Indulge in Decadent Pumpkin Salted Caramel Layer Cake Bliss

Experience the bliss of Decadent Pumpkin Salted Caramel Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, a fall favorite.

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Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Cream Cheese Frosting, Fall Dessert, indulgent dessert, Pumpkin Cake, Salted Caramel, Thanksgiving Cake

Prep Time: 30

Cook Time: 45

Chilling Time: 30

Total Time: 1 45

Servings: slices

Calories: 450kcal

Equipment

Mixing bowls
Whisk
Electric Mixer
cake pans
Cooling rack

Ingredients

For the Cake Layers

2 cups All-Purpose Flour The foundation for a perfectly structured cake with a light texture.
2.25 teaspoons Baking Powder This helps the cake rise beautifully for fluffy layers.
1 teaspoon Salt A must to elevate the flavors of both the cake and frosting.
1 teaspoon Cinnamon Infuses that warm, inviting aroma we crave during fall.
1 teaspoon Ground Ginger Adds a zesty kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
0.75 teaspoon Baking Soda Another leavening agent for a delightful lightness.
0.5 teaspoon Freshly Grated Nutmeg Provides a uniquely warm depth of flavor that only fresh nutmeg can.
0.25 teaspoon Ground Cloves Intensifies the cake's spice notes for a festive touch.
1.25 cups Light Brown Sugar Moist and rich, it contributes to the cake’s delightful texture.
4 large Eggs Essential for structure and stability, making the cake a joy to slice.
0.75 cups Vegetable Oil Keeps the cake incredibly moist, ensuring each bite is sumptuous.
15 ounces Pumpkin Puree The star of this decadent dessert, providing flavorful moisture.
0.5 cups Whole Milk Rounds out the batter’s richness, leading to a creamy consistency.

For the Frosting

1 pound Cream Cheese Forms the creamy base of the frosting, offering velvety texture.
1 cup Powdered Sugar Adds just the right sweetness, which can be adjusted based on your taste.
Salted Caramel Sauce For swirling into the frosting, infusing the cake with delectable sweet-salty flavor.
Extra Salted Caramel Sauce Optional, for drizzling on top, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

Instructions

Cake Preparation

Make the Frosting: In a large bowl, beat cooled salted caramel together with cream cheese until it achieves a silky smooth texture. If desired, stir in the powdered sugar to reach your preferred sweetness. Chill in the fridge until firm.
Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, baking soda, nutmeg, and cloves.
Mix the Batter: In a separate large bowl, beat brown sugar and eggs together until fluffy and pale. Pour in vegetable oil and pumpkin puree, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients and milk in three alternating batches until the batter is smooth and creamy.
Bake Layers: Divide the batter evenly among your prepared cake pans. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Assemble the Cake: Once the cake layers have completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top, then add the second cake layer. Repeat for additional layers, if using, and finish by drizzling salted caramel over the top for a stunning presentation.
Optional: Sprinkle crushed pecans on top for an added crunch and flavor.

Notes

Chill your frosting for optimal spreading consistency. Don't overmix the batter for a light texture. Use room temperature ingredients and measure flour accurately for best results.

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