This Pumpkin Spice Cake brings the comforting warmth of Thanksgiving straight to your kitchen. With pumpkin purée as the moist base and a blend of aromatic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, this cake is soft, fragrant, and full of autumn character. It’s inspired by classic American fall baking traditions where pumpkin is the star of the season, featured in pies, breads, muffins, and festive desserts. This cake is a lighter, simpler take on those flavours yet still rich enough for a holiday table. Whether served plain, dusted with sugar, or topped with cream cheese frosting, it evokes a nostalgic, cosy feel, perfect for sharing during gatherings.
It’s also incredibly easy to make and forgiving, making it ideal for beginner bakers or anyone looking to bring a warm, spiced dessert to Thanksgiving celebrations.
Ingredients
UNITSIngredients
1¾ cupsAll-purpose flour (For the Pumpkin Spice Cake)
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This ensures the spices distribute evenly so every slice tastes warm and aromatic. Set aside.
Description - Step 2
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the pumpkin purée, brown sugar, white sugar, and oil. Mix until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Incorporate vanilla extract.
Description - Step 3
Step 3: Combine the Batter
Add the dry mixture to the wet mixture in two batches. Mix gently using a spatula. Add milk to loosen the batter if it feels too thick. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender and moist.
Description - Step 4
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Tin
Grease an 8-inch round or square cake tin and line it with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps the cake release easily from the pan.
Description - Step 5
Step 5: Pour and Smooth the Batter
Pour the batter into the prepared tin. Tap lightly on the counter to remove air bubbles and smooth the top evenly.
Description - Step 6
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Place the tin in a preheated oven at 175°C. Bake until the cake rises, the top turns golden, and a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean. This usually takes 32–35 minutes, depending on your oven.
Description - Step 7
Step 7: Cool the Cake Completely
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the tin for 5 minutes. Then transfer to a rack and let cool for an additional 2 minutes before frosting or slicing.
Description - Step 8
Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional)
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add icing sugar and vanilla, mixing until the mixture is fluffy. This adds richness and a sweet-tangy contrast to the warm spices.
Description - Step 9
Step 9: Frost and Serve
Spread the frosting over the cooled cake, or serve it plain. Add a dusting of cinnamon for an autumn touch.
Step 1
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
5 Minutes
Step 2
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
5 Minutes
Step 3
Step 3: Combine the Batter
4 Minutes
Step 4
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Tin
3 Minutes
Step 5
Step 5: Pour and Smooth the Batter
2 Minutes
Step 6
Step 6: Bake the Cake
35 Minutes
Step 7
Step 7: Cool the Cake Completely
7 Minutes
Step 8
Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional)