If you love the warm, spiced flavors of a Pumpkin Spice Latte, why not bring that festive experience to your dessert table? A Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake combines the best of this seasonal favorite—pumpkin, spices, and coffee—into a moist, flavorful cake layered with creamy frosting. It’s the perfect holiday treat to impress guests and celebrate the cozy flavors of the season.
This dessert is both visually stunning and bursting with the comforting flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and espresso. Whether served at a holiday dinner, enjoyed with coffee, or gifted to loved ones, this cake is sure to be the highlight of your celebrations.
1. Why Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is Perfect for the Holidays
1.1 Seasonal Flavors in Every Bite
Pumpkin, warm spices, and coffee blend together to create a dessert that embodies the essence of the holiday season.
1.2 A Show-Stopping Centerpiece
With its layers of rich cake and creamy frosting, this cake is as beautiful as it is delicious, making it a perfect addition to any holiday table.
1.3 Easy to Customize
From the frosting to the coffee intensity, you can tweak the recipe to suit your preferences.
1.4 Appeals to All Ages
While adults will appreciate the hint of coffee, the cake’s sweetness and spiced flavors make it a hit with kids too.
2. Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
2.1 For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup strong brewed coffee (cooled)
2.2 For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons brewed espresso (cooled)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
2.3 For the Topping:
- Whipped cream or frosting swirls
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for dusting
- Caramel drizzle (optional)
3. How to Make Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
3.1 Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the sugars, pumpkin puree, and vegetable oil until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the coffee, beginning and ending with the dry mixture. Mix until just combined.
3.2 Step 2: Bake the Cakes
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
3.3 Step 3: Make the Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy and smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract, espresso, and optional cinnamon. Adjust the consistency by adding more espresso for a thinner frosting or more powdered sugar for a thicker one.
3.4 Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake, smoothing the sides and top with a spatula.
- Decorate with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or additional frosting swirls.
4. Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
4.1 Use Real Pumpkin
Opt for pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices.
4.2 Brew Strong Coffee
The coffee flavor should shine through, so use a strong brew or espresso. If you prefer a milder coffee flavor, reduce the coffee and replace it with milk.
4.3 Don’t Overmix
Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined to avoid a dense cake.
4.4 Cool Completely Before Frosting
Ensure the cake layers are fully cooled before applying the frosting to prevent it from melting.
4.5 Customize the Spice Level
Adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice or add extra cinnamon for a stronger spiced flavor.
5. Variations of Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
5.1 Mocha Pumpkin Cake
Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the cake batter for a subtle chocolate flavor that complements the coffee.
5.2 Cream Cheese Frosting
Swap the espresso buttercream for a tangy cream cheese frosting for a rich, classic pairing with pumpkin.
5.3 Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cake
Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make the cake gluten-free.
5.4 Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes
Turn this recipe into cupcakes for individual servings. Bake for 18-20 minutes and pipe the frosting on top.
5.5 Maple-Glazed Pumpkin Cake
Drizzle the frosted cake with a homemade maple glaze for a sweet and festive touch.
6. Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
6.1 As a Holiday Dessert
Serve it as the grand finale to your holiday meal, paired with coffee or hot cocoa.
6.2 For a Fall-Themed Party
This cake is perfect for fall gatherings or Thanksgiving celebrations.
6.3 With Whipped Cream
Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice for a nod to the traditional Pumpkin Spice Latte.
6.4 With Ice Cream
Pair a slice of cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an indulgent treat.
7. FAQs About Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
1. Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake layers 1-2 days in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature or in the fridge.
2. Can I freeze the cake?
Absolutely. Wrap the cooled cake layers in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before assembling.
3. Can I use decaf coffee?
Yes, decaf coffee works just as well if you want to reduce the caffeine content.
4. Can I make the frosting less sweet?
To balance the sweetness, add a pinch of salt or replace some powdered sugar with cream cheese for a tangy flavor.
5. How do I store the cake?
Store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving.
6. Can I use canned frosting?
While homemade frosting is recommended for the best flavor, you can use store-bought buttercream if you’re short on time.
7. Can I make this a sheet cake?
Yes, bake the batter in a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the baking time to 30-35 minutes.
8. Can I omit the coffee?
You can replace the coffee with milk or buttermilk for a coffee-free version, though the flavor profile will differ.
9. How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
Grease and flour the pans thoroughly, or use parchment paper to ensure easy removal.
10. Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Yes, fold in chopped pecans or mini chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
8. Conclusion
The Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake brings together all the cozy flavors of fall and the holidays in a stunning and delicious dessert. Its moist layers, spiced flavors, and creamy frosting make it a festive treat that’s perfect for gatherings or special occasions. Whether you serve it at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy fall evening, this cake is sure to become a seasonal favorite.