t overmix – this keeps your cake tender and fluffy.

Step 5: Bake the Cakes Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Step 6: Cool Completely Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks. Cool completely before frosting – this takes about 45 minutes.

Step 7: Make the Frosting Beat cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Beat until smooth and spreadable.

Step 8: Assemble Your Cake Place one layer on serving plate. Spread frosting on top, add second layer, then frost the entire cake. Decorate as desired!

What to Serve Pumpkin Spice Cake With

This versatile cake pairs beautifully with numerous accompaniments:

Hot Beverages: Serve alongside spiced chai tea, pumpkin spice latte, or rich hot chocolate for the ultimate autumn experience.

Ice Cream: Vanilla bean or cinnamon ice cream creates a delightful temperature and texture contrast.

Fresh Fruit: Sliced pears, caramelized apples, or candied pecans add fresh flavors and elegant presentation.

Wine Pairings: A glass of Moscato, Riesling, or even a spiced mulled wine complements the cake’s warming spices perfectly.

Top Tips for Perfecting Pumpkin Spice Cake

Use Room Temperature Ingredients

Ensure eggs, milk, and cream cheese are at room temperature before mixing. This creates a smoother batter and prevents lumps in your frosting.

Don’t Overmix the Batter

Mix just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough, dense cake instead of the tender crumb you want.

Test for Doneness Properly

Insert a toothpick in the center – it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely clean. This ensures a moist, perfectly baked cake.

Make Substitutions Wisely

Replace oil with melted butter for richer flavor, or use applesauce for a lighter version. Greek yogurt can substitute for some oil while adding protein and tanginess.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigerator Storage: Store covered cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cream cheese frosting requires refrigeration to maintain food safety and texture.

Freezing Instructions: Wrap unfrosted cake layers individually in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before frosting.

Reheating Guidelines: Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before serving to reach optimal flavor temperature. Individual slices can be microwaved for 10-15 seconds if desired warm.

Make-Ahead Tips: Bake cake layers up to 2 days ahead and store covered at room temperature. Frost the day of serving for best appearance and texture.

Nutritional Information

Nutrition Facts	Per Slice (1/12 of cake)
Calories	385
Total Fat	16g
Saturated Fat	7g
Cholesterol	65mg
Sodium	295mg
Total Carbs	62g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Sugars	54g
Protein	5g
Vitamin A	35% DV
Calcium	8% DV
Iron	10% DV

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! Roast and puree 2 cups of fresh pumpkin. Make sure to drain excess moisture by pressing puree through fine-mesh strainer for 30 minutes before using.

Why is my cake dense instead of fluffy?

Dense cake usually results from overmixing the batter or using old baking powder. Mix just until combined and check that your baking powder is fresh (replace every 18 months).

Can I make this as cupcakes instead?

Absolutely! Divide batter among 24 cupcake liners and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes. This recipe makes perfect autumn cupcakes for parties or lunchboxes.

How do I know when the cake is perfectly done?

Insert a toothpick in the center – it should come out with a few moist crumbs. The cake should also spring back lightly when touched and pull slightly from pan sides.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cream cheese. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

What’s the best way to get smooth frosting?

Ensure cream cheese and butter are properly softened (not melted). Beat for 3-4 minutes until fluffy before gradually adding powdered sugar. Sift sugar if lumpy.

Pro Baking Tips for Instagram-Worthy Results

Photography Tips: Dust with powdered sugar and cinnamon, garnish with candied pecans, or add fresh fall flowers for stunning photos.

Flavor Variations: Try adding chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, or a caramel drizzle for exciting twists on the classic recipe.

Seasonal Decorating: Top with miniature pumpkins, fall leaves (food-safe), or pipe frosting rosettes for professional presentation.

Gift-Giving Ideas: Bake in mini loaf pans for perfect hostess gifts, or create cake pops for party favors that everyone will love.

This pumpkin spice cake recipe delivers everything you want in a fall dessert – incredible flavor, foolproof technique, and results that’ll have everyone asking for your secret. Whether you’re baking for a family dinner or holiday gathering, this cake guarantees smiles and requests for seconds!