Easy Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
The cake is soft, springy, and brimming with pumpkin flavor. It's a fast, easy, one-bowl, no mixer cake recipe that everyone loves. I used oil rather than butter which keeps the cake extra moist and since pumpkin naturally makes everything moister, there's no chance of a dry cake here. The thick layer of tangy cream cheese frosting complements the warming spices in the cake perfectly. The cake is irresistible and sinking your teeth into it is pure comfort and bliss.
The cake is soft, springy, and brimming with pumpkin flavor. It's a fast, easy, one-bowl, no mixer cake recipe that everyone loves. I used oil rather than butter which keeps the cake extra moist and since pumpkin naturally makes everything moister, there's no chance of a dry cake here. The thick layer of tangy cream cheese frosting complements the warming spices in the cake perfectly. The cake is irresistible and sinking your teeth into it is pure comfort and bliss.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 6 ounces cream cheese softened (lite okay)
- 1/4 cup (half of 1 stick) unsalted butter softened
- 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1 cupâ pumpkin puree (use the remainder in these reci
- Carbohydrate 14.0254754563489 g
- Cholesterol 171.262314890005 mg
- Fat 39.4208350320794 g
- Fiber 0.455533341713288 g
- Protein 6.86961587448407 g
- Saturated Fat 15.7431964555835 g
- Serving Size 1 1 x8-inch pan, 9 to 12 generous square (122g)
- Sodium 411.56276876097 mg
- Sugar 13.5699421146357 g
- Trans Fat 2.99102417283298 g
- Calories 435 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350F. Line an 8x8-inch pan with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray; set aside.
- To a large bowl, add the eggs, sugar, pumpkin, oil, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla, and whisk to combine.
- Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and stir until just combined, don't overmix.
- Turn batter out into prepared pan, smoothing the top lightly with a spatula.
- Bake for about 35 to 40 minutes (I baked 36 minutes) or until center is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, no batter.
- Set cake aside on a cooling rack to cool completely before frosting it so the frosting doesn't melt.
- To a large bowl (or to the bowl of a stand mixer) add the cream cheese, butter, confectioners' sugar, vanilla, salt, and whisk until smooth and fluffy or beat with an electric mixer (or use the paddle attachment of a stand mixer).
- Turn frosting out onto cake and spread into a smooth, even, flat layer using a spatula or knife (If you have a small amount leftover, it will keep airtight in the fridge for at least 2 weeks).
- Slice and serve. Cake will keep airtight at room temp for up to 4 days or in the fridge for up to 1 week. I'm comfortable storing cream cheese frosting at room temp, but if you're not store in the fridge noting cake will be more prone to drying out in the fridge.
My Cozy Pumpkin Spice Cake Adventure
The aroma of warm spices and pumpkin fills my kitchen, a comforting scent that always reminds me of autumn. Today, I'm sharing my recipe for an Easy Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting – a recipe so simple, even a busy mom like myself can whip it up on a weeknight. And trust me, the results are far from simple; this cake is a delightful explosion of flavor and texture.
I love baking, but I'm also a practical person. Life gets hectic, and I don't have time for complicated recipes or hours spent slaving over a hot stove. That's why this cake is my go-to fall dessert. It's a one-bowl wonder, requiring no fancy equipment – just a whisk and a bowl. The secret to its incredible moistness? Oil instead of butter. Combined with the natural moisture of the pumpkin puree, this cake is guaranteed to be tender and delicious, never dry.
The creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting perfectly complements the warm pumpkin spice cake. The balance of flavors is just right – not too sweet, not too spicy, just perfectly comforting. It's the kind of dessert that disappears quickly, leaving everyone wanting more. I've made this cake countless times for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just a quiet evening at home, and it's always a crowd-pleaser. The compliments just roll in, and knowing I made it myself makes it even more special.
One of the things I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to your liking. Want to add some chocolate chips? Go for it! Prefer a different type of frosting? Experiment! The beauty of baking is in the freedom to personalize. This cake becomes a canvas for your creativity.
Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this cake holds a special place in my heart. It reminds me of simpler times, of cozy evenings spent with loved ones, of the joy of creating something delicious from scratch. It's more than just a cake; it's a symbol of warmth, comfort, and the love I put into every bite.
So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and prepare to be amazed by how easy it is to create this incredibly delicious cake. It's perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight gatherings to festive holiday celebrations. Trust me, this recipe will become a staple in your fall baking repertoire.
Beyond the Recipe: More Than Just a Cake
This isn't just about a recipe; it's about the memories and feelings associated with baking and sharing. The process of creating something delicious from simple ingredients is therapeutic and rewarding. The act of gathering family and friends around a table laden with warm, homemade treats fosters connection and creates lasting memories. It's the essence of home and hospitality.
For me, the best part of baking this cake isn't just the taste; it's the feeling of satisfaction knowing I’ve created something special for those I love. The smiles on their faces as they savor each bite are the ultimate reward. And isn't that what baking is all about – sharing love through delicious food?
This pumpkin spice cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a symbol of autumn, a reminder of warmth and comfort, and a testament to the simple joys of life. So, embrace the season, bake this cake, and let the deliciousness fill your home and your heart.
