Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to celebrate the cozy vibes of autumn, you’ve come to the right place! This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is one of my all-time favorites. It’s not just a cake; it’s a warm hug in dessert form. The combination of soft pumpkin spice cake soaked in sweet, milky espresso makes it incredibly moist and packed with flavor. Plus, the luscious espresso cream cheese frosting adds that perfect finishing touch.

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply need a comforting dessert after a busy weeknight, this cake is sure to impress everyone. It’s easy to make and filled with seasonal goodness—what’s not to love?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have this cake ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the warm spices and creamy frosting, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or an afternoon treat, this cake fits beautifully into any event.
• Make-ahead option: The cake keeps well, so you can bake it ahead of time and frost it just before serving.
• Irresistible flavor: Each bite is bursting with pumpkin spice goodness, making it the ultimate autumn dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have on hand. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create this delicious Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake.

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

Variations

One of the best things about this Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add nuts: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and texture.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those with dietary restrictions.
• Try different frostings: Swap out the espresso cream cheese frosting for whipped coconut cream for a lighter option.
• Incorporate chocolate: Add chocolate chips into the batter for a delightful twist that pairs perfectly with pumpkin spice.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two round cake pans with butter or cooking spray and line them with parchment paper. Preparing your pans properly ensures that your cake will come out easily without sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This step helps evenly distribute all those delicious spices throughout your cake.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into your mixture, resulting in a lighter texture for your cake.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract and buttermilk followed by the canned pumpkin puree. These ingredients bring moisture and flavor that are essential for your delicious Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add your dry ingredients into the wet mixture while mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cake to remain soft!

Step 6: Bake

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Bake in your preheated oven for about 28-32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks.

Step 7: Prepare Soak

While cakes are cooling, mix together espresso or strong coffee with whole milk and sweetened condensed milk along with additional pumpkin pie spice and vanilla extract. This soak will add incredible moisture to your already soft cake!

Step 8: Soak Cakes

Once cooled slightly but still warm, poke holes all over each layer using a fork or toothpick. Pour half of the soak over each layer so that they absorb all that lovely flavor.

Step 9: Make Frosting

In another large bowl, beat together softened butter and cold cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed. Stir in vanilla extract along with instant espresso powder and pumpkin pie spice until everything is well incorporated.

Step 10: Frost Your Cake

Once cakes are completely cool and soaked up all that deliciousness, spread frosting generously between layers as well as on top and around sides of the cake. Feel free to get creative with how you decorate it!

And there you have it—the perfect Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake! Enjoy every slice surrounded by friends or family while sipping on something warm as you embrace autumn’s beauty!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

Baking this delightful Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is a breeze, especially with these handy tips!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs, buttermilk, and pumpkin puree to room temperature ensures they blend smoothly into the batter, resulting in a fluffier cake.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the soft texture we desire.

• Let the cake cool completely before soaking: This step prevents the soak from making your cake too soggy. A well-cooled cake will absorb just the right amount of espresso goodness.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: Depending on your preference, you can modify the sugar in both the cake and frosting. Remember that the sweetness of the cake balances beautifully with the coffee flavors.

• Chill your frosting: For easier spreading and a firmer texture, chill your cream cheese frosting for about 30 minutes before using it on the cake. This will make it easier to achieve that perfect finish.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it an excellent centerpiece for any gathering. Here are some ideas on how to present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A light and fluffy topping that adds a hint of sweetness and complements the spices perfectly.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A dusting of ground cinnamon on top of each slice adds warmth and enhances the autumn vibe.
• Chocolate shavings: Dark chocolate curls can add a touch of elegance and contrast beautifully with the orange hue of the cake.

Side Dishes

• Spiced apple cider: This warm drink is perfect for cozy fall gatherings and pairs excellently with the flavors of pumpkin and spice.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the cake’s flavors while providing a hearty side option.
• Maple-glazed carrots: The sweet glaze brings out earthy tones that harmonize with your dessert while adding a vibrant color contrast.
• Mixed green salad with vinaigrette: A fresh salad with tangy dressing offers a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the cake, making it an ideal accompaniment.

With these serving suggestions, your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake will be sure to impress friends and family at any autumn gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is perfect for meal prep or entertaining, as it can be made ahead of time and stored easily without compromising its delightful flavors.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If your kitchen is warm, consider refrigerating it to maintain freshness.
• For longer storage, wrap the cake slices tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a container.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the cooled cake securely in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months; just make sure to label it with the date.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• For a warm slice, microwave individual pieces for about 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, warm slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
• Enjoy with a fresh drizzle of espresso cream cheese frosting if desired.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious cake!

Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso for the Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake?

Yes! You can substitute strong brewed coffee for espresso in this recipe. Just ensure it’s brewed stronger than usual to maintain the rich flavor.

How do I achieve the best texture in my Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake?

To achieve that moist texture, ensure that your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. The latte soak adds extra moisture, so don’t skip that step!

Can I make the Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

What makes this Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake special?

This cake combines classic pumpkin spices with creamy frosting and a delightful coffee soak, making it a fall favorite that’s incredibly soft and flavorful.

How long will my Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake last in the fridge?

The cake will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake brings warmth and joy to your kitchen this autumn! With its luscious flavors and moist texture, it’s truly a showstopper for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying a cozy slice by yourself, I know you’ll love making this delightful dessert. Happy baking!