Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Hands down, the best pumpkin cake you’ll ever try! This moist pumpkin bundt cake has a delicious pumpkin flavor, is filled with warm spices, and topped with a drizzle of cream cheese glaze. This dessert is way easier than making pumpkin pie and is perfect for fall gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a simple family meal, this Pumpkin Bundt Cake will impress everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a delightful taste that captures the essence of fall.
- Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies the classic bundt cake, making it accessible even for beginner bakers.
- Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a stand-alone dessert or paired with ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat.
- Beautiful Presentation: The bundt shape makes it visually stunning, ideal for impressing guests at any occasion.
- Perfectly Moist: The addition of oil and pure pumpkin ensures this cake remains moist and tender.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin baking your Pumpkin Bundt Cake, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Bundt pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Bundt pan: Creates the iconic shape of the cake, ensuring even baking and easy release.
- Mixing bowls: Large bowls are essential for mixing batter without spills.
- Rubber spatula: Helps in folding ingredients together gently without overmixing.
Ingredients
Hands down – the best pumpkin cake you’ll ever try! This moist pumpkin bundt cake has a delicious pumpkin flavor, is filled with warm spices, and topped with a drizzle of cream cheese glaze. Way easier than making pumpkin pie – it’s the perfect dessert for fall.
Dry 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
Wet Ingredients
- 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)
Cream Cheese Glaze
- 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 cake will bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Bundt Pan
Grease your bundt pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Dust it lightly with flour if desired.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients:
1. Whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix your wet ingredients:
1. In a large bowl, beat together the vegetable oil, white sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in the pure pumpkin until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture:
1. Fold in the dry ingredients using a rubber spatula until just combined; do not overmix.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan:
1. Bake in preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
2. Allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 7: Prepare Cream Cheese Glaze
While cooling, prepare your glaze:
1. In a bowl, beat together softened butter and cream cheese until creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing; adjust consistency with milk as needed.
Step 8: Drizzle Glaze Over Cake
Once cool, drizzle your cream cheese glaze over the top of your Pumpkin Bundt Cake:
1. Serve slices to friends and family. Enjoy this delicious treat!
This Pumpkin Bundt Cake is not just another dessert but an experience that brings warmth to any occasion!
How to Serve Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Serving your Pumpkin Bundt Cake can elevate its taste even further. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a cozy evening at home, there are several delightful ways to present this cake.
With Whipped Cream
- Lightly whipped cream adds a luscious texture that complements the spices in the cake.
Ice Cream Pairing
- A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on the side brings a creamy contrast to the moist bundt cake.
Fresh Fruit Garnish
- Top slices with seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds or sliced apples for a refreshing touch.
Drizzle of Caramel Sauce
- A warm caramel drizzle enhances the sweetness and makes for an indulgent treat.
Coffee or Tea Service
- Serve slices alongside your favorite coffee or herbal tea to create a cozy dessert experience.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Bundt Cake
To ensure your Pumpkin Bundt Cake turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.
-
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ingredients such as eggs and cream cheese mix better when they are at room temperature.
-
Grease the Bundt Pan Well: Proper greasing prevents sticking. Use butter and flour or a non-stick spray designed for baking.
-
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to maintain the cake’s moist texture. Overmixing can lead to a dense crumb.
-
Check Doneness Early: Start checking your cake 5-10 minutes before the suggested baking time. A toothpick should come out clean when it’s done.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Bundt Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
-
Chai Spiced Latte: This warm beverage complements the spices in the cake beautifully.
-
Maple Roasted Pecans: Their crunchy texture and nutty flavor pair well with the soft cake.
-
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A savory side that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the bundt cake.
-
Apple Crisp: The tartness of baked apples balances out the sweetness of pumpkin flavors.
-
Cheese Platter: Include sharp cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a savory counterpoint to dessert.
-
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy flavor provides a nice balance to sweet desserts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Pumpkin Bundt Cake can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can ruin the experience. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Using the wrong pumpkin: Always use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. This ensures the right flavor and texture.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir until just combined for a light and fluffy result.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated and at the correct temperature. An oven thermometer can help maintain accuracy.
- Not greasing the pan properly: Use butter or non-stick spray to coat your bundt pan thoroughly. This prevents sticking and ensures a clean release.
- Skipping the glaze: While optional, a cream cheese glaze adds a delightful finish. Don’t skip out on this tasty enhancement!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep it in the fridge if you want to prolong freshness.
Freezing Pumpkin Bundt Cake
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator before serving for best results.
Reheating Pumpkin Bundt Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 30 seconds on high, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat with a lid for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a Pumpkin Bundt Cake:
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 Pumpkin Bundt Cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake stays moist for several days, making it perfect for preparing ahead of time.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! If using fresh pumpkin, make sure to cook and puree it until smooth before adding it to your batter.
What can I use instead of vegetable oil?
You can substitute with applesauce or melted coconut oil for a healthier option without compromising moisture.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Yes! Feel free to fold in nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Bundt Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. The moist texture and warm spices make it an ideal fall dessert. You can easily customize it by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or experimenting with different glazes. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the heartwarming flavors of fall!
Pumpkin Bundt Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this Pumpkin Bundt Cake, a delightful and moist dessert that perfectly marries the rich taste of pumpkin with warm spices. Topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze, this cake is not only simpler to make than traditional pumpkin pie but also an impressive centerpiece for any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying an evening at home, this Pumpkin Bundt Cake will surely become a favorite. It’s versatile enough to serve on its own or enhanced with ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh fruit for an extra treat.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin
- Cream cheese for glaze
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat vegetable oil, sugars, and vanilla until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in the pumpkin.
- Gradually fold in dry ingredients until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let it cool before drizzling with cream cheese glaze.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
