Irresistible Pumpkin Spice Bundt

Welcome the crisp embrace of autumn with a truly irresistible delight: a magnificent Pumpkin Spice Bundt Cake generously crowned with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting. This exquisite dessert is designed to effortlessly elevate your seasonal celebrations, from cozy family gatherings to festive holiday tables. Forget the fuss of elaborate layer cakes; this simple yet stunning Bundt cake offers all the autumnal charm and delightful flavors with minimal effort, making it a staple for any home baker.

Infused with the same comforting, warm spice profile found in our beloved Classic Pumpkin Bread, this fine-crumb Pumpkin Bundt Cake takes things a step further with its elegant presentation and the bonus of that rich, dreamy cream cheese frosting. It’s a perfect harmony of moist pumpkin cake and creamy indulgence, promising a treat that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Why This Pumpkin Spice Bundt Cake is Your Go-To Fall Dessert

When autumn arrives, ushering in cooler temperatures and a craving for warm, comforting flavors, nothing quite hits the spot like a homemade pumpkin dessert. Our Pumpkin Spice Bundt Cake is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to embrace the season with open arms and a satisfied palate. Here’s why this cake deserves a prime spot in your fall baking repertoire:

• Embrace Autumnal Bliss: A pumpkin cake is the quintessential dessert for autumn. Its warm spices and earthy pumpkin flavor perfectly capture the essence of the season, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere with every slice. It’s the flavor of falling leaves, pumpkin patches, and crisp air all baked into one delightful confection.
• A Delicious Alternative to Pumpkin Pie: For those who appreciate pumpkin flavors but aren’t keen on pumpkin pie, this Pumpkin Bundt Cake recipe offers a fantastic and equally traditional Thanksgiving dessert option. Its moist cake texture and elegant Bundt shape provide a refreshing change, yet it remains deeply rooted in holiday comfort. It’s a crowd-pleaser that offers the beloved taste of pumpkin in an exciting new format.
• The Ultimate Pairing: Cream Cheese Frosting: Nothing complements a spiced pumpkin dessert quite like a rich, tangy cream cheese frosting. This magical combination elevates the cake from merely delicious to utterly divine. The smooth, sweet, and slightly tart frosting provides a perfect counterpoint to the warm, spiced pumpkin, creating an unforgettable flavor experience that leaves everyone asking for more.
• Effortless Elegance: Bundt cakes are celebrated for their striking appearance without the complexities of traditional layer cakes. There’s no need for intricate layering or precise frosting techniques to achieve a beautiful result. Simply bake, invert, and adorn with frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar for a dessert that looks impressive with minimal fuss. This simplicity makes it ideal for busy holidays or spontaneous entertaining.

My family, especially my grown children, simply adores all things pumpkin—from classic pumpkin bread to festive pumpkin pie. It was only natural to expand our pumpkin repertoire with a cake that combines ease of preparation with undeniable flavor. Bundt cakes, in particular, are my go-to for their straightforward nature; they eliminate the need for fiddly layering and elaborate frosting work. My baking philosophy these days leans towards simple, uncomplicated recipes that deliver maximum impact. While I might pull out all the stops for more elaborate holiday creations, everyday baking calls for delicious efficiency.

My husband, however, remains a bit of a culinary enigma. He considers pumpkin pie an absolute must for Thanksgiving, yet he tends to shy away from my other pumpkin-infused delights. A stubborn man, perhaps, but thankfully, the rest of the family more than makes up for it. With this Pumpkin Spice Bundt Cake on the table, there are never any leftovers to be found!

Essential Ingredients for a Perfect Pumpkin Bundt Cake

Crafting a truly exceptional Pumpkin Spice Bundt Cake starts with understanding the role of each ingredient. Quality and proper preparation are key to achieving that perfect moist crumb and irresistible flavor. Here’s a closer look at the components that make this cake so special:

