Pumpkin Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you are craving a fall-inspired dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Pumpkin Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is your new best friend. With its tender, spiced layers of pumpkin goodness and the rich, tangy cream cheese frosting, this cake is nothing short of spectacular. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings or anytime you want to bring a touch of seasonal magic to your table. Each slice offers a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and creamy frosting that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but crucial, working together to create the soft texture, warm flavor, and inviting color that make this cake unforgettable. Each one plays a special role, whether it’s the spices adding depth or the pumpkin providing moistness and earthiness.

• 3 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives the cake its structure and fluffiness.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise to light perfection.
• 2 teaspoons baking soda: Works with the baking powder for the best lift.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Adds that classic warm, sweet spice that defines pumpkin desserts.
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger: Brings a subtle zing balancing the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Enhances the cozy spice profile with its nutty aroma.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Elevates the other flavors to their fullest potential.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: For a moist crumb and rich texture.
• 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter, creating that perfect caramelized crust.
• 4 large eggs: Bind everything together for a tender, moist crumb.
• 1 cup pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that imparts moisture, color, and subtle earthiness.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Adds a slight tang and keeps the cake incredibly moist.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a delicate sweetness.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: For the luscious, tangy frosting.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Makes the frosting creamy and spreadable.
• 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting to balance the tang of the cream cheese.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the frosting flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Gives the frosting a hint of spicy warmth that complements the cake.

How to Make Pumpkin Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pans and Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans. This step ensures your layers will release easily after baking, setting the stage for a flawless cake assembly.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Combining your spices here means they’ll be evenly distributed throughout your batter, giving every bite delightful bursts of flavor.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This creaming process helps incorporate air, creating a lighter cake texture that melts in your mouth.

Step 4: Add Eggs One at a Time

Add the eggs one by one to the creamed mixture, beating well after each addition. This slow incorporation ensures a smooth batter and sturdy cake structure.

Step 5: Blend in Pumpkin, Buttermilk, and Vanilla

Stir in the pumpkin puree, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. These wet ingredients add moisture and flavor that create the cake’s inviting autumnal character.

Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet, stirring just until the batter is smooth and uniform. Overmixing can toughen the cake, so gentle incorporation is key to keeping it tender.

Step 7: Divide Batter and Bake

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will start to smell like autumn in the best way possible.

Step 8: Cool the Cakes

Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Cooling fully is important to keep your frosting from melting when applied.

Step 9: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth. Then, gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until creamy. Stir in vanilla extract and cinnamon for that perfect balance of sweetness and spice.

Step 10: Assemble the Pumpkin Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Place the first cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Repeat with the second layer and frosting. Top with the final cake layer and cover the whole cake with the remaining frosting, smoothing it over the sides. Decorate if desired — cinnamon sticks or a dusting of nutmeg make beautiful touches.

How to Serve Pumpkin Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a garnish can elevate your pumpkin layer cake from lovely to stunning. Consider a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top, or arrange whole cinnamon sticks around the base to hint at the warm spices inside. Toasted pecans or candied pumpkin seeds add crunch and visual interest, making each slice feel like a special treat.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence. Fresh whipped cream lightly dusted with cinnamon is a simple, classic companion. For beverages, think cozy hot apple cider or a warm cup of chai tea to enhance the spice notes of the cake.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice this cake into neat triangles or squares and display on a rustic wooden board for a charming fall dessert spread. You could also cut it into smaller squares for a party platter. Serving with edible flowers or autumn leaves around the plate creates a stunning seasonal presentation that’s sure to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your amazing pumpkin layer cake, wrap leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep the cake moist and the frosting fresh. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay delicious for up to 4 days.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped well in plastic and foil for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw them overnight in the fridge before frosting and assembling your cake for a fresh-from-scratch taste.

Reheating

Since this cake is best served chilled or at room temperature, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. However, if you prefer a warmer slice, allow the cake to come to room temperature and enjoy it alongside a warm beverage for that perfect cozy moment.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin or fresh pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Both work well! Canned pumpkin puree is convenient and consistent in texture, making it a popular choice. If using fresh pumpkin, be sure to cook and puree it thoroughly so it blends smoothly into the batter.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures like regular flour. Just be mindful to check that your blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help keep the cake’s structure intact.

Can I substitute the cream cheese frosting with another type of frosting?

While the cream cheese frosting perfectly complements the pumpkin flavors, you can try a simple vanilla buttercream or a mascarpone frosting for a lighter twist. Just keep the frosting creamy and smooth for the best texture contrast.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

Use the toothpick test! Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake layers; if it comes out clean or with only a few crumbs clinging to it, your cake is ready. This ensures the cake is baked through without drying out.

Can I make this cake vegan?

Transforming this recipe into a vegan version requires some swaps, such as flax eggs for regular eggs, vegan butter, and a nondairy cream cheese alternative for the frosting. The texture might differ slightly, but it can still be wonderfully delicious with the right adjustments.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a homemade Pumpkin Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe that turns ordinary moments into celebrations. This cake’s perfect blend of spices, moist pumpkin layers, and creamy frosting invites warm smiles and happy gatherings around your table. Don’t hesitate—whip up this cozy favorite and share a slice with those you love. You might just find it becomes a treasured tradition in your kitchen.

Pumpkin Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

This Pumpkin Layer Cake is a moist, warmly spiced dessert perfect for fall gatherings and special occasions. Three layers of tender pumpkin cake are filled and frosted with a creamy cinnamon-infused cream cheese frosting, creating a deliciously rich and festive treat.

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Ingredients

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For the Cake:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

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Instructions

1. Prepare the pans: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to ensure smooth blending.
5. Combine wet ingredients: Mix in the pumpkin puree, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until the batter is well combined and smooth.
6. Add dry ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until the batter is smooth and all components are fully incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
7. Divide batter: Evenly pour the batter into the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops to ensure even layers.
8. Bake: Bake the cakes in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
9. Cool the cakes: Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely, preventing sogginess.
10. Make the frosting: While the cakes cool, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
11. Add powdered sugar: Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar one cup at a time into the cream cheese mixture, beating well after each addition until smooth and fluffy.
12. Flavor the frosting: Stir in the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon until evenly combined.
13. Assemble the cake: Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
14. Add second layer: Place the second cake layer atop the first and spread another layer of frosting evenly.
15. Top the cake: Place the third cake layer on top and frost the entire top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
16. Decorate: Optionally, decorate with cinnamon sticks or a light sprinkle of nutmeg for an elegant finish.

Notes

• Ensure all ingredients, especially the butter and cream cheese, are softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Do not overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients to keep the cake tender.
• Use fresh pumpkin puree for the best flavor, or canned pumpkin if fresh is not available.
• The cake layers can be baked a day ahead and stored wrapped tightly to save time.
• For a deeper spice flavor, you can increase the cinnamon to 3 teaspoons or add a pinch of cloves.
• If you prefer a less sweet frosting, reduce the powdered sugar slightly or adjust to taste.
• Make sure cakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American