Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 2 cups white sugar
• 1 ¼ cups vegetable oil
• 2 cups canned pumpkin
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs

Optional

• 1 cup chopped walnuts

Prep Time, Cooking Time, Total Time, and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 12

Steps to Make the Spiced Pumpkin Walnut Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two round cake pans. Alternatively, you can line them with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt.
2. Stir to ensure the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

1. In another large bowl, whisk together the sugar, vegetable oil, canned pumpkin, vanilla extract, and eggs.
2. Mix until the ingredients are fully combined and smooth.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently after each addition.
2. Mix just until the flour is incorporated; overmixing can make the cake dense.

Step 5: Add Walnuts (Optional)

1. Fold in the chopped walnuts, if using, for added texture and flavor.

Step 6: Pour and Bake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan(s), spreading it evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

1. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
2. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing or frosting.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

The Spiced Pumpkin Walnut Cake has stood the test of time for several reasons:

1. Seasonal Appeal: Pumpkin is a quintessential fall ingredient, and this cake embodies the flavors of the season.
2. Versatility: It can be enjoyed plain, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or topped with cream cheese frosting for a more decadent dessert.
3. Ease of Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible to bakers of all skill levels.
4. Nostalgic Flavor: The warm spices and moist texture evoke memories of home-baked treats, making this cake a comforting classic.
5. Healthy Ingredients: Pumpkin is rich in vitamins and fiber, while walnuts add healthy fats and protein, making this cake a slightly better-for-you indulgence.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 360 kcal
• Protein: 5 g
• Carbohydrates: 48 g
• Fat: 17 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sodium: 310 mg

FAQs

Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?

Yes, you can substitute fresh pumpkin puree for canned. To prepare fresh pumpkin puree, roast a halved pumpkin at 375°F (190°C) until tender, then blend the flesh into a smooth puree.

What If I Don’t Like Walnuts?

You can omit the walnuts or replace them with other nuts like pecans, or even dried fruit like raisins or cranberries.

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Is This Cake Freezer-Friendly?

Absolutely! Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

Tips for Making the Best Spiced Pumpkin Walnut Cake

1. Measure Ingredients Precisely: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour to avoid adding too much, which can make the cake dense.
2. Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until the flour disappears to maintain a light texture.
3. Enhance the Flavor: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for an even spicier cake.
4. Customize the Sweetness: Reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet dessert.
5. Experiment with Add-Ins: Try adding chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or even a swirl of cream cheese for a unique twist.

Storage Tips

Room Temperature:

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, especially if it’s unfrosted.

Refrigerator:

If frosted, store the cake in the refrigerator to keep the frosting fresh. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezer:

For longer storage, wrap the unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, let the cake sit in the refrigerator overnight before bringing it to room temperature.

Conclusion

The Spiced Pumpkin Walnut Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of everything we love about baking. Its moist crumb, rich flavor, and cozy spices make it the ultimate comfort food. This cake brings people together, whether served at family gatherings, holiday parties, or simply as a treat with your morning coffee.

What sets this recipe apart is its versatility. It can be enjoyed plain or elevated with frosting and toppings. The optional walnuts add a delightful crunch, while the pumpkin provides natural sweetness and nutrition. Plus, it’s easy to make, so even beginner bakers can achieve a bakery-worthy result.

Each bite of this cake is a reminder of the simple joys of life: the aroma of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen, the warmth of the oven, and the satisfaction of creating something delicious with your own hands. This recipe is timeless not just because of its taste but because of the memories it creates.

So grab your mixing bowl, preheat the oven, and treat yourself to a slice of Spiced Pumpkin Walnut Cake. It’s more than just a recipe—it’s a tradition waiting to be shared.