What is a cake? Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake. What’s not to like about a pumpkin spice latte? What is a pumpkin cake? It’s got that kick that takes it to a whole new level of deliciousness. Think of it as a cross between coffee cake and Pumpkin Bread, only, and, of course, the perfect spice. Is it better to be a better person? I need something a little special but don’t want to spend hours in the bathroom. It’s become my go-to when I’m craving something special. My grandmother’s famous spice cake (don’t tell her I said that!
What is Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake?
What is Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake? What is essentially a moist pumpkin cake infused with the flavors of coffee and pumpkin? What are some of the best pumpkin flavorings? What are some of the best pumpkin desserts? Think of it as your favorite fall coffee drink, transformed into a delicious baked treat. The name comes from the fact that it literally tastes like a pumpkin spice latte, but in cake form! Is it too sweet? What is a pumpkin cake?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
There are so many reasons why I adore this Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake, but here are a few of the biggest ones:
- Flavor:What is the best combination of pumpkin, spice, and coffee? Is it a warm hug in every bite? The coffee doesn’t overpower the pumpkin, but instead enhances it, creating a beautifully balanced flavor. What is the flavor profile My husband, who usually skips pumpkin desserts, always asks for a slice!
- Simplicity:How do I make a delicious cake? It requires minimal effort and uses ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. I always do it on a weekend while enjoying my actual Pumpkin Spice Latte!
- Cost-Forget expensive bakery cakes – this recipe is incredibly budget-friendly. What are some of the best ingredients that will not break the bank? Plus, you get a whole cake out of it, which is perfect for sharing (or not!)
- Versatility: You can enjoy this cake for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or even as a cozy snack. It’s delicious on its own, but you can also dress it up with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. I’ve even served it with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra-special treat!
What I love most about this is how it manages to be both incredibly flavorful and incredibly easy to make. It’s the kind of recipe that you can whip up on a whim, and it always delivers. If you’re a fan of my Easy Coffee Cake Recipe, trust me, you’re going to fall head-over-heels for this Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake!
How can I make a pumpkin spice latte cake?
Quick Overview
How do I make Pumpkin Spice latte cake? Basically, you’ll mix the dry ingredients, then the wet ingredients and then combine them. Next, you will add the filling on top. And bake! The entire process is straightforward, and the results are absolutely worth it. What’s special about this method is that it creates a cake that’ll be both incredibly moist and delicious. Is this a good filling?
Ingredients
For the Main Batter: What are some examples?
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: I always use unbleached flour for a slightly nutty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Make sure it’s fresh for the best rise.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps create an airy texture.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: For that classic pumpkin spice flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: A little goes a long way!
- What are some good ways to use ground ginger?
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: You can also use a mix of grapped and brown sugar.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Adds moisture. I’ve also used melted coconut oil with great results.
- 1 cup pumpkin puree: Be sure to use pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling!
- 2 large eggs: Adds richness and structure.
- What are the benefits of vanilla extract?
- 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled: This is the “latte” part!
For the Filling: How do I
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Adds moisture and a caramel-like flavor.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the filling.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: For extra spice.
- I love pecans! 1/4 cup chopped walnuts. Adds texture and nutty flavor.
For the Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and creates a smooth glaze.
- 1/4 cup milk or strong brewed coffee: Adjust to reach desired consistency. I prefer coffee for extra flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the glaze.
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch Baking Pan. How do you prevent a cake from sticking? I always use a baking spray that contains flour for extra insurance.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside. Ginger, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined – this ensures that the spices are evenly distributed. What is the best way to decorate What is the best way to distribute spices?
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Set aside. The mixture should be well combined and slightly thickened. Don’t worry if it looks a little lumpy at this stage – it will all come together in the next step.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
In a small bowl, combine Brown Sugar, flour, and cinnamon for the filling. If you’re using nuts, stir them in now. The filling should be crumbly and well combined. What is the most important step in achieving that irresistible swirl?
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
Do not over-fill the Cake Batter. Pour the remaining batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the filling evenly over the top. How much batter should you pour over the filling? Use a knife or skewer to swirl the filling into the batter. What makes a marbled cake?
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Start checking for doneness around 30 minutes, and adjust the baking time as needed. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. I always rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once the cake is completely cool, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk or coffee, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour the glaze over the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. I like to use a spoon to spread the glaze evenly over the top. This part makes the cake look so much more appetizing.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Slice the cake and serve! This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is delicious served warm or at room temperature. I love to serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream. The best way to cut this cake is when it has completely cooled, this helps to ensure that you get a perfect slice every time.
What to Serve It With
This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- For Breakfast: Serve a slice with a steaming mug of coffee or tea. The warm spices and coffee flavor make it the perfect morning treat.
- For Brunch: Dress it up with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Pair it with a mimosa or a cup of chai latte.
- As Dessert: Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. It’s a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s sure to impress. My kids always ask for ice cream with their slice!
- For Cozy Snacks: Enjoy a slice with a glass of milk or a cup of hot chocolate on a chilly evening. It’s the perfect comfort food.
My family loves to enjoy this cake with a side of fresh fruit, like sliced apples or pears. The sweetness of the fruit complements the spices in the cake beautifully. And don’t forget the whipped cream – it’s a must-have! I’ve even been known to crumble a little bit of ginger snap cookies on top for added texture and flavor. It is a family favorite!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Here are a few of my top tips for making the best Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake ever:
- Pumpkin Prep: Make sure to use pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling contains added spices and sugar, which will throw off the balance of the recipe.
- Mixing Advice: Be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
- Swirl Customization: Get creative with your swirling! Use a knife or skewer to create different patterns in the batter. The more you swirl, the more marbled the cake will look.
- Ingredient Swaps: You can substitute the vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or unsalted butter. You can also use a mix of granulated and brown sugar for a more complex flavor.
- Baking Tips: Start checking for doneness around 30 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top of the cake is browning too quickly, tent it with foil.
- Glaze Variations: For a thicker glaze, use less milk or coffee. For a thinner glaze, use more. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for extra flavor.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is to not be afraid to experiment with the spices. If you like a stronger cinnamon flavor, add a little extra. If you prefer a more subtle spice profile, reduce the amount of spices slightly. The key is to find the balance that you enjoy most. I once accidentally added too much cloves, and the cake was almost inedible! But I learned from my mistake, and now I always measure the spices carefully. I tested this cake using almond milk, and it came out so good and creamy. That is just something to keep in mind!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here are some tips for storing and reheating your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake:
- Room Temperature: You can store the cake at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
- Refrigerator Storage: You can store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
- Freezer Instructions: You can freeze the cake for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or store it in a freezer-safe container.
- Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to freeze the cake, it’s best to wait to glaze it until after it’s thawed. This will prevent the glaze from becoming sticky or runny.
To reheat the cake, simply microwave it for a few seconds until it’s warm. You can also reheat it in the oven at a low temperature (around 200°F or 95°C) for a few minutes. The main goal is to keep the cake delicious and fresh!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake recipe! It’s easy to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a cozy snack, this cake is sure to satisfy your cravings. What makes this cake truly special is the perfect balance of pumpkin, spice, and coffee. It’s a warm, comforting hug in every bite, and it’s a recipe that I know you’ll make again and again. If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other cake recipes for more delicious inspiration!
Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 0.5 tsp ground nutmeg
- 0.5 tsp ground cloves
- 0.5 tsp salt
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, sugar, oil, eggs, and coffee.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool completely before frosting.
