Caramel Pumpkin Cake Recipe

If you love the warm embrace of fall flavors combined with a luscious, sweet finish, then you are absolutely going to adore this Caramel Pumpkin Cake. This cake is a perfect celebration of the season, marrying moist pumpkin-infused layers with indulgent salted caramel and a creamy frosting that feels like a hug in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or simply craving a cozy dessert, the Caramel Pumpkin Cake offers that perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and silky textures that keeps you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients come together beautifully in this recipe, each playing an essential role to create the distinct flavor, texture, and stunning color of the Caramel Pumpkin Cake.

• 4 eggs (room temperature): Adding moisture and structure; room temperature eggs blend more evenly.
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed): Gives a deep, molasses-like sweetness and helps keep the cake moist.
• 1 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake tender and rich without overpowering flavors.
• 15 oz can pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that delivers vibrant color and classic pumpkin spice flavor.
• 1/4 cup salted caramel topping: Infuses a subtle salty-sweet undertone straight into the batter.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the cake’s foundation, giving it the perfect crumb.
• 2 tsp baking powder: Leavens the cake to keep it light and airy.
• 1 tsp baking soda: Enhances rise and tenderizes the crumb.
• 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice: Brings together cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves for unmistakable fall warmth.
• 16 oz cream cheese (softened): Creates a tangy, silky frosting that complements the caramel beautifully.
• 1/2 cup salted butter (room temperature): Adds richness and helps achieve a fluffy frosting texture.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors with its sweet, aromatic essence.
• 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting into a creamy dream.
• 9 oz jar salted caramel topping: Used for pouring into the cake and generously drizzling on top.
• 4 oz salted caramel topping (optional): Perfect for drizzling each slice for an extra decadent finish.
• 2 tbsp coarse salt (optional): Adds a final touch of crunch and salty contrast when sprinkled atop each slice.

How to Make Caramel Pumpkin Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly greasing and flouring a 9×13-inch glass baking pan. This ensures your Caramel Pumpkin Cake bakes evenly without sticking, giving you clean edges and a perfect rise.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat the room temperature eggs with the brown sugar on medium-high speed for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns slightly pale and frothy. Drizzle in the vegetable oil while continuing to beat, allowing it to fully integrate. Then, lower the speed to medium and blend in the pumpkin puree along with 1/4 cup of salted caramel topping. This step infuses your batter with luscious, caramel undertones that elevate the pumpkin flavor.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Switch your mixer to low speed and gradually add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and pumpkin pie spice. Mixing at a low speed prevents overworking the flour, keeping the cake tender. Once combined, take a moment to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl with a spatula to ensure everything is evenly mixed, avoiding any flour pockets.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Pour the perfectly blended batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Bake for 34 to 36 minutes – the cake should spring back slightly when lightly touched, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before the next important step.

Step 5: Caramel Infusion

Using a thin utensil like the handle of a mixing spoon, poke holes all over the surface of the warm cake. This is such a brilliant trick that allows the remaining salted caramel topping in the jar to seep deeply into the cake, soaking it with layers of flavor and adding an irresistible moistness. Pour the caramel evenly over the holes, then let the cake cool completely to room temperature before frosting.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the softened butter and cream cheese together on medium-high speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Reduce the speed to low and slowly add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, blending until just combined. Increase speed again and beat for 3 to 4 minutes to achieve a light, fluffy frosting that’s soft enough to spread but stable enough to hold its shape on your Caramel Pumpkin Cake.

Step 7: Frost the Cake

Drop spoonfuls of frosting evenly all over the cooled cake, then gently spread it out to cover the entire surface. For a show-stopping finish, drizzle extra salted caramel topping on each slice and sprinkle with a touch of coarse salt if you like a salty-sweet pop. Refrigerate the cake until ready to serve to keep the frosting firm and fresh.

How to Serve Caramel Pumpkin Cake

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of coarse salt or an extra drizzle of salted caramel topping right before serving turns each slice of Caramel Pumpkin Cake into a gourmet bite. You can also toss on some chopped toasted pecans or a dusting of cinnamon to bring in extra texture and accentuate the warm flavors.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, which complements the rich caramel and spicy pumpkin notes perfectly. For a beverage, consider a robust cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a glass of cold milk to balance the cake’s sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the cake on an elegant platter with fresh autumn leaves or a pumpkin centerpiece nearby for a seasonal table setting. You can also cut the cake into squares and stack them for a layered dessert tray, or serve alongside caramel-drizzled apple slices to highlight the fall theme beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Caramel Pumpkin Cake keeps wonderfully when covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and moist for up to 4 days, making it perfect for enjoying beyond the initial celebration.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cake layer wrapped well in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Freeze the frosting separately in an airtight container. Thaw both completely at room temperature before frosting. This method allows you to prepare ahead and enjoy seasonal flavors anytime.

Reheating

If you prefer to enjoy your Caramel Pumpkin Cake warm, allow refrigerated slices to come to room temperature, then microwave individual portions for 10-15 seconds. This wakes up the spices and softens the frosting slightly, making every bite feel freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, but make sure to cook and puree the fresh pumpkin thoroughly to achieve the same smooth consistency as canned puree. This may require some extra time but will work beautifully in the recipe.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum for best results. Just keep an eye on the texture and baking time, adjusting as needed.

What if I don’t have salted caramel topping on hand?

You can make your own by gently heating caramel sauce and stirring in a pinch of sea salt, or simply use caramel sauce and skip the salt. The salty-sweet factor adds a unique twist but is not mandatory.

How long does the frosting take to set?

The frosting firms up best when refrigerated for at least an hour. This helps maintain clean slices and prevents the frosting from becoming too soft at room temperature.

Can I make cupcakes with this recipe instead of a cake?

Yes, the batter works wonderfully as cupcakes. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Frost and drizzle with caramel just as you would with the cake.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Caramel Pumpkin Cake if you’re after a dessert that’s full of heart and soul. It’s an all-time favorite that brings the magic of caramel and pumpkin together in an unforgettable way. So grab your mixing bowl, embrace the cozy vibes, and treat yourself and your loved ones to each delicious layer of this stunning cake. Happy baking!

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