Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall. The rich blend of spices and creamy frosting makes it a standout dessert for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive holiday celebrations. Its moist texture and aromatic flavors will impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, and brown sugar creates a warm, inviting taste that’s perfect for the season.
• Moist and Soft Texture: This cake remains tender thanks to the pumpkin puree, ensuring each slice melts in your mouth.
• Versatile Occasions: Whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner or a casual autumn brunch, this cake fits right in.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, even novice bakers will find success.
• Deliciously Decadent Frosting: The brown sugar cream cheese frosting adds a sweet contrast that enhances the overall flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment helps ensure consistent results and makes preparation easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when combining ingredients, ensuring a smooth batter.
• Baking pan: A good quality pan ensures even baking and helps achieve the desired cake texture.

Ingredients

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 your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the white granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil.
2. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, ground cloves, and black pepper.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

1. In a mixing bowl, beat together unsalted butter and brown sugar until creamy.
2. Add in cream cheese and continue mixing until smooth.
3. Gradually add icing sugar while mixing until fluffy.
4. Incorporate orange food color to achieve your desired hue.

Step 5: Frost and Decorate

Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Top with pumpkin seeds for an extra crunch if desired.

Now you have a delicious Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting ready to enjoy! Perfect for sharing at gatherings or savoring at home during chilly evenings.

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 any occasion. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this seasonal treat.

With a Hot Beverage

• Pair it with coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
• Enjoy with spiced chai to complement the warm flavors of the cake.

As a Dessert Platter

• Slice the cake into small pieces and arrange on a platter.
• Add fresh fruits like apples and pears for a refreshing contrast.

For Celebrations

• Serve at holiday gatherings or festive parties.
• Decorate individual slices with whipped cream and pumpkin seeds for an elegant touch.

As Breakfast Treats

• Enjoy a slice with your morning yogurt for a sweet start to the day.
• Top with fresh berries for added flavor and nutrition.

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

Perfecting your pumpkin spice cake is easier than you think. Follow these tips to achieve the best results.

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: Freshly made pumpkin puree enhances flavor compared to canned options.
• Sift Your Dry Ingredients: Sifting helps prevent lumps and ensures even mixing, leading to a smoother batter.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring eggs and cream cheese to room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold in dry ingredients until just combined to keep the cake tender and fluffy.
• Check Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done baking.

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

Pairing side dishes with your pumpkin spice cake can enhance its flavors. Here are some delicious options.

1. Spiced Apple Compote: A warm apple compote adds sweetness and spice that complements the cake beautifully.
2. Roasted Butternut Squash Salad: This salad, tossed with greens, offers a savory balance against the sweet cake.
3. Cinnamon Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream infused with cinnamon makes a perfect topping or side.
4. Maple Candied Pecans: Crunchy pecans coated in maple syrup provide texture that contrasts nicely with the soft cake.
5. Ginger Snap Cookies: The spicy crunch of ginger snaps pairs perfectly as a complementary snack alongside the dessert.
6. Chai-Spiced Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits tossed in chai spices bring brightness and freshness to your dessert table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting turns out perfect, avoid these common mistakes.

• Boldly skip the pumpkin puree – Using fresh pumpkin instead of canned can affect texture. Always measure and use quality pumpkin puree for moisture.
• Boldly overlook the spices – Not adding enough spices can lead to a bland flavor. Measure accurately and taste as you mix to adjust the spice levels.
• Boldly ignore room temperature ingredients – Cold eggs or butter can prevent proper mixing. Let all ingredients come to room temperature before starting.
• Boldly rush the baking time – Checking for doneness too early can result in an undercooked cake. Use a toothpick; it should come out clean when the cake is done.
• Boldly skimp on frosting – Not using enough frosting can leave your cake dry. Generously apply the brown sugar cream cheese frosting for added moisture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop – Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting.

Can I use other types of flour for this cake?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends or whole wheat flour, but it may alter the texture slightly.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Pumpkin Spice Cake?

Adding nuts or chocolate chips can provide extra texture and flavor. Consider also enhancing spices based on your preferences!

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake stores well and can be made a day or two in advance. Just frost it closer to serving time.

What is the best way to decorate my Pumpkin Spice Cake?

You can use additional spices on top, sprinkles, or even edible flowers for decoration. The brown sugar frosting pairs well with cinnamon dusting as well.

Can I use dairy-free cream cheese?

Yes! There are many great plant-based cream cheese options available that will work perfectly in this recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat perfect for fall gatherings and holidays. Its soft texture and rich flavors make it versatile, allowing you to customize it with various toppings or mix-ins. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!