Moist Pumpkin Bundt Cake Cream Cheese Frosting
The best part of fall baking? Freshly baked pumpkin bundt cake cream cheese frosting! Get the ultimate recipe for a sweet, spiced treat.
Picture this: the aroma of warm spices filling your kitchen while a golden, moist pumpkin bundt cake cream cheese frosting cools on your counter.
This isn’t just any fall dessert – it’s pure autumn magic in cake form! With its tender crumb, rich pumpkin flavor, and silky cream cheese frosting cascading down every ridge, this cake transforms ordinary ingredients into extraordinary memories. Just like our popular apple cinnamon coffee cake, this recipe proves that homemade treats bring families together in the sweetest way possible.
What is Pumpkin Bundt Cake Cream Cheese Frosting?
Ever wonder why we call it a “bundt” cake? This beautiful ring-shaped dessert gets its name from the distinctive fluted pan that creates those gorgeous ridges and curves.
Our pumpkin version takes this classic format and fills it with autumn’s finest flavors – real pumpkin puree, warm spices, and that irresistible cream cheese frosting that drips like sweet waterfalls. As they say, the way to anyone’s heart is through their stomach, and this cake is your golden ticket to culinary success!
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Bundt Cake Cream Cheese Frosting
Incredibly Moist and Flavorful
This pumpkin bundt cake cream cheese frosting delivers an exceptionally tender crumb that melts in your mouth. The secret lies in the perfect balance of pumpkin puree, oil, and eggs, creating a cake so moist it stays fresh for days. Each bite bursts with warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove that transport you straight to a cozy autumn afternoon.
Budget-Friendly Homemade Goodness
Making this cake at home costs a fraction of what you’d pay at a bakery, yet delivers professional-quality results. With pantry staples and a can of pumpkin puree, you’ll create a dessert that rivals any expensive store-bought version. Plus, you control every ingredient, ensuring quality and freshness in every slice.
Show-Stopping Presentation
The bundt pan’s elegant ridges create a naturally beautiful cake that needs minimal decoration. When topped with our luscious cream cheese frosting, it becomes an instant centerpiece worthy of any special occasion. Unlike our rustic pumpkin bread recipe, this cake commands attention and admiration from the moment it appears on your table.
Ready to create some autumn magic in your kitchen? Let’s dive into this foolproof recipe!
How to Make Pumpkin Bundt Cake Cream Cheese Frosting
Quick Overview
This pumpkin bundt cake cream cheese frosting combines simplicity with spectacular results. The cake batter comes together in one bowl using basic mixing techniques, while the cream cheese frosting requires just five ingredients and a few minutes of beating.
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 55-60 minutes
- Cooling Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Frosting Time: 10 minutes
Key Ingredients for Pumpkin Bundt Cake Cream Cheese Frosting
For the Cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 4 large eggs
- 1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 15 oz can pumpkin puree
- 2/3 cup water
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Cake
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 10-12 cup bundt pan with butter or cooking spray, making sure to coat every ridge and crevice. Dust lightly with flour, tapping out any excess. This step is crucial for easy cake removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Set aside this spice mixture – it’s what gives our cake its incredible autumn flavor.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients In another large bowl, beat eggs until well combined. Gradually add sugar, beating until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Slowly pour in oil while continuing to beat. Add pumpkin puree and water, mixing until smooth.
Step 4: Create the Batter Add the flour mixture to the pumpkin mixture in three additions, mixing gently after each addition just until combined. Don’t overmix – this keeps your cake tender and prevents a tough texture.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection Pour batter into your prepared bundt pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The cake should spring back lightly when touched.
Step 6: Cool Completely Cool the cake in the pan for 15 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack. Let cool completely before frosting – this prevents the cream cheese frosting from melting.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 7: Prepare the Base In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Make sure both ingredients are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
Step 8: Add Sweetness Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Add vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Beat until smooth and spreadable, adding more cream if needed for desired consistency.
Step 9: Frost Your Masterpiece Drizzle or spread the cream cheese frosting over your cooled bundt cake, letting it cascade down the ridges naturally. The contrast between the golden cake and white frosting creates a stunning presentation.
