Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

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DESSERT

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Introduction to Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like the cozy aroma of fall wafting through your kitchen. That’s where my Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake comes in—a delightful treat that captures the essence of the season. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate, perfect for busy moms and professionals looking to impress loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With its rich flavors of pumpkin and coffee, this cake is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is a dream come true for anyone short on time but big on flavor. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just about 50 minutes from start to finish. The combination of warm spices and rich coffee creates a taste that feels like a cozy fall afternoon. Plus, it’s perfect for gatherings, making you the star of any celebration without the stress!

Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your cake, providing structure and texture.
  • Granulated sugar: Sweetness is key! It balances the spices and enhances the cake’s flavor.
  • Pumpkin puree: The star ingredient! It adds moisture and that lovely pumpkin flavor we all adore.
  • Brewed coffee: A splash of coffee elevates the cake, giving it a rich depth that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
  • Vegetable oil: This keeps the cake moist and tender, ensuring every bite is delightful.
  • Large eggs: Eggs help bind everything together and add richness to the cake.
  • Vanilla extract: A hint of vanilla rounds out the flavors, making the cake even more irresistible.
  • Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents help the cake rise, giving it that fluffy texture.
  • Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves: These warm spices create the signature pumpkin spice flavor that makes this cake a fall favorite.
  • Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, making them pop!

For those looking to add a twist, consider tossing in some chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture. You can find the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for a perfectly baked Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake. While the oven warms up, grab two 9-inch round cake pans and grease them well. I like to use a bit of vegetable oil or non-stick spray to ensure the cakes slide out easily later. You can also line the bottoms with parchment paper for extra insurance. Trust me, you don’t want to lose any of that delicious cake to the pan!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, it’s time to combine the dry ingredients. Start by adding the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Then, sprinkle in the warm spices: ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. These spices are what make this cake sing! Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s well combined. This step ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake, making every bite a delightful experience.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Now, let’s move on to the wet ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brewed coffee, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. The coffee adds a rich depth that complements the pumpkin beautifully. Make sure everything is well blended; you want a smooth mixture. This is where the magic begins! The combination of these ingredients will create a moist and flavorful cake that’s perfect for fall gatherings.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

It’s time to bring the wet and dry ingredients together! Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold them together using a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix; you want to combine them until just incorporated. A few lumps are perfectly fine! Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and we want our Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake to be light and fluffy. This is where the cake starts to take shape!

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Now that your batter is ready, it’s time to divide it evenly between the prepared cake pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops for an even bake. Pop them into the preheated oven and set a timer for 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cakes. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready! The aroma of pumpkin and spices will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!

Step 6: Cool the Cakes

Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. This helps them set and makes them easier to handle. After that, carefully transfer the cakes to wire racks to cool completely. Cooling is essential; it allows the flavors to develop and makes frosting easier. You’ll want to let them cool completely before adding any frosting or toppings. Patience is key here, but the deliciousness will be worth it!

Tips for Success

  • Always measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
  • Use room temperature eggs and coffee for better mixing.
  • Don’t overmix the batter; it should be just combined.
  • Check your cakes a few minutes before the timer goes off.
  • Let the cakes cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.

Equipment Needed

  • Two 9-inch round cake pans (or one 9×13-inch pan for a single-layer cake)
  • Mixing bowls (a large one for dry ingredients and a medium one for wet ingredients)
  • Whisk (or a fork if you’re in a pinch)
  • Spatula (for folding the batter)
  • Toothpick (for checking doneness)

Variations

  • For a chocolate twist, add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a delightful contrast.
  • Make it gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
  • For a nutty flavor, mix in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans.
  • Try a dairy-free version by using almond milk instead of brewed coffee and coconut oil in place of vegetable oil.
  • For a spicier kick, increase the ground ginger and cinnamon by 1/2 teaspoon each.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake with a dollop of whipped cream for a creamy contrast.
  • Serve alongside a warm cup of spiced chai or your favorite coffee to enhance the flavors.
  • For a festive touch, sprinkle some cinnamon on top before serving.

FAQs about Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

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

Absolutely! This cake actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can bake it a day in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Just remember to frost it right before serving for the best presentation!

What can I use instead of pumpkin puree?

If you don’t have pumpkin puree on hand, you can substitute it with applesauce or mashed bananas. While the flavor will change slightly, these alternatives will still keep your cake moist and delicious!

How should I store leftover Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best taste!

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.

What frosting pairs well with this cake?

This cake is delightful with cream cheese frosting, which adds a tangy sweetness that complements the spices perfectly. You could also use whipped cream or a simple vanilla buttercream for a lighter touch!

Final Thoughts

As you savor each bite of this Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake, you’ll find that it’s more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of fall in every slice. The warm spices and rich coffee create a symphony of flavors that evoke cozy memories and joyful gatherings. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, this cake brings a sense of comfort and happiness. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the season, and let this delightful cake become a cherished part of your autumn traditions. Happy baking!

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Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake: Indulge in Seasonal Bliss!


  • Author: [email protected]
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A delightful cake that combines the flavors of pumpkin spice and coffee, perfect for fall celebrations.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1/2 cup brewed coffee
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, coffee, oil, eggs, and vanilla.
  4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Notes

  • For added flavor, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter.
  • This cake pairs well with cream cheese frosting or whipped cream.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake, Fall Dessert, Pumpkin Cake, Coffee Cake

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