Introduction
Pumpkin desserts are a delightful way to embrace the flavors of autumn, and this pumpkin cake recipe delivers a moist and flavorful treat that pairs beautifully with a not-too-sweet cream cheese frosting. With layers of tender pumpkin cake, crunchy pecan toffee crumble, and creamy frosting, this dessert is sure to impress at any gathering.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Pumpkin puree options – CHOOSE ONE
1 2/3 cups (425g) fresh pumpkin puree
15 oz / 425g canned pure pumpkin, 1 can
Cake wet ingredients
4 large eggs (50 – 55 g/2oz each), at room temperature
1 3/4 cups white sugar (or caster/superfine sugar)
1 cup vegetable or canola oil (or other neutral flavored oil)
Cake dry ingredients
2 cups plain/all-purpose flour
3 tsp baking powder
2 tsp cinnamon powder
1 tsp cooking / kosher salt
Not-too-sweet cream cheese frosting
500g / 16oz cream cheese (block type), at room temperature – 2 blocks
250g / 18 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
3 cups (360g) soft icing sugar / powdered sugar, sifted
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp cooking / kosher salt
Pecan toffee crumble
1 cup pecans
2/3 cup white sugar (superfine / caster sugar works too)
1/4 tsp cooking / kosher salt
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes (plus additional cooling time)
Yield
Serves 12-16 slices
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Pumpkin Cake Layers
Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F (160°C fan-forced). Lightly grease two baking trays (38 × 25 cm / 10 x 15″ and 2.5 cm / 1″ deep) with oil spray or butter. Line each tray with baking paper.
Batter Preparation
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the chosen pumpkin puree and all wet ingredients (eggs, sugar, and oil). Once combined, add the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt) and whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Filling the Trays
Divide the batter evenly into the two prepared trays (approximately 735g of batter in each). Spread the batter to the edges and tap the trays firmly on the counter to ensure even distribution.
Baking the Cake
Bake the cakes for 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let them cool in the trays for 10 minutes.
Cooling the Cakes
Invert the cakes onto cooling racks and allow them to cool completely for at least 1 hour. Alternatively, for convenience, you can refrigerate them overnight.
Cutting the Cakes
After cooling, take one cake and invert it onto a cutting board. Cut the cake in half lengthwise. Trim the edges as necessary to create even layers. Cover each piece with its own sheet of baking paper, leaving an overhang for handling.
Assembling the Cake
Assemble the cake on the serving platter you plan to use, as moving it afterward can be difficult. For frosting, spread one-fifth of the cream cheese frosting on the first layer, followed by about 1/4 cup of the pecan toffee crumble. Place the second layer of cake on top, again using the baking paper to assist.
Layering
Repeat the process with frosting and pecan crumble for the second and third layers. Once stacked, apply the remaining frosting to the top and sides of the cake, then sprinkle with the remaining pecan crumble.
Final Refrigeration
Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 1 hour to stabilize. When ready to serve, cut into slices. Optional: Use extra pecan crumble for garnish.
Toffee Pecan Crumble
Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F (160°C fan-forced) and spread the pecans on a baking tray. Toast for 10 minutes, then allow to cool for at least 5 minutes.
Making the Toffee
In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, spread the sugar. Allow it to melt, stirring occasionally with a chopstick until it becomes clear and golden brown. Remove from heat just before it reaches your desired golden color.
Coating the Pecans
Quickly add the toasted pecans and salt into the toffee, using a rubber spatula to coat them thoroughly. Spread this mixture onto a baking paper-lined tray as smoothly as possible before it hardens.
Cooling and Chopping the Crumble
Allow the toffee pecan mixture to cool for an hour until hard. Break it into chunks and chop into smaller pieces, creating toffee pecan dust if desired. Set aside until ready for use.
Not-Too-Sweet Cream Cheese Frosting
In a bowl, combine the cream cheese and softened butter. Beat for 2 minutes on medium-high until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
Adding Icing Sugar
Gradually add the sifted icing sugar in three batches, starting on low speed to prevent a mess. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary. Once mixed, add the vanilla extract and salt, then increase to high speed and beat for an additional minute.
Storage of Frosting
Use the frosting immediately, or refrigerate until needed. If refrigerated, let it come back to room temperature and re-beat to restore its fluffiness before using.
Cook techniques
Baking Cake Layers
Preheat the oven to the appropriate temperature and prepare your baking trays by greasing and lining them with baking paper. Ensure even distribution of batter in the trays for uniform baking. Use a toothpick to check for doneness.
Cooling and Cutting
Allow the baked layers to cool for a short period before inverting them onto cooling racks. Ensure they cool completely before cutting to achieve clean layers.
Assembling the Cake
Assemble the cake on the serving platter to avoid difficulty in transferring it. Use sheets of baking paper to transfer cake layers and ensure even spreading of frosting between layers.
Frosting Application
Apply frosting in layers, ensuring to spread it evenly. Use a spatula for smooth edges, and reserve a portion for the top and sides.
Making Toffee Pecan Crumble
Toast pecans in the oven for enhanced flavor, then melt sugar slowly over low heat. Work quickly to coat the pecans in the toffee before it hardens, and allow to cool before chopping.
Preparing Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy, then gradually add sifted icing sugar to prevent clumping. Incorporate vanilla and salt for flavor enhancements.
FAQ
Can I use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned?
Yes, you can use either fresh pumpkin puree or canned pumpkin, but ensure that the measurement remains consistent.
What if my cream cheese frosting is too thick?
If the frosting is too thick, you can add a little milk or cream to reach your desired consistency.
How do I store leftover cake?
Store leftover cake in the refrigerator, wrapped in plastic wrap, to maintain freshness. It can last for several days.
Can I freeze the cake layers?
Yes, you can freeze the cake layers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container for up to three months.
What can I substitute for the pecans?
You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds, depending on your preference and dietary restrictions.
Conclusion
This delightful pumpkin cake, layered with not-too-sweet cream cheese frosting and topped with a crunchy pecan toffee crumble, brings together rich flavors and textures that are perfect for fall celebrations or any special occasion. The combination of moist pumpkin layers, creamy frosting, and sweet pecan crunch creates a satisfying dessert that is sure to impress your guests.
Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes
Transform the cake recipe into individual pumpkin spice cupcakes, topped with a swirl of cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Carrot-Pumpkin Cake
Combine grated carrots with pumpkin puree in the batter for a deliciously moist cake that balances the flavors of both vegetables.
Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
Use the pumpkin filling to create cheesecake bars with a graham cracker crust, topped with a layer of cream cheese frosting.
Chocolate Pumpkin Muffins
Add cocoa powder to the pumpkin batter for rich chocolate pumpkin muffins that pair beautifully with the cream cheese frosting.
Pecan Pie Pumpkin Cake
Incorporate a pecan pie filling layer between the pumpkin cake layers for an indulgent twist on traditional flavors.
Maple Cream Cheese Frosting
Replace vanilla extract with maple extract in the frosting for a unique and seasonal maple flavor that complements pumpkin perfectly.
Pumpkin Bread Pudding
Make a bread pudding with the pumpkin puree and serve it warm with cream cheese sauce drizzled on top for a cozy dessert.
Spiced Pumpkin Granola
Use pumpkin puree in a spiced granola mix for breakfast or a healthy snack option, with nuts and dried fruits for added texture.
Pumpkin Latte Cake
Infuse the cake with coffee and spices to create a pumpkin latte flavor, perfect for coffee lovers looking for a dessert twist.
