Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is the ultimate treat for autumn lovers! Combining the rich flavors of pumpkin and espresso, this cake is perfect for cozy gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of coffee. Its unique texture, achieved through soaking the cake in a sweet latte mixture, makes it stand out among traditional pumpkin desserts. With its soft crumb and delightful cream cheese frosting, this cake will surely impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor – The blend of pumpkin and coffee creates a warm, inviting taste that captures the essence of fall.
• Moist Texture – The latte soak ensures each bite is incredibly moist and soft, reminiscent of a tres leches cake.
• Versatile Occasion – Whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner or an afternoon tea party, this cake fits perfectly into any setting.
• Easy to Make – With straightforward ingredients and steps, even novice bakers can whip up this delicious cake without hassle.
• Decadent Frosting – The espresso cream cheese frosting adds a rich finishing touch that elevates the entire dessert.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Cooling rack
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer – Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar or mixing batter for a fluffy texture.
• Baking pan – A sturdy pan ensures even baking and helps achieve the perfect shape for your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 2 1/4 cups (281 g) all purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 10 tbsp (140 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated white sugar
• 2 eggs, at room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) buttermilk, at room temperature
• 1 cup (244 g) canned pumpkin puree, at room temperature

For the Latte Soak

• 1/4 cup (60 ml) espresso or strong coffee
• 1/3 cup (80 ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (150 g) sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Frosting

• 1 cup (224 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, cold
• 2 cups (260 g) powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tsp instant espresso powder
• 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly from start to finish.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray. This will prevent sticking and make for easier removal later.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl:
Combine the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Whisk until well blended to ensure even distribution of spices.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl:
Beat the softened butter with granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3–5 minutes.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add in the eggs one at a time while continuing to mix. Then add vanilla extract. Mix well until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Alternate Adding Dry Mix and Buttermilk

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients in three parts:
Start with one-third of the dry mix,
Follow with half of the buttermilk,
Repeat until all ingredients are combined.
Finally, fold in the pumpkin puree gently until just combined.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour your batter into the prepared pan. Bake for about 38 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool completely before proceeding to soak it.

Step 8: Prepare Latte Soak

In a medium bowl:
Whisk together espresso or strong coffee, whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until combined.

Step 9: Soak Cake

Once cooled:
Poke holes throughout the surface of your cake using a fork.
Pour the latte soak evenly over the top so it absorbs into every bite.

Step 10: Make Cream Cheese Frosting

In a mixing bowl:
Beat softened butter with cold cream cheese until smooth.
Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed. Then mix in vanilla extract along with instant espresso powder and pumpkin pie spice until creamy.

Step 11: Frost Your Cake

Spread an even layer of cream cheese frosting over your soaked cake. For added presentation, you can sprinkle extra pumpkin pie spice on top if desired.

Now your delicious Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is ready to serve! Enjoy this delightful dessert that brings warmth to any occasion.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

This delightful pumpkin spice latte cake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a visual feast. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Pair with Coffee

• Enjoy a slice alongside a freshly brewed cup of coffee to complement the cake’s rich flavors.

Add Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess and sweetness.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce will add an extra layer of flavor and make the presentation stunning.

Serve with Ice Cream

• Pairing this cake with vanilla or cinnamon ice cream creates a delicious contrast in temperature and texture.

Garnish with Spices

• Sprinkle some pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon on top for an inviting aroma and enhanced flavor.

Plate with Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside fresh apple slices or pears for a refreshing balance to the sweet cake.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

To achieve the best results with your pumpkin spice latte cake, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensure that eggs, buttermilk, and butter are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better rise.

• Measure Flour Correctly – Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag to avoid adding too much flour, which can lead to a dense cake.

• Don’t Overmix – Mix until just combined when adding dry ingredients to avoid toughening the cake.

• Test for Doneness – Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

• Let It Cool Completely – Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting it; this helps the frosting stay intact and look neat.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

When serving this amazing pumpkin spice latte cake, consider accompanying it with these delightful side dishes. They complement the flavors perfectly.

1. Chai Tea – The spiced notes of chai tea pair beautifully with the warm flavors of pumpkin spice.

2. Apple Crisp – A warm apple crisp adds a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft cake.

3. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses can provide a savory balance to the sweetness of the cake.

4. Pumpkin Soup – A small bowl of creamy pumpkin soup makes for an excellent starter before indulging in dessert.

5. Spiced Nuts – A handful of spiced nuts can offer a crunchy snack that complements the moistness of the cake.

6. Cinnamon Roll Casserole – This sweet breakfast dish is perfect for brunch gatherings that include dessert options.

7. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad can refresh the palate after enjoying rich slices of cake.

8. Coconut Macaroons – These chewy treats add another layer of flavor while matching well with coffee or tea served alongside dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking the perfect pumpkin spice latte cake can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to avoid to ensure your cake turns out just right.

• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or buttermilk can lead to a dense cake. Always ensure these ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too vigorously can develop gluten, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined for a fluffy texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Packing flour can result in too much being added, making your cake dry. Spoon and level the flour for accurate measurement.
• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different, so relying solely on the timer may not yield perfect results. Check for doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake.
• Forgetting to prepare the pan: A well-greased and floured pan prevents sticking. Always prepare your baking pan properly for easy removal.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the pumpkin spice latte cake in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat a slice for 15-20 seconds until warm, but avoid overheating to prevent dryness.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm each slice for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making pumpkin spice latte cake that might help you.

What is Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake?

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is a moist pumpkin cake infused with espresso flavors and topped with creamy espresso frosting, perfect for autumn desserts.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake and frost the pumpkin spice latte cake one day in advance. Store it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

How do I customize my Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake?

Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor and texture. You can also adjust spices according to your taste.

Is there a dairy-free option available?

You can substitute buttermilk with almond milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice and use dairy-free butter in the frosting.

What should I serve with this cake?

This delightful pumpkin spice latte cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence!

Final Thoughts

This pumpkin spice latte cake is a cozy treat that captures all the best flavors of fall. Its soft texture and rich flavors make it perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying at home. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite add-ins or toppings—this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious!