There’s something magical about the aroma of Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Butter Frosting wafting through your kitchen. Imagine walking into a room filled with the warm scents of cinnamon, nutmeg, and buttery goodness, like a hug from autumn itself. homemade sourdough croutons This cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience that transports you to cozy evenings by the fireplace or festive gatherings with loved ones.
Now, let me take you on a journey back to that one Thanksgiving when I thought I could impress my family with my baking skills. Spoiler alert: there was flour everywhere, and I nearly set off the smoke alarm. But when that first slice of pumpkin spice cake emerged from the oven, golden brown and topped with luscious brown butter frosting, all was forgiven. hearty antipasto salad It became the star of our holiday feast, proving that sometimes, even the messiest kitchens create the most delightful memories.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Pumpkin Spice Cake is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
- The flavor is a delightful blend of spices and pumpkin that will leave your taste buds dancing.
- Visually stunning with its rich frosting, it will be the centerpiece of any dessert table.
- Versatile enough for fall festivities or everyday indulgence, this cake is sure to impress!
Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Butter Frosting
For more inspiration, check out this baked apples with feta recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: A staple ingredient that provides structure to your cake; sifted for best results.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake beautifully; feel free to reduce if you prefer less sweetness.
- Pumpkin Puree: Canned or homemade, this adds moisture and that signature pumpkin flavor.
- Baking Powder: Essential for leavening; ensure it’s fresh for maximum rise.
- Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices bring warmth and depth to your cake; use freshly ground for enhanced flavor.
- Eggs: Bind everything together and provide richness; room temperature eggs work best.
For the Frosting:
- Unsalted Butter: Browned until nutty in flavor; this is where the magic happens in your frosting.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens your frosting; sift it before using for a smooth finish.
- Milk or Cream: Adjusts consistency to your liking; use whole milk for creaminess.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this pecan pie bars recipe recipe.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Butter Frosting
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, eggs, and melted butter until smooth. Make sure everything is blended well so no surprises pop up later.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients while stirring gently. Don’t overmix; we want tender layers here!
Step 5: Bake
Pour batter evenly into prepared pans and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Prepare Brown Butter Frosting
While cakes cool down, melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before mixing in powdered sugar and milk until creamy.
Transfer cooled cakes onto serving plates and generously spread brown butter frosting between layers and on top. This final touch makes it look like something out of a bakery window.
And there you have it! With each bite of this Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Butter Frosting, you’ll feel like autumn has wrapped itself around you like an oversized sweater—cozy and just right! So grab a slice (or two) because trust me; once you start sharing this cake at gatherings or cozy nights in, you’ll be known as *that* friend who brings joy in dessert form!
You Must Know
- This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Butter Frosting is the perfect way to celebrate fall flavors.
- With its moist texture and rich frosting, it’s bound to impress friends and family.
- Plus, who can resist the aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through the kitchen?
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, preheat your oven to 350°F while you mix the dry ingredients. Then, cream the butter and sugar before adding eggs and pumpkin puree. Bake until a toothpick comes out clean, then let it cool before frosting for a flawless finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in your favorite spices like nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth. You can also add nuts or chocolate chips for texture. For a twist, try maple syrup in place of brown sugar in the frosting!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to save some for later, refrigerate it wrapped tightly for up to a week. Reheat slices briefly in the microwave when you’re ready to indulge again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and a fluffier cake.
- Make sure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise.
- Lastly, let the cake cool completely before frosting to avoid melting that delicious brown butter goodness!
Sometimes, I whip up this Pumpkin Spice Cake and watch my friends’ eyes light up as they take their first bite. It’s always met with cheers and a few requests for seconds!
FAQs
What ingredients are needed for Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Butter Frosting?
To make a delicious Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Butter Frosting, you will need all-purpose flour, sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, baking powder, baking soda, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. For the frosting, gather unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. These ingredients blend beautifully to create a moist cake topped with rich frosting that complements the pumpkin flavor perfectly.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree when making Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Butter Frosting. To do this, roast a fresh pumpkin until tender, scoop out the flesh, and blend it until smooth. This option adds a vibrant flavor and freshness to your cake. Just ensure you measure the same amount as you would with canned puree for consistent results.
How can I store leftover Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Butter Frosting?
Storing leftover Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Butter Frosting is simple. Wrap individual slices or the entire cake in plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze it for longer storage. If freezing, make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Butter Frosting ahead of time is a great option. You can bake the cake one or two days in advance and store it at room temperature or in the fridge. no bake cheesecake alternative Just frost it on the day you plan to serve it to maintain its freshness and flavor. This allows you more time to enjoy your gathering without stress.
Conclusion for Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Butter Frosting
In summary, Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Butter Frosting is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of fall flavors. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe results in a moist cake paired with a rich frosting that enhances every bite. delicious berry trifle cups Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a cozy afternoon treat, this cake is sure to impress friends and family alike. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s the perfect way to welcome autumn into your kitchen!
Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Butter Frosting
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Butter Frosting is a cozy autumn dessert that combines the warm flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Topped with a rich, nutty frosting, this cake is perfect for fall gatherings or a sweet treat at home. Its moist texture and delightful aroma will fill your kitchen and heart with the essence of the season!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (for browning)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tbsp milk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, and melted butter until smooth.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently to combine.
- Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For frosting: Brown the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until golden and nutty. Let cool slightly before mixing in powdered sugar and milk until creamy.
- Once cakes are cool, frost between layers and on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (95g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg





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