Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is the ultimate dessert for autumn lovers. With its soft and moist texture, infused with sweet, spiced espresso, it’s perfect for celebrations or cozy gatherings. The delicious cream cheese frosting adds a rich finish that makes every slice irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a fall party or treating yourself on a chilly evening, this cake will surely impress everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: Packed with warm pumpkin spice and espresso, each bite is a delightful taste of autumn.
• Moist Texture: The latte soak creates an exceptionally moist cake that melts in your mouth.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or simply satisfying your fall cravings.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve great results.
• Stunning Presentation: The creamy frosting and rich colors make it a beautiful centerpiece for any table.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Rubber spatula
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Allow you to easily combine ingredients without mess.
• Electric mixer: Ensures smooth batter and well-blended frosting in less time.
• Cooling rack: Helps cool the cake evenly, preventing sogginess.

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 Latte 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 Espresso Cream Cheese 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 and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
Whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl:
1. Beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
2. Add eggs one at a time and mix well after each addition.
3. Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

To the butter mixture:
Add buttermilk and pumpkin puree. Mix until fully combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture:
Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan:
Bake for about 38 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack.

Step 7: Prepare Latte Soak

While the cake is cooling:
In a small bowl, combine espresso or strong coffee with whole milk and sweetened condensed milk. Stir in pumpkin pie spice and vanilla extract.

Step 8: Soak the Cake

Once cooled:
Poke holes in the top of the cake with a skewer or fork.
Slowly pour the latte soak over the cake to allow it to absorb.

Step 9: Make Frosting

For the espresso cream cheese frosting:
1. In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter and cold cream cheese together until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed.
3. Mix in vanilla extract, instant espresso powder, and pumpkin pie spice until creamy.

Step 10: Frosting & Serving

Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake:
Slice into squares and serve as a delicious treat for any occasion!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

Serving your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake can elevate its flavors and presentation. Pairing it with the right accompaniments enhances the overall experience and brings out the delicious autumn essence.

With Whipped Cream

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy texture that balances the spiced cake perfectly.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• The cold, creamy vanilla ice cream offers a delightful contrast to the warm pumpkin spice flavors.

Drizzled Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of rich caramel sauce complements the spices and adds a touch of indulgence to each slice.

Coffee or Espresso on the Side

• Serving a cup of coffee or espresso alongside enhances the latte experience and is perfect for coffee lovers.

Nuts for Crunch

• Chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the softness of the cake.

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How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

To achieve the moistest and most flavorful Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake, follow these essential tips:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing eggs, buttermilk, and pumpkin puree to room temperature before mixing helps create a smoother batter.

• Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour, baking powder, and spices ensures even distribution and prevents clumps in your cake.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid a dense texture. Overmixing can lead to tough cake.

• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs for perfect doneness.

• Soak While Warm: Pour the espresso soak over the cake while it’s still warm to allow it to absorb more flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake can enhance its seasonal flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Chai Tea: This spiced tea harmonizes beautifully with pumpkin flavors, making it an ideal pairing.

2. Apple Crisp: A warm apple crisp adds another layer of autumn flavor with its sweet and tart apples and buttery topping.

3. Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses pairs well, offering a creamy contrast to the spiced sweetness of the cake.

4. Pecan Pie Bars: For those who love nuts, these bars introduce a delightful crunch along with caramel-like sweetness that complements pumpkin well.

5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts add savory notes that balance out the sweetness of dessert.

6. Gingerbread Cookies: These cookies echo similar spices found in pumpkin spice, creating a cohesive seasonal treat experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake even better. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs and buttermilk can lead to uneven mixing. Always bring them to room temperature before starting.
• Overmixing the batter: This can make your cake tough. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Skipping the espresso soak: The espresso soak is crucial for flavor and moisture. Don’t skip this step for the best results!
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can lead to a dry cake. Always spoon and level your flour when measuring.
• Ignoring cooling time: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting. Frosting a warm cake can cause melting and messiness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake:

What makes Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake special?

The unique blend of pumpkin, spice, and espresso creates a delightful flavor combination that captures autumn’s essence.

Can I use different spices?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to tailor the flavor to your liking.

How do I ensure my cake stays moist?

The espresso soak is key; it infuses moisture and flavor into the cake, making each bite deliciously soft.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! The steps are straightforward, and with careful attention, anyone can master this delightful dessert.

How should I serve Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake?

Serve it chilled or at room temperature, perhaps paired with whipped cream or a sprinkle of extra pumpkin pie spice on top!

Final Thoughts

The Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience filled with cozy flavors perfect for fall. Its soft texture and rich taste make it versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with nuts or chocolate chips for added flair!