Pumpkin Dream Cake Recipe

This pumpkin dream cake is like fall on a plate. Soft, spiced cake with creamy frosting—it’s sweet, cozy, and oh so good. Every bite feels like a warm hug.

I’ve made it for holidays and just because, and it’s always a hit. The pumpkin flavor with those warm spices is just perfect. It’s the kind of cake you keep going back to for “just one more bite.”

When it bakes, the smell fills the kitchen and makes everyone excited. The cake is moist and fluffy, and the frosting is rich and smooth. You’ll want a slice before it even cools.

So, let’s grab some pumpkin puree and mixing bowls. I’ll guide you through each step. Soon you’ll have the dreamiest fall cake ready to share.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Dream Cake

• Reader Favorite: This cake has been described as “heavenly,” “incredibly moist,” and “the perfect fall dessert.” It’s a must-try recipe for any pumpkin lover!
• Moist and Flavorful: The addition of pumpkin puree keeps the cake moist for days, making it even more delicious as leftovers.
• Easy to Make: With just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you can create a show-stopping cake in no time.
• Perfect for Fall: A true celebration of fall flavors with cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin that make this cake feel like a warm hug.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This cake can be made up to 3 days in advance. The flavors only get better with time!

Required Kitchen Tools

To make this cake, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools, most of which you probably already have in your kitchen:

• Mixing Bowls: A couple of medium-sized bowls to combine your dry and wet ingredients.
• Electric Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: For beating the wet ingredients and frosting to the perfect consistency.
• 9×13-inch Baking Pan: This recipe is made in a 9×13-inch pan, making it easy to bake and slice into portions.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Spatula: To spread the frosting and smooth it evenly over the cake.
• Wire Rack: For cooling the cake before frosting.

Ingredients

This Pumpkin Dream Cake requires a few simple ingredients, many of which you may already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: This gives the cake structure and texture.
• 2 teaspoons baking soda: To help the cake rise and give it a light texture.
• 1 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Adds that signature warm, cozy spice.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg: Nutmeg pairs beautifully with cinnamon for a fall-inspired flavor profile.
• 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree: The star of this cake! It provides moisture, flavor, and color.
• 1 3/4 cups brown sugar: Brown sugar adds a subtle caramel-like sweetness to the cake.
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: Helps create a tender crumb and adds moisture to the cake.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Contributes to the moistness of the cake.
• 4 large eggs: Provide structure and richness to the batter.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: For a lovely aromatic flavor.

For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 2 (8-ounce) blocks cream cheese: The creamy base for your frosting.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter: For a rich, smooth frosting.
• 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and helps thicken the frosting.
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Gives the frosting a delicious fall flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For added flavor depth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, salt, and freshly grated nutmeg. Set this bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, Greek yogurt, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer or a hand whisk to combine everything smoothly.

4. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. The batter should be thick and smooth.

5. Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared 9×13-inch pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Prepare the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake is cooling, make the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract, and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. If you want the frosting to be smoother, you can add a tablespoon of milk at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

7. Frost the Cake

Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using a spatula. Be generous with the frosting—it’s the perfect complement to the spiced pumpkin cake.

Serving Suggestions

This Pumpkin Dream Cake is perfect for a wide range of occasions, from casual family dinners to holiday parties. Here are some ideas for serving it:

• For a festive treat: Serve it at your Thanksgiving or Halloween party as a delicious, comforting dessert.
• With a hot drink: Pair it with a warm cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or even apple cider for the ultimate cozy fall treat.
• As a special breakfast or brunch item: Why not indulge a little? This cake would make an excellent addition to any brunch spread.
• With a side of whipped cream: For a little extra indulgence, serve the cake with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Variations for Pumpkin Dream Cake

• Add Nuts: For extra texture and flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or even chocolate chips to the batter.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.
• Spiced up Frosting: Mix in a pinch of clove or ginger to the frosting for an extra kick of spice.
• Pumpkin Spice Frosting: If you’re a pumpkin spice lover, try adding 1 tablespoon of pumpkin spice to the frosting for a more intense fall flavor.
• Swirl the Frosting: For a marbled effect, spread the frosting in the center and swirl with a spoon to create a pattern.

Storing Pumpkin Dream Cake

• Leftovers: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It stays moist and delicious even after a few days.
• Freezing: If you want to make the cake ahead of time, you can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it, allow it to thaw at room temperature and then frost it.
• Frosting: If you have leftover frosting, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before using it again.

Nutrition Information

Here’s a basic breakdown of the nutrition per serving. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Nutrition	Per Serving (1 slice)
Calories	350
Total Fat	22g
Saturated Fat	10g
Cholesterol	55mg
Sodium	250mg
Total Carbs	39g
Fiber	1g
Sugars	30g
Protein	3g

Conclusion

Pumpkin Dream Cake is the epitome of fall comfort. With its moist, spiced cake and creamy cinnamon frosting, it’s a dessert everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday, a special occasion, or just because you’re craving something sweet, this cake will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy the warmth of pumpkin, cinnamon, and cream cheese with every bite!