This Easy Pumpkin Cake Recipe is perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive holiday celebrations. Its light and fluffy texture combined with a luscious whipped cream cheese frosting makes it an irresistible treat. With just four simple steps, you’ll have a delicious dessert that brings warmth and joy to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This cake can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making it an effortless option for busy bakers.
- Moist and Flavorful: The addition of pumpkin puree results in a moist cake infused with warm spices that everyone will love.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, or elevate it with the creamy frosting and optional pecan topping for a delightful presentation.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, Thanksgiving dinner, or a casual get-together, this cake fits right in.
- Easily Adaptable: You can customize the flavors by adding nuts or chocolate chips based on your preferences.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Easy Pumpkin Cake, gather your tools to make the process smooth. Having everything ready will help you stay organized and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Electric mixer
- Baking pan (9×13 inch)
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: This tool ensures that your batter is mixed evenly, resulting in a lighter cake.
- Baking pan: A good-quality pan helps achieve even baking and prevents sticking.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this Easy Pumpkin Cake Recipe:
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (see note on measuring)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda (sifted to get rid of lumps)
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
Wet Ingredients
- 3 large eggs (room temp)
- 1 cup oil (extra light olive oil, vegetable or corn oil will work)
- 15 oz pumpkin puree (can)
Frosting Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese (room temp, cut into quarters)
- 8 Tbsp unsalted butter (room temp)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Garnish (Optional)
- Pecans to decorate
How to Make Easy Pumpkin Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking pan with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine all the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and oil until combined.
3. Add the pumpkin puree to the egg mixture and stir until smooth.
4. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan:
– Spread it evenly using a spatula.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
While the cake cools:
1. In a mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter using an electric mixer until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat until creamy and fluffy.
Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the frosting on top. Decorate with pecans if desired. Slice into 12 pieces and enjoy your Easy Pumpkin Cake!
How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Cake Recipe
This Easy Pumpkin Cake is delicious on its own but can be enhanced with various serving suggestions that add flavor and texture. Here are some creative ways to serve your cake.
Classic Whipped Cream
- A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light and airy touch to each slice. It perfectly complements the cake’s moistness.
Cream Cheese Frosting
- For those who love a richer taste, spread an extra layer of cream cheese frosting on top. This enhances the cake’s sweetness and creaminess.
Ice Cream Scoop
- Serve warm slices of pumpkin cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of warm and cold is delightful!
Caramel Sauce Drizzle
- Drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the top for a sweet and sticky finish. This adds a beautiful presentation as well.
Chopped Nuts Garnish
- Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch. This simple addition gives texture and a nutty flavor boost.
How to Perfect Easy Pumpkin Cake Recipe
To achieve the best results with this Easy Pumpkin Cake, consider these tips that will elevate your baking experience.
Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid adding too much flour, which can make the cake dense.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing, leading to a smooth batter.
Don’t Overmix: Stir just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake instead of a soft one.
Check Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
Cool Before Frosting: Let the cake cool completely before adding frosting to prevent it from melting.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Pumpkin Cake Recipe
Pair your Easy Pumpkin Cake with these delightful side dishes that complement its flavors nicely. Each enhances the overall dessert experience.
Spiced Apple Cider: A warm drink that brings out the autumn spices in the cake, perfect for cozy gatherings.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness ties beautifully with pumpkin flavors, making them an ideal companion.
Maple-Glazed Carrots: These tender carrots add a sweet crunch and balance against the rich pumpkin cake.
Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: Offer these as finger foods alongside the cake for guests who want an extra treat.
Gingerbread Cookies: Their spiciness pairs well with pumpkin, creating a festive atmosphere for any occasion.
Pecan Pie Bars: Rich and nutty bars that echo similar flavors found in pumpkin treats, making them a complementary dessert option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking an Easy Pumpkin Cake can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes and how to avoid them:
Incorrect ingredient measurements: Always measure your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. This helps prevent a dry cake.
Using cold eggs: Room temperature eggs help create a smoother batter. If you forget to take them out, place them in warm water for a few minutes before adding.
Overmixing the batter: Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Not preheating the oven: Preheat your oven before baking. This ensures that your cake rises properly and bakes evenly.
Skipping the sifted baking soda: Sifting baking soda eliminates lumps, ensuring an even rise in your cake. Always sift before measuring.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep covered with plastic wrap if not using a container.
Freezing Easy Pumpkin Cake Recipe
- Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Easy Pumpkin Cake Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), wrap in foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat with a lid for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Easy Pumpkin Cake Recipe so special?
This recipe combines moist pumpkin with warm spices and is topped with a creamy frosting, making it perfect for any occasion.
Can I make this Easy Pumpkin Cake Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy this delicious cake without gluten.
How do I know when my Easy Pumpkin Cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your cake is ready!
What can I use instead of cream cheese frosting?
You can use whipped cream or buttercream instead of cream cheese frosting if you prefer a lighter topping.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Pumpkin Cake is not only simple to make but also incredibly delicious and versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts or different spices according to your taste. Try this recipe today and enjoy its comforting flavors!
Easy Pumpkin Cake Recipe
Discover the joy of baking with this Easy Pumpkin Cake Recipe, a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite. This moist and fluffy cake is infused with warm spices and topped with a creamy whipped cream cheese frosting, making it an irresistible dessert for any occasion—from family gatherings to festive holiday celebrations. With just four straightforward steps, you’ll create a delicious pumpkin cake that radiates warmth and happiness at your table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp fine sea salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup oil (vegetable or light olive)
- 15 oz pumpkin puree
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together eggs and oil; add pumpkin puree until smooth.
- Gradually mix wet ingredients into dry until just combined. Pour batter into the greased pan.
- Bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely before frosting with the cream cheese mixture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
