Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle
One bite of this Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle and you’ll never want another cake ever again. This delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to festive celebrations. The moist pumpkin cake combined with creamy frosting and a rich salted caramel drizzle makes it a standout treat that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The blend of spices and pumpkin creates a warm, comforting taste that is simply delicious.
- Decadent Topping: The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness, perfectly complemented by the salted caramel drizzle.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a special treat, this cake fits right in.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up this impressive dessert.
- Versatile Decoration: Top it with fresh fruits or nuts to customize your cake for various themes.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Three 8-inch cake pans
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Ideal for whipping the cream cheese frosting until light and fluffy.
- Mixing bowls: Keeps your ingredients organized while combining dry and wet components.
- Spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls and spreading frosting evenly.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ginger
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Salted Caramel Drizzle
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons butter, room temperature
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 8 oz butter, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 7 cups powdered sugar
How to Make Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare three 8-inch cake pans by greasing and flouring them to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl:
Combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well blended.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another bowl:
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until mixed thoroughly.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture:
Stir until just combined; avoid overmixing.
Step 5: Bake the Cakes
Evenly distribute the batter among the prepared pans:
Bake for 25–30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely before frosting.
Step 6: Prepare Salted Caramel
In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat:
Heat granulated sugar for about 5 minutes until melted and golden.
Remove from heat and stir in butter; let bubble and blend.
Add heavy cream gradually while stirring. Return to heat briefly before cooling at room temperature.
Step 7: Make Cream Cheese Frosting
Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment:
Beat together room temperature butter and cream cheese until fluffy (about 2 minutes).
Mix in vanilla extract, salt, and powdered sugar; whip for another two minutes.
Step 8: Assemble the Cake
On a serving plate:
Place one cake layer down. Spread frosting generously on top.
Repeat with second layer followed by third layer. Cover entire cake with remaining frosting.
Step 9: Drizzle Caramel
Once cooled slightly:
Use a squeeze bottle or piping bag to drizzle salted caramel on top of the cake in a spiral pattern.
Step 10: Optional Decorations
For an elegant touch:
Decorate with fresh figs, pomegranate seeds, or blackberries as desired.
Now you have an amazing Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle that is both beautiful and delicious! Enjoy every slice!
How to Serve Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle
Serving your Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle can be an experience to remember. This cake pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments that enhance its flavors and presentation.
Pair with Coffee
- Coffee complements the rich flavors of the pumpkin and spices. A warm cup of coffee or a spiced latte can elevate your dessert experience.
Ice Cream Delight
- Vanilla or caramel ice cream adds a delightful creaminess. The cold contrast against the warm cake creates a pleasing texture combination.
Fresh Fruit Garnish
- Berries, such as blackberries or pomegranates, bring freshness to each bite. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the cake and frosting.
Whipped Cream Topping
- A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness. It can help cut through the richness of the cream cheese frosting.
Nuts for Crunch
- Chopped pecans or walnuts provide a crunchy texture. Their nuttiness complements the spices in the Pumpkin Cake beautifully.
Sweet Beverages
- Pair with apple cider or a sweet tea. These beverages enhance the fall flavor profile of the cake, making it perfect for gatherings.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle
To achieve the best results with your Pumpkin Cake, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your baking technique.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh pumpkin puree. This enhances flavor and moisture in your cake.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that eggs and butter are at room temperature. This helps them blend better, resulting in a smoother batter.
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Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake. Overmixing can lead to tough texture, so be gentle!
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Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy. An incorrect temperature can lead to uneven baking.
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Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow cakes to cool fully on a wire rack. Frosting on warm layers can melt and slide off, ruining your design.
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Drizzle Warm Caramel: For ease of application, drizzle salted caramel while it’s slightly warm but not too hot. This ensures it flows nicely over the frosting.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle
Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Cake can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that complement this delightful dessert well.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a savory touch, balancing sweetness with their slightly bitter flavor.
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Maple Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots harmonize with pumpkin flavors, making them an ideal side dish during fall.
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Apple Crisp Salad: A refreshing salad featuring apples, nuts, and greens provides crunch and acidity.
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Butternut Squash Soup: Creamy soup brings warmth and pairs beautifully with pumpkin flavors in both dishes.
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Cheese Platter: A mix of soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese can offer creamy contrasts alongside sweet cake.
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Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy mashed sweet potatoes echo similar flavors while adding richness to your plate.
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Cranberry Sauce: Tart cranberry sauce provides brightness that complements the sweetness of the cake.
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Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts tossed in spices offer crunch and flavor depth, enhancing any gathering’s snack table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle can be delightful, but avoid these common mistakes for the best results.
- Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold eggs and cream cheese can lead to a lumpy frosting. Always allow your ingredients to reach room temperature before mixing.
- Overmixing the batter: This can make your cake dense. Mix just until combined for a lighter texture.
- Skipping the cooling time: Frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt. Ensure your cake is completely cooled before applying frosting.
- Ignoring measurements: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
- Using old spices: Fresh spices enhance flavor significantly. Check expiration dates and replace any that are too old.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover pumpkin cake in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle
- Wrap slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap, then foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover the cake with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Warm individual slices on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle last?
Properly stored, it lasts up to 5 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Substitute eggs with flax eggs, use non-dairy cream cheese, and coconut cream for frosting.
What can I substitute for pumpkin puree?
You can use applesauce or mashed bananas as alternatives, but the flavor will differ slightly.
How do I prevent my salted caramel from hardening?
Ensure you store it at room temperature in an airtight container. If it hardens, gently reheat it before use.
Can I add nuts to my Pumpkin Cake?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch to your cake.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts or swapping spices according to your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings at home!
Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of our Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle. This moist and spiced cake is a perfect treat for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations. The combination of velvety cream cheese frosting and a rich salted caramel drizzle elevates this dessert to a new level of indulgence. Each slice offers a warm, comforting flavor that will leave everyone wanting more. With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, even novice bakers can impress their friends and family with this stunning cake.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ginger
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for salted caramel)
- 3 tablespoons butter (for salted caramel)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (for salted caramel)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for salted caramel)
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 8 oz butter
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for frosting)
- 7 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare three 8-inch cake pans by greasing them.
- In a large bowl, mix pumpkin puree, sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
- Gradually combine wet and dry mixtures until just mixed.
- Divide batter among pans and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Prepare salted caramel while cakes cool; melt sugar until golden, stir in butter and cream with salt.
- For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy; add vanilla, salt, and powdered sugar.
- Assemble the cake with layers of frosting in between; drizzle with cooled caramel.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
