Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

Embrace fall with Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting, a Cozy Pumpkin Spice Cake that’s soft, spiced, and topped with a silky caramel frosting. This autumn spice cake blends pumpkin’s earthy sweetness with a tangy, caramel-kissed topping, perfect for festive gatherings or cozy nights. Let’s bake this Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting and savor its warm, inviting flavors!

Why You’ll Love Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

• Cozy Flavors: Warm spices make this Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting a fall favorite.
• Silky Frosting: Creamy caramel topping adds a luxurious touch.
• Versatile: Perfect for holidays or casual treats.
• Moist Texture: Pumpkin and buttermilk ensure a tender crumb.
• Easy to Impress: Looks stunning but simple to make.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

Here’s what you’ll need for this autumn spice cake (serves 12–16):

 Cake:

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground ginger
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• ¾ cup (150g) light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240g) pumpkin puree
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk

 Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup (55g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¼ cup (60ml) prepared caramel sauce
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar

 Serving (Optional):

• Extra caramel sauce for drizzling
• ¼ cup chopped toasted pecans

Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Electric or hand mixer
• Spatula
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredient Tips

• Pumpkin Puree: Use canned or drained homemade puree for a moist cake.
• Cream Cheese: Full-fat block cream cheese ensures a creamy frosting.
• Buttermilk: Substitute with ½ cup milk mixed with 1½ tsp vinegar.
• Spices: Adjust cinnamon or nutmeg for a bolder autumn spice cake.
• Caramel Sauce: Store-bought or homemade adds a rich, buttery note.

Directions

Prep the Pans and Oven

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch pan or two 9-inch round pans, lightly flouring to prevent sticking for this autumn spice cake.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, I whisk 2 cups flour, 2 tsp baking powder, 1 tsp baking soda, ½ tsp salt, 1 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp nutmeg, and ¼ tsp ginger until combined, aerating for a light crumb.

Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, I beat ½ cup butter, ¾ cup granulated sugar, and ¾ cup brown sugar with a mixer until fluffy, about 2–3 minutes, for a tender Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting.

Add Eggs, Pumpkin, and Vanilla

I mix in 2 eggs one at a time, then add 1 cup pumpkin puree and 1 tsp vanilla, blending until smooth for a vibrant, spiced batter.

Combine Wet and Dry with Buttermilk

I add the dry ingredients to the wet in three parts, alternating with ½ cup buttermilk, starting and ending with dry. I mix just until combined to keep this silky pumpkin dessert light.

Bake the Cake

I pour the batter into the pan(s), smooth the top, and bake for 30–35 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. I cool completely in the pan to avoid melting the frosting.

Make the Caramel Frosting

I beat 8 oz cream cheese and ¼ cup butter until smooth. I add ¼ cup caramel sauce, 1 tsp vanilla, a pinch of salt, and 3 cups powdered sugar gradually, mixing until silky for a perfect caramel-frosted cake.

Frost and Decorate

I spread the frosting over the cooled cake and drizzle with extra caramel sauce. I sprinkle ¼ cup toasted pecans for crunch, creating a stunning Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting.

Nutrition

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
• Total Time: 50–55 minutes
• Servings: 12–16 (depending on cut)
• Calories: ~350–400 kcal per serving
• Macros per Serving: 50g carbs, 5g protein, 15g fat, 1g fiber

Variations for Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

Try these twists on this silky pumpkin dessert:

• Nut Swap: Use walnuts instead of pecans for a Cozy Pumpkin Spice Cake.
• Spice Boost: Add ¼ tsp cloves for deeper flavor.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Swap caramel for melted chocolate, inspired by LaylaCooks’ Chocolate Overnight Oats.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum.
• Mini Cakes: Bake in muffin tins for individual cakes (reduce baking to 20–25 minutes).

Serving Ideas:

• Pair with LaylaCooks’ Cucumber Blueberry Feta Salad for a fresh contrast.
• Serve with LaylaCooks’ Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken for a savory balance.
• Enjoy with LaylaCooks’ Vanilla Raspberry Iced Latte for a fall pairing.

Storage

I store this caramel-frosted cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, keeping it moist. For freezing, I wrap slices in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months, thawing in the fridge overnight. I serve chilled or warm slightly in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a soft texture.

Serving Tips

• Presentation: Drizzle caramel and sprinkle pecans for a vibrant Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting.
• Garnish: Add a dusting of cinnamon or edible flowers.
• Pairing: Serve with cinnamon ice cream or LaylaCooks’ Coconut Cooler for balance.
• Portion Size: 1 square or slice per person for a satisfying treat.
• Occasions: Ideal for Thanksgiving, birthdays, or cozy fall evenings.

FAQs

Here are answers to common questions about this dessert:

Can I make this cake ahead?
Yes, bake up to 2 days ahead and frost before serving for a fresh Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting.

How do I get smooth frosting?
Use softened cream cheese and sift powdered sugar for a silky caramel-frosted cake.

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?
Yes, drain excess liquid for a moist autumn spice cake.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?
Mix ½ cup milk with 1½ tsp vinegar for a perfect substitute.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious silky pumpkin dessert.

More Interesting Cake Recipes You’ll Love

• Chocolate Mousse Cake
• Cinnamon Sugar Blondies
• Strawberry Shortcake Cake (with sponge cake)
• Moist Cinnamon Apple Cake: A Sweet, Simple Deligh

Conclusion

Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting is a warm, inviting dessert that captures fall’s essence. This caramel-frosted cake is perfect for sharing. Bake this treat, gather your loved ones, and enjoy its cozy delight!