If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is your new best friend. Combining a moist, tender spice cake enriched with the natural sweetness and moisture of pumpkin puree, and topped with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting, this cake captures the essence of cozy fall flavors and simple homemade charm. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dessert or bringing it to a festive gathering, this recipe delivers comfort and smiles, making every occasion just a little sweeter.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Sometimes, the best dishes come together with pantry staples that transform into something extraordinary. Each ingredient in this Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe plays a crucial role, making the cake both flavorful and perfectly textured while the frosting balances sweetness with smooth creaminess.
- 15.25 ounces spice cake mix: The foundation of rich spice flavor, saving time while providing a perfect base.
- 15 ounces pumpkin puree: Adds moistness and natural sweetness, elevating the cake’s fall-inspired character.
- 3 large eggs: Helps bind the ingredients together and gives the cake a tender crumb.
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened): Gives the frosting its signature creamy, tangy richness.
- ⅓ cup salted butter (softened): Adds smoothness and a slight savoriness to mellow the sweetness of the frosting.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for that perfect spreadable texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors in both the cake and frosting with a warm, aromatic note.
- 1 tablespoon milk: Adjusts frosting consistency to make it light and easy to spread.
How to Make Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and greasing a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. In a large mixing bowl, combine the spice cake mix, pumpkin puree, and eggs. Stir everything together until the batter is smooth and thick—this pumpkin-spiced goodness will create a moist and tender cake layer that’s perfect for soaking up the creamy frosting later.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Pop it into the oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cake springs back lightly to a touch and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting from the oven during this time is an irresistible preview of the cozy flavors to come.
Step 3: Cool the Cake Completely
Patience is key here—allow the cake to cool in the pan until it reaches room temperature. This step ensures the cream cheese frosting won’t melt when applied, giving you that classic smooth and luxurious topping that’s just begging to be sliced into.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until perfectly smooth and creamy. Using an electric mixer makes this so much easier and faster. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing continuously to avoid lumps, and stir in the vanilla extract for that warm, inviting aroma. Finally, add the milk a little at a time while beating until the frosting reaches a light, spreadable consistency.
Step 5: Frost and Assemble Your Cake
Now for the best part! Spread the creamy frosting evenly over the cooled cake with a spatula or knife. Don’t worry about being too perfect—this cake’s charm is as much about its homemade feel as its flavor. For an extra touch of festivity, sprinkle with fall-themed candies or colorful sprinkles to make it truly sparkle at your next gathering.
How to Serve Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
While this cake is delicious on its own, adding a few garnishes can elevate the experience. Consider sprinkling chopped pecans or walnuts on top for a lovely crunch that contrasts the soft cake and creamy frosting. A light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg over the frosting also amps up those cozy spice notes beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe pairs wonderfully with warm drinks like chai tea, spiced apple cider, or a cup of rich coffee to complement its spicy-sweet flavors. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream served alongside also makes for a decadent treat.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, consider cutting the cake into small squares and serving on a decorative platter with festive liners or parchment paper. You can also turn it into mini trifles by layering cake pieces with extra frosting and whipped cream in clear glasses for a stunning presentation that’s fun and approachable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once frosted, cover the cake loosely with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert for busy weeks or unexpected guests.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe later, freezing is a great option. Wrap the whole cake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge to preserve the creamy frosting’s texture.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature due to the cream cheese frosting. If you prefer it slightly warm, carefully remove the frosting portion or lightly warm a slice for about 10 seconds in the microwave, being cautious not to melt the frosting completely.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without pumpkin puree?
Pumpkin puree adds moisture and a subtle flavor that’s key to this cake’s texture and taste. You could try substituting with unsweetened applesauce, but the flavor will be noticeably different and might affect the cake’s moistness.
Is there a way to make this gluten-free?
Yes! Look for a gluten-free spice cake mix and double-check that all other ingredients are gluten-free. The rest of the recipe can remain the same, and you’ll still get a delicious, moist cake.
Can I use homemade cream cheese frosting instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! In fact, the frosting recipe provided here is homemade and simple to whip up. It tastes so much better than store-bought, and the texture is unbeatable when freshly made.
How long does the cake take to bake?
The cake bakes in 30 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure to check for doneness with a toothpick and the spring-back test to avoid over or under baking.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the cake batter?
Yes, if you like extra texture and flavor, folding in chopped nuts or raisins before baking is a lovely addition. Just be sure to distribute them evenly so that every slice is balanced.
Final Thoughts
This Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is one of those perfect crowd-pleasers that feels like home in every bite. It’s easy to make yet full of comforting fall flavors that bring warmth to any table. Whether you bake it for a special occasion or a simple family dessert, I promise it will become a much-loved favorite. So go ahead, tie on your apron, and share this sweet slice of joy with someone you care about.
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Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
This easy and delicious spice cake made from a boxed mix is enhanced with pumpkin puree for added moisture and flavor, then topped with a creamy homemade cream cheese frosting. Perfect for fall gatherings or anytime you crave a moist, flavorful cake with festive decorations.
Ingredients
Cake
- 15.25 ounces spice cake mix (boxed)
- 15 ounces pumpkin puree (canned, not pumpkin pie filling)
- 3 large eggs
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature, about half a block)
- ⅓ cup salted butter (softened to room temperature)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the spice cake mix, canned pumpkin puree, and eggs. Stir everything until the batter is smooth and thoroughly blended; expect the batter to be thick.
- Bake: Spread the thick batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cake springs back when pressed lightly and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely before adding the frosting, ensuring best texture and flavor.
- Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Using an electric mixer will make this process easier and quicker.
- Add Sugar and Flavor: Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar into the cream cheese and butter mixture, mixing until smooth. Then stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Finish Frosting: Add the milk and beat the frosting again until it becomes light and spreadable to ensure easy application on the cake.
- Assemble the Cake: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled spice cake.
- Decorate and Serve: Garnish the frosted cake with fall-themed candies or sprinkles to enhance its festive appearance before serving.
Notes
- Make sure the pumpkin puree is pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, to avoid extra sugar and spices.
- Let the cake cool completely to prevent the frosting from melting when applied.
- Room temperature ingredients ensure smoother batter and frosting consistency.
- This cake can be stored covered at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- You can substitute salted butter with unsalted butter and add a pinch of salt to balance flavors if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
