Name: Pumpkin Sheet Cake with Butterscotch Frosting
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 15 ounces unsweetened pumpkin puree; 1 cup granulated white sugar; 1 cup Stevia In The Raw® Bakers Bag; 1 cup vegetable or canola oil; 4 large eggs; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon salt; ¾ cup butterscotch chips; 8 ounces cream cheese (at room temperature); 6 tablespoons butter (at room temperature); ¾ cup powdered sugar; ¼ cup Stevia In The Raw® Bakers Bag; 2 tablespoons milk (can also use cream); ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

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There’s something magical about the season of fall, and nothing captures that essence quite like a Pumpkin Sheet Cake with Butterscotch Frosting. I remember the first time I baked this cake— the aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin wafting through the house, inviting everyone to gather around. It was a chilly afternoon, and the afternoon sun flooded the kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere. This cake not only fills your home with warmth but also brings back memories of family gatherings during the holidays. As we served slices topped with creamy butterscotch frosting, the smiles on everyone’s faces told me I had created something special. This recipe has become a staple in my house, perfect for Thanksgiving or any occasion that calls for a sweet touch of fall.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
50 mins

Prep Time:
25 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Mixing Bowl

The Magic of This Pumpkin Sheet Cake with Butterscotch Frosting

1. Comforting Flavor

The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a warm and inviting flavor profile. The butterscotch frosting adds a sweet contrast that elevates this cake to something truly special. Each bite is an explosion of autumnal goodness.

2. Perfect for Sharing

This cake is baked in a large sheet pan, making it ideal for gatherings. Whether it’s a holiday party or a casual get-together, the Pumpkin Sheet Cake with Butterscotch Frosting is perfect for feeding a crowd.

3. Easy to Make

With straightforward instructions, this recipe is ideal even for novice bakers. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, allowing you to whip up this cake without a trip to the store.

4. Versatile Frosting

The butterscotch frosting is not only delightful on this cake but can also be used for other desserts. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a versatile addition to your baking repertoire.

5. A Festive Delight

Perfect for fall celebrations, this cake can be dressed up with festive decorations or served plain. It’s a crowd-pleaser that fits beautifully on any dessert table.

6. Make Ahead

This cake can be prepared in advance, making it easier for you to enjoy your gatherings without the stress of last-minute baking.

Main Ingredients for Pumpkin Sheet Cake with Butterscotch Frosting

When it comes to the ingredients for Pumpkin Sheet Cake with Butterscotch Frosting, each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of flavors. The star of the show, of course, is the pumpkin puree, which adds moisture and depth. Combine that with the sweetness of granulated sugar and Stevia, and you’ve got a cake that’s both rich and delicious. The butterscotch chips and cream cheese in the frosting bring a luxurious creaminess that complements the cake beautifully.

15 ounces of unsweetened pumpkin puree: This is the key ingredient, providing moisture and that signature pumpkin flavor.
1 cup of granulated white sugar: Adds sweetness to the cake, balancing the spices.
1 cup of Stevia In The Raw® Bakers Bag: A sugar alternative that provides sweetness without the calories.
1 cup of vegetable or canola oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
4 large eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients and adding richness.
2 cups of all-purpose flour: The foundation for the cake, providing structure.
2 teaspoons of baking soda: Helps the cake rise and achieve that light texture.
1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
½ teaspoon of salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
¾ cup of butterscotch chips: These melt into the frosting, giving it a deliciously sweet flavor.
8 ounces of cream cheese (at room temperature): Forms the base of the creamy frosting.
6 tablespoons of butter (at room temperature): Adds richness and a velvety texture to the frosting.
¾ cup of powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and helps it hold its shape.
¼ cup of Stevia In The Raw® Bakers Bag: Another sweetener to keep the frosting low in sugar.
2 tablespoons of milk (can also use cream): Adjusts the consistency of the frosting.
½ teaspoon of vanilla extract: Adds a subtle flavor that enhances everything.

