The aroma of freshly baked cake wafting through the kitchen is pure magic—especially when it’s a Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake, with its warm and inviting scents reminiscent of a crisp autumn day. This delightful treat brings together the cozy flavors of pumpkin and coffee, creating a beautifully moist sponge that’s perfect for sharing or savoring alone with your favorite cup of brew. Not only does this cake stand out at gatherings, but it’s also surprisingly simple to whip up, making it an ideal choice for both novice and seasoned bakers alike. Imagine serving a slice of nostalgia, layered with a luscious coffee cream cheese frosting that ties the whole experience together. Are you ready to discover how easy it is to create this autumn masterpiece? Let's dive into the recipe!
Why Is Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Irresistible?
Soul-Warming Flavors: The delightful blend of pumpkin and coffee creates an unforgettable taste that embodies the essence of autumn.
Easily Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite ingredients, like homemade pumpkin puree or even vegan options, making it perfect for everyone!
Effortlessly Impressive: This visually stunning cake is sure to wow your guests at fall gatherings, earning you rave reviews without a ton of effort.
Moist and Delicious: Thanks to the perfect combination of self-raising flour and canned pumpkin, each bite is soft and sumptuous, ideal for any occasion.
Quick and Simple: With straightforward steps, you'll have a homemade cake that rivals your favorite coffee shop creations in no time. Enjoy it alongside a comforting cup of coffee or tea, and for more cozy treats, check out our Pecan Caramel Cake or indulge in a slice of our Chocolate Zucchini Cake.
Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• Self-Raising Flour – Provides structure and lift; can substitute with all-purpose flour and baking powder (2 tsp).
• Pumpkin Spice Mix – Adds warming flavors; try a homemade blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice for that classic pumpkin spice essence.
• Vegetable Oil – Ensures a moist cake; can be swapped for any neutral oil like canola or sunflower.
• Eggs – Bind the ingredients and add richness; remember to use room temperature eggs for better emulsification.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; pure extract is recommended, but you can use artificial vanilla if necessary.
• Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor; you can use granulated sugar instead but adjust the sweetness slightly.
• Canned Pumpkin Puree – Moistens the cake and provides flavor; freshly made pumpkin puree can be used but requires some prep time.
• Instant Coffee Granules – Adds coffee flavor to the frosting; feel free to swap in espresso powder for a stronger coffee taste.
• Boiling Water – Used to dissolve coffee for frosting; this step is crucial for smooth integration.
For the Frosting
• Unsalted Butter – Creates a creamy texture; you can substitute with margarine, though the texture may change slightly.
• Icing Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; powdered sugar is necessary for a smooth consistency.
• Full-Fat Cream Cheese – Gives a rich mouthfeel; Neufchâtel or vegan cream cheese can be alternatives for different dietary needs.
Dive into the deliciousness of Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake with these essential ingredients and watch your baking prowess shine!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans
Preheat your oven to 160°C fan / 180°C conventional. While the oven warms up, grab two 7-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with baking paper to prevent sticking. Lightly grease the sides of the pans for easy cake removal later. This prep is essential for a perfectly baked Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour and pumpkin spice mix. Whisk them gently until well combined, ensuring no lumps remain. This mixture creates a beautifully balanced batter with lovely autumn flavors. Set aside the bowl while you focus on the wet ingredients, preparing for a scrumptious blend.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another mixing bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, room temperature eggs, vanilla extract, and light brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Then, gently fold in the canned pumpkin puree, which adds moisture and rich flavor to your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake. This step is crucial for a soft, fluffy cake texture.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Carefully pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, using a spatula to combine them gently. Mix until just incorporated; avoid over-mixing to keep your cake light and airy. Once the batter is evenly blended, it's time to divide it between your prepared cake pans for a delightful baking experience.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Place the filled cake pans into the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The cakes should be golden brown on top. Once done, cool them in the pans for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 6: Prepare the Frosting
For the frosting, dissolve the instant coffee granules in boiling water until fully combined. Allow the coffee mixture to chill while you prepare the rest of the frosting, ensuring a smooth texture in your cream cheese frosting. This coffee flavor will beautifully complement your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake.
Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with an electric mixer until pale and fluffy. Gradually add the icing sugar until smooth, then fold in the cooled coffee mixture and cream cheese. Mix until creamy and well-blended, taking care not to overbeat to avoid a runny frosting consistency.
Step 8: Assemble the Cake
Once the cake layers are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread half of the cream cheese frosting on top. Gently add the second cake layer, topping it with the remaining frosting and smoothing it out with a spatula. Your stunning Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is now ready to impress!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake?
The comforting flavors of this cake invite warm gatherings and moments of indulgence, perfectly pairing with delightful sides and drinks.
-
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes add a smooth, savory contrast to the sweet, spiced cake, creating a balanced meal experience.
-
Autumn Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, walnuts, and dried cranberries offers a crunchy texture and hints of tartness that beautifully complement the cake's sweetness.
-
Spiced Apple Cider: Enjoy this warm beverage, infused with cinnamon and cloves, to enhance the cozy fall vibes while sipping alongside a slice of cake.
