Pumpkin Cake Recipe

This pumpkin cake recipe is a delightful treat to enjoy during the fall season or any time you crave something sweet and comforting. With its moist, fluffy texture and the warm aromas of pumpkin spice, this cake is perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply a cozy dessert at home. Plus, it’s free from eggs and dairy, making it suitable for various dietary preferences while still delivering on taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 5 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for last-minute baking.
• No Eggs or Dairy: Enjoy a delicious dessert that caters to those avoiding animal products without sacrificing flavor or texture.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it plain, with frosting, or even as a breakfast treat alongside coffee or tea.
• Perfect for Fall: The combination of pumpkin puree and warming spices gives this cake that quintessential autumn flavor.
• Great for Sharing: With 12 servings, it’s ideal for parties, potlucks, and family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make this pumpkin cake recipe smoothly and efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some key items you’ll need to prepare this delicious dessert.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Whisk
• Cake pan (9-inch)
• Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is necessary for combining all your ingredients easily without spills.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure your cake turns out perfect every time.
• Cake pan: A good quality pan helps the cake bake evenly and prevents sticking.
• Oven: The heart of baking; proper preheating is crucial for achieving the right texture.

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Ingredients

This pumpkin cake recipe is moist, fluffy, and full of warming fall spices. Prepped in minutes, I love that there are no eggs OR dairy needed!

For the Cake Base

• 1 cup + 2 tablespoons all purpose flour (gluten free, if needed)
• 2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 cup sugar (See notes)
• 1/3 cup oil (canola, vegetable, or refined coconut oil)
• 3/4 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup water

For the Frosting

• 1 cup cream cheese frosting

How to Make Pumpkin Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180C/350F. Grease a 9-inch cake pan and set it aside to prepare for the batter.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1. Add your flour.
2. Include baking powder.
3. Sprinkle in salt.
4. Add pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Next, add these wet ingredients into the dry mix:
1. Pour in sugar.
2. Add oil.
3. Stir in pumpkin puree.
4. Mix in maple syrup and vanilla extract.
5. Finally, add water and mix until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Transfer the batter into your greased cake pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Frost

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely before applying cream cheese frosting on top.

Now you’re ready to slice up this delicious pumpkin cake recipe! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cake Recipe

Pumpkin cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or add some flair, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your pumpkin cake experience.

Classic Slice

• Serve a simple slice of pumpkin cake on its own for a traditional treat. This allows the rich flavors and moist texture to shine.

Cream Cheese Frosting

• Top your pumpkin cake with creamy frosting for an indulgent touch. The tanginess of the cream cheese pairs perfectly with the spiced cake.

Fresh Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream on each slice for a light and airy complement. It balances the sweetness beautifully.

Caramel Drizzle

• Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the pumpkin cake for a decadent finish. The sweetness of the caramel enhances the fall spices.

Nuts and Seeds

• Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pumpkin seeds on top for added crunch and nutrition. They also bring an earthy flavor that complements the cake well.

Seasonal Fruits

• Serve alongside seasonal fruits like pears or apples for a refreshing contrast. Their natural sweetness adds variety to your dessert plate.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cake Recipe

To achieve the best version of this pumpkin cake recipe, consider these helpful tips:

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: Opting for homemade or high-quality canned puree enhances flavor compared to other options.

• Measure ingredients accurately: Precision in measuring flour and sugar is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

• Mix gently: Avoid overmixing once you combine wet and dry ingredients; this keeps your cake light and fluffy.

• Test doneness carefully: Insert a skewer into the center of the cake; it should come out clean but not dry.

• Let it cool completely: Cooling before frosting prevents melting and ensures neat slices when served.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cake Recipe

Pair your pumpkin cake with these delicious side dishes to create a well-rounded dessert experience:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream makes for a classic pairing with warm pumpkin cake.

2. Spiced Applesauce: This warm sauce adds moisture and spice that complements the flavors in your pumpkin treat.

3. Chai Tea: A cup of spiced chai tea enhances the warm spices found in pumpkin cake, making it an ideal beverage choice.

4. Roasted Butternut Squash Salad: A salad featuring roasted squash offers a savory balance, brightened with greens and nuts.

5. Maple Glazed Carrots: The caramelized sweetness from glazed carrots pairs well with the spiced notes of the cake.

6. Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast, cutting through the richness of the dessert.

7. Nutty Granola: Serve alongside nutty granola as a crunchy topping or snack that adds texture and flavor variety.

8. Herbal Infusion: An herbal drink can serve as a light refreshment, enhancing your overall dining experience without overshadowing the cake’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making your pumpkin cake recipe can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Bold measurement discrepancies: Always double-check your measurements. Using too much flour or sugar can throw off the texture.
• Bold using the wrong pumpkin puree: Ensure you use pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling. The latter contains added sugars and spices that will alter your cake.
• Bold skipping the cooling step: Allow your cake to cool completely before frosting it. Frosting a warm cake can lead to a melty mess.
• Bold ignoring baking times: Keep an eye on your oven. Baking times can vary, so check for doneness with a skewer around 30 minutes.
• Bold neglecting ingredient temperature: Use ingredients at room temperature for better mixing. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven batter.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking.

Freezing Pumpkin Cake Recipe

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Pumpkin Cake Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 180C/350F, place the cake on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: For a quick warm-up, cover with a lid on low heat for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this pumpkin cake recipe.

What makes this Pumpkin Cake Recipe dairy-free?

This pumpkin cake recipe uses oil instead of butter and does not include milk or eggs, making it completely dairy-free.

Can I substitute the sugar in the Pumpkin Cake Recipe?

Yes! You can use coconut sugar or any preferred sweetener as an alternative. Just ensure it’s granulated if you want similar texture.

How can I customize this Pumpkin Cake Recipe?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor. Spices like nutmeg can also enhance the taste!

Is this Pumpkin Cake Recipe suitable for vegan diets?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan since it doesn’t contain any animal products.

Final Thoughts

This pumpkin cake recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Its moist texture and delightful spices make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite add-ins or toppings! Try making it today and enjoy a slice of fall bliss.