Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

This perfect Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of autumn flavors wrapped in a moist, tender cake. With a delightful espresso soak and topped with creamy frosting, this cake is suitable for any occasion—from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations. Its unique texture and rich taste will charm your guests and make it the highlight of your dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The blend of pumpkin, spices, and coffee creates a warm, inviting taste that embodies the essence of fall.
• Moist Texture: Soaked in espresso, this cake achieves an irresistibly moist texture that keeps every slice tender.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this delicious cake without stress.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or an afternoon treat with friends and family.
• Impressive Presentation: Frosted with espresso cream cheese frosting, it’s as beautiful as it is tasty.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Ensures that your batter is smooth and well combined for the best texture.
• Rubber spatula: Helps scrape down the sides of bowls for thorough mixing and prevents waste.

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 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

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray. This will prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
* All purpose flour
* Pumpkin pie spice
* Baking powder
* Baking soda
* Salt

Whisk these ingredients together until well mixed.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together:
* Unsalted butter
* Granulated white sugar

Mix until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add to the creamed mixture:
* Eggs
* Vanilla extract

Beat well until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Incorporate Pumpkin and Buttermilk

Mix in:
* Canned pumpkin puree
* Buttermilk

Blend until smooth.

Step 7: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Step 8: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake in preheated oven for about 38 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 9: Prepare Soak Mixture

While the cake bakes, combine:
* Espresso or strong coffee
* Whole milk
* Sweetened condensed milk
* Pumpkin pie spice
* Vanilla extract

Stir well until mixed.

Step 10: Soak the Cake

Once baked and slightly cooled, poke holes across the top of the cake. Pour soak mixture evenly over it while still warm. Allow it to absorb before frosting.

Step 11: Make Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together:
* Softened unsalted butter
* Cold cream cheese

Mix until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar while continuing to mix. Finally stir in vanilla extract, instant espresso powder, and pumpkin pie spice.

Step 12: Frost Cake

Spread the frosting generously over the cooled soaked cake using a rubber spatula for smoothness.

Enjoy your deliciously rich Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake, perfect for sharing or indulging on your own!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

Serving your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake can elevate the experience, making it even more enjoyable for your guests or family. Here are some delightful ways to serve this autumn treat.

With Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream on top for extra creaminess and a touch of sweetness.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pair a slice with vanilla or cinnamon ice cream to create a warm and cold sensation that complements the cake’s flavors.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce adds a rich, buttery sweetness that enhances the pumpkin spice notes beautifully.

Alongside Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy a slice with your favorite brewed coffee or spiced tea to enhance the cozy flavors of the cake.

Garnished with Nuts

• Top with chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and nuttiness, which pairs perfectly with the soft texture of the cake.

With Fruit Compote

• Serve alongside a fruity compote made from apples or pears to add a fresh and tart contrast to the sweet cake.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

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

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs, buttermilk, and pumpkin puree are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour when measuring to avoid dense cake caused by too much flour.

• Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to a tough cake.

• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens vary, so check for doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center.

• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow your cake layers to cool completely before adding frosting to prevent it from melting.

• Store Properly: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is versatile and pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider serving alongside it.

1. Chai-Spiced Apples: Sauté sliced apples with chai spices for a warm side that complements the cake’s flavors.

2. Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: These light, fluffy donuts offer a delightful sugary contrast that pairs well with pumpkin spice.

3. Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts balances out the sweetness of the cake beautifully.

4. Sweet Potato Mash: A creamy sweet potato mash adds another layer of flavor while staying seasonally appropriate.

5. Spiced Pear Salad: Combine mixed greens with spiced pears and nuts for a refreshing yet flavorful salad option.

6. Caramelized Carrots: Sweet, caramelized carrots provide a lovely texture and taste that enhances any dessert spread.

7. Cheese Platter: Offer assorted cheeses like sharp cheddar or goat cheese as an elegant pairing that cuts through sweetness.

8. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup is perfect for creating a comforting fall meal when paired with dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake can be delightful, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to sidestep.

• Using cold ingredients – Ensure all your ingredients, especially eggs and buttermilk, are at room temperature. This helps the cake batter mix more evenly and rise properly.
• Overmixing the batter – Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Skipping the espresso soak – Soaking the cake in espresso is essential for flavor and moisture. Don’t skip this step for the best results!
• Not measuring flour correctly – Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping it directly from the bag. This prevents adding too much flour, which can dry out your cake.
• Ignoring baking times – Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes, checking for doneness with a toothpick rather than relying solely on time.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The cake will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

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

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat a slice for about 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop – Place a slice in a pan over low heat with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake so special?

The combination of pumpkin puree, spices, and coffee creates a unique flavor profile that captures the essence of autumn.

Can I use other types of milk?

Yes! You can substitute whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any other plant-based milk for a different taste.

How do I know when my cake is done?

Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready!

Can I make this Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake it one day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What toppings work well with Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake?

Consider adding chopped nuts, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. With its rich flavors and moist texture, it’s perfect for autumn gatherings or cozy family dinners. Feel free to customize it by adding chocolate chips or nuts to suit your taste!