Ingredients
Method
Making the Cake Batter
- Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13" baking pan and lightly flour.
- Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat both sugars with melted butter/oil until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then pumpkin and vanilla.
- Combine: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated.
Baking the Cake
- Transfer Batter: Pour into prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake: 30-35 minutes until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let cool completely in pan on a wire rack (about 1 hour).
Preparing the Frosting
- Beat Base: Whip cream cheese and butter until fluffy (2-3 minutes).
- Add Sugar: Gradually mix in powdered sugar and vanilla.
- Adjust Consistency: Add milk 1 tbsp at a time if too thick.
Assembling the Cake
- Frost: Spread frosting evenly over cooled cake.
- Garnish: Lightly dust with cinnamon using a fine-mesh sieve.
- Slice & Serve: Cut into squares and enjoy!
Notes
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
✅ Ingredient Temp Matters: Room temperature eggs and dairy prevent lumpy batter.✅ Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon into measuring cup and level - don't scoop!
✅ Don't Overbake: The cake continues cooking as it cools.
✅ Frosting Consistency: Should be spreadable but not runny.
✅ Storage: Refrigerate if keeping >1 day. Bring to room temp before serving.