Introduction
The Spiced Pumpkin Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting combines the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices with a creamy, indulgent topping. This classic dessert is perfect for autumn festivities or any occasion when you’re craving something comfortingly sweet.
Tips for this recipe
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smooth batter and frosting consistency.
- Preheat your oven and prepare baking pans with butter and flour for easy release of the cake layers after baking.
- Mix ingredients as per instructions, especially blending spices into the batter thoroughly to infuse those delightful flavors throughout the cake.
Why you will love this recipe
This Spiced Pumpkin Layer Cake is a showstopper, offering a harmonious blend of fall’s favorite flavors. The cream cheese frosting adds an irresistible richness that complements the spice-infused pumpkin layers perfectly.
Ingredients
Butter for coating cake pans, at room temperature
2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting the pan
2 cups granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
3 large eggs, beaten
1 cup canola or vegetable oil
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups canned unsweetened pumpkin purée
1 cup lightly packed sweetened flaked coconut
3/4 cup canned crushed pineapple (do not drain)
1/3 cup dried currants
2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, at room temperature
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
2 tablespoons canned unsweetened pumpkin purée
sugar, sifted”,
Adviced equipment
Stand Mixer – An essential tool for mixing the cake batter, cream cheese frosting, and any other ingredients involved in the recipe.
Pumpkin Pie Baking Dish – Ideal for layered pumpkin desserts like this cake. It can also be used to bake and serve individual portions of the recipe if desired.
Pie Carving Knife – Used for slicing the layered cake evenly. A sharp, serrated knife can make this task easier and cleaner.
Cake Lifting Tray – Helps in transferring the hot cake layers from baking pans to serving plates without damaging them.
Offset Spatula – Essential for spreading cream cheese frosting evenly on the cake layers or between individual slices.
Dustproof Cake Lifter – Protects your hands from hot pans and makes lifting out perfectly baked cakes much safer and easier.
Cake Stand or Serving Plate – To display the finished layered cake in an appealing way. An aesthetically pleasing stand can also make it easier to serve guests.
Piping Bag & Tips – For decorating the cake with frosting or adding creative designs on top. Various tips offer different styles of piping and detail work.
Oven Thermometer – Ensures accurate oven temperatures for consistent baking results.
History of the recipe
Spiced Pumpkin Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting has roots in traditional fall desserts, combining pumpkin—a New World ingredient—with Old World spices. The concept of layered cakes and cream cheese frostings can be traced back to the 19th century, evolving over time into a modern favorite for celebrations.
Fun facts about this recipe
Did you know? The use of pumpkin in desserts dates back centuries, with variations found around the world. This Spiced Pumpkin Layer Cake has become a beloved American tradition, especially during fall and Thanksgiving celebrations.