Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting: Your Ultimate Fall Dessert

If you’re on the hunt for the perfect fall dessert, look no further than this Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. This incredibly moist cake combines the earthy warmth of pumpkin and cinnamon with the smooth tang of cream cheese frosting for a dessert that feels just like a cozy fall day. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving, a holiday party, or simply because you’re craving something delicious, this cake will deliver. Ready to fall in love with your new go-to pumpkin dessert? Let’s jump in!

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Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Cake Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to make this pumpkin cake a staple in your autumn baking:

• Perfectly Moist Texture: Thanks to the combination of oil and pumpkin puree, this cake is irresistibly soft and moist.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this cake is as approachable as it is delicious.
• Big Crowd Pleaser: This cake, baked in a 9×13-inch pan, is ideal for sharing at family gatherings or parties.
• Packed with Fall Flavor: Cinnamon and pumpkin create that cozy autumn taste, while the creamy, tangy frosting adds a delightful sweetness.

For more fall-inspired treats, check out our Pumpkin Churros or these ultra-decadent Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake Bars!

What This Pumpkin Cake Tastes Like

This pumpkin cake is everything you love about fall in a single bite! The warm pumpkin flavor pairs beautifully with cinnamon, creating a cake that’s comforting yet light. The cream cheese frosting is rich, smooth, and provides the perfect balance to the pumpkin spice. It’s the kind of dessert that has you reaching for seconds.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

For the Cake:

• 4 large eggs – for structure and lift.
• 1 2/3 cups sugar – adds sweetness and helps keep the cake moist.
• 1 cup vegetable oil – keeps the cake moist and tender.
• 15 oz pumpkin puree – the star ingredient for flavor, color, and texture.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – provides structure to the cake.
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon – adds that warm fall flavor.
• 2 tsp baking powder – helps the cake rise.
• 1 tsp baking soda – gives the cake its fluffiness.
• 1 tsp salt – enhances the flavors of the cake.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened – provides richness and a subtle tang.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – adds smoothness and structure to the frosting.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract – for added flavor.
• 6 cups powdered sugar – creates a sweet, fluffy frosting.

Essential Tools for This Recipe

• Mixing Bowls – one for wet ingredients, one for dry.
• Electric Mixer – for beating the eggs, sugar, and frosting.
• 9×13-inch Baking Pan – the perfect size for this cake.
• Spatula – to spread the frosting evenly.

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Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Pumpkin Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). No need to grease the baking pan—this cake will turn out beautifully moist without it!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the eggs and sugar until they are well blended. Add the vegetable oil and pumpkin puree, mixing until smooth and combined.

Step 4: Bring it All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as that can make the cake dense.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the ungreased 9×13-inch baking pan and bake for 25–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool the Cake

Let the cake cool completely in the pan before adding the frosting. Cooling is essential to avoid melting the frosting!

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth. Add the vanilla extract, and gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.

Step 8: Frost and Serve

Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. For the best results, chill the cake for 20–30 minutes before slicing. This will set the frosting and make serving easier.

Serving Suggestions

This pumpkin cake shines on its own, but if you want to round out your fall feast, pair it with a warm beverage like spiced cider or chai tea. For a complete autumn-inspired table, try serving it alongside our Green Beans Gremolata for a fresh, seasonal side.

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Cake Every Time

1. Use Pumpkin Puree, Not Pumpkin Pie Filling: Pumpkin pie filling contains added spices and sugar that could alter the cake’s texture and flavor.
2. Don’t Over-Mix: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix until just combined. This keeps your cake light and tender.
3. Let the Cake Cool Completely: Frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to slide, so give it time to cool fully.
4. Chill the Frosted Cake: Refrigerating the frosted cake before serving will set the frosting, making slicing easier and giving a beautiful presentation.

How to Store Pumpkin Cake

Store your pumpkin cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. This cake also freezes well! Slice it, wrap individual slices tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake up to 2 days in advance and store it, unfrosted, in the fridge. Just frost it before serving.

What Other Spices Can I Add?

To enhance the fall flavor, try adding a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice or a dash of nutmeg or cloves to the dry ingredients.

Can I Use Butter Instead of Oil?

Yes, melted butter can be substituted for the oil. It will add a slightly richer flavor, though the cake may be a little less moist.

More Fall Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this pumpkin cake, don’t miss out on these other delicious fall treats:

• Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake Bars: A creamy, spiced delight with the classic flavors of pumpkin pie and cheesecake.
• Pumpkin Churros: Light and crispy with all the pumpkin spice goodness.
• Green Beans Gremolata: A refreshing, vibrant side dish that complements any autumn meal.

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This pumpkin cake with cream cheese frosting is the perfect way to celebrate fall’s coziest flavors. Easy, moist, and full of flavor, this cake will surely become a favorite for holiday gatherings and beyond. Don’t forget to leave a review if you try it out!

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