Name: Spiced Pumpkin Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 43 min
Total time: 58 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (15.25 ounce) box spice cake mix (Duncan Hines Perfectly Moist Spice Cake Mix recommended); 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice; 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1 cup heavy cream; ¼ cup (½ stick) salted butter, melted; 4 large eggs; ½ cup cream cheese spread; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional, for thinning frosting); Chopped pecans (optional garnish)

Print Recipe· 3.8 from 1 review

If autumn had a signature dessert, this Spiced Pumpkin Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe would undoubtedly be it. Imagine a moist, tender cake bursting with warm pumpkin flavors and cozy spices, all draped in a luscious cream cheese frosting that adds the perfect touch of tangy sweetness. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or craving a comforting slice with your afternoon tea, this cake’s rich texture and inviting aroma will turn any moment into a celebration of fall’s finest flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various baking ingredients laid out on a white marbled surface. There are eight brown eggs placed in a white egg carton on the right. Above and to the left are a clear plastic bag filled with light brown powder and a small glass bowl filled with dark liquid, likely vanilla extract. Several small white bowls contain different ingredients: one with thick white cream or frosting at the top left, one with bright orange pumpkin puree at the bottom right, one with brown powdered spice near the center bottom, and one with white granulated powder just below the eggs. In the center lies a stick of light yellow butter with text on its wrapper. A white cup holding light, creamy liquid sits at the bottom left. The arrangement is orderly and clean. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is easier than you’d expect, and each one plays a vital role in bringing this cake to life. From the spice cake mix that offers a foundation of warming flavors to the pumpkin puree that infuses moistness and color, every element works together to create that perfect balance.

Spice cake mix (15.25 oz): Provides essential spices and the base structure for the cake, saving you time without sacrificing flavor.
Pumpkin pie spice (2 teaspoons): Adds layers of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove to deepen the autumnal essence of the cake.
Pumpkin puree (1 cup): The star ingredient that makes the cake moist and gives it that unmistakable pumpkin taste.
Heavy cream (1 cup plus optional 1-2 tbsp): Ensures richness in the batter and smoothness in the frosting.
Salted butter, melted (¼ cup): Adds a subtle savory note while keeping the cake tender.
Large eggs (4): Bind the batter and contribute to its fluffy texture.
Cream cheese spread (½ cup): Creates a silky, tangy frosting that perfectly complements the spice cake.
Powdered sugar (2 cups): Sweetens the frosting while making it delightfully smooth and creamy.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Lends warmth and depth to the frosting’s flavor profile.
Chopped pecans (optional): Offer a crunchy contrast when sprinkled on the finished cake.

How to Make Spiced Pumpkin Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Mix the Dry Ingredients

First off, preheat your oven to 350°F so it’s ready to greet your batter at its peak. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the spice cake mix and pumpkin pie spice, blending those fragrant spices evenly with the cake base. This step sets the stage for a deeply flavorful bundt cake.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients with Dry

Add in the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, melted butter, and eggs to the dry mixture. Stir until everything comes together in a smooth, luscious batter. The pumpkin puree keeps the cake wonderfully moist while the butter adds richness. Make sure the eggs are well incorporated so your cake will rise just right.

Step 3: Prepare Your Bundt Pan

It’s crucial to grease your bundt cake pan thoroughly, covering every nook and cranny. This extra attention guarantees your cake will pop out beautifully after baking, showing off all those elegant swirls and curves.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the greased bundt pan. Give the pan a gentle tap on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles—this step ensures an even crumb. Slide your pan into the oven, baking for 38 to 43 minutes. Use a toothpick to check doneness: it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 5: Cool Before Frosting

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes—this resting time helps it firm up a bit so it won’t break apart. Then invert it carefully onto a serving plate. Let it cool all the way to room temperature because warm cake and frosting don’t mix well; you want that frosting to glide on smoothly.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Grab your mixer and beat together the cream cheese spread and powdered sugar until thick and creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract for that extra boost of flavor. If the frosting feels too stiff, add a tablespoon or two of heavy cream to reach the perfect drizzle consistency. This frosting is the crowning glory of your cake.

Step 7: Frost and Garnish

Drizzle the frosting lovingly over the cooled bundt cake, letting it cascade down the sides in beautiful, glossy ribbons. If you like, sprinkle chopped pecans on top to add a bit of crunch and nutty flavor contrast. Then slice, serve, and watch smiles light up the room.

How to Serve Spiced Pumpkin Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

A metal Bundt pan sits on a white marbled surface filled with two layers of batter: the bottom layer is light cream colored and smooth, while the top layer is a thick, light brown batter spread unevenly over the cream base. To the upper left is a white bowl with some light brown batter inside and a wooden spatula resting in it. Nearby, there's a white bowl filled with white powdered sugar, a small glass bowl with dark brown vanilla extract, and another white bowl holding smooth cream cheese. A few cinnamon sticks lie on the white marbled surface in the lower left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate the look and taste of your Spiced Pumpkin Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe, try adding a sprinkle of chopped pecans or even a dusting of cinnamon on top. These simple touches add texture and accentuate the cake’s warm flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you’re serving it as part of a dessert spread, consider fresh fruit like sliced pears or cranberries to lighten the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive twist, serve your cake slices on a rustic wooden board surrounded by mini pumpkins and fall leaves. Or plate individual slices with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a sprig of mint for a charming presentation that’s sure to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, keep your cake tightly covered at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, store it in the refrigerator where it will keep well for up to a week, just make sure it’s wrapped to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the un-frosted cake wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before frosting for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Warm slices slightly in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds to revive the cake’s moist texture before serving. Just be careful not to overheat as the cream cheese frosting can soften too much.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade pumpkin puree works just as well and can add a fresh, vibrant flavor to your Spiced Pumpkin Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid if it’s very wet.

Is there a way to make this cake dairy-free?

You can substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like coconut cream, vegan butter, and dairy-free cream cheese to keep it allergy-friendly while still delivering that rich, creamy frosting experience.

Can I bake this cake in a different pan?

Yes, though a bundt pan gives the cake its signature shape and texture. If using a loaf or round pan, adjust the baking time accordingly and check for doneness more frequently.

What’s the best way to avoid the cake sticking to the pan?

Grease your bundt pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray and dust it lightly with flour or sugar to create a barrier that helps the cake release cleanly.

How spicy is this Spiced Pumpkin Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?

The spice level is warm and cozy but not overpowering, making it appealing to most palates. You can always adjust the pumpkin pie spice quantity to suit your preference if you want it more or less pronounced.

Final Thoughts

This Spiced Pumpkin Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is a treasured blend of flavors and textures that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s straightforward enough for a weeknight treat yet elegant enough to wow guests during the holidays. Dive in and savor the comforting magic of pumpkin and spice wrapped in creamy frosting—you’ll be so glad you did.