This Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake is a delightful treat that brings together the warm flavors of pumpkin and the creamy richness of cheesecake. Perfect for afternoon tea or brunch, this cake stands out with its beautiful swirls and moist texture, making it a favorite for gatherings and celebrations. Its unique combination of spiced pumpkin cake and smooth cream cheese filling creates a dessert experience that’s hard to resist.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor: The blend of pumpkin puree and cream cheese creates an irresistible taste that’s perfect for fall.
Versatile Dessert: Ideal for various occasions, from cozy family gatherings to festive holiday parties.
Easy Preparation: With simple steps, even beginner bakers can whip this up without stress.
Beautiful Presentation: The swirls of cream cheese add an attractive touch to your dessert table.
Moist and Rich: The combination of ingredients ensures a cake that stays moist and flavorful even days after baking.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

9” x 5” loaf pan
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer (optional)
Measuring cups and spoons
Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

9” x 5” loaf pan: This size is perfect for achieving the ideal cake height and texture.
Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when blending the cream cheese mixture until smooth.
Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of bowls to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

Ingredients

This Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake recipe combines pumpkin cake and cheesecake layers into one beautiful dessert and is perfect for afternoon tea or brunch.

For the Pumpkin Cake

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon fine salt
1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar (dark or light)
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
1 teaspoon vanilla

For the Cream Cheese Swirl

8 ounces block cream cheese, at room temperature
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg, at room temperature
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1/4 cup all-purpose flour

How to Make Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F. Grease your 9” x 5” loaf pan. For extra insurance against sticking, you can also line the pan with a layer of parchment paper before greasing; this is optional.

Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients:
1. Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, fine salt, and pumpkin pie spice in a bowl until evenly mixed.

In another large bowl:
1. Beat together granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, pumpkin puree, and vanilla until well blended.
2. Gradually add in the dry mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a separate bowl:
1. Beat together cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth.
2. Add in one egg, vanilla extract, and flour; mix until fully combined.

Step 4: Assemble Your Cake

To create your swirl effect:
1. Pour half of the pumpkin batter into the prepared loaf pan.
2. Spoon half of the cream cheese mixture over it.
3. Repeat with remaining batters by layering them in alternating spoonfuls.

Step 5: Swirl It!

Using a knife or skewer:
1. Gently swirl through both batters to create a marbled effect but do not overmix.

Step 6: Bake Your Cake

Place in preheated oven:
– Bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Once baked:
– Allow cooling in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your delicious slice of Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake

Serving Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake is a delightful experience, as it beautifully combines the flavors of pumpkin and cream cheese. This cake can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, whether at a cozy brunch or an afternoon tea gathering.

With Whipped Cream

Top slices with freshly whipped cream for an extra creamy texture that complements the cake’s richness.

As a Dessert with Coffee

Serve alongside a warm cup of coffee or spiced chai for a comforting afternoon treat.

Garnished with Nuts

Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.

With Ice Cream

Pair with vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a delicious warm-and-cold dessert experience.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

A light drizzle of caramel sauce adds sweetness and enhances the pumpkin flavor beautifully.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake

To achieve the best results with your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake, consider these helpful tips:

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cake tender; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
Cool Properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to prevent sogginess.
Adjust Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices based on your personal preference; more pumpkin pie spice can add warmth.
Store Correctly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake can enhance its flavors and make your meal more enjoyable. Here are some fantastic options:

Cinnamon Sugar Pecans: These sweet and crunchy nuts provide a delightful textural contrast.
Apple Salad: A fresh apple salad with walnuts and feta brings brightness and balance to the rich cake.
Spiced Tea: Serve with a warm spiced tea that echoes the flavors of autumn found in the cake.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, like brie or goat cheese, pairs well with the sweetness of the cake.
Pumpkin Soup: A small bowl of creamy pumpkin soup makes for a cozy pairing that’s very seasonal.
Fruit Compote: A side of berry or citrus compote adds tartness that complements the sweet cake nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake is all about attention to detail. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or cream cheese can lead to a lumpy batter. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smooth texture.
Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the cake dense. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy result.
Skipping the greasing step: Not greasing your pan properly can cause sticking. Always grease and optionally line your pan to ensure easy removal.
Not checking for doneness: Baking times can vary; always test with a toothpick. Remove the cake when it comes out clean for best results.
Ignoring ingredient measurements: Improper measuring can ruin your cake’s texture. Use precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
It will last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake

Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap.
Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual slices on low power for 15-20 seconds.
Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake?

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake is a delightful dessert that combines moist pumpkin cake with creamy cheesecake swirls, perfect for fall gatherings.

Can I substitute fresh pumpkin?

You can use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned pumpkin. Just ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the cake.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips into the batter or use flavored extracts like almond instead of vanilla for a unique twist.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for structure.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake is a beautiful blend of flavors that makes it ideal for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it as you wish, whether adding spices or mix-ins. Try this comforting recipe and share its delightful taste with family and friends!

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Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake

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Author: Cara
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 10 slices 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warm and comforting flavors of our Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake, a delightful treat that perfectly marries spiced pumpkin cake with rich cream cheese swirls. This moist dessert is an ideal choice for afternoon tea, brunch gatherings, or any festive celebration. Its stunning marbled appearance not only makes it visually appealing but also enhances the overall flavor experience, ensuring it’s a hit among family and friends. With easy-to-follow instructions, even novice bakers can create this seasonal delight that embodies the essence of autumn.

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon fine salt
1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar (dark or light)
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
1 teaspoon vanilla
8 ounces block cream cheese, at room temperature
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg, at room temperature
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1/4 cup all-purpose flour

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 325°F. Grease a 9” x 5” loaf pan.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, fine salt, and pumpkin pie spice in a bowl until evenly mixed.
In another large bowl, beat together granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, pumpkin puree, and vanilla until well blended. Gradually add in the dry mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
In a separate bowl, beat together cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add in one egg, vanilla extract, and flour; mix until fully combined.
To create your swirl effect: pour half of the pumpkin batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spoon half of the cream cheese mixture over it. Repeat with remaining batters by layering them in alternating spoonfuls.
Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl through both batters to create a marbled effect but do not overmix.
Place in preheated oven: Bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked: Allow cooling in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 75 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American