Easy Pumpkin Cake
Embrace the delight of autumn with an Easy Pumpkin Cake that fills your home with the comforting scent of spice and warmth. This Easy Pumpkin Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience, effortlessly blending the cozy flavors of pumpkin with a touch of sweetness. Discover how simple it is to create this delicious treat and revel in the joy of both baking and sharing. As you embark on this simple pumpkin cake recipe, imagine the smiles and happiness it will bring to your table.

I vividly remember the first time I baked a pumpkin cake with my grandmother on a crisp, cool autumn afternoon. Her kitchen was small, but it was filled with laughter and the aroma of spices dancing through the air. We mixed the batter with such care, eagerly awaiting the moment the cake would emerge soft and golden from the oven. Every bite of that sweet dessert was a reminder of those cherished moments we spent together, wrapped in warmth and love.
If you’re in the mood for a delightful pumpkin dessert that’s as simple as it is delicious, try making an Easy Pumpkin Bundt Cake. Its moist texture and rich pumpkin flavor are sure to please. And for a little twist, these Healthy Pumpkin Mousse cups offer a creamy and light alternative that’s perfect for those looking to indulge without guilt.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Pumpkin Cake
- Easy to make: This Simple Pumpkin Cake Recipe involves straightforward steps and requires no fancy tools, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
- Flexible: Turn this Quick Pumpkin Cake into your own masterpiece by swapping ingredients or experimenting with different spices.
- Perfect for any occasion: Whether you’re baking for family, guests at a holiday gathering, or needing a delightful treat for busy days, this Moist Pumpkin Cake fits the bill.
- Featuring the comforting blended aromas of Spiced Pumpkin Cake, all nestled in pure pumpkin goodness, it’s the ultimate Pumpkin Cake Recipe from Scratch.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Best Easy Pumpkin Cake
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Whisk
- 9×13 baking pan
- Oven
- Cooling rack
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step 1: Preparation for the Easy Pumpkin Cake
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ¾ cups light brown sugar, packed
- 15 ounces canned pumpkin puree (1 can)
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¾ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Step 2: Cooking the Easy Pumpkin Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking pan with a little vegetable oil and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
In a separate bowl, sift the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger). Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking gently until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Tap the pan on the counter a few times to release any air bubbles.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Assembling and Finishing
While the pumpkin cake is cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating continuously until the frosting is light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon.
Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Use a spatula to create swirls for decorative effect, if desired.
Slice and serve your Easy Pumpkin Cake with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few toasted nuts for extra flair.
Tips for the Best Easy Pumpkin Cake Every Time
- Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Do not overmix your batter; it may cause the cake to be dense and less fluffy.
- If you prefer a more robust flavor, feel free to double the spices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid opening the oven door frequently; this can cause the cake to collapse.
- Ensure your cream cheese and butter are soft enough for easy frosting application.
- Skipping the step of sifting the dry ingredients can result in lumps within your cake.
Easy Ways to Customize Your Dish
- Consider adding crushed nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for added texture.
- A splash of orange zest can give your cake a fresh, citrusy twist.
- Swap the cream cheese frosting for a simple powdered sugar glaze if you’re short on time.
Perfect Sides to Serve with Easy Pumpkin Cake
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic touch.
- Serve alongside fresh fruit such as berries for a refreshing contrast.
- A cup of warm chai tea or a pumpkin spice latte complements the cake’s spiced profile beautifully.
FAQs
Q: What is the best way to make Easy Pumpkin Cake?
The best way to make an Easy Pumpkin Cake is to follow a simple recipe that incorporates high-quality canned pumpkin puree and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a rich flavor. Make sure to let it cool completely before frosting with cream cheese for the best taste and texture.
Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned for pumpkin cake?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin as a substitute for canned in your Pumpkin Cake Recipe from Scratch. Just make sure to steam, puree, and drain it well to achieve a consistency similar to canned pumpkin puree.
Q: What spices go well with Spiced Pumpkin Cake?
Common spices that complement an Easy Pumpkin Cake include cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. These create a warm, aromatic flavor profile that is perfect for fall baking.
Q: How long does it take to bake a pumpkin cake?
Typically, it takes about 30 to 35 minutes to bake an Easy Pumpkin Cake at 350°F (175°C). You can test its doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake, and if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
Q: What is the best frosting for Moist Pumpkin Cake?
The best frosting for an Moist Pumpkin Cake is a rich cream cheese frosting. It balances the spice and sweetness perfectly, adding a creamy texture that complements the cake beautifully.

A Sweet Conclusion to Your Baking Adventure
Thank you for joining us on this flavorful journey with our Easy Pumpkin Cake. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this Simple Pumpkin Cake Recipe offers the perfect comfort treat that captures the essence of fall. Its moist texture and the harmonious blend of spices elevate this to one of the best Pumpkin Cake Recipes from Scratch out there. As you dive into your baking adventure, we hope this cake brings joy to your table and becomes a cherished recipe in your collection.
If you’re still craving more pumpkin delights, be sure to try our delightful Pumpkin Bars—a great addition to any autumnal dessert spread!
We would love to hear about your experience with this recipe. Feel free to leave a comment, share your photo, or save this page for later. Happy baking!
PrintEasy Pumpkin Cake
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the warmth and spice of our Easy Pumpkin Cake, a delightful treat that blends the cozy flavors of pumpkin with a creamy, rich cream cheese frosting. This Simple Pumpkin Cake Recipe is perfect for any occasion, and its moist texture and aromatic spices make it a must-try during autumn. It’s a Quick Pumpkin Cake Baking experience, sure to impress with its delicious and comforting combination as part of your Pumpkin Cake Recipes From Scratch collection.
Ingredients
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ¾ cups light brown sugar, packed
- 15 ounces canned pumpkin puree (1 can)
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¾ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 baking pan with vegetable oil, then line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking gently until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Tap the pan on the counter to release air bubbles.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- While the cake cools, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating continuously until the frosting is light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon.
- Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled cake, creating swirls with a spatula for decoration. Slice and serve.
Notes
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid a dense cake.
- Double the spices for a more robust flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 46 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: easy pumpkin cake, pumpkin cake recipe, spiced pumpkin cake, moist pumpkin cake, pumpkin cake with cream cheese frosting