Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

This Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall. It’s perfect for any gathering, from Thanksgiving dinners to birthday celebrations. This cake is not only moist and flavorful but also features a rich caramel cream cheese frosting that elevates it to a new level of deliciousness. Your family and friends will love its warm spices and sweet, creamy topping.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a comforting taste that defines autumn.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for holidays, parties, or just a cozy evening at home.
• Moist and Tender Texture: This cake stays moist thanks to the pumpkin puree and oil, ensuring every bite is delectable.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is ideal for bakers of all skill levels.
• Stunning Presentation: The caramel cream cheese frosting adds an elegant touch that impresses guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this scrumptious recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a smooth batter and fluffy frosting without much effort.
• Baking pan: A quality pan ensures even baking for a perfectly risen cake.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for folding ingredients gently, maintaining airiness in your batter.

Ingredients

For the Pumpkin Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup vegetable oil (or canola)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 15 oz can pumpkin puree

For the Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 6 oz cream cheese (full fat brick style)
• 1/2 cup salted caramel (see below or buy your own)
• 2-3 cups powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons whipping cream (as needed)

For the Salted Caramel Sauce

• 1 cup white sugar
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter (cut into 5 pieces)
• 1/2 cup whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt

How to Make Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your baking pan to ensure easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. In another bowl, beat together the vegetable oil, brown sugar, white sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Add the pumpkin puree to the wet mixture and mix until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients:
Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix; some lumps are okay.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan:
Spread it evenly using a rubber spatula.
Bake in preheated oven for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool the Cake

Once baked:
Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

While the cake cools:
1. In a mixing bowl, beat together softened butter and cream cheese until creamy.
2. Add salted caramel sauce and mix well.
3. Gradually add powdered sugar until reaching desired sweetness and consistency. Add whipping cream as needed for texture.

Step 7: Frost the Cake

Once cooled:
Spread an even layer of frosting over the top of your pumpkin cake using a spatula.
Drizzle additional caramel sauce on top if desired for extra flair.

Now you have a stunning Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting ready to serve! Enjoy this delightful dessert with friends and family at any occasion.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

This Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy evening at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

Classic Slice

• Perfect for any occasion, serve a generous slice of pumpkin cake topped with caramel cream cheese frosting.

Mini Cakes

• Bake the batter in mini cake tins for individual servings. This makes for an attractive presentation and easy serving!

Cake Pops

• Transform leftover cake into cake pops by crumbling it and mixing it with frosting. Dip in chocolate for a fun treat.

Layered Parfaits

• Create delightful parfaits by layering pieces of pumpkin cake with whipped cream and caramel sauce in clear glasses.

Coffee Companion

• Pair your pumpkin cake with a warm cup of coffee or chai tea to complement the rich flavors and spices.

Festive Platters

• Arrange slices of pumpkin cake on a festive platter alongside seasonal fruits and nuts for an appealing dessert table display.

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How to Perfect Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

To ensure your pumpkin cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these useful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh pumpkin puree and spices will elevate the flavor of your cake significantly.
• Check Oven Temperature – Always preheat your oven to the correct temperature to avoid uneven baking.
• Measure Accurately – Use proper measuring techniques for flour and sugar to get the right texture.
• Don’t Overmix Batter – Mix just until combined to keep the cake tender and moist.
• Cool Before Frosting – Allow the cake to cool completely before adding frosting to prevent melting.
• Store Properly – Keep leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with your delicious pumpkin cake can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Spiced Apple Cider – A warm spiced apple cider complements the flavors of pumpkin beautifully.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that pairs well with the rich frosting.
3. Caramelized Pears – Sweet caramelized pears add a sophisticated touch that contrasts nicely with the cake’s sweetness.
4. Ginger Snap Cookies – Crunchy ginger snaps add texture and spice, making a delightful pairing.
5. Roasted Nuts – A mix of roasted pecans or walnuts can provide a satisfying crunch alongside your dessert.
6. Cheese Platter – Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for an unexpected savory twist that balances the sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when it comes to making a delicious Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or cream cheese can lead to a lumpy frosting. Always let your ingredients sit at room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: This can make the cake dense and tough. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can dry out your cake. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
• Ignoring the baking time: Every oven is different! Start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended time to prevent overbaking.
• Using low-quality caramel: A good quality caramel enhances flavor. Consider making homemade caramel or investing in a premium brand.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover pumpkin cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat slices for about 10 minutes for best results.
• Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm, but avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

No, pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar and spices. Use pure pumpkin puree for accurate flavor and sweetness.

How do I make my frosting less sweet?

To reduce sweetness, add more cream cheese or a pinch of salt. This balances flavors without compromising texture.

Can I substitute other oils in this recipe?

Yes, you can use melted coconut oil or applesauce as alternatives to vegetable oil, but they may alter the flavor slightly.

What if I can’t find pumpkin pie spice?

You can create your own blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice in equal parts as an alternative.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting is not just delightful; it’s perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re celebrating fall or simply craving something sweet, this cake won’t disappoint. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or chocolate chips for an extra touch!

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Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

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• Author: Amanda
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting. This moist and spiced cake is not only a visual delight but also a taste sensation, thanks to its rich caramel cream cheese frosting that adds a luscious finish. Perfect for any occasion—from Thanksgiving gatherings to birthdays—this dessert will surely impress your family and friends. With easy-to-follow instructions, even novice bakers can create this scrumptious treat that captures the spirit of autumn in every bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 6 oz cream cheese (full fat brick style)
• 1/2 cup salted caramel
• 2–3 cups powdered sugar
• 1–2 tablespoons whipping cream
• 1 cup white sugar (for salted caramel sauce)
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter (cut into 5 pieces)
• 1/2 cup whipping cream (for salted caramel sauce)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for salted caramel sauce)
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt (for salted caramel sauce)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In one bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another, beat together oil, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth before mixing in pumpkin puree.
3. Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet ingredients until just mixed.
4. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until creamy; mix in caramel and powdered sugar until desired consistency is reached.
7. Frost cooled cake and drizzle with additional caramel if desired.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 38g
• Sodium: 290mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 60mg