Pumpkin Dream Cake

When I think of fall, the first thing that comes to my mind is the warm, inviting aroma of spices wafting through the kitchen. One of my all-time favorites to bake during this cozy season is Pumpkin Dream Cake. It’s a cake that brings back memories of gathering with family and friends, sharing stories while indulging in scrumptious slices of pumpkin goodness. The combination of flavors, especially the touch of cinnamon and nutmeg, seems to capture the essence of autumn in each bite. I remember the first time I made this cake; it was for a Thanksgiving gathering. Everyone raved about how moist and flavorful it was, and it quickly became a staple in our holiday traditions. Every slice is a celebration of the season!

Ingredients Required for Pumpkin Dream Cake

The magic of Pumpkin Dream Cake lies in its simple yet powerful ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, working harmoniously to create a cake that’s both moist and flavorful. The key players include all-purpose flour, which provides structure, and pumpkin puree, bringing moisture and a rich, earthy flavor. The spices like ground cinnamon and nutmeg elevate the taste, giving it that quintessential autumn vibe.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of our cake, providing structure and a tender crumb.
• 2 teaspoons baking soda: This will help our cake rise and create a light texture.
• 1 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon: A warm, sweet spice that’s synonymous with fall.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness of the cake.
• ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg: Adds a fragrant, nutty flavor.
• 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree: The star of the show, providing moisture and flavor.
• 1 ¾ cups brown sugar: For sweetness and depth of flavor.
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt: Keeps the cake moist.
• ½ cup vegetable oil: Adds richness.
• 4 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds a sweet aroma.
• 2 (8-ounce) blocks cream cheese: For the luscious frosting.
• ½ cup unsalted butter: Makes the frosting creamy.
• 2 ½ cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting.
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon: Adds flavor to the frosting.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For the frosting, it enhances the overall flavor.

Step by Step Guide for Pumpkin Dream Cake

Crafting the perfect Pumpkin Dream Cake is as easy as pie! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready to impress your loved ones. Let’s dive into the baking process!

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Make sure to properly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick baking spray. This ensures our cake won’t stick and will come out perfectly.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking soda, 1 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg. Whisk these together until well blended. This mix of dry ingredients is essential for creating that perfect texture.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree, 1 ¾ cups brown sugar, ½ cup plain Greek yogurt, and ½ cup vegetable oil. Once everything is smooth and combined, it’s time to add the stars of our show: the eggs. Add 4 large eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition until everything is well incorporated.
4. Stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract to the wet mixture, making the batter even more aromatic. The combination of pumpkin and vanilla is simply irresistible!
5. Now, carefully fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Use a spatula to mix until just combined, ensuring there are no large lumps left. You want a smooth batter that’s ready to become a cake.
6. Pour the batter into your greased baking dish. Spread it evenly using a spatula for an even cook.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell will be heavenly, filling your house with that warm autumn aroma.
8. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan. This step is crucial; cooling will enhance the flavors.
9. While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat 2 (8-ounce) blocks cream cheese and ½ cup unsalted butter together until creamy. Gradually beat in 2 ½ cups powdered sugar and ½ teaspoon cinnamon, mixing until everything is well combined and fluffy. The frosting should be smooth and spreadable.
10. Finally, once the cake is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously on top. I love keeping the cake in the fridge for a bit, as the chilled cake is delightful!

Recipe Tips about Pumpkin Dream Cake

Getting it just right can elevate your baking game! Here are some tips to ensure your Pumpkin Dream Cake turns out perfectly every time.

• Storage: This cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors continue to develop, making it even tastier!
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.
• Pairing: This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. It’s also a great dessert option for potlucks or family gatherings.
• Variations: Consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for an added texture and flavor. You can also experiment with different spices!
• Serving: For an elegant touch, serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

What Goes Well With This Pumpkin Dream Cake

When it comes to serving Pumpkin Dream Cake, the options are endless! Here are some suggestions to enhance your experience:

• Autumn Gatherings: This cake is perfect for fall-themed parties and Thanksgiving dinners, bringing a festive touch to your dessert table.
• Hot Beverages: Pair it with a warm cup of chai latte or spiced apple cider for a cozy treat.
• Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream adds a delightful creaminess that complements the cake’s spices beautifully.
• Evening Treat: Enjoy it as an after-dinner dessert; it’s not too sweet, making it a perfect way to end a meal.
• Storage Tips: Keep any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered loosely for the first day, then wrap them tightly to maintain freshness for the following days.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Pumpkin Dream Cake is truly a gem that captures the flavors of fall. It’s not just any cake; it’s a celebration of the season in every slice. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones. It’s bound to bring smiles and warmth to your gatherings, making it a new tradition in your home.

Pumpkin Dream Cake

Craving something sweet and comforting? Treat yourself to the delightful Pumpkin Dream Cake. This easy-to-make dessert is filled with warm spices and a rich pumpkin flavor, topped with creamy frosting. Perfect for cozy gatherings or a fall-themed feast!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 10 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 280

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree
• 1 ¾ cups brown sugar
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 blocks (8 ounces each) cream cheese
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

• Grater
• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Whisk
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with nonstick baking spray.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, salt, and freshly grated nutmeg. Note: If you LOVE spice, feel free to add some extra spice in here as this isn't overly spiced.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, plain Greek yogurt, and vegetable oil. Once smooth and combined, whisk in each egg one at a time. Whisk in the vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing until combined and no large lumps remain.
5. Pour the batter into the greased baking dish. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until a tester inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean.
6. Cool the cake completely. Once cooled, frost with the cream cheese frosting. Slice and serve!
7. Beat the cream cheese and unsalted butter together until creamy. Beat in the powdered sugar and cinnamon until combined. Beat in the vanilla extract.

Notes

• Storage: This cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this cake! Wrap it tightly before freezing for up to three months.
• Pairing: This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea.
• Variations: Consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter.
• Serving: For an elegant touch, serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream.

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Meet Margot Vance

Founding Savor Feasts was my way of celebrating the art of generous cooking. I believe that food should be abundant, flavorful, and memorable. I personally cook, test, and photograph our recipes to ensure they bring a sense of occasion to your table, whether it is a simple dinner or a grand holiday celebration.