How to Make Pumpkin Sheet Cake with Butterscotch Frosting

Making the Pumpkin Sheet Cake with Butterscotch Frosting is a delightful journey that fills your kitchen with delicious aromas. Let’s dive into the steps that will lead you to this fall favorite.

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare a 15x10x1 inch sheet pan by spraying it with nonstick spray. This ensures your cake comes out perfectly and doesn’t stick.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, Stevia, and vegetable oil. It should be well combined and slightly thick. As you whisk, you’ll notice the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.
Next, add in the eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition until fully incorporated. This step is crucial as it binds the ingredients and adds richness.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and spices, which is key to a well-risen cake.
Gradually whisk the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be gentle—overmixing can lead to a tough cake. You want it just combined, with no dry patches remaining.
Scrape the batter into your prepared sheet pan, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform baking. The batter should look smooth and slightly shiny.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This is the moment where patience pays off, as your kitchen fills with the sweet scent of baking.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan completely. This cooling step is vital to ensure your frosting won’t melt.
Meanwhile, to make the frosting, place butterscotch chips in a microwave-safe bowl and melt in bursts, stirring until smooth. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
In another bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. You’ll want this mixture to be fluffy, so beat it well.
Add the melted butterscotch chips, powdered sugar, Stevia, milk, and vanilla to the cream cheese mixture, mixing until fully combined. The frosting should be creamy and spreadable.
Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top. A spatula works great for this. Refrigerate the cake until ready to serve; this helps the frosting set.
Slice and serve the cake, watching as everyone enjoys a taste of fall in every bite. The combination of spices, pumpkin, and butterscotch is truly irresistible.

Things Worth Knowing

Check for doneness: Always use a toothpick to test the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, your cake is perfectly baked!
Frosting consistency: Adjust the milk in the frosting if it’s too thick; you want it spreadable but not runny.
Cooling time: It’s crucial to let the cake cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.
Ingredient temperature: Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for a smooth frosting.

Tips and Tricks about Pumpkin Sheet Cake with Butterscotch Frosting

To make your baking experience even better, here are some useful tips and tricks for the Pumpkin Sheet Cake with Butterscotch Frosting.

Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It stays moist and delicious!
Freezing: You can freeze the cake without frosting. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will last for about three months.
Pairing: This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. Serve it as a delightful afternoon treat.
Variations: Try adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for added texture and flavor.
Serving suggestion: Serve this cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch.

What to Pair With Pumpkin Sheet Cake with Butterscotch Frosting

When serving the Pumpkin Sheet Cake with Butterscotch Frosting, consider these pairing options:

Seasonal Beverages: This cake goes beautifully with spiced chai or pumpkin spice lattes, enhancing the fall flavors.
Side Dishes: Serve with a side of fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast to the sweet cake.
Occasions: Perfect for Thanksgiving dinner, holiday parties, or any autumn gathering.
Leftover Storage: Keep any leftovers refrigerated, covered with plastic wrap to maintain freshness.
Celebrate Fall: Decorate with fall-themed sprinkles or nuts for a festive touch.

FAQ

Yes! You can absolutely use fresh pumpkin. Just make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin before using it in the recipe. Fresh pumpkin will have a different texture but can add a lovely flavor to the cake.

To make a gluten-free version of the Pumpkin Sheet Cake with Butterscotch Frosting, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just add the frosting closer to the time you plan to serve it to keep it fresh.

If you don’t have butterscotch chips, you can use chocolate chips or even caramel sauce in the frosting. Just keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile slightly!

Conclusion

The Pumpkin Sheet Cake with Butterscotch Frosting is truly a delightful treat that wraps you in the warmth of fall flavors. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, whether it’s for a holiday gathering or just a cozy night in. You’ll love the combination of fluffy cake and rich frosting, making it a dessert to remember. So, gather your ingredients and let the baking begin!