Name: Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Self-raising Flour (Can substitute with all-purpose flour plus baking powder (2 tsp)); 2 tsp Pumpkin Spice Mix (Easily made at home with common spices); 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil (Can substitute with canola or melted coconut oil); 3 large Eggs (Ensure they are at room temperature); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Can substitute with almond extract); 1 cup Light Brown Sugar (Can be replaced with granulated sugar); 1 cup Canned Pumpkin Puree (Freshly cooked and pureed pumpkin also works); 2 tbsp Instant Coffee Granules (Brewed coffee can be used); 2 tbsp Boiling Water (Used to dissolve coffee granules); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Must be at room temperature); 4 cups Icing Sugar (Ensure it's sifted to avoid lumps); 8 oz Full-fat Cream Cheese (Must be cold)

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As the leaves begin to turn and the air turns crisp, there’s something undeniably comforting about cozying up with a slice of Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake. This cake is no ordinary dessert; it’s a delightful fusion of moist pumpkin-infused sponges, complemented by an irresistibly creamy coffee cream cheese frosting that gives you that much-loved caffeine kick. Not only does it capture the essence of fall flavors, but it also comes together quickly, making it perfect for any gathering or simple afternoon treat. Plus, it’s sure to impress friends and family with its warm aroma and beautiful layers. Are you ready to dive into this seasonal delight? Let’s get baking!

Why is Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake a must-try?

Comforting Flavor Combination: This cake blends the warmth of pumpkin spice with the rich undertones of coffee — a truly divine treat for fall.

Quick & Easy: With straightforward steps, anyone can whip this up in no time, making it the ideal dessert for unexpected guests or cozy nights at home.

Showstopper Presentation: The gorgeous layers and fluffy frosting make this cake a visual delight, perfect for impressing friends at your next gathering.

Nourishing Twist: Incorporating pumpkin not only boosts moisture but also adds vitamins A and C to your indulgent slice.

For more cozy recipes, check out my Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches or the rich flavors of Peanut Butter Cheesecake!

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Ingredients

For the Cake
• Self-raising Flour – Provides structure and rise to the cake; can substitute with all-purpose flour plus baking powder (2 tsp).
• Pumpkin Spice Mix – Adds warm, seasonal flavors; easily made at home with common spices like cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg.
• Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cake moist; can substitute with canola or melted coconut oil.
• Eggs (large) – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; ensure they are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile of the cake; can substitute with almond extract for a different twist.
• Light Brown Sugar – Sweetens and adds a caramel-like flavor; can be replaced with granulated sugar, but texture may differ.
• Canned Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and rich pumpkin flavor; freshly cooked and pureed pumpkin will work as well.

For the Frosting
• Instant Coffee Granules – Adds the ‘latte’ flavor to the frosting; brewed coffee can be used, but flavors may vary.
• Boiling Water – Used to dissolve coffee granules for the frosting.
• Unsalted Butter – Creates a creamy frosting; must be at room temperature for proper mixing.
• Icing Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; ensure it’s sifted to avoid lumps.
• Full-fat Cream Cheese – Forms the base of the frosting; must be cold to achieve the right consistency.

Discover how delectable this Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake can be for your autumn gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 160° fan / 180° conventional. While it heats, prepare two 7-inch round cake tins by greasing them with butter and lining them with baking paper. This will ensure your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake releases easily after baking, giving you beautifully intact layers ready for frosting.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the self-raising flour and pumpkin spice mix until evenly blended. The warm aroma of the spices will fill the air, hinting at the cozy flavors to come. Make sure there are no lumps, and set the bowl aside as you move on to the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another mixing bowl, combine the vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, light brown sugar, and canned pumpkin. Using a whisk, blend the ingredients until smooth and well incorporated, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This mixture will add moisture and flavor, forming the base of your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gently pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to fold the mixtures together until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; the batter should be slightly lumpy but cohesive. This will keep your cake light and fluffy, ensuring a delightful texture throughout.

Step 5: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake tins and smooth the tops with a spatula. Place the tins in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. The cakes are done when they spring back lightly when touched and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool the Cakes
After baking, let the cakes cool in the tins for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial to avoid melting the frosting later; you want your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake layers to be perfectly cooled for assembling.

Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
To make the frosting, first dissolve the instant coffee granules in a small bowl of boiling water and allow it to cool slightly. In a large bowl, beat the room-temperature unsalted butter for about 2 minutes until it’s pale and creamy. This creates a light and fluffy base for your frosting.

Step 8: Mix in Sugar and Coffee
Gradually add sifted icing sugar to the creamed butter, mixing until smooth and fully combined. Once the mixture is thick and fluffy, fold in the cooled coffee mixture and the cold cream cheese. Blend gently until just combined, ensuring not to over-mix, which could make the frosting runny.

