Rich, cozy, and undeniably fall-forward, this pumpkin cake is the dessert that everyone asks for seconds of. Imagine a moist, spiced pumpkin crumb layered with silky caramel-infused cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth. It delivers all the warm spices and creamy richness you crave as the weather cools down.

This recipe isn’t just about pumpkin spice; it’s about balance. The deep flavor of the pumpkin shines through, while cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger give it that signature seasonal twist. Pair that with a caramel cream cheese frosting that’s luscious yet tangy, and you have a showstopper.

Why You’ll Love This Rich Pumpkin Cake

Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving or just craving a cozy weekend bake, this cake fits the moment perfectly. It’s simple enough for weekday baking but elegant enough to be the centerpiece of any fall celebration. The frosting is incredibly smooth and compliments the spiced cake without overpowering it.

If you’re looking to impress family and friends, this is the dessert that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

What Kind of Pumpkin Should I Use?

Canned pumpkin puree is your best bet here. It’s consistent, convenient, and provides the perfect texture for a moist cake. Make sure you’re not using pumpkin pie filling by accident – it contains added sugars and spices that can throw off the balance.

Ingredients for the Rich Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

Name: Rich Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups canned pumpkin puree; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 3 large eggs; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 8 ounces cream cheese; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup caramel sauce

To build the warm, tender crumb and deeply flavored frosting, you’ll want to gather quality pantry staples with a few fall favorites. Each ingredient plays a role in delivering that rich texture and spiced aroma that makes this cake special.

All-purpose flour
Baking soda
Baking powder
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Ground ginger
Salt
Canned pumpkin puree
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Vegetable oil
Vanilla extract
Cream cheese
Unsalted butter
Powdered sugar
Caramel sauce

Rich Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting (1)

How To Make the Rich Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the pumpkin puree with granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.

Step 3: Combine and Bake

Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until no streaks remain. Divide the batter evenly into the cake pans and bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the cream cheese and butter together until fluffy. Add powdered sugar gradually, then drizzle in the caramel sauce and beat until smooth and luscious.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Spread a thick layer of frosting on one cake layer, top with the second, and generously frost the entire cake. Drizzle extra caramel over the top if you like.

How to Serve and Store This Pumpkin Cake

This cake serves about 10 to 12 people generously. For the best presentation, slice with a warm knife for clean edges. It’s ideal for parties, potlucks, or an indulgent dessert after a hearty dinner.

Store the cake in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the softest crumb and creamiest frosting experience.

What to Serve With Rich Pumpkin Cake?

Hot Apple Cider

The spiced warmth of cider enhances the cinnamon and nutmeg notes of the cake.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Creamy and simple, it balances the richness of the cake and adds a refreshing touch.

Salted Caramel Drizzle

A little extra caramel never hurt anyone. Warm and pour over each slice for added indulgence.

Roasted Pecans

Add crunch and a nutty contrast that pairs beautifully with pumpkin spice.

Spiced Chai Latte

The aromatic blend of cardamom and cloves echoes the cake’s flavor profile.

Whipped Cream

Light and airy, whipped cream adds a delicate finish to every bite.

Maple-Glazed Bacon

For a sweet and savory twist, a strip on the side makes this cake truly unforgettable.

Want More Cake Ideas with a Twist?

If this pumpkin creation speaks to your autumn-loving soul, you’ll want to try these other favorites:

Butter Pecan Cheesecake for a nutty, creamy dessert.
Delightful Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake when you crave fruity flair.
Carrot Pound Cake loaded with spice and a hint of citrus.
Mama Seward’s Iconic Strawberry Cake for nostalgic layers of pink perfection.
Strawberry Twinkie Cake that’s light, creamy, and a little playful.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swirl caramel on top or go all in with pecans? Did you serve it chilled or room temp?

I love hearing how you make each dish your own. If you have questions, drop them below and let’s bake together.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and cozy bakes on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and find your next sweet inspiration!

Conclusion

Rich Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting is more than a seasonal treat—it’s a fall tradition in the making. With its moist crumb, spiced depth, and dreamy frosting, it wraps you in warmth from the first bite. Try it once, and it might just become your signature autumn dessert.