Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake with Espresso Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

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If you adore the cozy flavors of autumn, you will absolutely fall in love with this Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake with Espresso Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. It perfectly blends the comforting warmth of pumpkin pie spice with the rich boldness of espresso, all wrapped in a moist, tender cake. What truly makes this recipe shine is the luscious espresso cream cheese frosting that adds a velvety smooth finish, making every bite a delightful celebration of flavors. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a seasonal treat, this cake promises a heartwarming experience that feels like a warm hug in dessert form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake with Espresso Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients that combine to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Each item brings a unique touch, from the spicy warmth of pumpkin pie spice to the deep espresso notes that balance the sweetness perfectly.

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure and light crumb for the cake.
• 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice: The signature warming spice blend that gives the cake its classic fall flavor.
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise fluffy and light.
• 1/4 tsp baking soda: Assists with leavening, complementing the baking powder.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the flavors, balancing the sweetness.
• 10 tbsp unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moist texture.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while creating tenderness.
• 2 eggs, room temperature: Bind the ingredients for proper texture and stability.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Elevates flavor complexity with warm, aromatic notes.
• 1/2 cup buttermilk, room temperature: Brings a subtle tang and helps keep the cake moist.
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree, room temperature: The star ingredient adding moisture, flavor, and vibrant color.
• 1/4 cup espresso or strong coffee: Infuses bold coffee notes that complement pumpkin spice beautifully.
• 1/3 cup whole milk: Enhances moisture and softness in the cake.
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk: Adds creamy sweetness to the soak, helping the cake soak up flavor.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds depth to the soaking mixture.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting): Creates a rich, silky base for the frosting.
• 8 oz cream cheese, cold: Gives the frosting a tangy smoothness and creamy texture.
• 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting perfectly.
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (frosting): Infuses warm, sweet aroma into the frosting.
• 2 tsp instant espresso powder: Packs a punch of coffee flavor in the frosting without extra liquid.
• 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice (frosting): Ties the frosting flavor back to the cake with a subtle spice heat.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake with Espresso Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch light metal baking pan and line it with parchment paper to ensure your cake comes out perfectly without sticking. This foundation step sets you up for success with a flawless cake base.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Take a medium bowl and whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Combining these dry ingredients early ensures that the flavors distribute evenly and your cake rises just right.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar for about 2 minutes. This step introduces air into the mixture, giving your cake a light and tender crumb.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mixing until smooth and pale helps emulsify the batter and creates a luscious texture you’ll love.

Step 5: Incorporate Buttermilk and Pumpkin

Mix the buttermilk and pumpkin puree into the wet ingredients on medium-low speed. Your batter might appear slightly curdled, but don’t worry; this is normal and will yield a moist, flavorful cake.

Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture at low speed until just combined. Overmixing at this stage can make the cake tough, so be gentle!

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour your batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35–38 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, revealing a soft yet structured crumb.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 30 minutes to settle, then transfer it carefully to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling fully is key before frosting to avoid melting or sliding.

Step 9: Prepare the Espresso Soak

In a liquid measuring cup, whisk together the espresso, whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Set this flavorful soak aside to infuse the cake with moist, coffee-spiced goodness.

Step 10: Make the Frosting Base

Whip the softened butter on high speed for about 5–10 minutes until pale and fluffy. This step helps build the frosting’s light, spreadable texture.

Step 11: Add Cream Cheese

Add the cold cream cheese to the butter and mix on medium speed until smooth and fully combined. This combination makes the frosting irresistibly creamy with a slight tang.

Step 12: Incorporate Powdered Sugar

Sift the powdered sugar into the bowl in batches, mixing on low speed until incorporated, then on high speed for one minute to keep your frosting silky and lump-free.

Step 13: Flavor the Frosting

Dissolve the instant espresso powder into the vanilla extract, then beat it into the frosting along with the pumpkin pie spice. This gives the frosting a bold, spiced coffee character that pairs perfectly with the cake.

Step 14: Prepare Cake for Soak

Trim a thin layer off the top of the cooled cake to let the soak absorb better, then poke holes evenly across the surface with a wooden stick or spoon handle. This technique ensures every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 15: Soak the Cake

Slowly pour the espresso latte soak over the punctured cake, giving it time to absorb gradually. This step creates a moist, richly flavored cake that stays tender.

Step 16: Frost the Cake

Using an offset spatula, generously frost the cake with the espresso cream cheese frosting in an even layer. Don’t be shy with the frosting—it’s what makes this recipe truly special.

Step 17: Final Touches

Sprinkle a little extra pumpkin pie spice on top for decoration and an additional hint of spice. Then slice your masterpiece into 16 pieces and get ready to delight in every bite!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake with Espresso Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or a few chocolate shavings on top takes this cake to another level. These add crunch and richness that enhance both appearance and flavor, making every slice an absolute treat to the eyes and palate.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a steaming cup of coffee or a scoop of cinnamon ice cream to complement the espresso and pumpkin spice flavors. Fresh fruit like sliced pears or spiced apples also pairs nicely, balancing the cake’s richness with natural sweetness and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform this cake into an inviting dessert centerpiece by layering it in a glass trifle dish, alternating cake pieces with dollops of frosting and whipped cream. Or, for a party, cut into petite squares and top with a dollop of espresso-infused whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon for easy grab-and-go servings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake with Espresso Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe keeps beautifully covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container or well-wrapped with plastic wrap to retain moisture and freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake unfrosted for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Frost after thawing in the fridge overnight for the best texture and taste.

Reheating

Since this is a cream cheese frosted cake, it’s best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer a slightly warmer slice, allow it to sit at room temp for 30 minutes before serving, but avoid microwaving as it can affect texture and cause the frosting to melt unevenly.

FAQs

Can I use regular pumpkin pie spice or make my own?

Absolutely! Using either store-bought pumpkin pie spice or homemade blends works wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure your blend contains the classic warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves to capture that perfect fall flavor.

What can I substitute for espresso if I don’t have any?

If you don’t have espresso, strong brewed coffee works great and maintains the rich flavor profile. Instant espresso powder also works well in the frosting if you want a concentrated coffee taste without extra liquid.

Is it okay to use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

You can substitute regular milk by adding 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar per 1/2 cup milk, letting it sit for 5 minutes to mimic buttermilk’s tang. This helps maintain the tender crumb and subtle tangy flavor.

How do I avoid a curdled appearance when mixing pumpkin and buttermilk?

The batter might look slightly curdled after adding pumpkin puree and buttermilk, but this is normal and does not affect the end texture. Mixing gently and not overbeating keeps the batter perfect for a moist cake.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, by using a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend that includes xanthan gum, you can adapt this recipe to be gluten-free. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified for best results.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably magical about this Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake with Espresso Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. It’s a fusion of cozy seasonal flavors and creamy richness that’s perfect anytime you want to bring a little festive joy into your kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become a beloved favorite you’ll reach for again and again throughout the season. So grab your ingredients, get baking, and enjoy every delicious slice with your nearest and dearest!

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