Pumpkin cake is a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall, but it’s so delicious that you’ll want to make it year-round. This moist, spiced cake is rich in flavor and pairs wonderfully with a variety of toppings, from cream cheese frosting to a simple dusting of powdered sugar. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or just want a comforting dessert to enjoy with your coffee, this easy pumpkin cake recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delectable cake.
Ingredients for Easy and Delicious Pumpkin Cake
For the Cake
- 1 can (15 ounces) of pumpkin puree
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Cream Cheese Frosting (optional)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Easy and Delicious Pumpkin Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, ground ginger, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a denser cake.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting (optional)
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
Step 6: Frost the Cake
- Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- For a decorative touch, use a spatula or the back of a spoon to create swirls in the frosting.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Slice the cake into squares or rectangles.
- Serve and enjoy your delicious homemade pumpkin cake!
About the Main Ingredients
Pumpkin Puree
Pumpkin puree is the star of this cake, providing a rich, moist texture and a distinct autumnal flavor. It’s important to use pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices. Pumpkin puree is also packed with nutrients, including fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants, making it a healthier choice for your baking needs.
Spices
The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger is essential for creating the warm, spiced flavor that defines a pumpkin cake. These spices not only add depth and complexity to the cake but also evoke the comforting aromas of fall. You can adjust the quantities of each spice to suit your personal taste preferences.
Cream Cheese Frosting
Cream cheese frosting is a classic pairing with pumpkin cake, offering a tangy contrast to the sweet and spiced flavors of the cake. Made with just cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, it’s a simple yet decadent topping that enhances the overall taste and texture of the cake. If you prefer a lighter option, you can dust the cake with powdered sugar or serve it plain.
Flour and Sugars
All-purpose flour provides the structure for the cake, while a combination of granulated sugar and brown sugar adds sweetness and moisture. Brown sugar, in particular, contributes a subtle molasses flavor that complements the spices and pumpkin.
Eggs and Oil
Eggs help bind the ingredients together and give the cake its structure, while vegetable oil ensures the cake remains moist and tender. You can substitute the vegetable oil with other neutral oils like canola or sunflower oil if desired.
Pumpkin cake is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and moist texture, it’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful cake with your friends and family!
