Sick of the same old autumn desserts that never taste like your favorite seasonal latte? Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake delivers everything you love about the cozy coffeehouse classic spiced pumpkin flavor, a hint of coffee, and creamy frosting in an easy homemade cake.
At dishfoody.com, I share recipes designed to bring comfort and bold flavors to every kitchen. Years of baking (and plenty of pumpkin spice taste-tests) led to this soft, aromatic cake that’s perfect for cool nights, gatherings, or a special treat.
Below, find why it’s a success, how to select the best ingredients, simple steps, flavor twists, serving ideas, and all your pumpkin spice cake FAQs answered.
Why This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe Works
- Uses affordable, easy-to-find pumpkin puree, spices, and pantry staples.
- Minimal prep no complicated baking skills needed, just whisk, bake, and frost.
- Perfect for cozy weeknights or impressive fall celebrations. Moist crumb and sweet spice make it irresistible!
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Best Ingredients for This Recipe
Pure canned pumpkin puree delivers moistness and earthy flavor, while fresh-ground coffee brings deep warmth. Try dark brown sugar for even more richness.
Buying Tips
Pick unsweetened pumpkin puree and high-quality instant coffee or espresso powder. Whole spices, ground right before using, will create a big flavor payoff.
Substitutions
Use butternut squash or sweet potato puree if pumpkin is unavailable. Try dairy-free milk and egg alternatives for allergen-friendly baking.
Ingredients & Prep for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Prep Essentials
Whisk dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, coffee powder). In another bowl, blend pumpkin puree, eggs, sugar, oil, and vanilla.
Pantry Staples
Flour, brown sugar, canned pumpkin, eggs, coffee powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, baking powder, baking soda, vanilla extract, milk or non-dairy substitute.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Pre-Cooking Prep for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch pan or line with parchment. Whisk and measure all ingredients before starting.
Cooking Method for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Mix wet and dry ingredients separately, then gently combine until just blended. Pour into prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake 28–32 minutes, or until a tester comes out clean.
Doneness Check for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Cake should be springy when pressed and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean.
Resting for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack. Frost with cream cheese or espresso glaze once completely cool.
Pro Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Avoiding Dense or Dry Cake
Do not overmix the batter just until the flour disappears. For extra moistness, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream.
Tool Recommendations
Use a stand mixer for easy blending, an offset spatula for smooth icing, and a baking pan lined with parchment for effortless removal.
Storage & Reheating
Store cake tightly covered at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4. Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.
Flavor Variations for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Spicy Twist
Add a pinch of cayenne or extra black pepper for warmth.
Keto/Paleo
Swap flour for almond or coconut flour, use stevia or monk fruit, and dairy-free cream cheese in the frosting.
Global Flavors
Mix in cardamom, chai spices, or orange zest for a new take on pumpkin spice.
| Variation | Key Ingredient | Dietary Tag | Flavor Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spicy Twist | Cayenne, pepper | Spicy | Warm, zesty |
| Keto/Paleo | Nut flour, stevia | Low-carb | Nutty, moist |
| Global Flavors | Cardamom, chai | Fusion | Fragrant, exotic |
Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Top with whipped cream and cinnamon or drizzle with caramel sauce. Pair with a pumpkin spice latte, chai tea, or hot cocoa by the fire.
FAQs for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Can I make cupcakes with this batter?
Yes just reduce bake time to 18–20 minutes & fill liners 2/3 full.
How do I keep my cake from sinking?
Don’t open the oven early and ensure your leaveners are fresh.
Is this recipe safe for kids and pregnant women?
Absolutely just moderate the coffee as desired.
Conclusion
Celebrate fall with this Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake soft, spiced, and full of nostalgia! Join the dishfoody.com community enjoying cozy treats all season long. Craving more comfort? Head to our Pumpkin Pie Tacos for your next kitchen adventure.
PrintPumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Moist, aromatic, and infused with cozy fall flavors this Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake combines pumpkin purée, espresso, and warm spices for the ultimate autumn dessert topped with creamy coffee frosting.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup pumpkin purée
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp instant espresso powder
- 1/4 cup brewed coffee (strong)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Coffee Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp brewed coffee
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch pan or two 8-inch round pans.
- 2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- 3. In another bowl, mix pumpkin purée, sugars, oil, eggs, espresso powder, brewed coffee, and vanilla until smooth.
- 4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just blended.
- 5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- 6. Cool completely before frosting.
- 7. For the frosting, beat butter and cream cheese until fluffy. Add powdered sugar, coffee, cinnamon, and salt; beat until smooth.
- 8. Spread frosting evenly over cooled cake and dust with a bit of cinnamon before serving.
Notes
- Add a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of espresso powder on top for café-style presentation.
- Can be made ahead store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- For cupcakes, bake 18–20 minutes instead of 35.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake, fall dessert, coffee cake, pumpkin recipe