As the crisp autumn air settles in and leaves transform into vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold, it’s time to savor the comforting flavors of the season. And what better way to celebrate the arrival of fall than with a luscious slice of pumpkin spice cake? This delightful dessert is a true embodiment of autumn, capturing the essence of spices, warmth, and all things cozy. So, grab your apron and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with this exquisite pumpkin spice cake recipe.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 can (15 ounces) pure pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup whole milk
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish (optional):
- Ground cinnamon
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and softened butter until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the sugar and butter mixture, alternating with the pumpkin puree and milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula to ensure even baking.
- Bake for approximately 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Rotate the pans halfway through baking to ensure even browning. Once done, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cakes cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake, including the sides.
- For an optional garnish, sprinkle some ground cinnamon on top of the frosted cake. You can also add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Slice, serve, and savor the incredible flavors of autumn encapsulated in each bite of this heavenly pumpkin spice cake.
This pumpkin spice cake is the epitome of fall indulgence. With its moist and tender crumb, perfectly balanced spices, and creamy cream cheese frosting, it’s a dessert that will leave your taste buds yearning for more. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is a surefire way to spread warmth and joy during the autumn season. So, gather your loved ones, light some scented candles, and savor the cozy ambiance that accompanies this scrumptious pumpkin spice cake. Let the flavors transport you to a place of comfort and nostalgia, making every bite a celebration of the season’s bountiful offerings.
