The aroma of freshly baked Pumpkin Layer Cake wafts through the air, filling your kitchen with the warm essence of fall. Imagine sinking your fork into layers of spiced pumpkin goodness, topped with creamy frosting that’s just sweet enough to make you swoon. delicious pumpkin spice donuts.
This delightful dessert is perfect for cozy family gatherings or festive celebrations. I can still hear my grandmother’s laughter as we devoured slice after slice, our faces smeared with frosting and joy. Prepare for a flavor experience that leaves you craving more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Pumpkin Layer Cake is incredibly easy to make, allowing even novice bakers to impress their friends
- The flavor is rich and comforting, blending spices that evoke the essence of autumn
- Its visual appeal comes from its stunning layers and decadent frosting, making it a showstopper on any dessert table
- Perfect for birthdays or Thanksgiving, this cake adapts well to various occasions
Sharing a slice of this cake at last year’s Halloween party had everyone asking for seconds and thirds. It became an instant favorite among my friends.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Use unbleached flour for better texture and flavor; sift it for an airy cake.
- Pumpkin Puree: Opt for canned pumpkin puree; it’s convenient and guarantees consistent results.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cake perfectly; feel free to experiment with brown sugar for extra moisture. Catch A Husband Cake.
- Baking Powder: Ensure it’s fresh so your cake rises beautifully and turns out fluffy.
- Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth; don’t skimp on it—this spice is the heart of pumpkin flavor!
- Eggs: Use large eggs for optimal structure; they help bind ingredients together effectively.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances flavors; avoid imitation for the best taste.
- Cream Cheese: For frosting, choose full-fat cream cheese; it yields a luxurious texture and tangy sweetness. For more inspiration, check out this Blueberry Cream Cheese Muffins recipe.
- Butter: Unsalted butter gives control over saltiness in frosting; let it soften at room temperature before using.
- Powdered Sugar: This is essential for frosting; sift it first to avoid lumps.
- Heavy Cream: Use for a silkier frosting consistency that spreads easily without tearing the cake layers.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Baking Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with non-stick spray or butter. Line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix Dry Ingredients Together: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined. This ensures even distribution of flavors.
Create the Pumpkin Batter: In another bowl, beat sugar and eggs until fluffy. Gradually add pumpkin puree and vanilla extract while mixing until smooth. Fold in dry ingredients gently.
Bake Your Layers: Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely before removing from pans.
Make Your Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and a splash of heavy cream while mixing until fluffy and smooth.
Assemble Your Cake Layers: Place one cooled layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top before adding the second layer. Frost the top and sides generously; sprinkle with cinnamon if desired.
Enjoy every bite of this delightful Pumpkin Layer Cake that captures all the cozy vibes of autumn! Gordon Ramsay’s carrot cake.
You Must Know
- This delightful Pumpkin Layer Cake is a fall favorite, blending warm spices and creamy frosting
- The layers are moist, and the flavors are a hug for your taste buds
- Perfect for Halloween parties or Thanksgiving gatherings, it’s sure to impress friends and family alike
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by baking the pumpkin cake layers first while preparing your frosting. Cool layers completely before assembling for best results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out pumpkin puree for butternut squash or add chocolate chips for an extra treat. Spice it up with nutmeg or ginger!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Refrigerate for longer freshness, but allow it to reach room temperature before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your pumpkin puree is well-drained to avoid a soggy cake
- Always level your cake layers for even stacking
- Chill your frosting before spreading for smooth application and stability
Baking this Pumpkin Layer Cake reminds me of cozy autumn afternoons spent with family. One year, my cousin insisted on adding extra cinnamon; we ended up having a spicy debate over the recipe! homemade pumpkin butter.
FAQ
Can I use fresh pumpkins instead of canned puree?
Yes, just roast and blend fresh pumpkins until smooth for a homemade touch.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for similar results.
What should I serve with Pumpkin Layer Cake?
For more inspiration, check out this White Chocolate Raspberry Cake recipe.
A dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with this delicious dessert.
Pumpkin Layer Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 10 slices 1x
Description
Pumpkin Layer Cake is the ultimate cozy dessert that brings the essence of fall into your home. This delightful treat features layers of spiced pumpkin cake, perfectly complemented by a rich cream cheese frosting. Ideal for family gatherings, Thanksgiving, or Halloween parties, each slice offers a warm hug of flavor that will leave everyone asking for more.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese (full-fat)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
- In another bowl, beat sugar and eggs until fluffy. Mix in pumpkin puree and vanilla extract. Gradually fold in dry ingredients.
- Divide batter between pans and bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
- For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and heavy cream.
- Assemble the cake by layering frosting between the cooled layers and covering the top and sides.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
