Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

This perfect Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of autumn with the rich essence of coffee. Ideal for gatherings, celebrations, or just a cozy evening at home, this cake is not only visually appealing but also incredibly moist and flavorful. The layers of pumpkin cake soaked in sweet espresso make each bite irresistible, while the creamy espresso frosting adds an extra touch of indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, spices, and coffee creates a festive flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Moist and Soft Texture: Thanks to the espresso soak, this cake remains moist and tender with every slice.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Perfect for fall parties, Thanksgiving desserts, or even a simple afternoon treat.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you can whip this cake up in no time.
• Impressive Presentation: The layered look of the cake topped with creamy frosting will wow your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake, gather your tools and ensure you have everything ready. This will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

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: A powerful tool that helps blend ingredients smoothly, ensuring a light and fluffy batter.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients without mess.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down sides of bowls to incorporate all ingredients evenly into your batter.

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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). Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine the all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Whisk together to evenly distribute all ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another large mixing bowl:
1. Beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
2. Add in eggs one at a time; mix until well combined.
3. Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the buttermilk and pumpkin puree to the butter mixture:
– Mix until fully integrated.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Slowly incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients:
– Mix just until combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan:
– Bake for about 38 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
– Allow it to cool completely before adding any soaking liquid or frosting.

Follow these steps carefully to create a delicious Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake that’s sure to impress!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is a delightful treat perfect for gatherings and cozy evenings. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Pair with Coffee

• A cup of freshly brewed coffee complements the cake’s flavors beautifully, enhancing the warm spices.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness and a creamy texture that balances the spices.

Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream brings a creamy cold contrast to the moist cake, making each bite indulgent.

Garnish with Nuts

• Chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs well with pumpkin.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• A light drizzle of caramel sauce over the cake adds sweetness and enhances the autumn vibe.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

Perfecting your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake can take it from great to extraordinary. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ingredients like eggs and buttermilk should be at room temperature for better mixing and a fluffier texture.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour rather than scooping directly from the bag to avoid dense cake.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients; overmixing can lead to a tough cake texture.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for even cooking.

• Cool Completely: Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

To create a well-rounded dessert experience, consider these side dishes that pair nicely with your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake.

1. Spiced Apple Compote: A warm apple compote spiced with cinnamon offers a fruity contrast that complements the cake’s flavors.

2. Chai Tea: The spiced notes in chai tea enhance the pumpkin spice experience, making it an ideal beverage pairing.

3. Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce provides a refreshing balance against the sweetness of the cake.

4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and earthy flavor make roasted sweet potatoes a hearty side that matches well with dessert.

5. Caramelized Bananas: Sweet, caramelized bananas add an extra touch of indulgence alongside each slice of cake.

6. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory contrast, balancing out the sweet notes of your dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking is an art, and avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake to perfection.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or buttermilk can result in a dense cake. Always bring these ingredients to room temperature before mixing.
• Neglecting to measure flour properly: Scoop and pack flour into the measuring cup, leading to too much flour. Instead, spoon the flour into the cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy.
• Skipping the espresso soak: The espresso soak adds moisture and flavor. Don’t skip this step; it’s crucial for achieving that irresistible texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Not using fresh spices: Old spices lose their potency. Always use fresh pumpkin pie spice for optimal flavor in your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store slices in an airtight container.
• The cake lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place cake slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for 15-20 seconds, checking doneness frequently.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm each slice for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake.

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

Yes! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add frosting before serving for freshness.

What substitutes can I use for buttermilk?

You can make your own by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

How do I enhance the coffee flavor in my Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake?

Consider increasing the amount of espresso or using strong brewed coffee instead of water for soaking.

Can I use other frostings instead of cream cheese frosting?

Absolutely! A vanilla buttercream or whipped cream frosting could also complement this cake well.

What variations can I try with this recipe?

You could add nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor!

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit any autumn celebration or cozy gathering. You can customize it with various toppings or mix-ins to make it your own. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you!