Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting
This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that embodies the essence of fall. Its soft and moist texture, coupled with warm spices, makes it perfect for various occasions, from Thanksgiving to cozy gatherings. The rich brown sugar cream cheese frosting elevates this cake to a level of indulgence that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, spices, and brown sugar creates a mouthwatering taste that celebrates the season.
- Moist Texture: This cake remains incredibly moist thanks to the pumpkin puree and vegetable oil, ensuring each slice is heavenly.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for holidays, parties, or an everyday treat; this cake fits any occasion beautifully.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, even novice bakers can impress their guests.
- Stunning Presentation: Topped with vibrant orange food color and garnished with pumpkin seeds, this cake looks as good as it tastes.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your pumpkin spice cake, gather your tools for a smooth baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- 9-inch round cake pans
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing batter and frosting to achieve a smooth consistency.
- 9-inch round cake pans: Ensures even baking for your layers, creating a beautiful stacked cake.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 150 g White granulated sugar
- 150 g Brown sugar
- 2 tsp Vanilla extract
- 3 Eggs
- 180 ml Vegetable oil
- 400 g Pumpkin puree
- 230 g All-purpose flour
- 2 tsp Baking powder
- 1 tsp Baking soda
- 2 tsp Cinnamon
- 1 tsp Ground ginger
- ¼ tsp Nutmeg
- ¼ tsp Ground cloves
- ⅛ tsp Ground black pepper
For the Frosting
- 150 g Unsalted butter
- 80 g Brown sugar
- 160 g Cream cheese
- 220 g Icing sugar
- Orange food color
- Pumpkin seeds
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your pumpkin spice cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Cake Pans
Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray. Dust them lightly with flour to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour,
2. Baking powder,
3. Baking soda,
4. Cinnamon,
5. Ground ginger,
6. Nutmeg,
7. Ground cloves,
8. Ground black pepper.
Whisk together until well blended.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix:
1. White granulated sugar,
2. Brown sugar,
3. Vanilla extract,
4. Eggs,
5. Vegetable oil,
6. Pumpkin puree.
Beat using an electric mixer until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cake light and fluffy.
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Prepare the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together:
1. Unsalted butter,
2. Brown sugar,
3. Cream cheese until creamy.
Gradually add icing sugar while beating until well combined.
Step 9: Frost Your Cake
Once cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on your serving plate and spread frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
Step 10: Decorate
Add orange food color if desired in swirls on top and finish with pumpkin seeds for garnish.
Enjoy every flavorful bite of your homemade Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting!
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting
Serving your pumpkin spice cake with brown sugar cream cheese frosting can elevate this delightful dessert. Here are some creative ways to enjoy it:
Classic Slice
- Enjoy a generous slice of the cake as is, allowing the rich flavors of pumpkin and spices to shine through.
With a Scoop of Ice Cream
- Pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a creamy contrast that complements the spicy cake.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Add a drizzle of warm caramel sauce on top to enhance the sweetness and create a beautiful presentation.
Garnished with Pumpkin Seeds
- Sprinkle roasted pumpkin seeds on top for added crunch and a lovely autumn touch that ties in with the pumpkin theme.
Served at Room Temperature
- Allow the cake to sit at room temperature before serving; this will enhance the flavors and make the frosting perfectly spreadable.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Include slices of pumpkin spice cake alongside other seasonal desserts like pecan pie and apple crisp for a festive dessert spread.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting
To ensure your pumpkin spice cake turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips:
-
Use fresh pumpkin puree: Homemade puree often provides better flavor compared to canned options.
-
Sift dry ingredients: Sifting flour and spices helps eliminate lumps and ensures even mixing, resulting in a smoother batter.
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Check oven temperature: Using an oven thermometer can help you bake at the correct temperature, preventing undercooked or overcooked cakes.
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Cool completely before frosting: Make sure your cake is fully cooled before adding the cream cheese frosting to avoid melting.
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Experiment with spices: Adjusting the amount of cinnamon or adding nutmeg can personalize the flavor profile according to your taste preferences.
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Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting
Pairing side dishes with your pumpkin spice cake can create a delightful meal. Here are some great options:
-
Chai-Spiced Tea: A warm cup of chai tea complements the spices in your cake beautifully, enhancing its flavors.
-
Apple Cider: Serve hot or cold apple cider for a refreshing drink that adds an autumnal touch to your dessert table.
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Roasted Butternut Squash Salad: A salad featuring roasted butternut squash, greens, and nuts can balance the sweetness of the cake nicely.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The richness of mashed potatoes pairs well with dessert, making it an unexpected yet delicious option.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like Brie or sharp cheddar can provide savory notes that contrast delightfully with sweet flavors.
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Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts add crunch and complement the pumpkin spice theme while providing a tasty nibble alongside dessert.
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Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce can cut through the sweetness and provide a refreshing palate cleanser.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots drizzled in honey make for an appealing side that goes well with fall-themed dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, especially when making a flavorful pumpkin spice cake. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Using too much flour: This can make your cake dense and dry. Always measure your flour correctly, using the spoon-and-level method.
- Not measuring spices accurately: Too much or too little can affect the flavor balance. Use measuring spoons for precision.
- Skipping the cream cheese frosting: The frosting adds richness and sweetness that balances the spices. Don’t skip it; it’s essential!
- Not allowing the cake to cool properly: Cutting into a warm cake can ruin its texture. Let it cool completely before frosting.
- Using old baking powder or soda: Expired leavening agents won’t help your cake rise. Check the expiration dates before baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting special?
This cake is moist and packed with warm spices, making it perfect for fall and holiday gatherings.
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
No, pumpkin pie filling contains added spices and sugar. Stick to pure pumpkin puree for the best flavor.
How do I store leftover Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! Wrap it well and freeze for up to three months. Just thaw before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts or chocolate chips or adjusting the spices to suit your taste. It’s a comforting dessert that brings warmth and joy during any occasion!

Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the warmth of fall with this Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting. This moist and fluffy cake is infused with aromatic spices, making it the perfect centerpiece for your autumn gatherings. Topped with a rich brown sugar cream cheese frosting, each bite offers a delightful balance of sweetness and spice. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving, birthdays, or just a cozy dessert at home, this cake is sure to impress everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 150 g white granulated sugar
- 150 g brown sugar
- 3 eggs
- 400 g pumpkin puree
- 230 g all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ⅛ tsp ground black pepper
- 180 ml vegetable oil
- 150 g unsalted butter
- 160 g cream cheese
- 220 g icing sugar
- Orange food color
- Pumpkin seeds
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and spices.
- In another bowl, combine sugars, eggs, oil, and pumpkin puree until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Divide the batter between pans and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool before frosting with a mixture of butter, brown sugar, cream cheese, and icing sugar.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg