pumpkin cake mix

pumpkin cake mix

Okay, picture this: I’m it’s a chilly autumn evening, the leaves are crunching underfoot, and you’re craving something warm. What’s comforting, and sweet Is a full-blown Pumpkin Pie too much work? What is the best pumpkin cake mix recipe? What is a pumpkin pie? Is it really easy to make pumpkin spice cake? Is it possible to whip up a pumpkin spice latte faster than you can say “pumpkin spice”? Is fall a staple in my family? What is your favorite twist on a classic cake mix?

pumpkin cake mix final dish beautifully presented and ready to serve

What is pumpkin cake mix?

Pumpkin cake mix is, at its heart, a doctored-up version of simple cake mixes, elevated with the spice. Add pumpkin puree and a generous dose of Pumpkin Pie spice. What is the shortcut to fall-flavored bliss? What is essentially a yellow or spice cake mix transformed into moist, fragrant, and undeniably delicious cake? Autumnal treat. The name comes from the fact that, yes, you start with a cake mix! Don’t let that deter you; you will be able to make your own. How do I make a delicious cake? I’m short on time and just not in the mood for a complicated recipe.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Where do I start? What are some good reasons to make pumpkin cake mix?

Flavor:First of all, the taste is incredible. What is that perfect blend of warm spices – cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves – combined with the perfect combination of salt and pepper? What is the sweetness of pumpkin? Is it overly sweet?

Simplicity:What is the easiest cake you’ve ever made? How do I make a cake mix? No complicated steps, no fussy techniques, just pure simplicity. What is a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you want to have scrumptious treats but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen?

Cost-The ingredients are super budget-friendly. What is a Cake mix, pumpkin and spices? If you have all of these ingredients in your pantry, then you probably already have them. Which makes it even more important. Compare this recipe to buying a fancy bakery cake, and you’ll see what an awesome recipe this is.

Versatility:Can you bake it in a bundt pan, loaf pan or even as cupcakes? Can you frost it with cream cheese frosting, a simple glaze, or dust it just with sugar? Is it good enough to eat all on its own? I’ve even crumbled it up and used it as a topping for yogurt parfaits! What I love the most is how easy it is to adapt. Sometimes I add chocolate chips, sometimes pecans,sometimes even a swirl of cream cheese filling. What are some great recipes for apple crisp?

pumpkin cake mix ingredients organized and measured on kitchen counter

How do I make pumpkin cake mix?

Quick Overview

How do I make a pumpkin cake mix? How do I make a pumpkin pie mix? Mix it with pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, and pumpkin spice. Mix everything together, pour it into a pan, and bake until golden brown and smoky. A toothpick comes out clean. What is the beauty of this recipe? Even if you’re a beginner baker, you can nail this. What’s the hardest part of waiting for it to cool before diving in?

Ingredients

For the Main Batter: What is the best way

* 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix (I’ve also used spice cake mixes, and it’s delicious! (make sure it’s puree, not pumpkin pie filling) * 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin pure and 1 large egg. 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil) * 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, or a mix of cinnamon, cloves, etc.) nutmeg, ginger, and cloves) * 1/2 cup water (or milk, for a richer flavor)

For the Glaze:

* 1 cup powdered sugar * 2-3 tablespoons milk (or cream, for extra richness) * 1/2 teaspoon vanilla What is extract (option

How do I start

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch pan (or bundt pan, or line tin with cupcake liners). How do you remove cake from oven? I always do this step first so the oven is ready and the pan is prepped before I even start mixing. What are the ingredients?

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin pie spice and the cake mix. Set aside. Whisk them together to ensure the spice is evenly distributed. This step is important because it prevents clumps of spice from forming in the batter, which can cause a lump. What causes uneven flavor distribution? I find that a whisk works better than swiss for this step.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, and milk. Set aside. What is the best way to make sure all the eggs are well combined and there are no streaks of yolk. I like to use room-temperature eggs for this step, as they blend more easily with the other ingredients.

Step 4: Combine

How do you mix wet and dry ingredients together? Do not overmix the batter as this can lead to a tough cake. A few streaks of flour are okay. I usually stop mixing when I can still see a few specks of dry mix, then I give it one final stir. Is that OK? How do I make sure everything is incorporated with a spatula?

Step 5: Bake

How do I spread the batter in a pan? Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. How long does it take to bake a cake? I always rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even browning.

Step 6: Cool & Glaze

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once the cake is completely cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk (or cream), and vanilla. If using extract (if using) until smooth. How do you glaze a cake? I like to drizzle the glaze while the cake is still slightly warm, as it helps to adhere to the top layer.

Step 7: Slice & Serve

Once the glaze has set, slice the cake and serve. Is this cake delicious on its own? What is vanilla ice cream? I love to serve it with a cup of hot coffee or tea on an autumn evening.

What should I serve it with?

What is a pumpkin cake mix? Depends on the occasion.

For Breakfast:Serve a slice with latte or coffee with pumpkin spice. I like to crumble a bit of the cake over Greek yogurt with granola for quick and easy. What is a good breakfast parfait? What are some good ways to start the day with a warm cup of tea?

For Brunch:Dress up a platter with slices of the cake, fresh berries, and mascarpone cheese. Serve with mimosas or sparkling cider for an elegant and festive brunch. I love to add a small bowl of candied pecans for crunch.

