This pumpkin cream cake recipe is rich, moist, and delicious. Made with whipping cream in the batter as well as in the buttercream. A light and airy butter-based cake with pumpkin puree, and pumpkin spice mix. Perfect layer cake to adorn a festive dinner table, birthday cake, or to impress family and friends.
Pumpkin celebration cakes
When it comes to celebrating special occasions, a slice of pumpkin cake just won’t cut it. You need a dessert that truly stands out and makes a statement. Thankfully, there are endless ways to elevate your layer cake game and create a masterpiece that will impress even the most discerning palate. From elegant decorations to unexpected flavor combinations, let’s explore how you can transform your pumpkin cream layer cake into a showstopper fit for any celebration.
First and foremost, consider the presentation. A beautifully decorated layer cake is a feast for the eyes before it even touches the taste buds. For a sophisticated touch, opt for a smooth, flawless frosting and use a piping bag to create intricate designs and patterns. From delicate swirls to intricate rosettes, the possibilities are truly endless. And don’t be afraid to think outside the box – edible flowers, chocolate shavings, or even metallic accents can add a touch of glamour and make your cake the centerpiece of any celebration. But a celebration-worthy layer cake is more than just looks – it’s all about the flavors. While pumpkin and cream are a match made in heaven, there are numerous ways to enhance and complement these classic flavors. Consider adding a layer of spiced caramel or a drizzle of maple syrup between the cake layers for an extra burst of indulgence. And why stop there? Experiment with unexpected combinations like pumpkin and chai spices, or pumpkin and ginger for a unique twist that will surprise and delight your guests.
Why make this pumpkin cake?
First and foremost, this recipe provides a solid foundation: a moist and flavorful pumpkin cake. The pumpkin flavor makes this cake special, adding a unique warmth and richness that can’t be replicated. It’s not just another ordinary cake; it’s a celebration of the fall season and all its glorious flavors. But what truly sets this recipe apart is the room it gives you to experiment. You have the freedom to play with different fillings and toppings, allowing you to create a cake that perfectly suits your taste and style. The possibilities are endless – from a creamy vanilla or spiced cream cheese filling, to a decadent caramel or chocolate ganache topping. Furthermore, this recipe encourages you to think beyond the pumpkin flavor and explore additional spices or flavors that can complement it. Imagine adding a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter, or even incorporating a layer of tangy apple or pear compote between the cake layers. These unexpected twists will take your cake from ordinary to extraordinary, leaving your guests in awe. Not only does this recipe offer endless opportunities for customization, but it also guarantees a genuinely delicious result. The combination of moist pumpkin cake, luscious cream filling, and delectable toppings creates a harmony of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing. Today, I have made a 3-layer frosted cake but you can also use this batter to bake in a 6-cup pumpkin bundt pan, a 9 x 13-inch sheet pan to make a pumpkin sheet cake, or one 9 x 4-inch loaf pan.
Pumpkin cake
Cake
Preheat the oven to 160 C / 320 F / Gas mark 3. Grease and line 3 x 7-inch round cakes or 2 x 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. Dry ingredients – Sift flour with baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin spice, nutmeg, and salt. And set aside.
In the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.Pro tip – We want to add some volume to the batter and the sugar is completely dissolved so make sure to cream well. Next, add eggs, one at a time. Followed by the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract.Pro tip – Ensure the eggs are at room temperature or the batter will curdle. And if that happens, just add a tablespoon or two of flour and combine well. Then, add the flour mixture and whipping cream, alternating in three batches.Pro tip – Since whipping cream is thick the batter looks a bit stiffer than regular vanilla cake but the cream will melt in the oven so don’t add any more milk. Scrape the sides of the bowl, ensuring you have a smooth batter. Then, divide the batter between the two prepared baking pans.Pro tip – Use an offset spatula to spread the batter evenly in the pan so it bakes evenly.
Bake
Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.Pro tip – I like to use cake strips to ensure my layer cakes bake as flat as possible. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, invert on a cooling rack and cool completely. Always cool cakes completely before you decorate or store them away.Pro tip – Wrap in plastic wrap and place in the freezer for an hour. This will make fewer crumbs when you torte and level the cake.
Whipped cream buttercream
In a stand mixer with a paddle the attachment, cream butter with salt for a minute. Then, gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Once all the powdered sugar is in, gradually add the whipping cream. Continue to whip until you have a light and fluffy whipped cream consistency ( 2 to 3 minutes).Pro tip – If you do not whip the consistency will be very soft. The whipping will add volume to the buttercream making it light and fluffy.
