Introduction to Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
Pumpkin cake is more than just an autumn dessert; it’s a slice of comfort that fits perfectly into the busy lifestyles of young professionals. Imagine coming home after a long day, the rich aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through your kitchen as you indulge in a piece of soft, moist cake layered with creamy cinnamon cream cheese frosting. Not only does pumpkin cake offer the warmth of familiar flavors, but it also strikes the ideal balance between indulgence and healthfulness. Pumpkin is packed with vitamins, notably Vitamin A, and can be a healthier alternative to other calorie-laden treats.
Another reason this delight shines is its versatility. Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in or impressing guests at a gathering, this cake’s vibrant orange hue and aromatic spices make it visually and biologically appealing. Plus, it’s a fun conversation starter!
For those juggling deadlines and social commitments, this pumpkin cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting recipe is both straightforward and rewarding. With minimal prep time and the promise of compliments, it's a culinary experience that will bring joy to your table and ease your mind. Ready to dive into the recipe? Let’s get baking!
Ingredients for Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
When it comes to baking a delightful pumpkin cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting, having the right ingredients is essential for achieving that perfect balance of flavors and textures. Here’s what you'll need.
Essential Ingredients for the Cake Layers
To create moist and flavorful cake layers, make sure you gather the following:
- All-purpose flour (360 g): This will serve as the backbone of your cake.
- Baking powder (2 ½ tsp) and baking soda (½ tsp): These leavening agents are crucial for lightness.
- Salt (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors.
- Pumpkin spice (1 tablespoon + 2 tsp): You can even make your own—check this pumpkin spice blend.
- Dark brown sugar (450 g): Adds moisture and a deep caramel flavor.
- Pumpkin purée (560 g): The star ingredient that brings fall vibes.
- Oil (150 g): Keeps the cake moist.
- Eggs (4): Essential for binding and structure.
- Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Adds warmth and complexity.
Key Ingredients for the Frosting
To make that luscious cinnamon cream cheese frosting, you’ll need:
- Butter (300 g): Room temperature butter creates a smooth base.
- Full-fat cream cheese (150 g): For that rich, tangy flavor.
- Powdered sugar (540 g): Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- Ground cinnamon (2 tsp): A must for that cozy, spiced flavor.
- Vanilla extract (½ tsp): For a hint of sweetness.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to baking an irresistible pumpkin cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-step Preparation for Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
Preheat the oven and prepare the baking pans
The first step in making this delicious pumpkin cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting is to get your oven ready. Preheat it to 170ºC (340ºF). Every oven behaves a little differently, so make sure to keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. While the oven warms up, grab three 20 cm (8 inch) round baking pans. Line each pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking, ensuring a smooth release when the cakes are cool.
Mix the dry ingredients for the cake layers
In a large mixing bowl, it's time to combine the dry ingredients. You'll need 360 g of all-purpose flour, 2 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon + 2 teaspoons of pumpkin spice. This blend creates the foundation of your cake, infusing it with that comforting fall flavor. Don’t forget to whisk these ingredients well to ensure an even mix—nobody wants a clump of baking powder or salt in their delicious cake!
Combine the wet ingredients
Next up, in another bowl, gather your wet ingredients: 450 g of room temperature pumpkin purée, 150 g of oil, 4 eggs, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Whisk these together until smooth. This is where your cake gains its moisture and richness! Room temperature ingredients combine more easily—don’t skip this step!
Blend the wet and dry ingredients
Once your wet ingredients are combined, it’s time to bring everything together. Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Using a whisk or a rubber spatula, combine them thoroughly until there’s no dry flour left. Your batter should be thick and aromatic—a good indication that you're on the right track!
