Name: Easy Pumpkin Spice Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 large eggs; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup pumpkin puree; ½ cup canola or vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste); 6 ounces cream cheese (softened); ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened); 1½ cups confectioners’ sugar; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

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Every fall, as the leaves start to change and the air turns crisp, I find myself craving the warm, comforting flavors of autumn. One of my absolute favorites is this Easy Pumpkin Spice Cake with its rich, inviting aroma that fills the kitchen. It’s the kind of cake that brings back memories of cozy gatherings, warm sweaters, and the anticipation of the holidays. I remember the first time I made it; the blend of spices and the sweet scent of fresh pumpkin made my house feel like home. Every bite is a delightful reminder of the season, and it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
35 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Baking Sheet, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan

Why This Easy Pumpkin Spice Cake Stands Out

It’s Incredibly Easy to Make

One of the best things about this Easy Pumpkin Spice Cake is just how simple it is to whip up. You don’t need any fancy kitchen gadgets or techniques. Just gather your ingredients and follow a few straightforward steps, and before you know it, you’ll have a delicious cake ready to enjoy.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This cake isn’t just a seasonal treat; it’s versatile enough to be served at various occasions. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a festive Thanksgiving gathering, or a casual get-together with friends, this cake fits right in. It’s an easy dessert that makes a big impression.

Moist and Flavorful

The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a moist and flavorful cake that’s hard to resist. Each slice is packed with the rich taste of pumpkin, complemented by the aromatic notes of cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s the kind of cake you want to savor with a cup of coffee or tea.

Frosting That Takes It Over the Top

No cake is complete without frosting, and the cream cheese frosting in this recipe is divine. It adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet and spiced cake, making every bite a little piece of heaven. I love how the frosting is easy to make, and it can be spread on generously for that extra indulgence.

Great for Sharing

This cake serves nine, making it great for sharing. There’s something special about baking a treat and bringing it to a gathering or sharing it with neighbors. Everyone loves a homemade dessert, and this one is sure to be a hit!

Everything You Need for Easy Pumpkin Spice Cake

When it comes to baking the Easy Pumpkin Spice Cake, the ingredients play a key role in achieving that perfect flavor and texture. Each component is crucial, and together they create a harmonious balance of sweetness and spice that defines this cake. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to create this fall favorite.

2 large eggs: These help bind the ingredients and add moisture to the cake.
1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and enhances the flavor of the pumpkin.
1 cup pumpkin puree: The star ingredient, providing moisture and that distinctive pumpkin flavor.
½ cup canola or vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice: A blend of spices that brings warmth and richness to the cake.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
1 cup all-purpose flour: The base for the cake structure.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise.
½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidity of the pumpkin to create a light texture.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
6 ounces cream cheese: Perfect for the frosting, adding a creamy richness.
¼ cup unsalted butter: Provides a rich flavor and smooth texture in the frosting.
1 ½ cups confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens the frosting and gives it a smooth consistency.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds flavor to the frosting.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness in the frosting.

How to Assemble Easy Pumpkin Spice Cake

Baking the Easy Pumpkin Spice Cake is a rewarding experience, and I can’t wait to guide you through it. The process is straightforward, and I’ll walk you through each step to ensure your cake turns out perfectly.

Preheat your oven to 350°F. It’s important to have your oven at the correct temperature to ensure even baking. Line an 8×8-inch pan with aluminum foil and spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking; set aside.
In a large bowl, combine 2 large eggs, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup pumpkin puree, ½ cup canola or vegetable oil, 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Whisk them together until fully combined.
Now, add 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt to the mixture. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. You want your batter to be light and airy.
Turn the batter out into your prepared pan, smoothing the top lightly with a spatula. It’s important to have a flat surface for even baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 to 40 minutes. I usually check around 36 minutes; the cake is done when the center is set, and a toothpick inserted comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Once done, set the cake aside on a cooling rack to cool completely. This step is crucial; frosting a warm cake will cause the frosting to melt.
While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In another large bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), add 6 ounces cream cheese, ¼ cup unsalted butter, 1 ½ cups confectioners’ sugar, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon salt. Whisk until smooth and fluffy, or beat with an electric mixer.
Once the cake has cooled, turn the frosting out onto the top of the cake. Spread it evenly using a spatula or knife, creating a smooth layer. If you have leftover frosting, feel free to store it airtight in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Slice the cake into squares, serve, and enjoy the deliciousness of your Easy Pumpkin Spice Cake!

Things Worth Knowing

Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin works, using fresh puree can elevate the flavor.
Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Stir until just combined.
Cool the cake completely: This ensures the frosting holds its shape and doesn’t melt.
Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

To make your baking experience even better, here are some tips for the Easy Pumpkin Spice Cake.

Storage: This cake will keep airtight at room temperature for up to 4 days or in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Freezing: You can freeze the cake, but frosting is best added after thawing to maintain its texture.
Pairing: Serve this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Spice Variations: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor twist.
Layer Cake: Consider doubling the recipe for a layered cake version, adding frosting between layers.

What to Serve Alongside Easy Pumpkin Spice Cake

When it comes to serving the Easy Pumpkin Spice Cake, there are plenty of delicious options to complement it:

Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a slice with a warm cup of coffee or tea, enhancing the cozy flavors.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a lovely touch.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream works wonderfully with the warm spices.
Fruit Salad: Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
Cheese Platter: Pair with a cheese platter for a delightful mix of savory and sweet.
Seasonal Decor: Present the cake on a festive platter with autumn decorations for a beautiful presentation.

FAQ

Absolutely! Using fresh pumpkin puree can enhance the flavor of your Easy Pumpkin Spice Cake. Just make sure to cook and blend the pumpkin until smooth before measuring it out in the recipe.

The cake can be stored airtight at room temperature for up to four days or in the fridge for about a week. If you prefer, you can freeze the cake, but it’s best to frost it after thawing to keep the frosting’s texture intact.

Yes, you can easily adapt the Easy Pumpkin Spice Cake to be gluten-free. Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

This cake pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. Fresh fruit salad is a nice contrast as well!

Conclusion

The Easy Pumpkin Spice Cake is a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite. Its simplicity and rich flavors make it a must-try for anyone looking to celebrate the season. So, why not bake it tonight? Your friends and family will be absolutely grateful!