simple pumpkin cake recipe

Pumpkin Cake Recipe

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If you aren’t a major pumpkin fan yet, you will be after trying this cake. With tons of people wanting healthier dessert options, this simple pumpkin cake recipe will surely impress your loved ones or customers. 

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Cake Recipe

why people love it

To be honest with you, we’re quite smitten with this simple pumpkin cake recipe. But since you haven’t tried this yet, we’ll tell you the reasons why we and people who come to our blog love this recipe.

For one, this treat is loaded with flavor. The pumpkin puree and cream cheese frosting bring out the best of both worlds in this recipe. The cinnamon also adds a slight twist to this cake, making it a favorite in many cafes and restaurants. Trust us, each bite has it all!

Like other cakes in our easy baking recipe guide, the fat (oil or butter) keeps this cake’s crumb soft and moist. And we’re talking about stick-to-your-fork moist.

Additionally, this pumpkin cake is easy to prepare. You’ll appreciate this recipe as an easy addition to your Easter dessert spread, Christmas table, or beside your delicious Thanksgiving pies. 

Pumpkin Cake Cooking Tips

pumpkin cake cooking tips

Here are some practical tips to make sure your pumpkin cake turns out perfectly every time you make it: 

Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree

Canned pumpkin is easier to use, but if you want that rich, fresh flavor, consider making your own pumpkin puree. Simply cut a pumpkin in half, remove the seeds, and roast it at 375°F for about 45 minutes or until it’s soft. Then, blend the flesh until smooth. Trust us, doing this makes a lot of difference.

Don’t Overmix the Batte

Mix wet and dry ingredients just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing will make your cake tough.

Use Ingredients at Room Temperature

Your eggs, butter, and milk must be at room temperature before mixing. This helps them blend more easily and produce a smoother batter.

Add Some Spice

Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices. Pumpkin goes well with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. A teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice can also do wonders. While we put spices in this recipe, feel free to add to the list.

Test for Doneness

Put a toothpick in the center to test whether your cake is done. If it comes out clean, it is ready. Otherwise, leave it in the oven for a few more minutes.

Cool Completely Before Frosting

I know it’s tempting to dive in right away, but let your cake cool completely before adding any frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and keeps it looking nice and neat.

Bake Evenly

If your cakes tend to dome in the middle, try baking strips. Wrap them around your baking pans. They help the cakes bake evenly, so you get flat tops that are easier to frost.

What to Serve With Pumpkin Cake

what to serve with pumpkin cake 

Alright, so your pumpkin cake is baked to perfection. But what do you serve with it to make your dessert game stronger? Here are some ideas that will complement your pumpkin cake beautifully:

Vanilla Ice Cream

The cold, creamy texture of vanilla ice cream pairs well with the spices in the pumpkin cake.

Hot Coffee or Tea

Pumpkin cake is sweet, so a nice cup of black coffee or spiced tea can balance things out nicely.

Caramel Sauce

Drizzle some caramel sauce over your cake for an extra decadent treat. The sweetness and saltiness of the caramel work well with the pumpkin flavor.

How to Store Pumpkin Cake

storage tips

Now, let’s talk about how to store that delicious cake so you can enjoy it for days. Here’s how to store your pumpkin cake properly: 

At Room Temperature

If you plan to eat the cake within a couple of days, you can keep it at room temperature. Store it in an airtight container to keep it from drying.

In the Refrigerator

Keep your cake in the refrigerator for longer storage. Again, make sure it’s in an airtight container. It should last for three to five days.

In the Freezer

Want to save some for later? Freeze your pumpkin cake. Wrap each slice using plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw a slice at room temperature or warm it up in the microwave for 10 to 20 seconds.

Pumpkin Cake Recipe

pumpkin cake recipe

Cuisine: Dessert

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Servings: 12

Ingredients

Pumpkin Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour

3 teaspoons baking powder

2 teaspoons baking soda

¼ teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 ¼ cups vegetable oil

2 cups white sugar

4 large eggs

2 cups canned pumpkin

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Frosting

8 ounces full-fat brick cream cheese, room temperature

1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

3 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/8 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F or 175°C and grease and flour a 12×18-inch sheet pan.
  2. Mix the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. Sift and set aside.
  3. Then, beat sugar and oil together with an electric mixer until smooth.
  4. Blend in the pumpkin and vanilla, then beat in eggs one at a time.
  5. Gradually beat in flour mixture until combined.
  6. Add the walnuts and stir gently. Spread the batter into the prepared pan.
  7. To make the frosting, beat the butter and cream cheese using an electric mixer at high speed until smooth and creamy.
  8. Add three cups of powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt to the mixture. Next, beat on low speed for 30 seconds and switch to high speed for two minutes. 
  9. Add a quarter cup of powdered sugar if you want the frosting a little thicker. Spread the frosting on the cooled cake. 
  10. Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving. This helps set the frosting and makes slicing easier.
  11. Enjoy your pumpkin cake!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is pumpkin cake made of?

Pumpkin cake is made of all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, vegetable oil, white sugar, eggs, canned pumpkin, vanilla extract, and optional chopped walnuts for the cake, with a frosting made from cream cheese, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.

Why is my pumpkin cake too moist?

Your pumpkin cake is too moist because there’s too much liquid in it. 

What does pumpkin spice cake taste like?

Pumpkin spice cake tastes like a moist, soft treat with rich pumpkin notes and a hint of cinnamon.

Conclusion

If you’re anything like us, you love a good pumpkin cake. By following everything above, you can make your way to the hearts of your loved ones and customers in no time. Happy baking!

About HICAPS

Over the years, HICAPS has helped bakers and businesses make delicious products by offering ingredients like ChiffonAide Cake Oil, Magic Whizk Whipping Cream, Red Velvet Flavor Emulco, and Instabake Brownie Mix

HICAPS also provides tools and resources to valued partners, such as the free “How to Increase Your Sales Amidst the Pandemic” E-book and free dealer locator that helps look for baking ingredients near me

Want more free tips and tutorials? Follow us on Facebook at Hicaps Mktg. Corp. and on YouTube at HicapsTV. Want to be one of our valued partners? Fill out this form. Looking forward to talking to you soon!

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