Bake the cake layers to perfection
Now, divide the cake batter evenly among your prepared pans. Gently spread it out to form even layers. Slide the pans into your preheated oven and set a timer for 23-25 minutes. To test for doneness, insert a cake tester or toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Once baked, allow the layers to cool in the pans for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Prepare the cinnamon cream cheese frosting
While the cakes cool, why not start on that scrumptious frosting? Let 300 g of butter and 150 g of full-fat cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. Cut the butter into cubes and sift 540 g of powdered sugar. In a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, cream the butter on high for 5 minutes, scraping down the sides occasionally. Then, add the cinnamon and vanilla extract, along with the cream cheese, mixing for about a minute until well combined.
Assemble the cake layers with frosting
Once your cake layers are completely cool, you can begin assembling. Place the first layer on your serving dish and spread about two big scoops of frosting on top using an offset spatula. Repeat with the second cake layer then finish with the final layer. Cover the entire cake with any remaining frosting, smoothing it out and decorating as desired. This is the fun part!
With these steps, you’ll create a delightful pumpkin cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting that's perfect for any occasion. For those looking for inspiration and decorating ideas, be sure to check out The Great British Bake Off and other culinary blogs for tips! Enjoy your baking!
Variations on Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
Unique twists on the classic pumpkin cake
If you're looking to shake things up with your pumpkin cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting, consider adding applesauce for additional moisture or substituting some of the pumpkin purée with mashed bananas for a delightful flavor surprise. You can even mix in chopped nuts or chocolate chips for texture or use a spice blend like gingerbread to create a festive twist. Think about layering in some cranberry sauce for a tart contrast, or topping your cake with pecans for a delightful crunch.
Alternative frostings for diverse flavors
While the cinnamon cream cheese frosting is a classic favorite, why not experiment? Try a maple cream cheese frosting for a sweet twist, or a caramel frosting to enhance the autumn flavors. Coconut whipped cream can offer a lighter, fresher approach, while a rich chocolate ganache could turn your cake into a dessert powerhouse. Each alternative not only complements the pumpkin notes but also adds a unique flair to your culinary masterpiece. Remember, the joy of baking lies in creativity, so make these variations your own!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
Importance of ingredient temperature
For the best results when making pumpkin cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature. This helps butter and cream cheese to blend smoothly, creating a creamy, well-emulsified frosting. Cold ingredients can lead to lumps and an uneven texture. If you forgot to take your eggs or cream cheese out, you can submerge them in warm water for a few minutes to speed up the process.
How to make your own pumpkin spice
Customizing your pumpkin spice is easy and fun! Simply mix together:
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground ginger
- ¾ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¾ teaspoon ground allspice
Store your blend in an airtight container for future baking endeavors. Want to dig even deeper? Check out sources like The Spice House for quality spices to elevate your recipes. Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
Perfect Pairings for Your Pumpkin Cake
Elevate your pumpkin cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting by pairing it with complementary flavors. A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a delightful creaminess, while a cup of hot spiced tea or coffee can enhance the warmth of the spices. You can also serve it alongside roasted nuts for a satisfying crunch or fresh fruit, like sliced apples or pears, to balance the cake’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present Your Cake
Presentation is key! For an eye-catching display, try stacking slices of your pumpkin cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting on a rustic wooden board. Dust with powdered sugar and sprinkle cinnamon for an elegant touch. Consider adding candied pecans or mini pumpkins around the base for a seasonal flair. These little details can turn your dessert into a stunning centerpiece for any gathering.
For more ideas on seasonal decorations, check out this resource.
Time Breakdown for Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
Preparation time
Get started by gathering your ingredients and prepping your pans. This will take about 20 minutes. You’ll want to ensure everything is ready for a smooth baking experience!
Baking time
Once your batter is ready, it’s time to bake! Each cake layer takes about 23-25 minutes in the oven.
Total time
In total, including preparation and cooling, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes before you can indulge in your delicious pumpkin cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting. Enjoy the process and the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen!
Nutritional Facts for Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
Calories and Macronutrient Breakdown
Indulging in pumpkin cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting brings about a delightful balance of flavors and textures. A typical serving contains approximately 420 calories, with a macronutrient breakdown of 94g carbohydrates, 6g protein, and 33g fat. This dessert is rich in sugars, owing to the dark brown sugar and powdered sugar used, making it a sweet treat to savor.
Key Vitamins and Minerals
Beyond its delicious taste, this cake is packed with beneficial nutrients. Each serving provides Vitamin A (6974 IU), essential for vision and immune function, as well as calcium (112mg) and iron (2mg) for maintaining strong bones and blood health. It's a treat that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also contributes vitamins to your diet.
For more detailed nutritional insights, consider visiting the USDA FoodData Central for comprehensive data on ingredients used in the recipe.
FAQs about Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
How can I ensure my cake stays moist?
To keep your pumpkin cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting moist, make sure you don’t overmix the batter, as this can lead to a denser cake. Incorporating room temperature ingredients, like eggs and pumpkin puree, can also help achieve a lighter texture. Additionally, baking the cake just until a toothpick comes out clean ensures that it’s not overcooked.
What is the best way to store leftover cake?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you anticipate having leftovers for longer, you can refrigerate it for about a week. For longer-term storage, consider wrapping slices in plastic wrap and freezing them for up to three months. Just be sure to let it thaw before enjoying!
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned purée?
Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh pumpkin, just cook it down until it’s soft, mash, and strain it to make sure it's smooth. Canned pumpkin purée is convenient, but fresh pumpkin can add a delightful homemade touch to your pumpkin cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting.
Conclusion on Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
Indulging in this pumpkin cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting is a delightful experience sure to impress at any gathering. The moist layers paired with creamy frosting create a perfect balance of flavors. Don’t hesitate to make this seasonal favorite—it’s a true crowd pleaser! Share your creations and enjoy!
Pumpkin Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
Equipment
- oven
- Baking pans
- mixing bowls
- whisk
- Stand mixer
- spatula
- cooling rack
Ingredients
PUMPKIN CAKE LAYERS
- 360 g all-purpose flour
- 2.5 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice see notes below recipe to make homemade pumpkin spice
- 450 g dark brown sugar
- 560 g pumpkin purée room temperature
- 150 g oil room temperature
- 4 eggs room temperature
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
CINNAMON CREAM CHEESE FROSTING
- 300 g butter
- 150 g full-fat cream cheese
- 540 g powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
PUMPKIN CAKE LAYERS
- Preheat the oven at 170ºC/340ºF conventional oven and line 3x 20 cm/8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, spices and salt.
- In another mixing bowl add all of the wet ingredients, and with a hand whisk, whisk them together until combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir it all together with a whisk or a rubber spatula. Make sure there is no dry flour left in the batter.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pans and spread the cake batter into an even layer. Bake them for 23-25 minutes or until a cake tester comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool on a cooling rack. After 5 minutes, gently remove the cakes from the cake tins and let the cakes cool down completely.
CINNAMON CREAM CHEESE FROSTING
- Take the butter and cream cheese out of the fridge 10 minutes before starting. Cut the butter into cubes. Sift the powdered sugar.
- In your stand mixer, using the paddle attachment, start by creaming the butter for 5 minutes on high speed. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and give it another mix for 2 minutes.
- Add the cinnamon, vanilla extract and cream cheese and cream it together with the butter for 1 minute.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl and on low speed, mix the sifted powdered sugar in 2 parts, letting the powdered sugar mix in with the butter and cream cheese before adding the next part. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and give it a final mix for 2 minutes.
ASSEMBLING
- Place the first cake layer on your serving dish or cake board on your turntable. If you don’t have a turntable, don’t worry, you can easily decorate the layer cake without it.
- Add 2 big scoops of frosting and with an offset spatula, even it out. Then add the other cake layer and repeat the process.
- Add the last cake layer and cover the whole cake in the remaining frosting, and even it out over the cake.
- Optional, make a wavy design with the frosting, using the offset spatula and decorate with a dusting of cinnamon and mini fondant pumpkin decorations.
Leave a Reply