Step 9: Assemble the Cake
To assemble your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake, place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the frosting evenly on top, creating a smooth, luscious layer. Carefully place the second layer on top and finish with the remaining frosting, spreading it with a spatula for an attractive finish.

Step 10: Decorate and Serve
Feel free to decorate your cake as you prefer! Crushed cookies or a sprinkle of extra pumpkin spice adds a delightful touch. Once decorated, slice the cake into generous pieces. This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with your favorite coffee!

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Spice Latte Cakes are ideal for busy home cooks seeking to save time! You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days in advance. Once cooled, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep them fresh and moist. The frosting can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a bit before spreading, as this will help restore its creamy texture. Finally, assemble the cake the day you plan to serve it for the best flavor and texture, ensuring your delightful Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is just as delicious as if made fresh!

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this delightful cake your own with some fun twists and substitutions that match your taste!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix instead of self-raising flour, ensuring a deliciously moist and fluffy cake for those with dietary restrictions.
Dairy-Free: Swap the cream cheese for a vegan cream cheese alternative and use dairy-free butter to keep that luscious frosting intact.
Sugar-Free: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit in place of brown sugar for a lighter, guilt-free dessert.
Extra Spice: Boost the autumn flavor by adding a teaspoon of ground ginger or cloves to the pumpkin spice mix for a warming kick.
Nuts for Texture: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor; they pair beautifully with pumpkin spice.
Cupcake Version: Transform the cake into pumpkin spice latte cupcakes, reducing baking time to 20-25 minutes for a fun and easy handheld treat.
Flavor Twist: For a café-inspired twist, replace the pumpkin puree with an equal amount of butternut squash puree for a different kind of sweetness.
Chocolate Lovers: Swirl in cocoa powder or chocolate chips throughout the batter for a decadent chocolate pumpkin spice combination.

These tasty variations enhance the comforting experience of the Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake, making it even more enjoyable! If you’re craving more delicious alternatives, try my Fried Strawberry Cheesecake or indulge in a slice of Butterfinger Cheesecake Sweet!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is at room temperature before beating for a light and airy frosting that complements the cake perfectly.
Mixing Caution: Avoid over-mixing your cake batter; this preserves a fluffy texture. It’s okay if the batter is slightly lumpy!
Cooling Time: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful, neat finish.
Coffee Flavor Adjustment: If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor in your frosting, simply increase the amount of instant coffee granules.
Storing Tips: Store the Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh for up to three days.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

This delightful dessert is perfect for elevating your fall gatherings, creating moments filled with warmth and togetherness.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture pairs wonderfully with the dense, spiced cake, offering a comforting contrast that warms the soul.
Roasted Vegetables: A blend of seasonal vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts adds a natural sweetness that complements the cake’s flavors beautifully.
Apple Cinnamon Muffins: These tender muffins echo the autumn theme, providing a sweet escape that harmonizes with the pumpkin spice notes.
Chai Tea Latte: The spiced warmth of chai tea echoes the cake’s flavors, creating a cozy pairing that envelops you in fall comfort.
Pumpkin Soup: A smooth, creamy pumpkin soup enhances the pumpkin essence while adding a savory element that balances the sweet finish of the cake.
Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream makes a perfect topping, adding an airy touch and enhancing the overall indulgence of each slice.
Hot Apple Cider: Sipping spiced apple cider provides a warm, fragrant drink that perfectly complements the flavors of the cake, making it feel like a hug in a mug.
Salted Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of salted caramel atop the cake brings an irresistible richness that enhances its flavors, adding a touch of elegance to your dessert.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess of vanilla ice cream creates a refreshing contrast with the spiced cake, making each bite feel like a delightful celebration of fall.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

Fridge: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This keeps the Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake fresh and prevents it from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled cake layers individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating: To enjoy after freezing, thaw the cake overnight in the fridge. If desired, warm slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving.

Frosting Storage: If you have leftover frosting, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Just rewhip it before using again to regain its creamy texture.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe FAQs

What kind of pumpkin should I use for this cake?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree is perfect for this recipe, as it offers a rich and consistent flavor. However, if you prefer a fresher taste, you can also use freshly cooked pumpkin. Just make sure to steam or roast the pumpkin, then puree it until smooth before using.

How should I store the Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake?
To keep your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This helps retain its moisture and flavor. If you want to keep it longer, follow the freezing instructions provided!

Can I freeze the Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake?
Very! To freeze the cake, wrap the cooled layers tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the cake overnight in the fridge and, if desired, warm slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

What should I do if my frosting is too thin?
If your frosting happens to turn out too thin, no worries! Chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes; this will help it firm up. Alternatively, you can gradually mix in more sifted icing sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake contains common allergens such as eggs, dairy (cream cheese and butter), and wheat (flour). If baking for someone with allergies, consider substituting these ingredients with dairy-free options, egg replacers, or gluten-free flour. Be sure to check labels to ensure safety for those with allergies.