Best Pumpkin Cake Recipe – Moist, Spiced,

Pumpkin Cake Recipe – When the air turns crisp, and the leaves begin to fall, nothing captures the warmth of the season quite like a freshly baked Pumpkin Cake Recipe. Infused with aromatic spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, this cake delivers the essence of autumn in every bite.

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The natural sweetness and velvety texture of pumpkin puree create an exceptionally moist crumb that stands out from traditional cakes. It’s comforting, flavorful, and pairs wonderfully with silky cream cheese frosting, making it a must-bake treat for gatherings, holidays, or a cozy weekend dessert.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Active Time: 10 minutes

• Resting/Cooling Time: 45 minutes

• Total Time: 70 minutes

• Cuisines: American

• Course: Dessert / Cake

• Servings: 12

• Calories: ~320 per serving

Equipment Needed

• 1 large mixing bowl

• 1 whisk or electric hand mixer

• 1 medium bowl (for dry ingredients)

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Rubber spatula

• 9×13-inch baking pan or two 8-inch round pans

• Cooling rack

• Oven

Ingredients

For the Pumpkin Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon nutmeg

• ½ teaspoon ground ginger

• ¼ teaspoon cloves

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 cup brown sugar, packed

• 1 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)

• 4 large eggs

• 1 (15-oz) can pumpkin puree

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Nutrition Table (Per Serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking pan (9×13 or round pans) with butter or non-stick spray. You may also line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Combining the dry ingredients first ensures even distribution of spices, which is crucial for balanced flavor.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil. Whisk until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and pumpkin puree, blending until the mixture is creamy and uniform.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Mixture

Slowly fold the dry mixture into the pumpkin mixture. Use a spatula to avoid over-mixing; too much beating can create a dense cake. Mix gently until just combined and no flour streaks remain.

Step 5: Pour Batter into Pan

Transfer the batter into your prepared baking pan. Spread evenly with a spatula to ensure the cake bakes uniformly.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Bake for 25–35 minutes, depending on pan size. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool Completely

Place the cake on a cooling rack and allow it to cool for at least 45 minutes before frosting. Frosting a warm cake can cause the topping to melt, so patience is key.

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Cake

• Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling (which contains added sugar and spices).

• Don’t overmix the batter—this ensures a lighter, fluffier cake.

• Add nuts or chocolate chips if you want extra texture or richness.

• Try brown butter instead of vegetable oil for a deeper flavor.

• Chill the cake for 1 hour after frosting for cleaner slices.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Cake Recipe captures everything we love about fall—warm spices, a moist crumb, and comforting flavors that feel like a cozy hug on a cool day. It’s easy to make, versatile, and perfect for holidays, potlucks, or everyday baking. Whether you serve it with classic cream cheese frosting or enjoy it plain with coffee, this cake is guaranteed to impress. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, bakers of all levels can enjoy making this beloved seasonal dessert. Try it once, and it will become your go-to fall cake every year!