Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake: Indulge in Ultimate Fall Bliss

Autumn has always held a special place in my heart, with its crisp air and vibrant foliage. It’s a time when I find myself gravitating towards the kitchen, eager to explore the warm, comforting flavors of the season. Among my favorite fall treats is the Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake, a delightful creation that marries the rich, spiced notes of a pumpkin spice latte with the indulgence of a homemade cake.

Creating this Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake transports me back to cozy afternoons spent with friends, sipping on steaming mugs of coffee while relishing a slice of cake. The aroma of pumpkin pie spice envelops the kitchen, evoking memories of laughter and shared stories. This cake is more than a dessert; it’s a reminder of the joy found in simple moments.

At GrandMmaDelights, I strive to capture this essence by crafting recipes that bring people together. The Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake embodies this mission, offering a taste experience that combines the beloved flavors of fall with a touch of nostalgia. With each bite, you’ll find yourself immersed in a symphony of spices, pumpkin, and a subtle hint of espresso.

Join me as I guide you through the process of making this delightful cake, perfect for any autumn gathering. Together, we’ll explore the steps, techniques, and tips that ensure your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake becomes a cherished centerpiece of your seasonal celebrations.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

---

• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 1 cake 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the ultimate fall treat with our Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake recipe. Learn how to bake a deliciously spiced cake with a hint of coffee flavor.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 2/3 cups (270g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp (7.5g) baking powder
• 1 1/2 tsp (8 ml) pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 tsp (3 ml) salt
• 1/4 cup (60ml) melted unsalted butter, cooled
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 2/3 cup (130g) granulated sugar
• 2/3 cup (130g) packed light-brown sugar
• 1 cup (240g) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 3 large egg whites
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cups (340g) unsalted butter, cubed, room temperature
• 1 1/2 Tbsp (23 ml) instant espresso powder dissolved in 1–2 tsp (8 ml) hot water, cooled

---

Instructions

1. Set the oven to 350°F and apply grease and flour to two 6-inch cake pans.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt by whisking them together.
3. In a separate large bowl, mix the sugars, melted butter, oil, pumpkin puree, and eggs by whisking until well blended.
4. Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet mixture and stir just until they are mixed.
5. Pour the batter evenly into the two prepared pans and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges mostly clean, about 35 to 40 minutes.
6. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans on a wire rack for 10 minutes before removing them from the pans to cool completely on the racks.
7. Combine the egg whites and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer, whisking until they are blended together.
8. Place the mixing bowl over a simmering water bath on the stove, whisking continuously until the mixture feels smooth, approximately 3 minutes.
9. Attach the bowl to a stand mixer and whisk on medium-high speed until the meringue is stiff and has cooled, with the bowl feeling cool to the touch, which takes about 5 to 10 minutes.
10. Switch to the paddle attachment. Gradually add the cubed butter and blend until the mixture is smooth.
11. Incorporate the espresso and whip until the mixture is uniform and smooth.
12. Slice each cake horizontally into two layers.
13. Position one cake layer on a serving platter or cake stand and spread 1/2 to 2/3 cup of buttercream on top. Repeat with the remaining cake layers.
14. Apply a thin layer of frosting over the entire cake to seal in the crumbs, then refrigerate for 30 minutes.
15. Use the rest of the frosting to coat the outside of the cake. For decoration, add a swirl to the top and sides if desired, utilizing a large offset spatula. Enhance with fondant pumpkins for decoration.

Notes

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 400
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 5g

Keywords: american, dessert, homemade

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake: Embrace Autumn’s Flavors

Fundamentals

To create a successful Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake, understanding the fundamentals is crucial. The key lies in balancing the rich pumpkin flavor with the warm spices that define this cake. Begin by gathering your ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. These dry ingredients form the backbone of your cake, providing structure and flavor.

Incorporate wet ingredients like melted unsalted butter, vegetable oil, and pumpkin puree to achieve a moist texture. The combination of granulated and light-brown sugar adds sweetness while enhancing the cake’s depth of flavor. Eggs and egg whites contribute to the cake’s rise and tenderness, ensuring a light and fluffy crumb.

