Name: Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 12 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup canned pumpkin puree; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup brown sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; ½ cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled; 2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; For frosting: 8 oz cream cheese, ¼ cup unsalted butter, 2 cups powdered sugar, 2 tablespoon strong coffee

Hey y'all! Get ready to fall in love (again) with everything pumpkin spice – but this time, it's cake. This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe combines all the cozy flavors of your favorite autumn coffee shop drink into one rich, moist, and aromatic dessert. It's the ultimate treat for everything from holiday gatherings to Sunday brunch, or just when you need a sweet pick-me-up with your coffee. Craving a slice already? Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe

Each bite is bursting with warm spices and pumpkin flavor.
The cake's tender crumb and espresso notes bring coffeehouse vibes to your own kitchen.
It's easy to make and impressive enough for any festive occasion.
Pairs perfectly with your morning (or afternoon!) cup of coffee or tea.
Adaptable with gluten-free, vegan, or nutty variations depending on your needs.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¾ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup light brown sugar, packed
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
½ cup sour cream, room temperature
¼ cup strong brewed coffee or espresso, cooled
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Espresso Frosting:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
2 tablespoons strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (for garnish, optional)

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe – Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prep Your Equipment & Oven

Prep time: 25 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes (includes baking and cooling)
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.

Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon until well combined.

Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium-high for 2-3 minutes or until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in eggs one at a time. Mix in pumpkin puree, sour cream, cooled coffee/espresso, and vanilla until just blended.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures & Bake

With mixer on low, add dry ingredients in two batches, mixing until just incorporated. Do not overmix.
Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
Bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick in the center comes out clean.
Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Espresso Frosting

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter on medium speed until smooth.
Gradually add powdered sugar, beating on low to combine, then whip until fluffy.
Beat in cooled espresso and vanilla extract until silky.

Step 7: Assemble & Frost

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread about ⅓ of the frosting over top.
Top with second cake layer and frost sides and top with remaining frosting.
Dust with pumpkin pie spice for a festive finish, if desired.

Notes for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe

For the best flavor, use pure pumpkin puree – check this guide on making your own.
Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter and even bake.
If short on time, you can bake the cake layers a day ahead and frost the next day – just wrap tightly and refrigerate.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe: Variations

Gluten-Free: Swap the flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
Vegan: Use vegan butter, dairy-free cream cheese, flax eggs, and plant-based sour cream/yogurt.
Add Crunch: Fold ¾ cup toasted pecans or walnuts into the batter before baking.

Required Equipment for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe

Two 8-inch round cake pans
Stand mixer or hand mixer
Mixing bowls (medium and large)
Offset spatula or butter knife for frosting
Wire cooling rack
Parchment paper

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe Storage & Shelf Life

Store frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Let slices come to room temperature before serving for best texture.
Freeze individual slices (well-wrapped) for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Serve with hot or iced coffee, chai, or a mug of spicy cocoa.
A scoop of vanilla bean or cinnamon ice cream makes the perfect dessert pairing.
Garnish with an extra sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice or candied ginger for a festive touch.

Pro Tips for Best Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Results

Don't overmix the batter for a tender, fluffy crumb – learn more about proper mixing on Sally's Baking Addiction.
Use freshly brewed, strong coffee or espresso for bold latte flavor without making the cake soggy.
For bakery-style even layers, use a kitchen scale to weigh your batter into each pan.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe FAQ

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree? No, pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar and spices that will affect the sweetness and texture – opt for pure pumpkin puree.
How do I know when my cake is done? Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it's ready!
Can I make cupcakes instead of a layer cake? Absolutely – bake in lined muffin tins at 350°F (175°C) for about 18-20 minutes.

If you want to explore more about the nutritional aspects of pumpkin, check out this resource on Healthline.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe