Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake

Soft, moist, and utterly delicious, the Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration, this cake is sure to impress with its rich flavors and creamy texture. The combination of spiced pumpkin and salted caramel creates a delightful harmony that will leave your taste buds craving more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Flavorful: The blend of pumpkin and salted caramel makes each bite a sweet treat.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, anyone can create this impressive dessert.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for holidays, birthdays, or just a special weekend treat.
• Moist Texture: The cake stays soft and moist thanks to the pumpkin puree and caramel infusion.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add extra caramel drizzle or a sprinkle of coarse salt for added flair.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking process. Being prepared helps in creating the best Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 9×13 inch baking pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Makes it easy to achieve a smooth cream cheese frosting without lumps.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for perfect results every time.

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Ingredients

To make this delightful Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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 (Optional)

• 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)

How to Make Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the eggs, brown sugar, and vegetable oil.
2. Add in the pumpkin puree, followed by the salted caramel topping.
3. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and pumpkin pie spice.
2. Gradually add this mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan:
1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 36 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
2. Allow cooling completely before frosting.

Step 5: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

In a mixing bowl:
1. Beat together the softened cream cheese, salted butter, and vanilla extract.
2. Gradually add in the powdered sugar until smooth.

Step 6: Frost and Serve

Once cooled:
1. Spread the cream cheese frosting over the top of your cake.
2. Drizzle with additional salted caramel topping if desired.
3. Sprinkle with coarse salt before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake

Serving your Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake can elevate its deliciousness and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some delightful ways to serve this decadent dessert.

With Whipped Cream

• Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a creamy texture that complements the rich flavors of the cake.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pairing a slice of cake with vanilla or caramel ice cream creates a delightful contrast in temperature and taste.

Drizzled with Extra Caramel

• Pouring additional salted caramel topping over each slice enhances the sweetness and gives it a beautiful presentation.

Garnished with Nuts

• Chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top add a crunchy texture that balances the softness of the cake.

On a Festive Platter

• Arrange slices on a decorative platter with seasonal fruits like pears or apples for an eye-catching display at gatherings.

How to Perfect Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake

Perfecting your Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake ensures every bite is as delightful as possible. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing, resulting in a smoother batter and frosting.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping it directly. This prevents overpacking, which can lead to a dense cake.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined. Overmixing can make the cake tough instead of soft and moist.

• Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready to come out of the oven.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Coffee
   A warm cup of coffee complements the sweet flavors while providing a cozy beverage option.

2. Spiced Chai Latte
   The warm spices in chai enhance the pumpkin flavor, creating an inviting pairing.

3. Apple Cider
   Hot apple cider offers a fruity contrast that highlights the caramel notes in the cake.

4. Cheese Plate
   A selection of cheeses like brie or sharp cheddar can balance out the sweetness of the cake beautifully.

5. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits provides a light option alongside your rich dessert.

6. Nutty Granola
   Serve nutty granola on the side for added crunch and texture, making each bite unique.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when baking, especially with a delicious recipe like Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold eggs and cream cheese can cause your batter to be lumpy. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before you start mixing.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can result in a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a soft, fluffy texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Inaccurate measurements can ruin your cake. Use kitchen scales or measuring cups for precise amounts.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Cutting into the cake too soon can lead to a mess. Allow it to cool completely before frosting for best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-30 seconds per slice, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a covered pan over low heat for about 5 minutes, ensuring they heat evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree! Just make sure to cook and blend it until smooth.

How should I store Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake?

Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.

What can I use instead of cream cheese frosting?

You can use whipped coconut cream or a simple vanilla buttercream as alternatives.

Is this cake suitable for special occasions?

Absolutely! The rich flavors of salted caramel and pumpkin make it perfect for celebrations or gatherings.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Yes, feel free to customize your Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake by adding nuts or chocolate chips into the batter!

Final Thoughts

This Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cake is not only soft and moist but also delivers a delightful flavor experience with every bite. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences. Whether it’s topped with nuts or served plain, it’s sure to impress everyone at your next gathering!