This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its soft, moist texture and warm spices, it’s an ideal dessert for fall gatherings and holiday celebrations. The rich brown sugar cream cheese frosting adds a creamy finish that complements the cake beautifully. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving dinner or simply craving a sweet seasonal dessert, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, spices, and brown sugar creates a warm, comforting taste that defines fall.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is user-friendly for bakers of all levels.
Versatile Occasion: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Halloween parties, or cozy fall evenings at home with loved ones.
Moist Texture: Thanks to the pumpkin puree and oil, this cake remains tender and moist from the first slice to the last.
Decadent Frosting: The brown sugar cream cheese frosting elevates the cake with its creamy richness and hint of caramel flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your pumpkin spice cake, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Having everything prepared will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Electric mixer
Baking pans (9-inch round)
Spatula
Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

Electric Mixer: Ensures thorough mixing of ingredients for a smooth batter and fluffy frosting.
Baking Pans: Provides even baking for your cake; using round pans allows for easy layer stacking.
Cooling Rack: Helps cool the cake evenly so it maintains its texture without getting soggy.

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 and rises properly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pans

Grease two 9-inch round baking pans with butter or cooking spray. You can also line them with parchment paper for easier removal later.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Cinnamon
Ground ginger
Nutmeg
Ground cloves
Ground black pepper

Set aside.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat together:
1. White granulated sugar
2. Brown sugar
3. Eggs
4. Vanilla extract
5. Vegetable oil
6. Pumpkin puree

Mix until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into prepared baking pans. Bake in preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool the Cakes

Once baked, remove from oven and let them cool in pans for about 10 minutes. Then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 8: Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together unsalted butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add cream cheese, mixing until smooth. Gradually add icing sugar until well incorporated. Adjust consistency with orange food color if desired.

Step 9: Frost the Cake

Once cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer before placing the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake as desired.

Step 10: Garnish (Optional)

Sprinkle pumpkin seeds on top for decoration if desired. Serve slices chilled or at room temperature!

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

Pumpkin spice cake with brown sugar cream cheese frosting is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

With a Cup of Coffee

Pair it with a warm cup of coffee to enhance the spices in the cake.
A latte or cappuccino can complement the flavors beautifully.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

Serve with vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a creamy contrast.
The cold ice cream balances the warmth of the cake perfectly.

Topped with Nuts

Sprinkle toasted walnuts or pecans on top for extra crunch.
Nuts add a wonderful texture and richness to each bite.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the frosting for added sweetness.
The rich flavor of caramel pairs well with pumpkin spice.

Garnished with Fresh Whipped Cream

Top each slice with freshly whipped cream for a light finish.
This adds a fluffy texture that complements the moist cake.

Served at Room Temperature

Allow the cake to sit out for about 30 minutes before serving.
Room temperature enhances the flavors and makes the cake even more enjoyable.

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

To ensure your pumpkin spice cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring eggs and cream cheese to room temperature for better mixing and texture.
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake; some lumps are okay.
Check Doneness Early: Start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended bake time to avoid overbaking.
Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow your cake to cool fully on a wire rack before adding frosting to prevent melting.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices based on personal taste; more ginger or less nutmeg can change the character of the cake.

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

While this pumpkin spice cake is delicious on its own, it can be paired with some delightful side dishes. Here are some excellent options:

Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea harmonize beautifully with pumpkin spice flavors, creating a cozy pairing.
Apple Crisp: The tartness of baked apples contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cake, making each bite exciting.
Cheese Platter: Include sharp cheddar or creamy brie; cheese adds richness that balances the sweet elements of the dessert.
Roasted Vegetables: Savory roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts add depth and make for an interesting combination.
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast and helps cleanse the palate between bites of rich cake.
Spiced Nuts: Serve some spiced nuts as a crunchy snack alongside; they enhance the autumn theme wonderfully.
Pumpkin Soup: For an enticing seasonal meal, serve alongside rich pumpkin soup, deepening those comforting autumn flavors.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness from cranberry sauce adds an exciting burst of flavor that complements pumpkin beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your pumpkin spice cake even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Using too much flour: Adding more flour than required can lead to a dense cake. Always measure your flour accurately using the spoon and level method.
Not checking your spices: Old spices can lose their flavor. Make sure your cinnamon, nutmeg, and other spices are fresh for maximum taste.
Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can create a tough texture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a soft cake.
Skipping the cream cheese frosting: The brown sugar cream cheese frosting is essential for flavor. Don’t skip it; it adds moisture and sweetness!
Underbaking or overbaking: Baking times can vary based on your oven. Check for doneness with a toothpick to avoid a dry or gummy cake.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover pumpkin spice cake in an airtight container.
It will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap.
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). Place the cake on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
Microwave: Heat for about 20-30 seconds on medium power for a warm slice.
Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delicious dessert:

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

This cake combines warm spices with moist pumpkin, topped with creamy frosting, making it perfect for fall celebrations.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes, you can! Just cook and puree fresh pumpkin, ensuring it’s smooth and well-drained before using it in the recipe.

How do I prevent my cake from sticking to the pan?

Grease and flour your baking pans generously or use parchment paper at the bottom to ensure easy removal.

Can I customize the frosting?

Absolutely! You can add different flavors like maple or vanilla extract to give your frosting a unique twist.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile. Whether served during the fall or holidays, it’s sure to impress. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or chocolate chips for an extra treat!

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Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

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Author: Ana
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warmth of fall with this Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting. This delightful dessert combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and a medley of spices, creating a moist cake that’s perfect for any autumn gathering or holiday celebration. The luscious brown sugar cream cheese frosting adds an irresistible creaminess that enhances every bite. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving feast or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this cake will surely impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

Scale

150 g white granulated sugar
150 g brown sugar
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
150 g unsalted butter
160 g cream cheese
220 g icing sugar

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round baking pans.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and spices; set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat sugars, eggs, vanilla extract, oil, and pumpkin until well combined.
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
Divide batter between prepared pans and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
For the frosting: Beat butter and brown sugar until fluffy; mix in cream cheese and gradually add icing sugar until smooth.
Once cakes are cooled, frost them as desired.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American