What to Serve Pumpkin Bundt Cake Cream Cheese Frosting With
This versatile dessert pairs beautifully with various accompaniments:
Hot Beverages: Serve alongside freshly brewed coffee, spiced chai tea, or hot apple cider for the perfect autumn pairing.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla bean or cinnamon ice cream creates a delightful temperature contrast that enhances both the cake’s warmth and the frosting’s coolness.
Fresh Fruit: Sliced pears, apples, or a handful of toasted pecans add textural interest and complement the pumpkin spices beautifully.
Wine Pairing: For adult gatherings, pair with a sweet dessert wine, port, or even a pumpkin beer for a festive touch.
Top Tips for Perfecting Pumpkin Bundt Cake Cream Cheese Frosting
Don’t Skip the Pan Preparation
Thoroughly greasing and flouring your bundt pan is absolutely critical. Use a pastry brush to ensure every crevice is coated. For extra insurance, try using baking spray with flour.
Room Temperature Ingredients Matter
Bring eggs, cream cheese, and butter to room temperature before starting. This ensures smooth mixing and prevents lumps in both your cake batter and frosting.
Test for Doneness Carefully
Insert your toothpick in several spots around the cake, not just the center. The cake is done when picks come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
Substitution Options
Replace vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or applesauce for different flavors. You can substitute Greek yogurt for half the oil to reduce calories while maintaining moisture.
Make It Your Own
Add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or dried cranberries to the batter for extra texture and flavor variations.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Room Temperature Storage: Store your unfrosted cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 days at room temperature.
Refrigerated Storage: Once frosted, store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cream cheese frosting requires refrigeration to stay fresh and safe.
Freezing Instructions: Wrap unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.
Reheating Tips: For individual slices, microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore softness. For whole cake portions, warm in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes.
Frosting Storage: Extra cream cheese frosting can be refrigerated for up to 1 week or frozen for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake without a bundt pan?
Yes! Use two 9-inch round pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or one 9×13 inch pan for 35-40 minutes. Adjust baking time accordingly and test with a toothpick.
Why did my cake stick to the pan?
Insufficient greasing is usually the culprit. Make sure to coat every ridge and dust with flour. Let the cake cool for exactly 15 minutes before turning out – too long or too short can cause sticking.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! Use 2 cups of fresh pumpkin puree. Roast pumpkin halves cut-side down at 400°F for 45 minutes, then puree the flesh until smooth.
How do I know when my cake is done?
Look for these signs: the cake pulls slightly from the pan sides, springs back when lightly touched, and a toothpick inserted in several spots comes out clean or with few moist crumbs.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the cake up to 2 days ahead and store wrapped at room temperature. Make frosting the day of serving for best texture and freshness.
What’s the best way to get smooth cream cheese frosting?
Ensure cream cheese and butter are truly at room temperature – this takes about 1-2 hours out of the refrigerator. Beat for a full 3-4 minutes until completely smooth before adding sugar.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
You can reduce the granulated sugar by up to 1/4 cup, but this may affect the cake’s moisture and texture. The sugar helps create the tender crumb we love.
Why is my frosting too thick or thin?
For thick frosting, add cream or milk one tablespoon at a time. For thin frosting, add more powdered sugar gradually. Temperature also affects consistency – colder frosting is thicker.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Slice (1/12 of cake) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 485 |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Cholesterol | 85mg |
| Sodium | 285mg |
| Total Carbs | 78g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 65g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Vitamin A | 184% DV |
| Iron | 8% DV |
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Bonus Tips for Success
Ingredient Quality Matters: Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Check your spices – fresh spices within 1-2 years provide the best flavor impact.
Altitude Adjustments: If baking above 3,000 feet, reduce baking soda by 1/4 teaspoon and increase flour by 1-2 tablespoons for better structure.
Make It Special: Garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or candied pecans for an extra-special presentation that’s Instagram-worthy.
Flavor Variations: Try adding a tablespoon of bourbon or rum extract to the batter, or swirl in some Nutella before baking for a chocolate-pumpkin twist.
This pumpkin bundt cake cream cheese frosting isn’t just a recipe – it’s your ticket to creating lasting autumn memories. From the first whiff of spices in your oven to the last crumb on your plate, this cake delivers comfort, joy, and that special feeling that only homemade desserts can provide.
Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious moment!
