Pumpkin Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
This Pumpkin Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a moist and flavorful dessert perfect for the fall season. The cake features tender layers infused with warm pumpkin and spices, complemented by a rich and tangy cream cheese frosting. Ideal for holiday gatherings or any cozy occasion.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Layers
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined. In another bowl, beat the eggs with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the egg mixture and mix until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to form the cake batter.
- Bake the Cake Layers: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow cakes to cool completely in pans on a wire rack.
- Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating well after each addition until the frosting is light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the cake layers are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Smooth or decorate as desired.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set. Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For best results, use canned pumpkin puree labeled 100% pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
- Ensure the cake layers are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- You can add chopped nuts or raisins to the batter for added texture if desired.
- Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Bring slices to room temperature before serving for enhanced flavor.
Keywords: Pumpkin Cake, Cream Cheese Frosting, Fall Dessert, Layer Cake, Holiday Cake