Preparation/setup

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Prepare two 6-inch cake pans by greasing and flouring them. This step prevents the cake from sticking, allowing for easy removal once baked. In one bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. In a separate bowl, blend the sugars, melted butter, oil, pumpkin puree, and eggs until smooth. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Place the pans in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges mostly clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Mastering the Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

Technique

Creating a standout Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake involves mastering a few key techniques. The first step is achieving the perfect batter consistency. Mix the ingredients just until combined to avoid overworking the gluten in the flour, which can result in a dense cake. When dissolving the instant espresso powder, ensure it’s fully cooled before adding it to the buttercream, preventing any melting of the smooth, creamy texture.

When making the meringue for the buttercream, whisk the egg whites and sugar over a simmering water bath until smooth. This step dissolves the sugar and gently heats the mixture, creating a stable meringue. Once transferred to the stand mixer, beat the mixture until stiff peaks form, and the bowl feels cool. This process ensures a light, airy buttercream that perfectly complements the cake’s rich flavors.

Tips/tricks

To elevate your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake, consider these tips. For a more pronounced pumpkin flavor, use fresh pumpkin puree. Ensure your eggs are at room temperature, as this helps them incorporate more evenly into the batter for a smoother texture. When frosting, apply a crumb coat and chill the cake to lock in loose crumbs, resulting in a pristine final layer.

Decorate your cake with fondant pumpkins for a festive touch. For more inspiration on enhancing your baking, explore our Pumpkin Spice Pull Apart Bread or try the Sweet and Spiced Applesauce Cake for a different take on spiced desserts.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake: Perfecting Every Slice

Perfecting results

To achieve the perfect Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake, attention to detail is essential. Start by ensuring your cake layers are even, which can be achieved by using a serrated knife to slice horizontally. This technique allows for consistent layering and a balanced distribution of buttercream.

Additionally, when assembling the cake, spread an even layer of buttercream between each slice. This approach ensures every mouthful delivers the harmonious blend of pumpkin, spice, and espresso flavors. For a professional finish, use a large offset spatula to create smooth, elegant swirls on the top and sides of the cake.

Troubleshooting/variations

If you encounter issues, such as a dry cake, check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy. Overbaking is a common cause of dryness. For those seeking a no-bake option, explore the delightful No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls.

Variations can include adding chopped nuts or a caramel drizzle for extra flavor and texture. For more recipes that embrace the essence of autumn, consider trying our Moist Amish Applesauce Cake with Spiced Caramel Glaze.

Serving and Storing Your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

Serving/presentation

Present your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake on a beautiful cake stand to highlight its layers and decorative touches. Serve with a warm beverage, like a spiced tea or coffee, for a cozy autumn experience. The fondant pumpkins add a charming touch, making your cake a centerpiece for any gathering.

For a delightful pairing, try incorporating flavors that complement the cake’s profile. Consider exploring no-bake options like the No Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake Cups with Chocolate Shell for a contrasting yet harmonious dessert.

Pairings/storage

Store your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake in an airtight container to maintain freshness. It can be kept at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for up to a week. Before serving, allow the cake to come to room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.

If you’re looking to explore more unique dessert options, check out the Sous Vide Cheesecake for a modern twist on a classic treat.

Conclusion

The Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is a testament to the beauty of autumn flavors and the joy of sharing homemade treats with loved ones. By following the steps outlined, you can create a dessert that embodies warmth, nostalgia, and seasonal charm. From its moist, spiced layers to the creamy espresso-infused buttercream, this cake offers a delightful experience for all who indulge.

This cake’s versatility and flavor make it an ideal choice for gatherings, celebrations, or simply enjoying a slice with a cup of coffee. Its balance of spices, pumpkin, and espresso ensures it stands out as a fall favorite. Embrace the process, and discover the magic of creating a Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake that will be cherished for years to come.

FAQs – Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake