Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting Delight

by
- 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg - ½ teaspoon ground ginger - ½ teaspoon salt - 1 cup granulated sugar - ½ cup packed brown sugar - 1 cup vegetable oil - 4 large eggs - 1 cup canned pumpkin puree - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 8 oz cream cheese, softened - ½ cup unsalted butter, softened - 2 cups powdered sugar - ½ cup caramel sauce - A pinch of sea salt When it comes to making a pumpkin cake, the right ingredients matter. You need dry ingredients that create a fluffy texture. Flour, baking powder, baking soda, and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger bring warmth to your cake. Don’t forget the salt; it boosts all the flavors. Next, the wet ingredients add moisture and richness. Sugar sweetens the cake, while vegetable oil keeps it tender. Eggs bind everything together. Canned pumpkin puree gives that classic pumpkin flavor and color. Finally, vanilla adds a nice touch of sweetness. For the frosting, cream cheese and butter create a creamy base. The powdered sugar sweetens the mix, while caramel sauce adds a rich, sweet flavor. A pinch of sea salt balances the sweetness perfectly. You can find the full recipe to guide you through each step to create this delightful cake. 1. Preheat the oven and prepare the cake pans: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This step stops the cakes from sticking. 2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, ½ teaspoon of ground ginger, and ½ teaspoon of salt until they blend well. Set this mixture aside. 3. Combine sugars and oil: In a large bowl, add 1 cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of packed brown sugar, and 1 cup of vegetable oil. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to mix until smooth and well combined. 1. Add eggs and pumpkin to the mix: Crack 4 large eggs into the sugar mixture one at a time. Mix well after each egg to blend them in fully. Then, add 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. 2. Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Be careful to mix just enough until you no longer see dry flour. This helps keep the cake fluffy. 3. Bake the cakes and cool them: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. After baking, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. 1. Beat together cream cheese and butter: In a mixing bowl, beat 8 oz of softened cream cheese and ½ cup of unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy. 2. Gradually add powdered sugar: Slowly add 2 cups of powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, beating until well combined. 3. Incorporate caramel sauce and sea salt: Mix in ½ cup of caramel sauce and a pinch of sea salt until everything blends well. This will make your frosting rich and flavorful. Follow these steps, and you will have a delicious pumpkin cake with caramel cream cheese frosting. For the complete process and ratios, refer to the Full Recipe. To make the best pumpkin cake, follow these simple tips. First, avoid over-mixing the batter. When you mix too much, the cake can turn out dense. Instead, mix until just combined. This keeps your cake light and fluffy. Next, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature. When eggs and other ingredients are warm, they blend better. This helps the batter rise and gives you a perfect cake. For a smooth frosting finish, start with softened cream cheese and butter. This makes blending easier and avoids lumps. Beat the mixture well until it's creamy. When spreading the frosting, use a spatula to create a nice even layer. For added flair, drizzle caramel sauce on top after frosting. This not only looks great but adds extra flavor! When it's time to serve, presentation is key. Slice the cake into even pieces and place each slice on a nice plate. Drizzling more caramel sauce around the slice adds a lovely touch. A light dusting of cinnamon on top gives a rustic feel. For a pop of color, add a small sprig of fresh mint on each plate. These small details make your pumpkin cake even more delightful. {{image_4}} You can easily boost the taste of your pumpkin cake. Adding spices like cloves or allspice can give it a richer flavor. You might want to try chocolate chips for a sweet twist. They melt and create pockets of gooey goodness in the cake. Using different frostings can also change the vibe. A vanilla frosting can lighten the overall taste. A chocolate frosting can add a decadent touch, making it a real treat. If you want a lighter option, whipped cream is a great choice. It pairs well with pumpkin flavors and adds a nice fluffiness. You can also explore vegan frosting options. A simple coconut cream frosting can be creamy and delicious. Just chill a can of coconut milk overnight, scoop the solid part, and whip it. It’s a fun twist for those who prefer plant-based treats. For those with gluten issues, gluten-free flour works well. Just make sure to use a blend that matches all-purpose flour. You can still enjoy this cake without the gluten. If you want to cut down on sugar, consider alternatives like stevia or coconut sugar. They can lower the sweetness while keeping the flavor intact. You can adjust the sweetness to your taste without losing joy in every bite. For the full recipe, check the link above and start baking! How do you store leftover cake? First, let the cake cool completely. This step keeps it from getting soggy. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap. You can also place it in an airtight container. This helps keep the pumpkin cake fresh for up to four days in the fridge. What are the best containers for freshness? Use glass or plastic containers with tight lids. This keeps air out and moisture in. You can also use cake domes for easy access and great presentation. How do you freeze and thaw the cake? To freeze, wrap each layer in plastic wrap and then foil. This keeps the cake safe from freezer burn. You can freeze the cake for up to three months. To thaw, place the cake in the fridge overnight. Let it sit at room temperature for about an hour before serving. How long can the cake last in the freezer? When stored correctly, the cake can last for three months. Just remember to label your cake with the date. This way, you know when it’s best to eat. How do you reheat slices for the best flavor? Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place slices on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This warms up the cake without drying it out. You can also use the microwave. Heat each slice for about 10-15 seconds. This option keeps it soft and tasty. Enjoy your pumpkin cake with caramel cream cheese frosting just like it was fresh! How to tell when the cake is done baking? To check if your cake is done, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready. This usually takes about 25 to 30 minutes at 350°F. Keep an eye on it as it bakes. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned? Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just make sure to cook and puree it first. Fresh pumpkin gives a nice flavor, but canned pumpkin is easy and convenient. Can I make the frosting ahead of time? You can make the frosting ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge until you're ready to use it. When you want to frost your cake, let it warm up a bit. How long does caramel frosting last? Caramel frosting can last up to a week in the fridge. Just keep it in an airtight container. If it gets too thick, mix it well before using. What can I do if my cake is too dense? If your cake is dense, it might be over-mixed or over-baked. To fix this, mix just until combined. Also, check your oven temperature to make sure it’s accurate. How to prevent the cake from sticking to the pan? To prevent sticking, grease the pan well with butter or oil. Dust it lightly with flour. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for extra safety. This blog post guides you through making a delicious pumpkin cake with caramel cream cheese frosting. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and essential tips for great texture. We explored fun variations and storage tips to keep your cake fresh. With these insights, you can bake a tasty treat for any occasion. Embrace your creativity and enjoy the process. Happy baking!

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If you’re craving a sweet and spiced treat, you’ll love my Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting. This moist cake blends warm spices with rich pumpkin flavor. Topped with creamy, caramel goodness, it’s the perfect fall dessert. Whether you’re baking for a holiday or just for fun, this recipe is simple and oh-so-delicious. Join me as we dive into the step-by-step process to create this delightful treat!

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Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

– 1 teaspoon baking soda

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

– ½ teaspoon ground ginger

– ½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

– 1 cup granulated sugar

– ½ cup packed brown sugar

– 1 cup vegetable oil

– 4 large eggs

– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

– 8 oz cream cheese, softened

– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

– 2 cups powdered sugar

– ½ cup caramel sauce

– A pinch of sea salt

When it comes to making a pumpkin cake, the right ingredients matter. You need dry ingredients that create a fluffy texture. Flour, baking powder, baking soda, and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger bring warmth to your cake. Don’t forget the salt; it boosts all the flavors.

Next, the wet ingredients add moisture and richness. Sugar sweetens the cake, while vegetable oil keeps it tender. Eggs bind everything together. Canned pumpkin puree gives that classic pumpkin flavor and color. Finally, vanilla adds a nice touch of sweetness.

For the frosting, cream cheese and butter create a creamy base. The powdered sugar sweetens the mix, while caramel sauce adds a rich, sweet flavor. A pinch of sea salt balances the sweetness perfectly. You can find the full recipe to guide you through each step to create this delightful cake.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Cake

1. Preheat the oven and prepare the cake pans: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This step stops the cakes from sticking.

2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, ½ teaspoon of ground ginger, and ½ teaspoon of salt until they blend well. Set this mixture aside.

3. Combine sugars and oil: In a large bowl, add 1 cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of packed brown sugar, and 1 cup of vegetable oil. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to mix until smooth and well combined.

Mixing and Baking

1. Add eggs and pumpkin to the mix: Crack 4 large eggs into the sugar mixture one at a time. Mix well after each egg to blend them in fully. Then, add 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.

2. Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Be careful to mix just enough until you no longer see dry flour. This helps keep the cake fluffy.

3. Bake the cakes and cool them: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. After baking, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

Making the Frosting

1. Beat together cream cheese and butter: In a mixing bowl, beat 8 oz of softened cream cheese and ½ cup of unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy.

2. Gradually add powdered sugar: Slowly add 2 cups of powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, beating until well combined.

3. Incorporate caramel sauce and sea salt: Mix in ½ cup of caramel sauce and a pinch of sea salt until everything blends well. This will make your frosting rich and flavorful.

Follow these steps, and you will have a delicious pumpkin cake with caramel cream cheese frosting. For the complete process and ratios, refer to the Full Recipe.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Cake Texture

To make the best pumpkin cake, follow these simple tips. First, avoid over-mixing the batter. When you mix too much, the cake can turn out dense. Instead, mix until just combined. This keeps your cake light and fluffy. Next, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature. When eggs and other ingredients are warm, they blend better. This helps the batter rise and gives you a perfect cake.

Frosting Tips

For a smooth frosting finish, start with softened cream cheese and butter. This makes blending easier and avoids lumps. Beat the mixture well until it’s creamy. When spreading the frosting, use a spatula to create a nice even layer. For added flair, drizzle caramel sauce on top after frosting. This not only looks great but adds extra flavor!

Serving Suggestions

When it’s time to serve, presentation is key. Slice the cake into even pieces and place each slice on a nice plate. Drizzling more caramel sauce around the slice adds a lovely touch. A light dusting of cinnamon on top gives a rustic feel. For a pop of color, add a small sprig of fresh mint on each plate. These small details make your pumpkin cake even more delightful.

Variations

Flavor Enhancements

You can easily boost the taste of your pumpkin cake. Adding spices like cloves or allspice can give it a richer flavor. You might want to try chocolate chips for a sweet twist. They melt and create pockets of gooey goodness in the cake. Using different frostings can also change the vibe. A vanilla frosting can lighten the overall taste. A chocolate frosting can add a decadent touch, making it a real treat.

Alternative Frosting Options

If you want a lighter option, whipped cream is a great choice. It pairs well with pumpkin flavors and adds a nice fluffiness. You can also explore vegan frosting options. A simple coconut cream frosting can be creamy and delicious. Just chill a can of coconut milk overnight, scoop the solid part, and whip it. It’s a fun twist for those who prefer plant-based treats.

Dietary Modifications

For those with gluten issues, gluten-free flour works well. Just make sure to use a blend that matches all-purpose flour. You can still enjoy this cake without the gluten. If you want to cut down on sugar, consider alternatives like stevia or coconut sugar. They can lower the sweetness while keeping the flavor intact. You can adjust the sweetness to your taste without losing joy in every bite.

For the full recipe, check the link above and start baking!

Storage Info

Proper Storage Methods

How do you store leftover cake? First, let the cake cool completely. This step keeps it from getting soggy. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap. You can also place it in an airtight container. This helps keep the pumpkin cake fresh for up to four days in the fridge.

What are the best containers for freshness? Use glass or plastic containers with tight lids. This keeps air out and moisture in. You can also use cake domes for easy access and great presentation.

Freezing the Cake

How do you freeze and thaw the cake? To freeze, wrap each layer in plastic wrap and then foil. This keeps the cake safe from freezer burn. You can freeze the cake for up to three months. To thaw, place the cake in the fridge overnight. Let it sit at room temperature for about an hour before serving.

How long can the cake last in the freezer? When stored correctly, the cake can last for three months. Just remember to label your cake with the date. This way, you know when it’s best to eat.

Reheating Tips

How do you reheat slices for the best flavor? Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place slices on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This warms up the cake without drying it out.

You can also use the microwave. Heat each slice for about 10-15 seconds. This option keeps it soft and tasty. Enjoy your pumpkin cake with caramel cream cheese frosting just like it was fresh!

FAQs

Common Questions About Pumpkin Cake

How to tell when the cake is done baking?

To check if your cake is done, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready. This usually takes about 25 to 30 minutes at 350°F. Keep an eye on it as it bakes.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just make sure to cook and puree it first. Fresh pumpkin gives a nice flavor, but canned pumpkin is easy and convenient.

Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting FAQs

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

You can make the frosting ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. When you want to frost your cake, let it warm up a bit.

How long does caramel frosting last?

Caramel frosting can last up to a week in the fridge. Just keep it in an airtight container. If it gets too thick, mix it well before using.

General Baking Inquiries

What can I do if my cake is too dense?

If your cake is dense, it might be over-mixed or over-baked. To fix this, mix just until combined. Also, check your oven temperature to make sure it’s accurate.

How to prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

To prevent sticking, grease the pan well with butter or oil. Dust it lightly with flour. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for extra safety.

This blog post guides you through making a delicious pumpkin cake with caramel cream cheese frosting. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and essential tips for great texture. We explored fun variations and storage tips to keep your cake fresh. With these insights, you can bake a tasty treat for any occasion. Embrace your creativity and enjoy the process. Happy baking!

- 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg - ½ teaspoon ground ginger - ½ teaspoon salt - 1 cup granulated sugar - ½ cup packed brown sugar - 1 cup vegetable oil - 4 large eggs - 1 cup canned pumpkin puree - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 8 oz cream cheese, softened - ½ cup unsalted butter, softened - 2 cups powdered sugar - ½ cup caramel sauce - A pinch of sea salt When it comes to making a pumpkin cake, the right ingredients matter. You need dry ingredients that create a fluffy texture. Flour, baking powder, baking soda, and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger bring warmth to your cake. Don’t forget the salt; it boosts all the flavors. Next, the wet ingredients add moisture and richness. Sugar sweetens the cake, while vegetable oil keeps it tender. Eggs bind everything together. Canned pumpkin puree gives that classic pumpkin flavor and color. Finally, vanilla adds a nice touch of sweetness. For the frosting, cream cheese and butter create a creamy base. The powdered sugar sweetens the mix, while caramel sauce adds a rich, sweet flavor. A pinch of sea salt balances the sweetness perfectly. You can find the full recipe to guide you through each step to create this delightful cake. 1. Preheat the oven and prepare the cake pans: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This step stops the cakes from sticking. 2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, ½ teaspoon of ground ginger, and ½ teaspoon of salt until they blend well. Set this mixture aside. 3. Combine sugars and oil: In a large bowl, add 1 cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of packed brown sugar, and 1 cup of vegetable oil. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to mix until smooth and well combined. 1. Add eggs and pumpkin to the mix: Crack 4 large eggs into the sugar mixture one at a time. Mix well after each egg to blend them in fully. Then, add 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. 2. Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Be careful to mix just enough until you no longer see dry flour. This helps keep the cake fluffy. 3. Bake the cakes and cool them: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. After baking, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. 1. Beat together cream cheese and butter: In a mixing bowl, beat 8 oz of softened cream cheese and ½ cup of unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy. 2. Gradually add powdered sugar: Slowly add 2 cups of powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, beating until well combined. 3. Incorporate caramel sauce and sea salt: Mix in ½ cup of caramel sauce and a pinch of sea salt until everything blends well. This will make your frosting rich and flavorful. Follow these steps, and you will have a delicious pumpkin cake with caramel cream cheese frosting. For the complete process and ratios, refer to the Full Recipe. To make the best pumpkin cake, follow these simple tips. First, avoid over-mixing the batter. When you mix too much, the cake can turn out dense. Instead, mix until just combined. This keeps your cake light and fluffy. Next, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature. When eggs and other ingredients are warm, they blend better. This helps the batter rise and gives you a perfect cake. For a smooth frosting finish, start with softened cream cheese and butter. This makes blending easier and avoids lumps. Beat the mixture well until it's creamy. When spreading the frosting, use a spatula to create a nice even layer. For added flair, drizzle caramel sauce on top after frosting. This not only looks great but adds extra flavor! When it's time to serve, presentation is key. Slice the cake into even pieces and place each slice on a nice plate. Drizzling more caramel sauce around the slice adds a lovely touch. A light dusting of cinnamon on top gives a rustic feel. For a pop of color, add a small sprig of fresh mint on each plate. These small details make your pumpkin cake even more delightful. {{image_4}} You can easily boost the taste of your pumpkin cake. Adding spices like cloves or allspice can give it a richer flavor. You might want to try chocolate chips for a sweet twist. They melt and create pockets of gooey goodness in the cake. Using different frostings can also change the vibe. A vanilla frosting can lighten the overall taste. A chocolate frosting can add a decadent touch, making it a real treat. If you want a lighter option, whipped cream is a great choice. It pairs well with pumpkin flavors and adds a nice fluffiness. You can also explore vegan frosting options. A simple coconut cream frosting can be creamy and delicious. Just chill a can of coconut milk overnight, scoop the solid part, and whip it. It’s a fun twist for those who prefer plant-based treats. For those with gluten issues, gluten-free flour works well. Just make sure to use a blend that matches all-purpose flour. You can still enjoy this cake without the gluten. If you want to cut down on sugar, consider alternatives like stevia or coconut sugar. They can lower the sweetness while keeping the flavor intact. You can adjust the sweetness to your taste without losing joy in every bite. For the full recipe, check the link above and start baking! How do you store leftover cake? First, let the cake cool completely. This step keeps it from getting soggy. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap. You can also place it in an airtight container. This helps keep the pumpkin cake fresh for up to four days in the fridge. What are the best containers for freshness? Use glass or plastic containers with tight lids. This keeps air out and moisture in. You can also use cake domes for easy access and great presentation. How do you freeze and thaw the cake? To freeze, wrap each layer in plastic wrap and then foil. This keeps the cake safe from freezer burn. You can freeze the cake for up to three months. To thaw, place the cake in the fridge overnight. Let it sit at room temperature for about an hour before serving. How long can the cake last in the freezer? When stored correctly, the cake can last for three months. Just remember to label your cake with the date. This way, you know when it’s best to eat. How do you reheat slices for the best flavor? Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place slices on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This warms up the cake without drying it out. You can also use the microwave. Heat each slice for about 10-15 seconds. This option keeps it soft and tasty. Enjoy your pumpkin cake with caramel cream cheese frosting just like it was fresh! How to tell when the cake is done baking? To check if your cake is done, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready. This usually takes about 25 to 30 minutes at 350°F. Keep an eye on it as it bakes. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned? Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just make sure to cook and puree it first. Fresh pumpkin gives a nice flavor, but canned pumpkin is easy and convenient. Can I make the frosting ahead of time? You can make the frosting ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge until you're ready to use it. When you want to frost your cake, let it warm up a bit. How long does caramel frosting last? Caramel frosting can last up to a week in the fridge. Just keep it in an airtight container. If it gets too thick, mix it well before using. What can I do if my cake is too dense? If your cake is dense, it might be over-mixed or over-baked. To fix this, mix just until combined. Also, check your oven temperature to make sure it’s accurate. How to prevent the cake from sticking to the pan? To prevent sticking, grease the pan well with butter or oil. Dust it lightly with flour. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for extra safety. This blog post guides you through making a delicious pumpkin cake with caramel cream cheese frosting. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and essential tips for great texture. We explored fun variations and storage tips to keep your cake fresh. With these insights, you can bake a tasty treat for any occasion. Embrace your creativity and enjoy the process. Happy baking!

Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in the ultimate fall treat with this Pumpkin Spice Delight Cake! This dreamy dessert combines fluffy pumpkin cake layers with a rich caramel cream cheese frosting that’s sure to impress. Whether it's for a special occasion or a cozy gathering, this cake is a must-try. Click through to discover the full recipe and get tips for presentation that will elevate your baking game for any festive table!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ teaspoon ground ginger

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup granulated sugar

½ cup packed brown sugar

1 cup vegetable oil

4 large eggs

1 cup canned pumpkin puree

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature

½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

2 cups powdered sugar

½ cup caramel sauce (you can use store-bought or homemade)

A pinch of sea salt

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and lightly flouring them to prevent sticking.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt until evenly combined. Set this dry mixture aside.

      Combine Sugars and Oil: In a large mixing bowl, add the granulated sugar, packed brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Using an electric mixer, beat these ingredients together on medium speed until they are thoroughly combined and smooth.

        Add Eggs and Pumpkin: Crack the eggs into the mixture one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated. Next, blend in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until the mixture is uniform.

          Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture using a silicone spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to over-mix; just incorporate until you no longer see dry flour for a beautifully fluffy cake texture.

            Bake the Cakes: Evenly distribute the cake batter between the prepared pans, smoothing out the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After baking, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

              Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until they become smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined. Finally, incorporate the caramel sauce along with a pinch of sea salt until everything is fully blended.

                Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes have completely cooled, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous layer of the caramel cream cheese frosting on top. Carefully position the second cake layer over the frosting. Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the entire cake, smoothing it for an even finish.

                  Finishing Touches: Drizzle additional caramel sauce on top of the frosted cake for a touch of decadence. Optionally, sprinkle crushed pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 1 hour | Serves 8-10

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve slices of the cake on elegant white plates. Add a drizzle of caramel sauce around the slice, and garnish with a light dusting of cinnamon for a rustic presentation. A small sprig of fresh mint can be added atop each slice for a vibrant pop of color and freshness.

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