Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

This Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting is a true delight for any dessert lover. Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or cozy family dinners, this cake brings the warm flavors of pumpkin spice right to your table. Its moist texture and rich caramel cream cheese frosting make it an unforgettable treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Pumpkin Cake
• For the Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
• For the Salted Caramel Sauce
• How to Make Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan
• Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
• Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
• Step 5: Combine Mixtures
• Step 6: Bake the Cake
• Step 7: Cool the Cake
• Step 8: Prepare Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
• Step 9: Frost Your Cake
• How to Serve Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
• Pair with Coffee or Tea
• Top with Nuts
• Serve with Ice Cream
• Add Fresh Whipped Cream
• Use Seasonal Fruits
• Create Mini Cakes
• How to Perfect Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
• Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
• Reheating Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
• How do I make my frosting thicker?
• Can I substitute oil with butter in this recipe?
• What can I serve with Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Flavorful: This cake is incredibly moist and packed with delicious pumpkin spice flavor.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Dessert: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual get-together, this cake fits any occasion.
• Stunning Presentation: The caramel cream cheese frosting adds a beautiful finish that looks as good as it tastes.
• Great for Sharing: With 15 servings, it’s an ideal choice for parties or potlucks.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll need some essential tools. Preparing in advance will make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Spatula
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Ensures that your batter is well-mixed and fluffy by efficiently blending ingredients together.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your cake.
• Baking pan: A good quality baking pan promotes even cooking, ensuring your cake rises beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Pumpkin Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup vegetable oil (or canola)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 15 oz can pumpkin puree

For the Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 6 oz cream cheese (full fat brick style)
• 1/2 cup salted caramel (see below or buy your own)
• 2-3 cups powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons whipping cream (as needed)

For the Salted Caramel Sauce

• 1 cup white sugar
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter (cut into 5 pieces)
• 1/2 cup whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt

How to Make Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes it easier to remove the cake later.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

Whisk until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix:
1 cup vegetable oil
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup white sugar
Add in:
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Then stir in:
1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree

Mix until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Bake in preheated oven for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool the Cake

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

Step 8: Prepare Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together:
6 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)

Add:
1/2 cup salted caramel

Gradually mix in powdered sugar until desired consistency is achieved. If too thick, add whipped cream as needed.

Step 9: Frost Your Cake

Once cooled, spread the caramel cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of your pumpkin cake. Drizzle additional salted caramel on top if desired for extra sweetness!

Enjoy every bite of this delicious Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving your Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate its deliciousness and presentation. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this cake.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

• A warm cup of coffee or tea complements the spices in the cake perfectly. The rich flavors enhance your dessert experience.

Top with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch. This adds texture and a nutty flavor that pairs well with pumpkin.

Serve with Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream adds creaminess to each bite. The cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm cake.

Add Fresh Whipped Cream

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream on top makes each slice feel indulgent. It’s a classic pairing that never disappoints.

Use Seasonal Fruits

• Fresh slices of apple or pear can add a fruity freshness. They also provide a nice visual appeal when plated.

Create Mini Cakes

• Bake individual servings in ramekins for a fun twist. These mini cakes are perfect for gatherings and easy to serve.

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How to Perfect Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

To achieve the best results for your Pumpkin Cake, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs, butter, and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Measure Flour Properly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense cake. Too much flour can make your cake dry.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and airy. Overmixing can lead to tough cake.

• Check Doneness Early: Start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended time. Oven temperatures vary, and you want it moist but not underbaked.

• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow your cake to cool completely before adding frosting. This prevents melting and helps maintain shape.

• Store Correctly: Keep leftovers covered in the fridge to maintain freshness. It will stay delicious for several days.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Cake can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some tasty suggestions.

1. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm drink infused with cinnamon and cloves that complements the flavors of pumpkin beautifully.

2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts add color and flavor to your table, balancing sweetness.

3. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the sweetness of the pumpkin cake.

4. Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, nuts, and vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance against rich desserts.

5. Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses can create a savory counterpoint that enhances dessert flavors while providing variety.

6. Chocolate Mousse: For chocolate lovers, pairing this light dessert with pumpkin cake creates an indulgent experience that’s hard to resist.

7. Pumpkin Soup: Continue the pumpkin theme by serving a warm bowl of spiced pumpkin soup as an appetizer before dessert.

8. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a crunchy texture that matched well with pumpkin’s natural sweetness while being easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly.

• Using outdated ingredients: Always check the expiration dates on baking powder and baking soda. Fresh ingredients ensure better rise and flavor.
• Skipping the sifting step: Not sifting your flour can lead to a dense cake. Sift before measuring for a lighter texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can develop gluten, resulting in a tough cake.
• Not measuring pumpkin puree correctly: Using too much or too little pumpkin can affect moisture levels. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cup for accuracy.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven baking. Invest in an oven thermometer for precise readings.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 5 days in the fridge without losing moisture.

Freezing Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap slices of cake tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds on medium power until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

You should avoid using pumpkin pie filling because it contains added sugars and spices that will alter the recipe’s flavor.

How do I make my frosting thicker?

If your caramel cream cheese frosting is too thin, gradually add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I substitute oil with butter in this recipe?

Yes, but using butter may change the texture slightly. If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute half of the oil with melted butter.

What can I serve with Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting?

This delicious cake pairs well with coffee or tea and makes a lovely dessert after any meal.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for any occasion. Its moist texture and rich flavors will delight your taste buds. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra crunch or sweetness!