There is something utterly magical about the cozy comfort of a Pumpkin Spice Latte transformed into a luscious, moist cake that you can slice and share. This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe combines all the rich flavors of your favorite autumn coffee with a tender crumb and a dreamy espresso cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth. If you’ve been craving a seasonal treat that feels both indulgent and wonderfully familiar, this recipe is your new best friend—perfect for cozy gatherings or just treating yourself to an extra-special slice of fall happiness.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating its signature comforting flavor and perfect texture. From the warm pumpkin pie spice that brings that quintessential autumn charm, to the espresso and pumpkin puree that infuse moisture and depth, every component comes together effortlessly.

All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups): The base that gives the cake its soft, tender crumb.
Pumpkin pie spice (1 tbsp + 1/4 tsp + 1 1/2 tsp): Adds that warm, spicy aroma essential for true fall flavor.
Baking powder (1 1/2 tsp): Helps the cake rise beautifully and stay fluffy.
Baking soda (1/4 tsp): Works with acidic ingredients for a perfect lift.
Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
Unsalted butter (10 tbsp + 1 cup): Provides richness and moisture; softened for easy mixing.
Granulated sugar (1 1/2 cups): Sweetens and helps create a tender crumb.
Eggs (2): Bind everything together and add structure.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp + 1 1/2 tsp): Deepens flavor complexity in batter and frosting.
Buttermilk (1/2 cup): Adds slight tanginess and moistness.
Canned pumpkin puree (1 cup): Brings that classic pumpkin flavor and moisture.
Espresso or strong coffee (1/4 cup): Provides the latte kick and intensifies the coffee notes.
Whole milk (1/3 cup): Enhances richness in the soak.
Sweetened condensed milk (1/2 cup): Adds creamy sweetness to the soak for that latte feel.
Cream cheese (8 oz): Cold, for a luscious and tangy frosting base.
Powdered sugar (2 cups): Sweetens and lightens the frosting.
Instant espresso powder (2 tsp): Dissolved into frosting for bold coffee flavor.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) for that perfect baking temperature. Grease a 9×9 inch light metal pan and line it with parchment paper to make sure your cake releases easily after baking. This step ensures an even bake and a smooth surface for frosting later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This blend evenly distributes your leavening agents and spices, ensuring that every slice of cake bursts with warming autumn flavor.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 2 minutes. This whipping step incorporates air into the batter, guaranteeing a soft texture that’s not dense or heavy.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and pale. This adds richness, binds the batter, and gives the cake structure.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

Mix in the buttermilk and canned pumpkin puree on a low speed. The batter may look a bit curdled here—that’s perfectly normal and means you’re on the right track toward a moist, tender crumb.

Step 6: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mix to your wet ingredients, blending on low until just combined. Overmixing can toughen the cake, so take your time and stop as soon as you see a homogenous batter.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour your batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35 to 38 minutes. Your cue is when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma during this baking stage will absolutely captivate your kitchen!

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Let the cake cool in the pan for 30 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling fully is essential for the soak and frosting to absorb properly without melting or sliding off.

Step 9: Prepare the Latte Soak

Mix together espresso, whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract in a liquid measuring cup. This soak infuses the cake with rich latte flavors, bringing the Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe to life with each bite.

Step 10: Make the Frosting Base

Whip the softened butter on high speed until pale and fluffy, taking about 5 to 10 minutes. This aerated base is what gives the frosting its light, creamy texture.

Step 11: Add Cream Cheese

Add cold cream cheese to the whipped butter and mix on medium speed until fully incorporated. Using cold cream cheese helps the frosting stay thick and stable, perfect for spreading and piping.

Step 12: Incorporate Powdered Sugar Gradually

Sift powdered sugar into the frosting in batches, mixing slowly after each addition to avoid a powdered sugar cloud! Then beat on high for 1 minute for a smooth, fluffy result.

Step 13: Add Final Flavors to Frosting

Dissolve the instant espresso powder in vanilla extract, then fold it into the frosting along with pumpkin pie spice. This layering of espresso and spice gives the frosting an irresistible kick that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin cake.

Step 14: Prep Cake for Soaking

Trim a thin layer off the top of the cooled cake to expose fresh crumb, then poke holes all over the surface with a wooden spoon handle. These pores are hungry for the latte soak!

Step 15: Pour Soak and Absorb

Slowly drizzle the latte soak over the cake, allowing it to seep into every nook and cranny. Patience here rewards you with a deeply flavored, moist cake.

Step 16: Frost the Cake

Spread the espresso cream cheese frosting generously over the cake using an offset spatula for a smooth and even coat. Don’t be shy—this frosting is part of the magic that makes this Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe so memorable.

Step 17: Add Final Touch

Sprinkle a little extra pumpkin pie spice over the top as a pretty, aromatic garnish. It’s the simple detail that elevates presentation and intensifies that seasonal vibe.

Step 18: Slice and Serve

Cut the cake into 16 squares and get ready to enjoy. Each slice offers a perfect harmony of pumpkin, spice, and espresso flavors that truly celebrate fall!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe

Garnishes

An extra sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice or a few whole coffee beans add a beautiful and authentic touch. You can also top slices with a dollop of lightly whipped cream or a small piece of caramel drizzle for that café-style indulgence.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, a warm chai latte, or a cozy glass of spiced apple cider. If you want to keep it dessert-focused, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or some candied pecans makes a delightful accompaniment.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive gathering, consider serving this cake on a rustic wooden board with seasonal decor like mini pumpkins or autumn leaves. You might also cut into smaller bite-size squares and arrange on a tiered server at brunch or a holiday party for an elegant touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, so leftovers often taste even better!

Freezing

If you want to save the cake for later, freeze individual slices or the whole cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

Gently warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked feel—just be careful not to overheat or the frosting may soften too much.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Absolutely! Just roast and blend fresh pumpkin until smooth, then measure out 1 cup for the recipe. Keep in mind that fresh puree might have a slightly different moisture content, so you may need to adjust the batter consistency slightly.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking mix that contains xanthan gum. The texture might be a bit denser, but the flavor will still shine through beautifully.

Can I use decaffeinated coffee or espresso?

Definitely! Decaf espresso or brewed decaf coffee works fine and keeps all the flavor without the caffeine punch.

Is it necessary to soak the cake with the latte mixture?

While optional, the soak adds incredible moisture and intensifies the signature Pumpkin Spice Latte flavor, making the cake truly special. Without it, the cake is still tasty but less rich.

Can I make this cake without cream cheese frosting?

You can swap the frosting for a simple pumpkin glaze or buttercream, but the espresso cream cheese frosting is what makes this Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe unforgettable with its creamy texture and complementary flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake Recipe is a true celebration of fall flavors wrapped in a comforting, tender cake that feels like a warm hug with every bite. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or simply because you deserve a seasonal treat, this cake will become a beloved staple in your recipe box. Dive in, get cozy, and savor the magic of autumn in cake form!