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 understand why it’s a favorite for any occasion. This delightful dessert combines the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices, making it perfect for fall gatherings, birthdays, or simply as a treat to enjoy at home. The rich cream cheese frosting and decadent salted caramel drizzle take this cake to the next level, ensuring it’s not just another dessert but a standout centerpiece.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, spices, and creamy frosting creates a deliciously unique taste.
- Perfect for All Occasions: Whether it’s a birthday or Thanksgiving dinner, this cake fits right in.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a stunning cake without the fuss.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add fresh fruits or nuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Memorable Presentation: The salted caramel drizzle makes your cake look as good as it tastes.
Tools and Preparation
To create this fantastic Pumpkin Cake, you’ll need some essential tools that make baking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Measuring cups
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Piping bag (for caramel drizzle)
- Cake pans
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Makes creaming butter and cream cheese easy for a light frosting.
- Measuring cups: Ensure accuracy in ingredients for consistently great results.
- Piping bag: Helps achieve an elegant presentation with the caramel drizzle.
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
- 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. Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans and set them aside.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl:
1. Combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
In another bowl:
1. Mix together the dry ingredients including the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until combined well.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Evenly pour the batter into prepared pans.
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow cooling completely before frosting.
Step 5: Prepare Salted Caramel
In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, heat:
1. The sugar for about 5 minutes until melted.
2. Stir occasionally with a spatula to prevent burning.
Once melted:
1. Remove from heat and stir in the butter. Expect bubbling!
2. Add in the heavy cream, stirring until fully combined.
3. Return to heat briefly if needed, then stir in salt. Let cool while preparing frosting.
Step 6: Make Cream Cheese Frosting
Using your stand mixer with a paddle attachment:
1. Cream together the (butter and cream cheese) until fluffy (about 2 minutes).
2. Add in the (vanilla extract, (salt, and (powdered sugar) then mix until combined (another 2 minutes).
Step 7: Assemble Your Cake
On a serving plate:
1. Place one cake layer on top.
2. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
3. Repeat with remaining layers.
4. Frost the outside of the cake with any remaining frosting.
Step 8: Drizzle with Salted Caramel
Pour slightly cooled salted caramel into a piping bag or squeeze bottle:
1. Squeeze from center outward in a spiral pattern to edge.
2. Use zig-zag movements at edges to let caramel drip down.
Step 9: Optional Decorations
Feel free to decorate with fresh figs, pomegranate seeds, or blackberries for added color!
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 elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to make every bite special.
With a Hot Beverage
- Coffee: Pairing this cake with a rich cup of coffee enhances the flavors, making it a perfect afternoon treat.
- Chai Tea: The spiced notes of chai complement the pumpkin and cinnamon in the cake beautifully.
As a Festive Centerpiece
- Holiday Gatherings: This cake is visually stunning, making it an ideal centerpiece for Thanksgiving or Christmas celebrations.
- Birthday Parties: Surprise guests with this unique cake that’s sure to impress everyone.
Topped with Fresh Fruits
- Berries: Add fresh blackberries, raspberries, or strawberries on top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Figs: Sliced figs can provide an elegant touch that pairs well with the sweetness of the frosting.
Served with Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts perfectly atop warm slices of Pumpkin Cake.
- Cinnamon Ice Cream: For an added spice kick, opt for cinnamon-flavored ice cream to enhance the overall flavor profile.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle
To ensure your Pumpkin Cake turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Boldly Measure Ingredients: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Always use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow eggs, butter, and cream cheese to reach room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light, fluffy one.
- Cool Cakes Completely: Let each layer cool completely before frosting to prevent melting the cream cheese frosting.
- Make Caramel Carefully: Watch the sugar closely while melting; it can quickly go from golden to burnt if left unattended.
- Decorate Creatively: Play with toppings like pomegranate seeds or edible flowers for an eye-catching presentation.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle
Pairing your dessert with complementary side dishes can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some delicious options:
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds a savory balance to the sweetness of the cake.
- Green Salad: Fresh greens tossed in a light vinaigrette create a refreshing contrast to the rich cake.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Warm garlic breadsticks can provide a delightful contrast in flavors when served alongside dessert.
- Butternut Squash Soup: A creamy soup offers warmth and comfort that pairs perfectly during colder months.
- Spiced Nuts: Serve spiced nuts as an appetizer for guests to nibble on while enjoying their cake.
- Apple Crisp: Another sweet option, apple crisp provides warm spices that match well with pumpkin flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can hinder your success.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect the rise. Always preheat your oven accurately before baking.
- Not Letting Ingredients Reach Room Temperature: Cold eggs or cream cheese can cause lumps. Allow them to sit out for about 30 minutes before using.
- Skipping the Cooling Time: Frosting a warm cake can cause it to melt. Ensure your cake is completely cooled before applying the frosting.
- Ignoring Measurements: Baking is precise. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, especially with flour and sugar.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store the 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 individual slices in plastic wrap then in aluminum foil for best results.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, heat for about 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, covered, to warm gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just make sure it’s well-cooked and blended until smooth.
How do I make my frosting less sweet?
To balance sweetness, add more cream cheese or a pinch of salt. This enhances flavor without losing texture.
What should I do if my caramel is too hard?
If your caramel hardens, gently reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of heavy cream until smooth.
Can I make this as cupcakes instead?
Absolutely! Bake at 350°F for about 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different toppings or spices to suit your preference. Enjoy this comforting dessert during the fall season or any time you crave something sweet!
Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of this Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle. Perfect for any occasion, this moist and spiced cake combines the comforting taste of pumpkin with a luscious cream cheese frosting and an irresistible salted caramel drizzle.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 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
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 8 oz butter
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 7 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans.
- In a bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, and oil until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
- Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
- Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool completely before frosting with cream cheese frosting and drizzling with salted caramel.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
