There’s something magical about the moment the air turns crisp and the scent of cinnamon, nutmeg, and fresh coffee fills the kitchen. That’s the heart of a pumpkin spice latte cake—a dessert that captures fall in every forkful. With its moist pumpkin layers, rich espresso notes, and creamy frosting, this cake feels like a cozy sweater for your taste buds. Whether you’re baking for a seasonal gathering, a festive brunch, or just a quiet afternoon with coffee, this recipe brings café-style indulgence right into your home.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Essential Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
The charm of a pumpkin spice latte cake comes from a handful of familiar ingredients working together to create layers of warmth, sweetness, and depth. Each one serves a purpose, and swapping or skipping can dramatically change the final bite.
Pumpkin Purée – Fresh or Canned
Pumpkin purée gives the cake its signature moist texture and earthy sweetness. Canned pumpkin is convenient and consistent, while homemade purée offers a fresher, slightly lighter flavor. If you want to try making it yourself, this guide to homemade pumpkin purée walks you through the process.
Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend
This is where the “spice” in pumpkin spice latte cake shines. The blend usually includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves—each adding its own layer of flavor. Using freshly ground spices can make the cake more aromatic.
Espresso or Strong Brewed Coffee
A splash of espresso (or concentrated coffee) balances the sweetness and infuses the cake with that signature latte vibe. It doesn’t overpower the pumpkin—it simply deepens the flavor profile.
Brown and White Sugars
Brown sugar adds moisture and a caramel undertone, while white sugar keeps the sweetness clean and helps with structure.
Flour, Leavening Agents, and Salt
All-purpose flour creates a tender crumb, while baking powder and baking soda ensure a good rise. Salt might seem minor, but it sharpens all the other flavors.
Eggs and Butter or Oil
Eggs bind the batter and contribute to richness. Butter brings flavor, while oil makes the cake extra moist—some bakers even use a mix for the best of both worlds.
Frosting Ingredients
Espresso buttercream is the most popular choice, but cream cheese frosting also works beautifully with pumpkin spice flavors. Either way, the frosting adds creaminess that balances the cake’s spice.
Optional Garnishes
Think caramel drizzle, cinnamon dusting, or even whipped cream for that coffeehouse finish.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake from Scratch
Baking a pumpkin spice latte cake is straightforward, but a few small details can turn it from good to absolutely bakery-worthy. Follow these steps for soft layers, bold flavor, and a finish that looks straight out of a café display.
Preparing Your Baking Pans and Preheating the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line your cake pans with parchment paper to ensure easy release and intact layers.
Mixing Dry Ingredients Separately
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.
- Set aside—mixing them now ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed later.
Whipping the Wet Ingredients for Lightness
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter (or oil) with brown and white sugars until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
- Stir in the pumpkin purée and espresso or strong coffee.
Combining Batter Without Overmixing
- Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing on low just until combined.
- Overmixing here can make the cake dense instead of fluffy.
Baking Times for Different Pan Sizes
- Two 8-inch rounds: Bake 28–32 minutes.
- Sheet cake: Bake 35–40 minutes.
- Cupcakes: Bake 18–20 minutes.
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooling for Frosting Application
Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Frosting a warm cake can cause the buttercream to melt, so patience pays off here.
Frosting and Decorating for a Coffeehouse Look
- Spread a generous layer of espresso buttercream or cream cheese frosting between layers and over the top.
- Garnish with a light cinnamon dusting or caramel drizzle for that coffeehouse finish.
Pro tip: Brew an extra shot of espresso while baking and mix it into your frosting for a bold latte kick.
Delicious Twists on Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
One of the best parts about a pumpkin spice latte cake is how easy it is to adapt. A few tweaks can turn this cozy fall dessert into something brand new without losing its seasonal charm.
Caramel Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Drizzle caramel sauce between the cake layers and over the top. The rich, buttery sweetness pairs beautifully with the spiced pumpkin and coffee flavors.
Pumpkin Spice Latte Tres Leches
Soak the baked cake layers in a blend of sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and cooled espresso. The result is a soft, ultra-moist dessert with a coffee kick.
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Swap all-purpose flour for a high-quality gluten-free baking blend. Be sure to check that your baking powder and pumpkin pie spice are gluten-free too.
Vegan Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Replace eggs with flax eggs, use plant-based butter, and swap dairy milk for almond or oat milk. Pair with vegan cream cheese frosting for a creamy finish.
Pumpkin Mocha Layer Cake
Add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolatey twist that still highlights the pumpkin spice. Pair with mocha frosting for an indulgent, café-inspired treat.
With just a few ingredient swaps or additions, you can turn a single recipe into multiple desserts—perfect if you love experimenting or want to impress guests with options.
Nutritional Information for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
While a pumpkin spice latte cake is more of a seasonal indulgence than an everyday snack, knowing the nutritional breakdown can help you enjoy it mindfully.
Average Nutrition Per Slice (1/12 of an 8-inch round cake)
- Calories: ~380–420
- Carbohydrates: 52–55 g
- Sugars: 32–35 g
- Protein: 4–5 g
- Fat: 18–20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10–12 g
- Fiber: 2–3 g
- Sodium: 260–300 mg
Factors That Affect Nutrition
- Frosting choice: Cream cheese frosting may have slightly more calories than espresso buttercream.
- Ingredient swaps: Using oil instead of butter can change the fat content.
- Serving size: Smaller slices lower the calorie count per serving.
Lightening It Up
- Reduce sugar slightly in both cake and frosting.
- Use part whole-wheat pastry flour for added fiber.
- Swap some of the butter or oil with unsweetened applesauce for moisture without extra fat.
Enjoying a slice of pumpkin spice coffee cake is about savoring the flavor and the moment—it’s a treat worth every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Can I make Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake without coffee?
Yes! Simply replace the espresso or strong coffee with milk or a non-dairy alternative. You’ll still get the pumpkin spice flavor, just without the coffee notes.
How do I make the cake more moist?
Use oil or a mix of butter and oil, avoid overbaking, and don’t overmix the batter. Adding a touch of sour cream or Greek yogurt can also boost moisture.
Can I use homemade pumpkin purée instead of canned?
Absolutely. Just make sure your homemade purée is well-drained and smooth so it blends evenly into the batter.
What frosting pairs best with Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake?
Espresso buttercream complements the latte element, while cream cheese frosting adds tanginess that pairs beautifully with pumpkin spice.
How long will this cake stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the layers without frosting.
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