Easy Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Cake Mix Recipe
Pumpkin cake with cream cheese frosting cake mix offers a shortcut to a delightful fall dessert. It combines warm spices with a rich, tangy frosting for a sweet treat.
Equipment
- 9x13 inch Baking Pan
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Electric Mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber Spatula
- Wire Rack
- Toothpick
- Offset spatula or knife (for frosting)
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) spice cake mix
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (optional, for enhanced flavor)
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 350F (175C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. Ensure even baking and easy cake removal.
- Step 2: Combine Cake Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine spice cake mix, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, and pumpkin pie spice (if using). Blend until just combined, ensuring no large lumps remain. Overmixing can result in a tough cake.
- Step 3: Bake the Cake: Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Avoid opening the oven frequently during baking to maintain consistent temperature.
- Step 4: Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Ensure the cake is thoroughly cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- Step 5: Prepare the Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar gradually, beating until well combined. Stir in vanilla extract and salt. Adjust powdered sugar for desired consistency.
- Step 6: Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. The frosting should be thick enough to hold its shape but easy to spread.
- Step 7: Garnish (Optional): Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon, chopped pecans, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added visual appeal and flavor. These additions can enhance the overall presentation of the cake.
- Step 8: Serve and Enjoy: Cut the cake into squares and serve. Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its moistness and freshness. For a richer flavor, substitute melted butter for vegetable oil. Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the cake batter for added texture. For a dairy-free option, use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the frosting.
Notes
Variations
The basic recipe for pumpkin cake with cream cheese frosting cake mix offers a versatile foundation for creative adaptations. Modifications can cater to individual tastes, dietary requirements, or regional culinary traditions.
- Ingredient Swaps: For a richer flavor, substitute melted butter for vegetable oil. Unsweetened applesauce can replace part of the oil for a lighter cake. Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips to the batter for enhanced texture.
- Regional Twists: Incorporate spices commonly used in specific regions, such as cardamom or allspice. Add a layer of dulce de leche between the cake and frosting for a Latin American influence. A maple syrup drizzle can provide a New England touch.
- Dietary Adjustments: Use a gluten-free spice cake mix for a gluten-free version. Dairy-free cream cheese alternatives can create a dairy-free frosting. Reduce the sugar in the frosting or use a sugar substitute for a lower-sugar option. Egg replacers can enable preparation of an egg-free cake.
Serving Suggestions
Pumpkin cake with cream cheese frosting lends itself to various serving occasions. It is ideally served at room temperature to fully appreciate its flavors and textures. Consider the following serving suggestions:
- Serve as a dessert at Thanksgiving, Halloween, or other fall-themed gatherings.
- Pair with a warm beverage, such as coffee, tea, or spiced cider.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Offer a slice of cake alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- Cut into smaller squares for a bite-sized treat at parties or events.
Storage Tips
Proper storage preserves the cake’s moistness and freshness. Follow these guidelines for optimal results:
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This prevents the cake from drying out and maintains the frosting’s consistency.
- Refrigerated cake remains fresh for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, the cake can be frozen. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container. Frozen cake can last up to 2 months.
- Thaw frozen cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can the cake be made ahead of time?
Answer: Yes, the cake can be baked a day or two in advance. Store it wrapped tightly at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Frost the cake just before serving for best results. - Question 2: Can the cream cheese frosting be made in advance?
Answer: Yes, the cream cheese frosting can be made a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Allow the frosting to soften slightly at room temperature before frosting the cake. - Question 3: What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
Answer: Pumpkin pie spice can be substituted with a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Use approximately 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon cloves. - Question 4: How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
Answer: Thoroughly grease and flour the baking pan before adding the batter. Alternatively, use parchment paper to line the bottom of the pan.