-
Caramel Pecan Ice Cream: The richness of the ice cream pairs fantastically with the cake, bringing in creamy warmth for those cold autumn evenings.
-
Roasted Butternut Squash: This sweet and nutty side dish matches the pumpkin flavors in the cake, creating a seamless culinary journey through autumn bounty.
-
Ginger Snaps: The spicy crispness of these cookies is a nod to the flavors in the cake; serve them as a delightful appetizer or take-home treat.
-
Vanilla Chai Latte: A soothing chai latte with hints of warm spices flows harmoniously alongside cake, inviting cozy conversations over a sweet slice.
-
Maple Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory glazed carrots introduce a delightful element that echoes the cake's autumn essence, serving as a perfect sidekick.
-
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the season's favorites by pairing the cake with this iconic drink, allowing the flavors to harmonize blissfully.
-
Chocolate Fondue: For a fun twist, serve slices of cake with a side of melted chocolate for dipping, elevating the dessert experience to chocolatey indulgence.
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
- Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and emulsification, leading to a lighter cake texture.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix gently until just combined to prevent a dense cake.
- Chill the Frosting: If your frosting is too thin, chill it for a bit to firm up before spreading. This ensures a beautifully smooth finish.
- Variety in Flavors: Feel free to add a sprinkle of nutmeg or extra spices for enhanced flavor in your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake—small adjustments can create a delightful impact.
- Check Doneness Carefully: Use a toothpick to test the cake’s doneness; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs for perfect texture.
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Fridge: Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and moisture. A cake dome or plastic wrap works well to keep it covered.
Freezer: You can freeze the Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply transfer the cake from the freezer to the fridge to thaw overnight. This gentle thawing method helps maintain its moist texture.
Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, pop a piece in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to overheat—just enough to warm it!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Pumpkin Spice Latte Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cake layers up to 3 days in advance; simply allow them to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating. To maintain their moistness, it’s crucial to keep them sealed to prevent drying out. For the frosting, you can make it up to 24 hours ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, let the frosting sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before spreading it on your cake. This way, you'll have a splendid, homemade dessert with minimal effort on the day of your gathering!
Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative with this Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake recipe and make it your own with these delightful adaptations!
-
Vegan Option: Use flax eggs and dairy-free cream cheese for a delicious vegan version without sacrificing flavor or texture.
-
Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder directly into the cake batter for an extra coffee kick that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin.
-
Applesauce Substitute: Replace half the oil with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter take on the cake while boosting moisture.
-
Different Sweeteners: Swap light brown sugar for maple syrup for a subtle maple flavor, but reduce the liquid in the batter slightly.
-
Nutty Twist: Add coarsely chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for an inviting crunch and additional texture contrast.
-
Pumpkin Puree Swap: If you wish, use homemade pumpkin puree for a fresher taste. Just ensure it’s not too watery!
-
Spice It Up: Incorporate a dash of ginger or cardamom alongside the pumpkin spice mixture to create a unique flavor profile.
-
Frosting Variation: For a fun twist, mix in a swirl of caramel sauce into the cream cheese frosting, making it even more decadent.
Get ready to explore these variations and elevate your cozy treats! And if you're looking for other fall-inspired recipes, check out our delightful Pecan Caramel Cake and warm up with a refreshing Pumpkin Spice Smoothie. Happy baking!
Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin is best for the cake?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree is typically more convenient and consistent in flavor, but you can use freshly made pumpkin puree. Just make sure it’s well-drained and devoid of excess moisture, as too much liquid can affect the cake's texture.
How should I store the Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can use a cake dome or wrap it in plastic wrap. This helps maintain its moisture and flavor. If you’d like to keep it longer, freezing is a great option!
Can I freeze the Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake?
Yes, you can! Simply wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, transfer the cake to the fridge to thaw overnight. This gentle thawing method preserves its delicious moistness.
What if the frosting is too runny?
If your cream cheese frosting ends up too thin, don’t worry! Just chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up before spreading it on the cake. This technique will help you achieve the perfect frosting consistency. For a thicker frosting, you can also add a bit more icing sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired thickness.
Are there any dietary considerations for this cake?
Definitely! You can easily make a vegan version of the Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake by using flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and substituting dairy-free cream cheese in the frosting. Just ensure all other ingredients are also vegan-friendly. Always check for allergens if serving to guests with dietary restrictions!
Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake for Cozy Autumn Vibes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 160°C fan / 180°C conventional. Prepare two 7-inch round cake pans by lining the bottoms with baking paper and greasing the sides.
- In a mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour and pumpkin spice mix, whisking gently until combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and light brown sugar until smooth. Fold in the canned pumpkin puree.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just incorporated.
- Divide the batter between the prepared cake pans and bake for 45–50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes in the pans for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Dissolve the instant coffee granules in boiling water and let the mixture chill.
- Beat the softened unsalted butter until pale and fluffy. Gradually add icing sugar until smooth, then fold in the chilled coffee mixture and cream cheese.
- Mix until creamy, being careful not to overbeat.
- Once the cake layers are cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread half of the cream cheese frosting on top.
- Add the second layer, topping it with the remaining frosting and smoothing it out.
Leave a Reply