Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is the perfect dessert for autumn lovers! It’s a delightful blend of soft pumpkin spice cake soaked with sweet, milky espresso and topped with creamy espresso cream cheese frosting. Ideal for gatherings, celebrations, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee, this cake brings the warm flavors of fall right to your table. With its moist texture and rich taste, it’s sure to impress friends and family alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, coffee, and spices creates a mouthwatering experience that captures the essence of fall.
• Moist Texture: This cake is soaked with latte goodness, providing an almost tres leches-like softness without being overly wet.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for birthdays, Thanksgiving, or just a cozy evening at home; this cake fits any occasion.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve bakery-level results.
• Delicious Frosting: The espresso cream cheese frosting adds a rich layer of flavor that takes this cake to another level.

Tools and Preparation

Making the Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is simple with the right tools. Gathering these essentials will ensure your baking experience goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a light and fluffy batter by thoroughly combining ingredients with ease.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for organizing your ingredients and making mixing easier.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 2 1/4 cups (281 g) all purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 10 tbsp (140 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated white sugar
• 2 eggs, at room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) buttermilk, at room temperature
• 1 cup (244 g) canned pumpkin puree, at room temperature

For the Latte Soak

• 1/4 cup (60 ml) espresso or strong coffee
• 1/3 cup (80 ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (150 g) sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Frosting

• 1 cup (224 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, cold
• 2 cups (260 g) powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tsp instant espresso powder
• 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice

this recipe

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your baking pan can help prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
* Combine the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until mixed evenly.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl:
* Beat the softened butter with granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3–5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Incorporate:
* Add in eggs one at a time while mixing. Then blend in vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 5: Mix in Wet Ingredients

Gradually add:
* Alternately mix in dry ingredients with buttermilk and canned pumpkin puree until just combined. Avoid overmixing!

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan:
* Bake for about 38 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let it cool completely before proceeding to soak.

Step 7: Prepare the Latte Soak

In a small bowl:
* Mix together espresso or strong coffee with whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, additional pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract.

Step 8: Soak the Cake

Once cooled:
* Poke holes in the cake using a skewer or fork. Pour the latte soak evenly over it allowing time for absorption.

Step 9: Make Frosting

In another large bowl:
* Beat softened butter and cold cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix in vanilla extract along with instant espresso powder and pumpkin pie spice.

Step 10: Frost the Cake

Once fully soaked:
* Spread an even layer of frosting over your cooled cake. Decorate as desired before serving!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

Serving your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake can enhance its delicious flavors and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Pairing with Whipped Cream

• Consider adding a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of each slice for a light, airy contrast to the dense cake.

Coffee or Espresso

• Serve slices alongside a steaming cup of coffee or espresso to complement the rich flavors in the cake.

Ice Cream Delight

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for added sweetness and creaminess that balances the spiced notes.

Drizzling Caramel Sauce

• Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cake to add a touch of decadence and extra sweetness.

Garnishing with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the soft cake.

Fresh Fruit

• Add fresh slices of apple or pear on the side for a refreshing contrast that enhances autumn flavors.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

To ensure your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow eggs, buttermilk, and pumpkin puree to come to room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon and level your flour to avoid adding too much, which can result in a dense cake.
• Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture; overmixing can lead to toughness.
• Check Cake Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; if it comes out clean or with few crumbs, your cake is ready.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Let your cake cool fully before applying frosting to prevent it from melting and sliding off.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate if you prefer it chilled.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

Complementing your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake with delightful side dishes can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm drink infused with cinnamon and cloves that echoes the flavors of autumn.
2. Cheese Platter: Include sharp cheddar or creamy brie that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cake.
3. Candied Pecans: These sugary nuts provide a crunchy addition that pairs well with the soft texture of the cake.
4. Pecan Pie Bars: A sweet and nutty treat that complements the spice in your cake without overwhelming it.
5. Maple Syrup Drizzle: Offer pure maple syrup for drizzling; its rich flavor enhances both taste and presentation.
6. Chocolate Covered Strawberries: A sweet berry treat adds freshness and an indulgent chocolate flavor balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking the perfect Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake can be challenging, especially if you’re not aware of common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking powder, baking soda, and spices. Stale ingredients can ruin the rise and flavor of your cake.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Cold eggs or butter can create a lumpy batter. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better blending.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour into the measuring cup instead of scooping directly. This prevents adding too much flour, which can make the cake dry.
• Skipping the soak: The espresso soak is crucial for moisture and flavor. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall taste of your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover cake in an airtight container.
• item It can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

• item Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap.
• item Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• item The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for 15-30 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm slowly for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake that may help you as you bake!

Can I use other types of milk in this Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any other preferred non-dairy milk. Just ensure that it’s unsweetened for best results.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour.

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned?

Absolutely! Homemade pumpkin puree works well but ensure it’s properly cooked and drained to avoid excess moisture that could affect the cake’s texture.

What toppings pair well with Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake?

You can add caramel drizzle, whipped cream, or chopped nuts on top for added flavor and texture. A sprinkle of extra pumpkin pie spice also works wonderfully!

How do I store leftover frosting?

Leftover espresso cream cheese frosting can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a good stir before using it again.

Final Thoughts

The Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is not just a treat; it’s a celebration of autumn flavors! Soft, moist, and bursting with warmth, this cake is perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Feel free to customize it by adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra flair. We encourage you to try this delightful recipe and share it with friends and family!

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Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 1 hour 8 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is a dreamy dessert that encapsulates the essence of autumn in every bite. This cake features a tender pumpkin spice base infused with rich espresso and topped with a luscious espresso cream cheese frosting. Perfect for gatherings, Thanksgiving feasts, or cozy evenings at home, each slice offers a delightful balance of flavors that will warm your heart and impress your guests. The combination of moist cake and creamy frosting ensures this treat is as pleasing to the palate as it is visually stunning.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 1/4 cups (281 g) all purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 10 tbsp (140 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated white sugar
• 2 eggs, at room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) buttermilk, at room temperature
• 1 cup (244 g) canned pumpkin puree, at room temperature
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) espresso or strong coffee
• 1/3 cup (80 ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (150 g) sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (224 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, cold
• 2 cups (260 g) powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tsp instant espresso powder
• 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Beat softened butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time and mix in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients alternately with buttermilk and pumpkin until just combined.
5. Pour batter into the pan and bake for about 38 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. For the latte soak, mix espresso, whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla in a bowl.
7. Once cooled, poke holes in the cake and pour the soak over it.
8. For frosting, beat butter and cold cream cheese until smooth; add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, instant espresso powder, and pumpkin pie spice.
9. Frost the cooled cake evenly before serving.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 38 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 32g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing. Measure flour accurately by spooning into the cup instead of scooping directly. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.