Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, the culinary magic of autumn graces us with its warm, inviting aromas. Among these, the Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake stands as an edible tribute to fall’s irresistibly cozy charm. With a nod to traditional seasonal flavors, this cake melds rich spices with the comforting notes of coffee, bringing to life an enchanting Pumpkin Latte Cake that delights the senses. Whether you’re savoring it with afternoon tea or sharing it among friends, the allure of this cake is undeniable, a perfect centerpiece for any autumnal gathering.

The comforting embrace of a freshly baked Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake always whisks me back to cozy fall afternoons in my grandmother’s kitchen. There, amidst the backdrop of vibrant autumn leaves, she would lovingly prepare an array of pumpkin delights, infusing the room with warmth and an intoxicating spicy-sweet aroma. Each bite of this cake not only transports me to those cherished moments but also embodies the joy and love she infused into every recipe. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a comforting reminder of the cherished family traditions that make autumn so special.
While I couldn’t find an exact match for a Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake, I’ve found some delicious treats that echo the essence of this delightful flavor. For something with a pumpkin twist, take a look at this healthy pumpkin mousse. It’s a creamy, airy dessert that might just satisfy your pumpkin cravings. And if cookies are more your style, the chewy maple pumpkin cookies blend the warmth of maple with the coziness of pumpkin for a perfect fall snack.
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
- Pumpkin Coffee Cake is incredibly easy to make; you’ll need just a few simple steps, and there’s no need for fancy culinary gadgets. All you need are everyday kitchen items to bring this Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake to life.
- It’s a flexible recipe; whether you’re switching up spices or modifying levels of sweetness, this cake is perfect for customization to suit your taste or autumn spice latte cake cravings.
- Great for busy days; this cake can be prepared in advance and stored, making it suitable for sharing with families or guests.
- Thanks to its espresso-infused layers, the Pumpkin Espresso Cake doesn’t just taste good; it also pairs beautifully with various beverages.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Best Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Oven
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Electric mixer
Step 1: Preparation for the Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
- 1 cup (127 grams) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ cup plus 6 tablespoons (204 grams) dark brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup (200 grams) pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup (53 grams) vegetable oil
- ¼ cup (45 grams) sour cream, full fat, room temperature
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Espresso Buttercream:
- 8 tablespoons (113 grams) salted butter, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ teaspoons instant espresso powder
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream, cold
- 1 ½ cups (183 grams) powdered sugar
Step 2: Cooking the Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. In another bowl, combine the brown sugar, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Pour the batter into a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Smooth the top with a spatula and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
Step 3: Assembling and Finishing
To make the espresso buttercream, beat the softened salted butter until creamy. Add in the vanilla extract and instant espresso powder, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar. Once all the sugar is incorporated, add cold heavy cream and whip until fluffy. Spread the buttercream evenly over the top of the cooled cake.
For an elegant finish, dust the top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or place fall-themed edible decorations for a festive touch. Serve each slice of this Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake with a cup of freshly brewed coffee for an indulgent autumn treat.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Every Time
Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This helps them combine more easily and results in a smoother batter.
When measuring flour, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a straight edge. This prevents your cake from being too dense. For an even richer flavor, increase the amount of espresso powder slightly in the buttercream. Adjust to taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t overmix the batter; doing so can result in a tough cake. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated for a tender crumb.
Be sure not to overbake the cake. Keep an eye on it in the last few minutes of baking, as an overbaked cake can become dry and crumbly.
Easy Ways to Customize Your Dish
To add texture, fold in a half cup of chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans. If you’re a fan of caramel, drizzle some caramel sauce over the frosted cake. For a lighter cake, substitute half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce.
Occasions Perfect for This Recipe
This cake is an ideal choice for fall gatherings, such as Thanksgiving dinner, or as a cozy addition to a Halloween party menu. It also makes a delightful surprise for autumn brunches or as a seasonal gift for friends and family.
FAQs
Q: What is a Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake made of?
A Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is a delightful combination of autumn spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger blended with the rich taste of pumpkin puree and coffee essence, often topped with a creamy espresso buttercream. It’s a perfect marriage of flavors that bring fall to life in every bite.
Q: Can you make a Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake is ideal for making in advance. You can prepare it a day or two before serving, and it will retain its moist texture and rich flavors. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator, making it ready to share with family and friends at a moment’s notice.
Q: How do you store a Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake?
To keep your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container. If your kitchen is cool, you can keep it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it and ensure it is well-covered to prevent it from drying out.
Q: What goes well with a Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake?
This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or your favorite tea. It can also be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which balances the warm spices with creamy sweetness. Whether enjoyed solo or as part of a dessert spread, it complements cozy fall gatherings beautifully.
Q: How long does it take to bake a Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake?
Typically, baking a Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake takes about 25-30 minutes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Be sure to check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean when the cake is fully baked.

A Sweet Conclusion
Whether you’re indulging in the comforting flavors of a Pumpkin Espresso Cake or savoring the delicious layers of a classic Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake, these creations bring the essence of autumn to your table. The perfect harmony of pumpkin and spices with the rich undertones of coffee makes it an irresistible choice for any seasonal gathering. Such delightful confections as a Pumpkin Latte Cake surely elevate your baking repertoire, transforming simple ingredients into a masterpiece.
If you’re looking for more autumnal delights, don’t miss out on this easy pumpkin bundt cake. It’s another fantastic option to capture the season’s charm.
We hope you enjoy crafting and sharing these delectable treats. Feel free to let us know your thoughts or any variations you tried in the comments below, make sure to save this recipe for later, and don’t hesitate to share it with your fellow baking enthusiasts!
PrintPumpkin Spice Latte Cake
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Celebrate fall with this delightful Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake, a one-layer creation merging rich pumpkin and espresso flavors. Inspired by beloved recipes like the Pumpkin Cake Recipes and Pumpkin Spice Crumb Cake from Bon Appetite, this cake’s warm spices and creamy espresso buttercream will transport you to cozy autumn afternoons.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (127 grams) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ cup plus 6 tablespoons (204 grams) dark brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup (200 grams) pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup (53 grams) vegetable oil
- ¼ cup (45 grams) sour cream, full fat, room temperature
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 tablespoons (113 grams) salted butter, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ teaspoons instant espresso powder
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream, cold
- 1 ½ cups (183 grams) powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
- In another bowl, combine brown sugar, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Pour batter into a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
- For the espresso buttercream, beat softened salted butter until creamy.
- Add vanilla extract and instant espresso powder, then gradually mix in powdered sugar.
- Add cold heavy cream and whip until fluffy.
- Spread buttercream evenly over the top of the cooled cake.
Notes
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
- For an even richer flavor, increase the amount of espresso powder slightly in the buttercream.
- To add texture, consider folding in chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
Keywords: pumpkin spice latte cake, pumpkin cake, autumn dessert, fall baking, easy cake recipe