Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Hands down, the Pumpkin Bundt Cake is the best pumpkin dessert you’ll ever try! This moist pumpkin bundt cake boasts a rich pumpkin flavor and is infused with warm spices. Topped with a delightful cream cheese glaze, it’s an easy alternative to traditional pumpkin pie, making it the perfect treat for fall gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy night in.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: Experience the warm spices and rich pumpkin that make this dessert irresistible.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this delicious cake.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a birthday party, or just a family dinner, this cake impresses every time.
- Versatile Glaze Options: Customize the cream cheese glaze or enjoy it plain—either way, it’s delicious!
- Moist Texture: Thanks to the perfect blend of ingredients, this bundt cake stays moist and tender.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything on hand makes the baking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Bundt pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Bundt pan: Creates a beautiful shape that adds elegance to your presentation.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients easily without mess.
- Whisk: Ensures that all dry ingredients are well combined for an even texture in your cake.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice (or make your own – see recipe notes)
– 1 teaspoons baking soda
– 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup vegetable oil (or canola)
– 1 cup white sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 3 large eggs
– 1 15 oz can pure pumpkin (NOT pumpkin pie filling)
– 1 tablespoon butter (softened)
– 3 oz cream cheese (softened)
– 1 cup powdered sugar (or more as needed)
– 1-2 tablespoons milk
How to Make Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake cooks evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Pan
Grease your bundt pan with butter or cooking spray. This step is crucial for preventing sticking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
The flour,
The pumpkin pie spice,
The baking soda,
The baking powder,
And the salt.
Whisk together until well mixed.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together:
The vegetable oil,
The white sugar,
The brown sugar,
The vanilla extract,
And the eggs.
Add in the entire can of pure pumpkin. Mix until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; do not overmix.
Step 6: Pour into Pan
Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan. Smooth out the top with a spatula.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Glaze
Let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. While cooling, prepare your glaze by mixing softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cake before serving. Enjoy!
How to Serve Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Serving your Pumpkin Bundt Cake can be as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to enhance your dessert experience and impress your guests.
With Cream Cheese Glaze
- Drizzle a rich cream cheese glaze over the top for added sweetness and a creamy texture.
Pair with Whipped Cream
- Serve slices with a dollop of freshly whipped cream to add lightness and contrast.
Accompany with Ice Cream
- Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream complements the warm spices in the cake beautifully, creating a comforting treat.
Garnish with Nuts
- Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
Add Fresh Fruit
- Fresh apple slices or pears can provide a refreshing balance to the cake’s sweetness.
Serve with Coffee or Tea
- A warm cup of coffee or spiced chai tea makes for a cozy pairing with your pumpkin cake.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Bundt Cake
To achieve the ultimate Pumpkin Bundt Cake, consider these helpful tips that will take your baking to the next level.
- Use fresh pumpkin: Opt for pure pumpkin puree for the best flavor; avoid pie filling, which contains extra sugar and spices.
- Room temperature ingredients: Ensure eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing, resulting in a smoother batter.
- Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- Check doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done baking.
- Cool before glazing: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding glaze, preventing it from melting away.
- Store properly: Keep leftover cake covered at room temperature or in the fridge to maintain moisture and freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Complementing your Pumpkin Bundt Cake with side dishes can elevate your dessert spread. Here are some great options:
- Spiced Apples: Warm, sautéed apples mixed with cinnamon and nutmeg enhance the fall flavors of the bundt cake.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over each slice for an indulgent touch.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese can provide a savory contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and balances the richness of the bundt cake.
- Pumpkin Soup: Start your meal with a warm pumpkin soup for a delightful autumn theme throughout your course.
- Pecan Pie Bites: Mini pecan pies offer another sweet option that pairs well without overshadowing the pumpkin flavor.
- Chocolate Covered Pretzels: The salty-sweet combination makes chocolate-covered pretzels an appealing snack alongside your dessert.
- Chai Spiced Cookies: These cookies echo similar spices found in pumpkin desserts, creating harmony on your dessert table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Pumpkin Bundt Cake might seem simple, but there are common pitfalls that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Using the wrong pumpkin – Always use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. This ensures the right texture and flavor in your cake.
- Overmixing the batter – Overmixing can create a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Skipping the flour measurement – Accurately measure your flour. Too much can make your cake dry, while too little may result in a collapsed cake.
- Not greasing the pan properly – Make sure to grease your bundt pan thoroughly to prevent sticking. A little flour dusting helps too!
- Ignoring oven temperature – Always preheat your oven. Baking at the correct temperature is crucial for even cooking and texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover pumpkin bundt cake in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pumpkin Bundt Cake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Pumpkin Bundt Cake
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop – Place slices in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries about making a Pumpkin Bundt Cake that may help clarify any doubts.
How do I ensure my Pumpkin Bundt Cake is moist?
To keep your cake moist, use oil instead of butter and avoid overbaking it. Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean but not dry.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes! You can roast and puree fresh pumpkin, but be sure it is well-drained to prevent excess moisture from affecting the cake’s texture.
What can I substitute for cream cheese glaze?
For a lighter option, you can drizzle melted white chocolate or a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk.
How do I make my Pumpkin Bundt Cake more flavorful?
Try adding nuts or chocolate chips into the batter. You could also enhance flavors with additional spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend at a 1:1 ratio for a gluten-free version of this delicious cake.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Bundt Cake is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Whether enjoyed plain or dressed up with toppings, it’s sure to impress family and friends. Feel free to customize it with your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips for an extra special touch!
Pumpkin Bundt Cake
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the warm flavors of fall with this irresistible Pumpkin Bundt Cake. Moist, tender, and bursting with rich pumpkin flavor, this cake is enhanced with a blend of warm spices that make it the perfect treat for any occasion. Topped with a delightful cream cheese glaze, it’s an easy yet impressive alternative to traditional pumpkin pie. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or enjoying a cozy evening at home, this Pumpkin Bundt Cake is sure to become a favorite. Simple to prepare and beautifully presented, it captures all the essence of autumn in every slice.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup white sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 (15 oz) can pure pumpkin
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a bundt pan thoroughly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine vegetable oil, white sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, eggs, and pure pumpkin; mix until smooth.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack and glazing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 67mg
