Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect dessert for any occasion. Its soft, moist texture combined with a delightful blend of spices creates a warm and inviting treat, making it ideal for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving celebrations, or even a cozy evening at home. The rich brown sugar cream cheese frosting adds an extra layer of flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a comforting flavor profile that’s perfect for fall.
• Moist Texture: This cake is soft and moist, ensuring every bite is full of goodness.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for holidays, parties, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy with friends and family.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up this delightful cake with ease.
• Frosting Perfection: The brown sugar cream cheese frosting complements the cake beautifully, making it a standout dessert.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Spatula
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer or whisk: Helps to achieve a fluffy texture in both the cake batter and frosting.
• Baking pan: Ensures even cooking and proper shape for the pumpkin spice cake.
• Cooling rack: Allows the cake to cool evenly without becoming soggy.

Ingredients

This pumpkin spice cake is soft, spicy, and moist. The brown sugar cream cheese frosting makes a delicious dessert. It’s great for fall and the Holidays!

For the Cake

• 150 g White granulated sugar
• 150 g Brown sugar
• 2 tsp Vanilla extract
• 3 Eggs
• 180 ml Vegetable oil
• 400 g Pumpkin puree
• 230 g All purpose flour
• 2 tsp Baking powder
• 1 tsp Baking soda
• 2 tsp Cinnamon
• 1 tsp Ground ginger
• ¼ tsp Nutmeg
• ¼ tsp Ground cloves
• ⅛ tsp Ground black pepper

For the Frosting

• 150 g unsalted butter
• 80 g Brown sugar
• 160 g Cream cheese
• 220 g Icing sugar
• Orange food color
• Pumpkin seeds

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine white granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Gradually stir in vegetable oil and pumpkin puree until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, ground cloves, and ground black pepper.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients:
1. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan:
1. Bake in preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Allow cooling in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 7: Prepare Frosting

While the cake cools:
1. In a bowl, beat together unsalted butter and brown sugar until creamy.
2. Add cream cheese and continue mixing until smooth.
3. Gradually incorporate icing sugar until you achieve desired consistency.
4. Add orange food color if desired.

Step 8: Frost the Cake

Once cooled, spread frosting evenly over the top of your pumpkin spice cake:
1. Garnish with pumpkin seeds for an added crunch.

Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving your Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this cake, making it perfect for gatherings or special occasions.

Pair with a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee complement the spiced cake beautifully.
• Chai Tea: A warm chai tea enhances the aromatic spices in the cake.
• Cider: Hot apple cider adds a sweet and fruity contrast to the pumpkin spice.

Garnish Creatively

• Pumpkin Seeds: Sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds on top for added crunch and presentation.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream can add creaminess to each slice.
• Cinnamon Sticks: Use cinnamon sticks as stirrers for drinks served alongside the cake for an extra touch.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Mini Pastries: Include mini tarts or pastries that pair well with the cake’s spices.
• Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad can balance the sweetness of the frosting nicely.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting your Pumpkin Spice Cake takes just a few simple steps. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out amazing every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh pumpkin puree and spices for a vibrant flavor.
• Don’t Overmix Batter: Gently mix until just combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
• Test Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when fully baked.
• Cool Properly: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
• Frost Generously: Apply an even layer of brown sugar cream cheese frosting for a delicious finish.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Spice Cake can create a delightful meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement the flavors perfectly.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess and balances the spice.
2. Candied Pecans: These sweet and crunchy nuts provide a wonderful texture contrast.
3. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce enhances sweetness and richness.
4. Roasted Apples: Sweet roasted apples add a fruity note that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin spice.
5. Maple Syrup Glazed Carrots: This side dish offers a hint of sweetness that harmonizes with the cake’s flavors.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can balance the sweetness of the dessert nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when making a delicious Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science. Use a scale for precise measurements to ensure your cake rises perfectly.
• Skipping the room temperature ingredients: Cold eggs or butter can affect the batter’s consistency. Always bring these ingredients to room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a fluffy texture.
• Ignoring oven temperatures: Every oven is different. Always check your cake with a toothpick several minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking.
• Using old spices: Fresh spices enhance flavor significantly. Ensure your cinnamon, ginger, and other spices are fresh for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for about 5-7 days.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat slices for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet on low heat, covering it until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting unique?

The combination of warm spices and rich brown sugar cream cheese frosting creates a flavorful experience that perfectly captures fall vibes.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! The cake can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.

How do I customize my Pumpkin Spice Cake?

You can add nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips to the batter for extra flavor and texture.

What should I serve with Pumpkin Spice Cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea, making it an ideal treat for afternoon gatherings or cozy evenings at home.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking to enjoy this delicious cake without gluten.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is not only soft and spiced but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it easily by adding your favorite mix-ins or adjusting the spice levels. Give it a try; it’s sure to impress friends and family alike!