Sweet Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe

The Sweet Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake is an absolute autumn dream come true, blending the warm spices of pumpkin with the rich aroma of espresso in a moist, tender cake that feels like a cozy hug. This cake captures everything delightful about fall evenings and coffee breaks, turning the iconic pumpkin spice latte into a luscious homemade dessert that’s simply unforgettable. With its inviting layers soaked in latte milk and crowned with espresso cream cheese frosting, it’s a showstopper you’ll be thrilled to share at any gathering or simply enjoy with a good book.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple ingredients each play a starring role in creating the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and rich colors that make the Sweet Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake irresistible. From the warm pumpkin spice and creamy pumpkin purée to rich espresso and velvety cream cheese frosting, every component works harmoniously for a truly memorable dessert.

• All-purpose flour: The base that gives this cake structure and tenderness.
• Pumpkin spice blend: Brings those iconic autumn spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves into every bite.
• Baking powder and baking soda: The leavening agents that ensure a light, fluffy crumb.
• Salt: Enhances the cake’s overall flavor depth.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and keeps the texture moist and tender.
• White sugar: Sweetens perfectly without overpowering.
• Large eggs: Provide moisture and structure.
• Vanilla extract: A final flavor enhancer that complements the spices beautifully.
• Buttermilk: Adds a subtle tang and tenderness to the cake’s crumb.
• Canned pumpkin purée: Delivers that silky pumpkin flavor and beautiful orange hue.
• Espresso or strong coffee: Essential for the latte soak, adding richness and that perfect coffee kick.
• Whole milk and sweetened condensed milk: Create a creamy, luscious soak that infuses flavor deeply.
• Instant espresso granules: Boost the espresso cream cheese frosting’s intense coffee flavor.
• Cream cheese: Makes the frosting irresistibly smooth and tangy.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for that perfect spreadable texture.

How to Make Sweet Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch light metal baking pan and line it with parchment paper that comes up the sides to make removing the cake afterward a breeze. This prep sets the foundation for an evenly baked cake with a flawless surface.

Step 2: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice blend, baking powder, baking soda, and salt — this is your perfectly seasoned dry mix. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar on high speed until airy and light, about 2 minutes. Then, add the eggs and vanilla extract and mix until smooth and pale. Pour in the buttermilk and pumpkin purée, mixing gently but thoroughly. Finally, add the dry ingredients gradually and beat on low until just combined. The texture might look a bit curdled at this point, but don’t worry; that’s exactly how it should be.

Step 3: Bake and Cool the Cake

Pour your batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 35 to 38 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. After baking, allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 30 minutes. Use the parchment paper to carefully lift the cake out, then cool completely before moving on. Cooling fully helps the cake soak up the latte liquid evenly without becoming soggy.

Step 4: Prepare the Latte Milk Soak

While the cake cools, combine espresso or strong coffee, whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, pumpkin spice blend, and vanilla extract in a measuring cup or bowl with a pour spout. Stir everything together until completely blended. This soak is what gives your cake that signature Sweet Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake flavor that warms the soul.

Step 5: Make the Espresso Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the softened butter in a large bowl on high speed until it is pale and fluffy, approximately 5 to 10 minutes — patience here pays off with luscious frosting. Add the cold cream cheese and continue mixing until smooth and creamy. Slowly sift in powdered sugar, mixing on low until combined, then whip on high speed for about a minute for extra airiness. Dissolve instant espresso granules in vanilla extract, then add that and pumpkin spice blend to your frosting, mixing carefully until fluffy and perfectly spiced. This frosting balances creaminess, coffee depth, and autumn spices beautifully.

Step 6: Assemble and Finish the Cake

Once the cake is cool, trim a thin layer off the top to help the soak absorb effortlessly. Place the cake on your serving plate and poke holes all over the surface with a skewer or spoon handle. Slowly drizzle your latte milk soak over the cake, allowing it to sink gradually into every nook and cranny. Finish by frosting the top with that dreamy espresso cream cheese frosting and sprinkle a little extra pumpkin spice blend for a festive touch. Chilling it briefly before slicing makes serving neat and delightful.

How to Serve Sweet Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

Garnishes

Enhance your cake with a sprinkle of crushed pecans or toasted pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch. A dusting of cocoa powder or a few whole coffee beans can add a little drama and elevate that coffee vibe. Don’t forget a light dusting of extra pumpkin spice blend for that cozy autumn finish that makes everyone’s eyes light up.

Side Dishes

This cake is divine all on its own but pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to add creaminess. A warm cup of your favorite coffee or chai tea also beautifully complements the deep espresso and spice notes in the cake.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, cut the Sweet Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake into small bite-sized squares and serve it on decorative skewers alongside fresh apple slices or roasted chestnuts. You can also layer it with a rustic whipped cream and pumpkin purée parfait for an elegant autumn dessert display. Presentation options are endless for such a versatile cake!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cake covered tightly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 4 days, and chilling actually helps the flavors meld beautifully, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezing

This cake freezes well before frosting. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, freezing for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and serving for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy a slice warm, pop it in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds. The espresso cream cheese frosting can be served chilled or at room temperature for a delightful contrast of cool and warm.

FAQs

Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso for this cake?

Absolutely! Strong brewed coffee works great as a substitute and still delivers that rich, coffee flavor essential to the Sweet Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake.

Is canned pumpkin purée necessary, or can I use fresh pumpkin?

Canned pumpkin purée is recommended for consistency and moisture content, but if you want to use fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it first, then drain any excess moisture so it doesn’t affect the cake’s texture.

How spicy will the pumpkin spice flavor be?

The pumpkin spice blend brings gentle warmth and a lovely autumnal spice profile without overpowering; it’s perfectly balanced for a crowd-pleasing Sweet Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup; just ensure your leavening agents are fresh for the best rise and texture.

How long does the cake need to soak in the latte milk mixture?

Once you pour the soak over, it’s best to let the cake absorb the liquid slowly for at least 20 to 30 minutes before frosting, so it’s deeply infused but not soggy.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about making the Sweet Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake from scratch; it’s like bottling up the essence of fall into a slice of pure joy. Whether you’re treating friends, family, or just yourself, this cake delivers warmth, spice, and irresistible coffee flavor with every bite. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorite seasonal indulgences, perfect for cozy moments and celebrations all autumn long!

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