There’s something magical about a Pumpkin Spice Cake — that rich aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves filling the kitchen while a soft, golden cake bakes in the oven. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a cozy hug in every bite.
Though most people associate it with fall, this cake is delicious all year round. It’s moist, perfectly spiced, and topped with creamy frosting that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something comforting, this pumpkin spice cake never disappoints.
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup milk
For the frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven.
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix the dry ingredients.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. These warm spices will give the cake its signature aroma and flavor.
3. Combine the wet ingredients.
In another large bowl, mix pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, oil, milk, and vanilla. Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine wet and dry mixtures.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix gently until everything is just combined — be careful not to overmix, or the cake may turn dense.
5. Bake.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool completely.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely before frosting.
7. Make the frosting.
Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, then beat again until creamy. If you like, add a pinch of cinnamon for a cozy touch.
8. Frost and serve.
Spread the frosting over the cooled cake, slice into squares, and enjoy!
Why This Cake Works
The secret to a perfect Pumpkin Spice Cake is balance — the right mix of moisture, sweetness, and spice. The pumpkin puree keeps the crumb soft and tender, while the warm spices create that comforting, nostalgic flavor that makes everyone go back for seconds.
The cream cheese frosting adds just the right amount of tanginess to cut through the sweetness, creating harmony in every bite.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Spice Cake
- Use real pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling — it gives a more natural flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter; stir just until combined for a fluffy texture.
- Add texture: Mix in chopped nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips for a twist.
- Make it ahead: The flavor deepens overnight, so it’s even better the next day!