• Kitchen Staples: Flour, Baking Soda, Salt, Sugar – These form the foundational structure and flavor balance of your cake. Use all-purpose flour for a tender crumb. Baking soda reacts with acidic ingredients (like buttermilk) to provide lift. Salt enhances all the other flavors, while granulated sugar sweetens the cake and helps retain moisture.
• Butter – Always use unsalted butter at room temperature. This is crucial for proper creaming with sugar, which incorporates air and creates a light, fluffy texture. Cold butter won’t cream correctly, resulting in a denser cake.
• Baking Powder – While often paired with baking soda, baking powder offers additional leavening. It has a shorter shelf life than many pantry items, so it’s wise to test its potency. To check if it’s still active, mix a spoonful into a cup of very hot water; it should bubble vigorously. If not, it’s time for a fresh batch.
• Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Allspice – These are the stars of the “spice” in Pumpkin Spice Bundt Cake. They provide the warm, aromatic notes that define autumn baking. Spices can lose their flavor over time, so if yours have been lingering in the pantry for years, consider replacing them for the most vibrant taste. Freshly ground nutmeg can make a significant difference.
• Canned Pumpkin – Be sure to use 100% pure canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling already contains spices and sweeteners, which would alter the carefully balanced flavors of this recipe. Look for cans labeled “100% Pure Pumpkin” or “Pumpkin Puree.”
• Buttermilk – The secret to a tender cake! The acidity in buttermilk reacts with the baking soda, contributing to the cake’s rise. More importantly, it helps to weaken the gluten strands in the flour, resulting in a remarkably soft and moist crumb. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to regular milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles.
• Cream Cheese – For the smoothest, lump-free frosting, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature. This allows it to blend seamlessly with the other frosting ingredients, creating a velvety texture.
• Heavy Cream – Used in the frosting to achieve the perfect consistency. It helps thin the frosting to a beautiful drizzle-able or spreadable texture, depending on your preference, while adding richness.
• Powdered Sugar – Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this fine sugar is essential for a smooth frosting. Sifting it before adding to the cream cheese mixture is highly recommended to prevent any lumps and ensure a perfectly silky finish.
• Vanilla Extract – Always opt for real vanilla extract, not artificially flavored varieties, for the best and most authentic taste. It adds a subtle warmth and depth that enhances all the other flavors in both the cake and the frosting.

Elevating Your Pumpkin Bundt Cake with the Perfect Garnish

While the internal structure of this Pumpkin Spice Bundt Cake is a masterpiece in itself, the presentation is truly brought to life with the right garnish. My personal preference leans heavily towards a thick, luscious layer of cream cheese frosting. There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of warm, autumnal pumpkin spices and the sweet yet tangy profile of a perfectly made cream cheese frosting – it’s a pairing that consistently wins hearts and palates.

However, if you’re looking for alternatives or prefer a lighter touch, a simple dusting of powdered sugar offers an elegant and understated charm. It highlights the intricate design of the Bundt pan beautifully and provides a subtle sweetness. For us, at home, especially when serving a special dessert, frosting isn’t just an option; it’s a cherished requirement! Beyond the frosting, consider serving each slice with a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a swirl of decadent caramel ice cream to truly complete the experience. The cool, creamy ice cream beautifully contrasts the moist, spiced cake.

Mastering Your Bundt Cake: Expert Tips for a Flawless Finish

Bundt cakes are a true blessing when you need an impressive yet relatively easy dessert to serve a crowd. They are undeniably less demanding than multi-layered frosted cakes or individual cupcakes, making them a fantastic choice for any occasion. Often, all they require is a simple dusting of powdered sugar, and they’re ready to steal the show. Of course, a decadent drizzle of icing cascading over the crown adds that extra touch of indulgence if you have a little more time to spare!

• Bundt Cake Density: One of the inherent characteristics of Bundt cakes is their typically denser crumb compared to lighter sponge cakes. This density is actually a fantastic attribute, as it makes them incredibly easy to slice cleanly and serve without crumbling, maintaining their beautiful shape.
• Perfect Pan Preparation is Paramount: For a truly picture-perfect Bundt cake, impeccable pan preparation is non-negotiable. If your pan isn’t thoroughly greased and floured, you risk frustrating bits of cake sticking to the pan when you attempt to invert it. This step alone can make or break your cake’s presentation.
• Assess Your Bundt Pan’s Condition: Even if you own a non-stick Bundt pan, it’s vital to ensure its non-stick surface is still intact and not worn down. Over time, the coating can degrade, leading to sticking. My own pan, for instance, seems to be showing its age, resulting in a crust that wasn’t perfectly smooth on release – though rest assured, my family never seems to mind!
• Grease and Flour, Every Nook and Cranny: Regardless of whether your pan is non-stick, you must diligently grease and flour it. Pay special attention to working the shortening or butter into every intricate groove and crevice of the Bundt pan. While butter works, shortening is often preferred by many bakers as it tends to create a more resilient non-stick layer.
• The Flour Dusting Technique: After greasing your pan thoroughly, sprinkle a generous amount of flour into it. Then, gently tilt and rotate the pan, tapping lightly, to ensure that 100% of the greased surface is covered with a light, even coating of flour. This creates a barrier between the cake batter and the pan, allowing for a clean release.
• Consider Flour-Oil Sprays: For added convenience and a foolproof release, you can use a specialized flour-oil spray like Baker’s Joy. These sprays combine both grease and flour in one application and are typically found in the baking aisle of most grocery stores.
• The Critical Cooling Phase: To successfully remove your cake from the pan, it’s crucial to allow it to cool on a cooling rack for approximately 15-20 minutes after baking. This resting period allows the cake’s crust to firm up slightly. If you attempt to remove it too soon, the cake may be too delicate and break apart. Conversely, waiting too long can cause the cake to cool too much and potentially stick stubbornly to the pan.
• The Gentle Shake Test: Before flipping, I like to gently shake the pan from side to side. You should be able to feel or hear the cake subtly moving and releasing from the sides of the pan. This is a good indicator that it’s ready for the next step.
• Inverting with Care: To release the cake, place a cooling rack over the top of the Bundt pan. Holding both the rack and the pan firmly together, carefully and confidently flip them over onto your countertop. If the preparation was successful, the cake should gently drop out onto the rack.
• Cool Completely Before Icing: Patience is a virtue when it comes to frosting. Always ensure your Bundt cake is completely cooled before applying any icing or frosting. Attempting to frost a warm cake will only result in melted, messy frosting.
• Confirming Doneness: Make absolutely certain the cake is fully baked before removing it from the oven. The most reliable test is inserting a toothpick or a thin wooden skewer into the very center of the cake. It should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached.
• Aromatic Clues: You’ll often begin to smell the wonderfully delicious aroma of the baking cake as it nears the end of its baking time. This serves as a helpful cue to start checking for doneness soon. Trust your senses, but always confirm with the toothpick test!

Frequently Asked Questions About Baking Bundt Cakes

More Autumnal Delights: Explore Our Favorite Pumpkin Recipes

Fall truly is the perfect season to pull out those comforting warm spices that pair so beautifully with pumpkin. It’s the ideal time to tie on your apron and whip up a batch of delicious pumpkin treats that will fill your home with irresistible aromas. I’ve previously shared my Favorite Pumpkin Recipes, but the inspiration doesn’t stop there! Here are even more fantastic options from my talented blogger friends, plus a few more tried-and-true recipes from my own collection, perfect for celebrating the season:

• Layered Pumpkin Coffee Cake from Barefeet in the Kitchen: A delightful breakfast or brunch treat.
• Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies from Wine and Glue: Chewy, spiced, and utterly addictive cookies.
• Pumpkin Granola from Well Plated: A healthy and flavorful way to enjoy pumpkin any time of day.
• Mini Pumpkin Breads: These individual loaves are absolutely perfect for holiday gift-giving or sharing with neighbors!
• Cinnamon Crusted Pumpkin Bread: A fun and flavorful twist on the classic quick bread, with an extra textural element.
• Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting: I can confidently say, these are killer pumpkin bars – incredibly moist and topped with the best frosting!
• Discover even more incredible Cake Recipes for every occasion.

The Recipe:

Pumpkin Spice Bundt Cake

Prep Time
30 minutes

Cook Time
50 minutes

Total Time
1 hour 20 minutes

Yield
12 servings

A lovely autumnal Bundt cake with sweet cream cheese frosting, perfect for any fall gathering or holiday.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 ½ sticks (¾ cup) unsalted butter, at room temperature, plus more to generously grease the pan
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting the pan
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground allspice
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ¼ cups canned pumpkin puree (ensure it’s not pumpkin pie filling)
• ¾ cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 3 quart/10-inch Bundt pan by generously greasing it with butter or shortening, ensuring all crevices are coated. Then, dust the pan thoroughly with flour, tapping out any excess.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt until well combined. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin puree, buttermilk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
3. In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the room temperature butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and creamy, typically 3 to 5 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating for 1 minute after each addition until fully incorporated.
4. Reduce the mixer speed to low. Gradually add the dry flour mixture and the wet pumpkin mixture alternately to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until the batter is just smooth, being careful not to overmix.
5. Spoon the prepared batter evenly into your greased and floured Bundt pan, gently smoothing the top. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
6. Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire cooling rack for exactly 15 minutes. This crucial cooling period helps the crust firm up. After 15 minutes, carefully invert the cake onto the cooling rack and gently lift the pan off. Let the cake cool completely before proceeding to the frosting stage.
7. While the cake is cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, sifted powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract with an electric mixer until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle or spread the luscious cream cheese frosting over the crown of the Bundt cake. Slice and serve!

Notes

This delightful recipe is adapted from Epicurious, ensuring a trusted and delicious outcome every time you bake it.

For best results, ensure all cold ingredients like butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature before starting, as this aids in proper emulsification and a smoother batter/frosting.

Store any leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, due to the cream cheese frosting. Allow refrigerated cake to come to room temperature for the best texture and flavor.

Recommended Products for Perfect Baking

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases, helping to support this blog.

• Sturdy 10-Inch Wire Whisk
• Versatile KitchenAid 9-Speed Digital Hand Mixer
• High-Quality 3 Quart Bundt Pan

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

12

Serving Size:

1 slice

Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 302Total Fat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 61mgSodium: 354mgCarbohydrates: 57gFiber: 2gSugar: 36gProtein: 5g

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