Soft, moist, and bursting with flavor, this Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy fall gathering or a festive holiday dessert, this cake brings together the warmth of pumpkin with the delightful sweetness of salted caramel. Each bite is topped with creamy frosting, making it a standout treat that will impress family and friends alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The blend of pumpkin and salted caramel creates a taste sensation that’s both comforting and exciting.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this delicious cake.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a birthday party, or just because, this cake fits right in.
- Moist Texture: Thanks to the addition of pumpkin puree and oil, every slice remains incredibly moist and tender.
- Customizable Toppings: Add an extra drizzle of salted caramel or sprinkle some coarse salt for an added punch.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make your preparation smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Baking pan (9×13 inch)
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: This tool ensures that your batter is mixed thoroughly, resulting in a light and fluffy cake.
- Baking pan: A good-quality pan promotes even baking, helping your cake rise beautifully without burning.
Ingredients
Soft, moist pumpkin cake soaked with caramel and topped with smooth cream cheese frosting. This pumpkin cake is paired beautifully with salted caramel flavors and creamy frosting in each bite.
Ingredients:
– 4 eggs (room temperature)
– 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 15 oz can pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup salted caramel topping
– 2 cups all purpose flour
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
– 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
– 1/2 cup salted butter (room temperature)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 9 oz jar salted caramel topping (remainder of the 11 oz jar)
– 4 oz salted caramel topping to drizzle each slice (OPTIONAL)
– 2 tbsp coarse salt to sprinkle each slice (OPTIONAL)
How to Make Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare Your Pan
Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray. This will help the cake come out easily after baking.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the room temperature eggs, brown sugar, vegetable oil, pumpkin puree, and salted caramel topping. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until well blended.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and pumpkin pie spice. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Bake for approximately 36 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Prepare Frosting
While the cake cools, beat together softened cream cheese and salted butter in a bowl. Gradually add powdered sugar until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract for flavor.
Step 7: Frost the Cake
Once cooled completely, spread cream cheese frosting over the top of the cake. Drizzle additional salted caramel on top if desired.
Step 8: Serve
Cut into slices and sprinkle coarse salt on top before serving for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your delightful Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake!
How to Serve Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake
Serving salted caramel pumpkin cake is all about enhancing its rich flavors and creating a delightful experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert.
Pair with Coffee
- Espresso: A shot of espresso perfectly complements the sweetness of the cake.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: The warm spices in this latte harmonize beautifully with pumpkin flavors.
Add Fresh Fruits
- Sliced Apples: Tart apples provide a refreshing contrast to the rich cake.
- Pears: Juicy pears add a seasonal touch and enhance the cake’s moistness.
Incorporate Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances the salty caramel notes.
- Cinnamon Ice Cream: This spiced variety adds warmth and depth to each bite.
Garnish with Whipped Cream
- Homemade Whipped Cream: Light, fluffy whipped cream adds an airy texture that complements the dense cake.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding a hint of vanilla or cinnamon for extra flavor.
How to Perfect Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake
Perfecting your salted caramel pumpkin cake takes a few careful steps. Follow these tips to ensure your cake turns out delicious every time.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and a fluffier texture.
- Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix until just combined to maintain a light, moist cake texture.
- Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer for accurate baking temperatures; this prevents under or overbaking.
- Add Extra Spice: Feel free to increase pumpkin pie spice for a more robust flavor.
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the cake to cool fully before applying frosting to avoid melting it.
- Drizzle Generously with Caramel: Don’t skimp on the salted caramel topping; it’s what makes this cake special!
Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake
When serving salted caramel pumpkin cake, pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance the overall experience. Consider these delightful options.
- Spiced Nuts: A mix of roasted almonds and pecans seasoned with warm spices adds crunch and flavor.
- Cheese Platter: Include tangy cheeses like goat cheese or sharp cheddar to balance the sweetness of the cake.
- Caramelized Bananas: Sweet, caramelized bananas bring out the cake’s flavors while adding a warm, comforting element.
- Cranberry Sauce: Tart cranberry sauce provides a zesty contrast that cuts through the richness of the dessert.
- Chocolate Ganache Dip: Rich chocolate ganache pairs wonderfully when served alongside slices for dipping.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad with berries and citrus provides brightness and balances the dessert’s richness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake, it’s easy to overlook certain details. Here are common mistakes and how to steer clear of them:
- Skipping room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or cream cheese can lead to a lumpy frosting. Always let your ingredients sit out for about 30 minutes before you start baking.
- Overmixing the batter: This can make your cake dense instead of light and fluffy. Mix just until the ingredients are combined; a few lumps are okay.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour rather than scooping directly from the bag. This will prevent your cake from being too dry.
- Ignoring the oven temperature: Every oven is different. Always preheat your oven and consider using an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy for perfect baking.
- Forgetting the salted caramel drizzle: The drizzle adds flavor and looks stunning. Don’t skip this step; it enhances both taste and presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 5 days in the fridge.
- Ensure that the cake is completely cool before sealing it in a container.
Freezing Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid and warm for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree for Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin! Just make sure it’s cooked and pureed until smooth before adding it to your batter.
How can I make my Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake more decadent?
Adding chocolate chips or nuts into the batter can elevate your cake’s texture and flavor profile.
What should I serve with Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake?
This cake pairs beautifully with coffee or chai tea. A scoop of vanilla ice cream also complements its flavors well!
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
You can try reducing the sugar slightly, but be cautious as it may affect the moisture and texture of the cake.
Final Thoughts
The Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake is not just delicious; it’s also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating fall or simply indulging on a weekend, this cake is sure to impress. Feel free to customize it by adding spices, nuts, or even chocolate chips. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every delightful bite!
Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake, a delectable dessert that perfectly blends the richness of pumpkin with the sweet allure of salted caramel. This cake features a moist and tender texture, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that enhances every bite. Ideal for any celebration—from cozy fall gatherings to festive holiday dinners—this cake is sure to impress your family and friends. With its easy-to-follow recipe, even novice bakers can create this delightful treat. Customize it with extra caramel drizzles or a sprinkle of coarse salt for an added touch of flavor. Enjoy the warmth and joy of the season with this irresistible pumpkin cake.
- Total Time: 56 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 15 oz pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup salted caramel topping
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 16 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup salted butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 9 oz jar salted caramel topping
- 4 oz salted caramel topping (optional)
- 2 tbsp coarse salt (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine room temperature eggs, brown sugar, vegetable oil, pumpkin puree, and salted caramel topping. Mix until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and pumpkin pie spice. Gradually add dry mixture to wet ingredients until just combined.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for about 36 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For the frosting, beat softened cream cheese and butter until creamy; gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
- Once cooled, frost the cake and drizzle with additional salted caramel before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 36 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. Drizzle extra salted caramel on top for an enhanced flavor profile. To add texture, consider mixing in chocolate chips or nuts.
