Irresistible Pumpkin Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting : A Fall Favorite for Any Occasion

Fall is the season of cozy, comforting flavors — and nothing says fall like a warm slice of pumpkin sheet cake with cream cheese frosting. This cake is rich, soft, and perfectly spiced, making it the ultimate dessert for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or any fall gathering. Topped with a velvety layer of cream cheese frosting, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a new family favorite.

Whether you’re a fan of easy pumpkin cake recipes, or looking for a delicious dessert that pairs well with chili, this pumpkin sheet cake is a perfect choice. It’s simple to make, easy to serve, and packed with the flavors of fall that everyone loves.

Let’s get into why this cake is such a hit and how you can bake your very own perfectly moist pumpkin sheet cake with cream cheese frosting.

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Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

This pumpkin sheet cake is perfect for so many reasons:

• Moist & tender: The pumpkin and oil ensure a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Cream cheese frosting: A tangy, rich frosting that complements the spices in the cake perfectly.
• Simple to make: This is a one-pan recipe that requires minimal effort.
• Perfect for sharing: With its large size, this cake is ideal for gatherings, parties, or family dinners.
• Fall flavors: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin come together for that perfect autumn taste.

If you’ve enjoyed other pumpkin cake recipes like pumpkin banana bread or pumpkin chocolate chip bread, you’ll love how this sheet cake combines the best of fall in every bite.

Taste of Home Recipes Desserts Cake: Pumpkin Perfection

Taste of Home recipes desserts cake always highlight the magic of simple ingredients and classic flavors, and this pumpkin sheet cake is no exception. The combination of moist pumpkin cake and creamy frosting will make it a hit at any gathering. It’s the kind of dessert that fills the house with warmth and draws everyone to the table.

Ingredients for Easy Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

You’ll need just a few ingredients to make this delightful cake:

For the cake:

• 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (220 g) packed brown sugar
• 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) pumpkin puree
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk (any kind)

For the cream cheese frosting:

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3–4 cups (360–480 g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 tablespoons milk (optional, for consistency)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need for Dense Cake Recipes Like This

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Whisk and spatula
• Sifter for powdered sugar
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step: How to Make Pumpkin Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and all the spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves). Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Pumpkin Cake Batter

In a separate bowl, beat together the sugars and oil until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.

Step 4: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake cools, make the frosting. Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract, then gradually sift in the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time. Beat until smooth and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add milk a little at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.

Step 6: Frost the Cake

Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top with a spatula. You can sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on top for a nice finishing touch.

Step 7: Slice & Serve

Cut the cake into squares and serve. Enjoy it as a dessert or a delightful snack with your afternoon tea or coffee.

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Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Cake 2 Layer or Sheet Cake

• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure the eggs, butter, and cream cheese are at room temperature for the best texture.
• Cool completely before frosting: If you frost the cake while it’s still warm, the frosting will melt. Let the cake cool completely before applying the frosting.
• Experiment with frosting thickness: If you like a thicker layer of frosting, simply make more. You can double the frosting recipe if desired.

Desserts That Pair Well with Chili: Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Sheet Cake

This pumpkin sheet cake is perfect for pairing with a hearty meal like chili, especially during those cooler months. The sweetness of the cake complements the spiciness of the chili, creating a perfect balance.

Here are other desserts that pair well with chili:

• Cornbread with honey butter — a savory option with a touch of sweetness.
• Apple crisp — the warmth of baked apples and oats adds a comforting finish.
• Pumpkin pie — another fall favorite with a creamy, spiced flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Pumpkin Cake Recipes

• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a dense and tough cake.
• Not sifting the powdered sugar: Sifting helps prevent lumps in the frosting and gives it a smooth texture.
• Not properly greasing the pan: Make sure to grease the pan well, especially if you’re not using parchment paper.
• Frosting a warm cake: Wait until the cake has cooled completely before frosting to ensure the frosting stays intact.

How to Store and Serve Leftovers of Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Room temperature: Store leftover cake covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2–3 days.
• Refrigerator: You can also refrigerate leftover cake for up to 1 week. Make sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out.
• Freezing: Freeze individual slices of cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Variations on Pumpkin Cake Recipes: Creative Twists on Classic Flavors

• Pumpkin chocolate chip cake: Fold in 1 cup of mini chocolate chips for a touch of sweetness.
• Spiced nuts: Add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for extra crunch.
• Pumpkin banana bread: Substitute half of the pumpkin puree with mashed banana for a different flavor twist.
• Pumpkin cake pops: Turn leftover cake into cake pops by crumbling it, mixing with frosting, and dipping in chocolate.

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Pumpkin Sheet Cake FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! The cake can be made a day in advance and stored at room temperature or in the fridge. Frost it just before serving.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for regular flour.

What can I do with leftover frosting?
Leftover frosting can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. You can use it for other baked goods like cupcakes or cookies.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action: Bake This Cozy Fall Treat Today

This pumpkin sheet cake with cream cheese frosting is the perfect dessert for any occasion this fall. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving, a potluck, or just craving a cozy treat, this cake delivers all the flavors of autumn in every bite.

If you loved this recipe, please share it with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more creative pumpkin recipes and fall baking ideas!

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