Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of fall, my Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake is just the thing! This cake is a beloved family recipe that brings everyone together. It’s soft, moist, and infused with the warm spices of pumpkin pie, all while being drizzled with rich salted caramel. Every bite is a delightful experience that makes it perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings with friends and family.

What I love most about this cake is how easy it is to whip up. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe will impress everyone at the table. Plus, it keeps well, so you can enjoy it over several days—or maybe even share some with neighbors!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll have this cake in the oven in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet caramel and pumpkin flavors.
• Versatile for occasions: Perfect for everything from cozy weeknight dinners to festive holiday parties.
• Make-ahead goodness: Bake it ahead of time and store it for a quick dessert option whenever you crave something sweet.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients to make this delicious Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake! You might already have some of these staples in your pantry.

For the Cake

• 4 eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 15 oz can pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup salted caramel topping
• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice

For the Frosting

• 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup salted butter (room temperature)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups powdered sugar

For Drizzling

• 9 oz jar salted caramel topping (remainder of the 11 oz jar)
• 4 oz salted caramel topping to drizzle each slice (OPTIONAL)
• 2 tbsp coarse salt to sprinkle each slice (OPTIONAL)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are a few ideas to customize your Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Spice it up: Experiment with different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a tasty alternative.
• Try different frostings: Swap cream cheese frosting for whipped coconut cream if you prefer a lighter topping.

How to Make Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly right from the start, giving you that perfect rise and texture.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, vegetable oil, pumpkin puree, and salted caramel topping until it’s smooth. This mixture adds moisture and richness to your cake.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and pumpkin pie spice. Mixing these dry ingredients separately helps distribute them evenly throughout the batter for consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; don’t overmix! This keeps your cake light and fluffy.

Step 5: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and bake for about 36 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 6: Prepare the Frosting

While the cake cools, whip together softened cream cheese, salted butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until creamy. This frosting adds a deliciously tangy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the rich cake.

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top of your cake. Drizzle with remaining salted caramel topping for an extra touch of indulgence!

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Slice up your Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake and sprinkle coarse salt on top if desired. Share with loved ones or savor each bite yourself—it’s truly a dessert worth celebrating!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and these tips will help ensure your Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake turns out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps them blend more seamlessly, resulting in a smoother batter and cream cheese frosting.
• Don’t skip the pumpkin pie spice: This key ingredient provides that warm, comforting flavor profile that pairs beautifully with pumpkin. It enhances the overall taste of your cake and brings out the best in each bite.
• Check for doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, use a toothpick to test if your cake is done. Insert it into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, it’s ready!
• Allow to cool completely: Letting the cake cool fully before frosting prevents the cream cheese frosting from melting. This ensures a beautiful presentation and allows the flavors to meld together.
• Drizzle generously: For an extra touch of indulgence, don’t hold back on drizzling salted caramel over each slice before serving. It adds that extra layer of flavor and makes every bite feel special.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake

Presenting your Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake can be as satisfying as baking it! Here are some fun ideas to elevate your dessert experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans or walnuts: Sprinkling these nuts on top adds a delightful crunch and complements the softness of the cake.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of this non-dairy topping offers a light and fluffy contrast to the dense pumpkin cake while keeping things vegan-friendly.

Side Dishes

• Spiced apple cider: This warm drink is perfect for fall gatherings. Its sweet and spicy notes complement the flavors in the cake beautifully.
• Roasted butternut squash: Its natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with pumpkin and adds a savory element to your dessert table.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream adds a creamy texture that balances well with the rich salted caramel flavors.
• Mixed green salad with vinaigrette: A refreshing salad with a tangy dressing provides a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cake, making for a well-rounded meal.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start baking! Enjoy this deliciously festive treat with family and friends during any occasion. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, allowing you to enjoy your delicious dessert without the rush. Here are some tips for storing and enjoying your cake later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For added freshness, place a piece of parchment paper between the cake and the lid.

Freezing

• Slice the cooled cake into individual portions.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• Remove a slice from the refrigerator or freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
• If desired, warm it slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds until just warmed through.
• Drizzle with extra salted caramel topping before serving for an extra treat!

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might help you as you prepare your Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree for this Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin! Just make sure to cook and puree it until smooth before incorporating it into your batter. This will add a lovely freshness to your cake.

How do I make my Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake even more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor by adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the batter, or by mixing in chocolate chips. Additionally, consider adding a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to complement the pumpkin spice!

Can I substitute gluten-free flour in this Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake recipe?

Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a 1:1 substitute. Just be sure that it contains xanthan gum for best results.

How long does it take to bake this cake?

The baking time is approximately 36 minutes, but it’s always best to check for doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake; it should come out clean when ready.

Final Thoughts

This Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake is such a delightful treat, offering a wonderful combination of flavors that will surely impress friends and family alike. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do—there’s nothing quite like sharing homemade desserts! Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings or modifications. Happy baking!