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As the leaves begin to turn and the air takes on a crispness, there's an unmistakable signal that it's time to embrace the flavors of fall. One of the most iconic seasonal favorites is pumpkin spice, a blend of warm spices that evokes cozy memories of autumn gatherings, harvest festivals, and family traditions. Nestled at the heart of this seasonal culinary phenomenon is our indulgent pumpkin spice cake with luscious cream cheese frosting—a dessert that perfectly encapsulates the essence of the season.

Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Embrace the flavors of fall with this indulgent pumpkin spice cake topped with luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Halloween, or any cozy gathering, this cake blends rich pumpkin and warm spices for a delightful taste experience. Follow our step-by-step recipe to achieve a moist, tender cake, and learn how to craft the perfect cream cheese frosting. Gather your ingredients and create memorable moments with every slice of this seasonal treat.
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Ingredients
  

For the Pumpkin Spice Cake:

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

½ tsp salt

2 tsp pumpkin pie spice

¾ cup granulated sugar

¾ cup brown sugar, packed

½ cup vegetable oil

2 large eggs

1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)

1 tsp vanilla extract

½ cup buttermilk (or milk with a splash of vinegar)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

4 cups powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

2 tbsp heavy cream (or milk for desired consistency)

Optional: a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Oven and Baking Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Set aside.

      Combine Sugars and Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined. Stir in the eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until smooth.

        Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix!

          Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

            Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined. Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream, whipping until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.

              Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one layer on a serving plate. Evenly spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.

                Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for an extra festive touch. Slice and serve your delicious Pumpkin Spice Cake to friends and family!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 1 hr 10 min | 10 servings