Assemble
Prepare simple syrup. Add sugar, water, and lemon juice to a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until sugar dissolves then boil for two minutes more – cool completely before using.Pro tip – Simple syrup is used to keep cake layers moist. Using a bread knife or cake leveler, cut the domes off the cake layers. Then, cut each layer in half horizontally giving you a total of four layers. Brush each layer with the cooled simple syrup. Place a cake layer on the cake board or cake stand.Pro tip – If you plan to move the cake again, it is best to use a cake circle under the cake, so you can pick the cake with its base and without any accidents. Filling – Top with a big dollop of the whipped cream buttercream – spread evenly with a straight-edged spatula. Top the second cake layer on top followed by more frosting until you have used up all the layers.Pro tip – It is best to lift individual cake layers on pieces of clean cardboard or cake lifter so you do not break them from table to cake. Place the cake in the fridge for 15 minutes so the layers hold together. Pro tip – Chilling the cake at this point will ensure the layers don’t move when you frost the outside. Though, if you leave the cake uncovered in the fridge for too long it can dry out. So, 10 minutes is all you need.
Frost
Spread the remaining buttercream around and on the top of the cake. Use a cake bench scraper to smooth the sides and an offset spatula for the top. Color 1/2 cup frosting with orange food color gel. Using a spatula, place the orange frosting in little blobs all around the cake. Smooth with a bench scraper.Pro tip – You are looking for an almost smooth buttercream with a marbled effect. It’s easy to get carried away with this process but it’s best to not overdo this step. Finishing touches – I’ve used fondant pumpkins on this cake as shown in the video above. Alternatively, you can pipe remaining frosting on the top as well.
Decorations
I’ve used fondant pumpkins on top of this pumpkin cake. I’ve shown you how to make these in the video below. Alternatively, you can pipe the remaining frosting on the top as well. This cake needs to be stored in the fridge because whipping cream buttercream is a perishable frosting. Enjoy!
Creative variations
Decadent Chocolate Drizzle: For the chocoholics out there, drizzling a rich, glossy chocolate ganache over the pumpkin cream layer cake can take it to another level. The combination of velvety pumpkin and indulgent chocolate creates a harmonious balance of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Nutty Delights: Take your pumpkin cream cake up a notch by incorporating a variety of nuts. Think chopped toasted pecans, walnuts, or even a sprinkle of lightly roasted almonds. The added crunch and nutty flavor will elevate the cake’s texture and provide a delightful contrast to the smooth pumpkin cream frosting. Spiked Elegance: Spice things up by infusing your pumpkin cream layer cake with a splash of your favorite liquor. Whether you opt for a hint of rum, a touch of bourbon, or a splash of amaretto, the added complexity will give your cake a sophisticated twist. Remember to use alcohol sparingly, as its flavors can be quite strong. Seasonal Sensations: Embrace the flavors of the season by incorporating other autumnal elements into your pumpkin cream layer cake. Consider adding a layer of caramelized apples between the cake layers or incorporating warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger into the cream frosting. These additions will not only enhance the overall taste but also create a cake that truly captures the essence of fall. Aromatic Infusions: Step outside the traditional boundaries and infuse your pumpkin cream layer cake with aromatic flavors. You could experiment with cardamom, chai tea, or even a touch of coconut. These unexpected additions will leave your guests pleasantly surprised and add a touch of adventure to your culinary creation.
Creative ways to serve layer cake:
Mini Cake Parfaits: Instead of serving traditional slices of cake, consider creating individual mini cake parfaits. Use small glass jars or glasses to layer cubes of pumpkin cream cake with whipped cream, caramel sauce, and crushed graham crackers. The layers will create a visually appealing dessert that is also easy to serve and enjoy. Cake Pops: Transform your pumpkin cream layer cake into bite-sized treats by making cake pops. Crumble the cake and combine it with frosting to form small balls. Insert a lollipop stick into each ball, dip them in melted chocolate, and let them cool. The result is a fun and whimsical way to enjoy your cake, perfect for parties or a quick indulgence. Layered Trifle: Break the mold even further by layering your pumpkin cream cake with other complementary flavors and textures to create a stunning trifle. Alternate layers of cake, whipped cream, caramel, and spiced nuts or dried fruits in a glass bowl or individual serving dishes. The combination of flavors and textures will make each spoonful a delight. Deconstructed Cake: For a modern twist, deconstruct your pumpkin cream layer cake. Cut the cake into squares or triangles, and arrange them artfully on individual dessert plates. Add dollops of whipped cream, drizzles of caramel sauce, and sprinkle some crushed nuts or spices around the plate. This visually appealing presentation will impress your guests and allow them to customize their dessert. Cake Sandwiches: Another fun way to serve your pumpkin cream layer cake is by turning it into cake sandwiches. Cut the cake into smaller, rectangular pieces, and layer them with sweet fillings such as cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or even a scoop of ice cream. Sandwich the layers together and serve them as a handheld dessert, perfect for a picnic or a casual gathering.
Frequently asked questions
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