Name: Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup canned pumpkin puree; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup pure maple syrup

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There’s something magical about the aroma of Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting wafting through your kitchen, isn’t there? Imagine the sweet scent of pumpkin mingling with warm spices, creating a fragrant hug that wraps around you like your favorite sweater on a chilly autumn day. Each slice is a delightful cascade of flavors and textures—soft, moist cake crowned with a luscious maple frosting that sings harmoniously in every bite. It’s as if every forkful whispers, “This is what happiness tastes like!”

Now, let me take you down memory lane. Picture this: it’s a crisp October afternoon, leaves are twirling gracefully to the ground, and I’m in my grandmother’s kitchen watching her whip up this very cake. She had a knack for turning ordinary days into celebrations. As she poured the batter into the pan, her eyes sparkled with mischief; she claimed that the secret ingredient was “a sprinkle of love.” Spoiler alert: it was probably more like an entire bucketful! This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in—just be prepared to share (or not!).

Why You'll Love This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting

This amazing Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting:

Canned Pumpkin Puree: Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to control sweetness and spice levels.
All-Purpose Flour: A staple for creating that soft cake texture; sifted for best results.
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness; you can experiment by replacing some with brown sugar for added depth.
Baking Powder: Ensure your cake rises beautifully by using fresh baking powder.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: A mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger that brings out the warm fall flavors.
Eggs: They provide structure and moisture; large eggs are recommended for consistency.
Vegetable Oil: Keeps your cake moist—don’t skimp on this!
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup takes center stage in the frosting; avoid imitation syrup for an authentic taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round cake pans so they’re ready to embrace that delicious batter.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well combined. It should smell divine already!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the canned pumpkin puree, eggs, and vegetable oil until smooth. Don’t forget to channel your inner baker’s dance as you stir!

Step 4: Bring It Together

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients while mixing gently until just combined—overmixing is a no-no here unless you want a rubbery cake!

Step 5: Pour & Bake

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 6: Cool & Frost

Once baked to perfection, allow the cakes to cool in pans for about ten minutes before transferring them onto wire racks. Whip up your maple frosting (just mix softened butter with powdered sugar and maple syrup) while waiting. Once cooled completely, frost generously.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra maple syrup if you’re feeling adventurous! Enjoy each mouthful of this delightful Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting—you’ve earned it!

You Must Know About Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting

This amazing Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve the most delicious Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting, start by preheating your oven while mixing dry ingredients. Bake the cake layers first, then prepare the maple frosting as they cool. This sequence saves time and ensures everything is perfectly ready to serve.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting by swapping out the traditional spices for chai or adding chopped nuts for extra crunch. You could even use a different frosting, like cream cheese, to mix things up!

Storing & Reheating

Store your Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a cozy treat.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting

This amazing Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Using room temperature ingredients helps create a smoother batter, leading to fluffier cake layers that are irresistibly moist. Always sift your flour and spices together to ensure even distribution of flavors and avoid clumps in your batter. Finally, allow your cake to cool completely before frosting; this prevents melting and ensures a beautiful presentation.

Baking this cake reminded me of my childhood when my mom would whip up pumpkin treats every fall. The smell would fill our home, making us all feel warm and fuzzy inside!

FAQs

What is Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting?

Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting is a delightful dessert that combines the warm, cozy flavors of pumpkin and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. This cake is moist and fluffy, making it perfect for fall gatherings or special occasions. Topped with a creamy maple frosting, this treat offers a sweet balance that enhances the pumpkin spice flavor. It’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to celebrate autumn with a delicious homemade dessert. For more inspiration, check out this Mascarpone Stuffed Dates recipe.

How do I store Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting?

To keep your Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help maintain its moisture and flavor. If you plan to keep it for more than a few days, consider freezing portions of the cake. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I make Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting ahead of time! Bake the cake and let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap. Store it in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage. You can frost the cake just before serving to ensure that the frosting remains fresh and creamy. This method makes it easy to serve this delicious dessert at any gathering.

What ingredients are needed for Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting?

To make Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting, you’ll need pumpkin puree, flour, sugar, eggs, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract for the cake. For the delightful maple frosting, gather butter, powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk. These ingredients work together to create a rich and flavorful dessert that perfectly embodies the spirit of fall. For more inspiration, check out this Mother’s Day Strawberry Shortcake recipe.

Conclusion

In summary, Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting is a must-try dessert that brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion. With its moist texture and rich flavors from pumpkin and spices, this cake is sure to impress friends and family alike. The creamy maple frosting adds an extra layer of indulgence that completes this seasonal treat beautifully. Whether served at a holiday gathering or enjoyed on a cozy afternoon, this cake is bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Pumpkin Spice Cake with Maple Frosting