Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Hands down – the best pumpkin cake you’ll ever try! This moist pumpkin bundt cake has a delicious pumpkin flavor, is filled with warm spices, and topped with a drizzle of cream cheese glaze. It’s way easier than making pumpkin pie and perfect for fall gatherings, family dinners, or any festive occasion. You’ll love how it combines the comforting taste of pumpkin with delightful spices, making it a standout dessert that everyone will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Moist – This Pumpkin Bundt Cake stays moist thanks to the pure pumpkin and oil, ensuring each bite is rich and satisfying.
- Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Versatile Occasions – Serve it at Thanksgiving, Halloween parties, or just as an everyday treat; it fits any occasion beautifully.
- Impressive Presentation – The beautiful bundt shape and creamy glaze make this cake look gorgeous on any table.
- Warm Spices – The combination of pumpkin pie spice adds warmth and depth to the cake’s flavor, making it a cozy fall favorite.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Bundt pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Bundt pan – The unique shape of a bundt pan gives your cake its signature look while allowing for even baking.
- Mixing bowls – Having multiple sizes helps in organizing your ingredients effectively during preparation.
- Whisk – Ideal for combining dry ingredients quickly, ensuring no lumps remain in your batter.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice (or make your own – see recipe notes)
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup vegetable oil (or canola)
– 1 cup white sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 3 large eggs
– 1 15 oz can pure pumpkin (NOT pumpkin pie filling)
– 1 tablespoon butter (softened)
– 3 oz cream cheese (softened)
– 1 cup powdered sugar (or more as needed)
– 1-2 tablespoons milk
How to Make Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing the bundt pan beforehand ensures easy release after baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.
2. In another bowl, mix together the vegetable oil, white sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs until smooth.
3. Add in the pure pumpkin and stir until fully incorporated.
4. Gradually fold in the dry mixture using a rubber spatula until just combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan:
1. Smooth out the top with your spatula to create an even surface.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Cool and Glaze
Once baked:
1. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack.
2. For the glaze: beat softened cream cheese with butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and milk until desired consistency is reached. Drizzle over cooled cake before serving.
Enjoy your delightful Pumpkin Bundt Cake—it’s sure to become a favorite!
How to Serve Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Serving pumpkin bundt cake can elevate your dessert experience, making it a delightful centerpiece for any fall gathering. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy this moist, flavorful cake.
With Cream Cheese Frosting
- Drizzle a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on top for extra sweetness and richness.
Ice Cream Pairing
- Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a comforting dessert.
Fresh Whipped Cream
- Top each slice with freshly whipped cream for a light and fluffy addition.
Spiced Caramel Sauce
- Drizzle spiced caramel sauce over the cake to enhance the warm flavors of pumpkin and spice.
Nuts and Seeds
- Garnish with toasted pecans or pumpkin seeds for added crunch and texture.
Coffee or Tea
- Pair slices with a cup of hot coffee or spiced tea to complement the rich flavors of the cake.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Bundt Cake
To ensure your pumpkin bundt cake turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.
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Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your baking powder, baking soda, and spices are fresh for optimal rise and flavor.
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Measure correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to avoid a dense cake. Too much flour can lead to dryness.
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Don’t overmix: Mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can result in a tough texture.
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Cool properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps prevent sticking.
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Check doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your cake is done.
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Experiment with spices: Feel free to tweak the spice amounts to suit your taste preferences, making it truly your own.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Pairing side dishes with your pumpkin bundt cake can enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
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Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce complements the sweetness of the bundt cake beautifully.
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Roasted Butternut Squash: This sweet and nutty side dish pairs well with the warm spices in the cake.
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Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts: The earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts adds depth while the maple glaze ties in nicely with fall flavors.
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Apple Salad: A refreshing apple salad offers crispness that contrasts well with the soft texture of the cake.
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Sweet Potato Casserole: Rich and creamy, this dish echoes pumpkin’s sweetness and warmth perfectly.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp cheeses balances the sweetness of the bundt cake while adding variety to your dessert spread.
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Pumpkin Soup: For those who adore pumpkin, serving a small cup of pumpkin soup as an appetizer creates an inviting theme.
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Spiced Nuts: A small bowl of mixed spiced nuts provides a crunchy snack that complements dessert time perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a pumpkin bundt cake can be simple, but some common mistakes can affect the final product. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Using pumpkin pie filling – Always use pure pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling. The latter contains added sugars and spices that will alter the flavor and texture of your cake.
- Not measuring ingredients correctly – Accurate ingredient measurement is key. Use proper measuring cups for dry and wet ingredients to ensure consistency in your cake.
- Skipping the cream cheese glaze – The glaze adds a delightful finish to your cake. Don’t skip it; it enhances the overall flavor and presentation.
- Overmixing the batter – Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy one.
- Not greasing the bundt pan – A well-greased pan prevents sticking. Use cooking spray or butter to coat every crevice in your bundt pan.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Item: Store your pumpkin bundt cake in an airtight container.
- Item: It can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
- Item: To keep it fresh, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap before placing it in the container.
Freezing Pumpkin Bundt Cake
- Item: You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months.
- Item: Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag.
- Item: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating Pumpkin Bundt Cake
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Heat individual slices for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop – Place slices in a heated skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for even warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when my Pumpkin Bundt Cake is done?
The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
Can I substitute other oils for vegetable oil?
Yes, you can use canola oil or melted coconut oil as alternatives without affecting the taste significantly.
What toppings pair well with Pumpkin Bundt Cake?
Consider adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or whipped cream alongside the cream cheese glaze for extra flavor.
How do I ensure my bundt cake releases easily from the pan?
Grease the pan generously with butter or cooking spray and dust with flour. This helps prevent sticking.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring it’s suitable for baking.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Bundt Cake is not only moist and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even raisins. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home, this recipe will surely satisfy your sweet cravings. Give it a try!

Pumpkin Bundt Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate cozy dessert with this Pumpkin Bundt Cake! Moist and flavorful, this cake is infused with a delightful blend of warm spices and pure pumpkin, making it a perfect treat for fall gatherings and holiday celebrations. Topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze, each slice offers a comforting taste that evokes all the joys of autumn. Whether you serve it at Thanksgiving, Halloween parties, or enjoy it as an everyday dessert, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup white sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon butter (softened)
- 3 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (or more as needed)
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.
- In another bowl, combine vegetable oil, white sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs until smooth. Stir in the pumpkin puree.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cooling for 10 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack.
- For the glaze: Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth; gradually add powdered sugar and milk to desired consistency. Drizzle over cooled cake.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg