Pumpkin Bundt Cake: A Cozy Fall Dessert
Imagine a cake so perfectly spiced and deliciously moist, it feels like a warm hug in every bite. This Pumpkin Bundt Cake, with its deep autumnal flavors and a drizzle of creamy icing, is a delightful way to celebrate the coziness of fall.
Packed with real pumpkin and infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of vanilla, this cake embodies everything we love about the season. The smooth, spiced icing cascading down the Bundt shape adds an elegant touch, making it an irresistible centerpiece for any gathering.
You’ll love how easy this recipe is, even if baking isn’t usually your thing. With just a few simple steps, you can create a beautiful, homemade dessert that impresses every time—whether it’s for a festive gathering or a cozy night in.
Ready to bake up some autumn magic? Follow along for our easy-to-follow recipe, pro tips, and all the tricks to create a Pumpkin Bundt Cake that will become your go-to fall dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Bundt Cake Recipe
This pumpkin bundt cake combines the best flavors of fall with a simple, no-fuss recipe that’s perfect for all skill levels. Let’s get baking!
Required Kitchen Tools
Before you start, gather these tools for an easier and more enjoyable baking experience:
- 12-cup Bundt Pan: Ensures your cake has the perfect shape.
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: To effortlessly blend ingredients.
- Spatula: Ideal for scraping the sides of your mixing bowl.
- Wire Rack: Allows the cake to cool evenly.
- Offset Spatula: Perfect for spreading the icing evenly.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
- 2 teaspoons Baking Powder
- 2 ½ teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon Salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup Unsalted Butter (softened)
- ½ cup Vegetable Oil
- 1 ¼ cups Granulated Sugar
- ½ cup Brown Sugar (packed)
- 3 large Eggs
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
- 15 oz Pumpkin Puree (canned, not pumpkin pie filling)
Cream Cheese Glaze
- 4 oz Cream Cheese (softened)
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 1 ½ cups Powdered Sugar
- ¼ teaspoon Cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 2-3 tablespoons Milk
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bundt Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the bundt pan thoroughly with baking spray or butter and flour to ensure easy cake removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Set aside.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
- In a stand mixer or large bowl, beat together the softened butter, oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add vanilla extract and pumpkin puree, beating until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure a smooth batter.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze
- In a mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
- Slowly add milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the glaze reaches a drizzling consistency.
Step 7: Frost the Cake
- Once the cake has completely cooled, drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the top. Allow it to drip down the sides for a beautiful presentation.
Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Bundt Cake
- Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices add a bold, warm flavor to the cake.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the cake dense. Stir just until combined.
- Grease the Pan Properly: Ensure your bundt pan is well-greased to avoid sticking.
- Allow Full Cooling: Waiting until the cake is completely cool before glazing prevents the icing from melting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Pumpkin Pie Filling Instead of Puree
- Pumpkin pie filling has added sugar and spices, altering the texture and taste.
- Skipping Cooling Time
- Removing the cake too soon can cause it to break. Allow at least 10 minutes before transferring to a rack.
Ingredient Substitutions and Additions
- Butter Substitutes
- Swap butter with an equal amount of coconut oil for a slight twist in flavor.
- Egg Substitutes
- Replace each egg with ¼ cup applesauce if you’re making an egg-free cake.
- Additional Mix-ins
- Add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried cranberries for texture and extra flavor.
Serving and Storing Pumpkin Bundt Cake
- Serving: Serve at room temperature for the best flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This cake freezes well. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Troubleshooting FAQ
Why Did My Cake Stick to the Pan?
Ensure your bundt pan is well-greased with a non-stick spray containing flour or coat with butter and flour thoroughly.
My Glaze is Too Thick. What Should I Do?
Add a teaspoon of milk at a time until it reaches your desired drizzling consistency.
Can I Use Homemade Pumpkin Puree?
Yes! Fresh pumpkin puree can be used, but make sure it has a thick consistency similar to canned puree.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (approx. 1/14th of cake) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 444 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 59g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Cholesterol | 70mg |
| Sodium | 207mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 40g |
| Vitamin A | 5191 IU |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary depending on ingredients used.
Final Thoughts
Creating this Pumpkin Bundt Cake is more than just baking a dessert—it’s about crafting a memorable experience filled with cozy autumnal flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying out bundt cakes for the first time, this recipe is designed to make your kitchen smell amazing and your guests ask for seconds. Enjoy your baking adventure!
