Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Hands down, the Pumpkin Bundt Cake is the best pumpkin cake you’ll ever try! This moist cake features a rich pumpkin flavor and is infused with warm spices, all topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze. Unlike traditional pumpkin pie, it’s surprisingly easy to make and perfect for any fall occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates an irresistible taste that captures the essence of fall.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile Dessert: Serve it as a festive centerpiece for Thanksgiving or enjoy it as an everyday treat with coffee.
- Moist Texture: Thanks to the addition of pure pumpkin and oils, this bundt cake remains delightfully moist.
- Impressive Presentation: The unique bundt shape makes it visually appealing, perfect for sharing at gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your delicious Pumpkin Bundt Cake, gather the essential tools you will need. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Bundt pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Bundt pan: This unique shape not only gives the cake an attractive appearance but also ensures even baking.
- Electric mixer: It saves time and effort when mixing ingredients, resulting in a smoother batter.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your cake.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice (or make your own – see recipe notes)
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup vegetable oil (or canola)
– 1 cup white sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 3 large eggs
– 1 (15 oz) can pure pumpkin (NOT pumpkin pie filling)
– 1 tablespoon butter (softened)
– 3 oz cream cheese (softened)
– 1 cup powdered sugar (or more as needed)
– 1–2 tablespoons milk
How to Make Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Pumpkin Bundt Cake bakes evenly right from the start.
Step 2: Prepare the Bundt Pan
Grease your bundt pan thoroughly with butter or cooking spray. This prevents the cake from sticking when it’s time to remove it.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
flour
pumpkin pie spice
baking soda
baking powder
salt
Whisk these together until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together:
vegetable oil
white sugar
brown sugar
Add in:
vanilla extract
Then beat in:
eggs, one at a time until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Add Pumpkin
Stir in the can of:
pure pumpkin. Blend well until smooth.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour batter into the prepared bundt pan. Bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Glaze
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. While it cools, prepare your cream cheese glaze by mixing softened:
cream cheese,
with:
powdered sugar,
and enough milk to achieve your desired consistency. Drizzle over cooled cake before serving.
Enjoy every slice of this delightful Pumpkin Bundt Cake, which is sure to impress friends and family alike!
How to Serve Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Serving pumpkin bundt cake is a delightful experience. This moist cake can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions that will enhance your dessert experience.
Pair with Whipped Cream
- Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a creamy texture that complements the cake’s spices beautifully.
Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side creates a delicious contrast to the warm pumpkin flavors, making each bite extra special.
Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
- Adding a drizzle of caramel sauce elevates the sweetness and brings an indulgent touch to your pumpkin bundt cake.
Top with Chopped Nuts
- Sprinkling chopped pecans or walnuts on top adds a nice crunch and enhances the nutty flavors in the cake.
Accompany with Hot Coffee or Tea
- Enjoying a slice of pumpkin bundt cake with a warm cup of coffee or tea makes for a cozy fall treat.
Garnish with Fresh Mint
- A few fresh mint leaves not only brighten up the plate but also add a refreshing flavor contrast to the rich cake.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Perfecting your pumpkin bundt cake can elevate it from great to extraordinary. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out amazing every time.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing eggs, oil, and pumpkin to room temperature helps them blend better, resulting in a smoother batter.
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Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing just until combined ensures your cake stays moist. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
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Grease Your Bundt Pan Well: A well-greased pan prevents sticking and helps your cake release easily after baking.
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Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your cake is ready!
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Let It Cool Properly: Allowing the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before inverting it helps maintain its shape.
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Store Correctly: Keep leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Pairing side dishes with your pumpkin bundt cake can enhance its flavors even more. Consider these complementary options for an enjoyable dessert spread.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like brie and goat cheese pairs wonderfully with sweet desserts, adding savory notes.
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Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad provides a light and refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the bundt cake.
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Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts offer a crunchy texture and additional warmth that harmonizes with the spices in your cake.
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Chocolate Mousse: This creamy dessert brings a rich chocolate flavor that complements pumpkin perfectly, creating an indulgent pairing.
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Maple Glazed Carrots: These sweet carrots add an earthy element that ties together fall flavors beautifully alongside pumpkin treats.
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Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce can provide acidity that cuts through the sweetness of the bundt cake, enhancing its taste profile.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries offers a light yet satisfying option that balances out indulgence while keeping it festive.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: This popular drink is an excellent match for pumpkin desserts, amplifying those warm spice notes!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Pumpkin Bundt Cake can be simple, but some common mistakes can ruin your efforts. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold eggs or other ingredients can affect the texture. Always bring your ingredients to room temperature before mixing.
- Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a dense cake rather than a light and moist one. Mix until just combined for the best results.
- Not greasing the pan properly: A well-greased bundt pan prevents sticking. Use butter or cooking spray to ensure easy removal.
- Skipping the toothpick test: Baking times can vary, so always check with a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean when the cake is done.
- Forgetting to cool before glazing: Drizzling glaze on a warm cake causes it to melt away. Allow your cake to cool completely for the best presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your pumpkin bundt cake in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pumpkin Bundt Cake
- Wrap slices or whole cakes tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Pumpkin Bundt Cake
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Use a covered skillet over low heat, warming each slice for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a Pumpkin Bundt Cake:
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can roast and puree fresh pumpkin, but ensure you have the right consistency similar to canned pumpkin.
How do I make my Pumpkin Bundt Cake more spiced?
Feel free to add extra spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger according to your taste preferences.
What can I substitute for vegetable oil?
You can use melted coconut oil or applesauce as a healthier alternative.
How do I know when my Pumpkin Bundt Cake is done?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Bundt Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. With its rich flavors and moist texture, it’s perfect for any fall gathering. Feel free to customize with nuts, chocolate chips, or different glazes to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate; try this delightful recipe today!

Pumpkin Bundt Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the warmth of autumn with this Pumpkin Bundt Cake, a delightful dessert that combines rich pumpkin flavor and aromatic spices, all beautifully topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze. This moist cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it the ideal treat for any fall occasion—be it a festive Thanksgiving gathering or a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup white sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 (15 oz) can pure pumpkin
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan.
- In one bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix vegetable oil, both sugars, and vanilla until combined. Add eggs one at a time and mix well.
- Stir in the pure pumpkin until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cooling briefly in the pan before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg