Ingredients

For the Pumpkin Spice Cake:

• 1 box pumpkin spice cake mix
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Optional Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp milk
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• A sprinkle of cinnamon (for dusting)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or a bundt pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin spice cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, milk, and pumpkin puree.
3. Add the pumpkin pie spice if you’d like an extra boost of flavor, then mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake for 25-30 minutes for a 9×13-inch pan or 35-40 minutes for a bundt pan, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake and dust with a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.

Step 4: Serve

1. Slice the cake and serve as is, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a festive dessert.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per slice, based on 12 servings)

• Calories: 230
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 1g

FAQs

Q: Can I use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned?
A: Yes, homemade pumpkin puree works well. Just ensure it’s the same consistency as canned to avoid affecting the texture of the cake.

Q: Can I skip the glaze?
A: Absolutely! The cake is delicious on its own, but the glaze adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, this cake can be made a day or two in advance. Keep it covered to maintain its moisture.

Tips for Making the Perfect Pumpkin Spice Cake

1. Use Pumpkin Pie Spice for Extra Flavor: Adding pumpkin pie spice intensifies the warm flavors. If you don’t have it, you can use a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
2. Avoid Overmixing the Batter: Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can make it dense.
3. Let the Cake Cool Completely Before Glazing: Ensure the cake is fully cooled before adding the glaze so it doesn’t melt.
4. Customize the Glaze: For a hint of fall flavor, try adding a touch of maple syrup or pumpkin pie spice to the glaze.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: You can also store it in the fridge for up to 5 days; it may get slightly denser when chilled.
• Freezing: Freeze slices of the cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cinnamon Vanilla Glaze is the ultimate autumn dessert, capturing the essence of fall with every bite. It’s a simple, yet delicious treat that brings together the warm, cozy flavors of pumpkin and spice, balanced perfectly with a moist, tender crumb. The optional glaze adds a delightful sweetness and a touch of elegance, making this cake suitable for everything from casual family gatherings to festive holiday events.

What makes this cake particularly wonderful is its ease of preparation. Using a pumpkin spice cake mix as the base, you can save time without sacrificing flavor. The addition of pumpkin puree and milk gives it a homemade feel, while the pumpkin pie spice boosts its depth and richness. Plus, the glaze is easy to whip up but adds a beautiful finish that makes this dessert truly special.

Perfect for enjoying with a hot cup of coffee or tea, this cake is versatile enough to be served as a dessert or a snack. You can even make it your own by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or raisins to the batter for extra texture. And with its beautiful fall-inspired flavor, it’s bound to be a hit with family and friends.

This cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a cozy experience that celebrates the season. Whether you’re enjoying it on a crisp fall afternoon or serving it to loved ones at a holiday gathering, this Pumpkin Spice Cake brings warmth and joy to the table. Give it a try and embrace the flavors of fall with every delicious bite!