Name: Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: PT-491734H18M6S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup vegetable oil (or canola oil); 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup white sugar; 4 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 15 oz can pumpkin puree; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 6 oz cream cheese, full fat brick style; 1/2 cup salted caramel (homemade or store-bought); 2-3 cups powdered sugar; 1-2 tablespoons whipping cream (as needed); 1 cup white sugar; 1/3 cup unsalted butter, cut into 5 pieces; 1/2 cup whipping cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt

If you adore the cozy flavors of fall and want a show-stopping dessert that will impress everyone at your next gathering, this Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine a moist, warmly spiced pumpkin cake paired with a lush, velvety frosting that beautifully balances tangy cream cheese and buttery caramel. This delightful cake captures the spirit of the season with every bite but is simple enough to make any time you crave something sweet, comforting, and utterly irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with smooth, creamy peanut butter with visible soft, swirled texture on the surface. A butter knife with a black handle rests on the edge of the bowl, with some peanut butter spread on the blade. In the background, a small white bowl with dark brown contents and a jar of dark brown peanut butter are visible. The entire scene is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

To whip up this Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe, you just need a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients that each play a crucial role in bringing out the cake’s tender crumb, vibrant color, and the rich complexity of the frosting.

All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, providing structure without overpowering the flavors.
Pumpkin pie spice: A warm blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and other spices that bring that classic autumn aroma.
Baking powder and baking soda: Essential leavening agents that make the cake rise perfectly fluffy and light.
Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all other flavors and balance the sweetness.
Vegetable or canola oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender by adding richness without heaviness.
Brown and white sugar: Brown sugar contributes a deep molasses note, while white sugar adds sweetness and helps with the cake’s texture.
Large eggs: Bind everything together while adding moisture and richness.
Vanilla extract: A simple but powerful flavor booster that rounds out the spices.
Pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that gives the cake its moist texture and iconic pumpkin flavor.
Unsalted butter: Used both in frosting and caramel sauce for a creamy, decadent touch.
Cream cheese: Adds tanginess to the frosting for a perfect counterpoint to the sweet caramel.
Salted caramel: Infuses the frosting with a luscious, buttery depth that takes this cake next-level.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and gives it that irresistible smooth texture.
Whipping cream: Keeps the frosting light and silky, preventing it from getting too dense.
Sugar (for caramel sauce): Turns into rich caramel when cooked carefully, a key element for that homemade caramel flavor.
Coarse salt: Just a sprinkle amplifies the salted caramel notes with perfect contrast.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing and flouring a 9×13 inch pan to prevent sticking. In a medium bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This mixture ensures that your cake has a delicate rise and the perfect balance of spice. In a separate large bowl, beat together the vegetable oil, brown sugar, white sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree until smooth and beautifully combined. Gradually beat the flour mixture into the wet ingredients about half at a time. Be patient, and stop periodically to scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure everything is fully incorporated without overmixing.

Step 2: Bake the Pumpkin Cake

Pour your luscious batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the cake feels firm when pressed gently and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aromas that fill your kitchen during baking are absolutely divine and will have everyone eager to try this stunning cake.

Step 3: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

While the cake is baking, focus on making the salted caramel sauce that will elevate your frosting. Add white sugar to a large saucepan over medium heat and whisk constantly as it transitions from clumpy to a mesmerizing deep amber liquid. Once smooth, whisk in the butter to melt fully, then remove from heat before stirring in the whipping cream, vanilla extract, and coarse salt. This homemade caramel sauce is rich, buttery, and perfectly balanced with salt—ready to transform your frosting into something unforgettable.

Step 4: Prepare the Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy, then mix in the cream cheese until completely smooth and luscious. Add 1 ½ cups of powdered sugar followed by the salted caramel sauce, folding everything gently. Continue to add the remaining powdered sugar in half-cup increments, tasting as you go to find your perfect sweetness level. If the frosting feels too thick or sweet, beat in a tablespoon or two of whipping cream to make it light, silky, and spreadable.

Step 5: Frost the Cake

Once your cake is completely cooled, spread the decadent caramel cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. This finishing touch creates a glorious contrast to the warmly spiced cake beneath and will have friends and family coming back for seconds (or thirds!).

How to Serve Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

The image shows a glass baking dish with a single layer of thick, soft cake that is golden brown. The cake is cut into six large square slices, with one slice removed from the front. The top of the cake is spread evenly with a smooth layer of light brown frosting that has gentle swirls. Next to the dish is a small glass jar filled with a dark brown sauce. The dish rests on a white marbled surface with a grey cloth in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra special presentation, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over the frosted cake for crunch and rustic appeal. A light dusting of cinnamon or an elegant drizzle of additional caramel sauce can further enhance the visual and flavor experience.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs perfectly with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of cinnamon ice cream that complements the warm spices and rich frosting. For drinks, consider a steaming cup of chai tea or a spiced latte to carry through those cozy autumn vibes.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to dazzle your guests? Cut the cake into petite squares and serve them on fancy dessert plates with a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary for color. Alternatively, layer it cut into rounds to create mini-layer cakes topped with a swirl of caramel frosting and a dusting of powdered sugar for a delightful twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe keeps wonderfully stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping it chilled preserves the cream cheese frosting’s texture and flavor, making every slice as delicious as the first.

Freezing

If you want to make this cake ahead of time, you can freeze it without frosting for up to 2 months. Wrap the cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting to keep the texture perfect.

Reheating

To bring chilled or leftover cake to life, allow it to come to room temperature before serving. Avoid microwaving the frosted cake as it can cause the frosting to separate. Instead, enjoy it as is or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a luscious warm-and-cold contrast.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! You’ll need to cook and blend fresh pumpkin until smooth to replace the canned pumpkin puree. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture to avoid a soggy cake.

Is there a substitute for pumpkin pie spice?

If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice on hand, you can make your own with a mix of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves in the proportions you prefer. This DIY blend works just as well to bring that warm, comforting spice profile.

How can I make the salted caramel sauce ahead of time?

The salted caramel sauce can be made up to 1 week in advance and stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Warm it gently before mixing into the frosting to restore its smooth, pourable texture.

Can I use a different oil instead of vegetable or canola oil?

Yes, feel free to use any neutral-flavored oil such as light olive oil or avocado oil. Avoid strong-flavored oils as they can affect the delicate balance of spices and sweetness.

What’s the best way to get smooth frosting without lumps?

To ensure a silky frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter thoroughly before gradually adding powdered sugar. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to help them blend seamlessly together.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is hands down one of the most comforting, crowd-pleasing desserts you can make during pumpkin season or any time you want to treat yourself. Its perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and rich creaminess will quickly make it a favorite in your recipe box. Don’t wait for a special occasion to bake it—once you try it, you’ll want to serve it over and over again!

Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need