As Dessert:Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Drizzle with caramel sauce or sprinkle with chopped nuts for extra indulgence. What is the perfect end to a cozy fall dinner? I sometimes add sea salt to caramel sauce for a salty-sweet contrast.

For Cozy Snacks:What is a good cake to serve with hot tea? What is the best way to satisfy a sweet craving on chilly afternoon? I make a batch of this cake just to have on hand for snacking throughout the week.

My family has a tradition of making this cake every Thanksgiving. What is a good alternative to pumpkin pie? I also like to make it for potlucks and bake sales, as it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

How do I make my pumpkin cake mix perfect?

How do I make a pumpkin cake mix? What are some tips for perfecting a cake?

What is the best cake mix?What is the difference between yellow and spice cake mix? I’ve even experimented with white cake mix, which results in a lighter, more delicate cake.

Pumpkin Puree:Make sure you’re using pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Is pumpkin pie filling too sweet? I always buy extra cans of pumpkin puree in the fall, as it’s a versatile ingredient for all sorts of recipes. What are some of the best recipes?

Spice Level:How much pumpkin pie spice do you like? If you prefer a more intense spice flavor, add an extra 1/2 teaspoon. Can you use individual spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, to create your own spice blend? Custom spice blend. I usually add a pinch of cardamom to my tea for smoky warmth.

Moisture Content:If your cake is dry, add an extra 1/4 cup of milk or sour cream to the batter. How do I make a moister cake? I’ve also found that adding a tablespoon of applesauce helps to keep the cake moist.

Glaze ConsistencyHow much milk should be used in a glaze? For a thicker glaze, add less milk. I like to add a pinch of salt to the glaze to balance out the sweetness.

Ingredient Swaps:Is it safe to substitute melted butter for vegetable oil? I’ve also used applesauce as a substitute for the oil, which results in slightly denser, more moist. Can you add a handful of chopped nuts to the batter? added texture and flavor.

Doneness Testing: Use a toothpick to test for doneness. Insert the toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done. If it comes out with wet batter on it, continue baking for a few more minutes. I always start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time, as ovens can vary.

I learned the hard way that overbaking this cake can lead to a dry, crumbly texture. So, it’s always better to err on the side of slightly underbaked than overbaked. And remember, the cake will continue to cook as it cools, so it’s important to let it cool completely before frosting or glazing.

Storing and Reheating Tips

This pumpkin cake mix stays fresh for several days when stored properly. Here’s how to store and reheat it for the best results:

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This is the best option for short-term storage, as it keeps the cake moist and flavorful. I usually cover the cake with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out.

Refrigerator Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This is a good option if you want to extend the shelf life of the cake. However, refrigerating the cake can cause it to dry out slightly, so it’s important to wrap it tightly to prevent moisture loss.

Freezer Instructions: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. This is a great option if you want to make the cake ahead of time or if you have leftovers that you want to save for later.

Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to freeze the cake, it’s best to freeze it without the glaze. You can make the glaze fresh when you’re ready to serve the cake. This will prevent the glaze from becoming soggy or cracking during freezing.

To reheat the cake, simply let it come to room temperature or warm it in the microwave for a few seconds. If you’re reheating a frozen cake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before warming it up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute a gluten-free cake mix for the regular cake mix. I recommend using a high-quality gluten-free cake mix that is specifically designed for baking. You may also need to add a binder, such as xanthan gum, to help the cake hold its shape. Be sure to check the ingredient list of the glaze to ensure it is also gluten-free. Expect a slightly denser texture.
Do I need to peel the pumpkin?
You don’t need to peel the pumpkin! This recipe uses canned pumpkin puree, which is already cooked and pureed. Make sure you’re using pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, as pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar and spices.
Can I make this as muffins instead?
Absolutely! Simply pour the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You may need to adjust the baking time depending on your oven. I always fill the muffin liners about 2/3 full to prevent them from overflowing. This is a great way to make individual servings of the cake.
How can I adjust the sweetness level?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the glaze to lower the sweetness level. You can also substitute a natural sweetener, such as honey or maple syrup, for some of the sugar. I recommend starting with a small amount of sweetener and adding more to taste. You can also add a pinch of salt to the batter to balance out the sweetness.
What can I use instead of the glaze?
If you’re not a fan of glaze, you can dust the cake with powdered sugar, frost it with cream cheese frosting, or serve it with a dollop of whipped cream. You can also drizzle it with caramel sauce or sprinkle it with chopped nuts. The possibilities are endless!

Final Thoughts

pumpkin cake mix slice on plate showing perfect texture and swirl pattern

So, there you have it – my go-to recipe for a delicious and easy pumpkin cake mix. I truly believe this cake is worth trying because it’s a simple way to bring a touch of fall flavor into your home. It’s moist, flavorful, and incredibly versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other cake mix recipes for more easy and delicious dessert ideas. Happy baking! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out – let me know in the comments below! And don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with your friends!

pumpkin cake mix

A delicious and easy pumpkin cake made with a cake mix. Perfect for fall!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 box pumpkin cake mix
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 0.5 cup vegetable oil
  • 4 large eggs

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
  • In a large bowl, combine cake mix, pumpkin puree, oil, and eggs. Mix until well combined.
  • Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Let cool completely before frosting.

Notes

This recipe can be easily customized with different frostings and toppings.

Nutrition

Serving: 200gCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 120gProtein: 120gFat: 120gSaturated Fat: 120gPolyunsaturated Fat: 120gMonounsaturated Fat: 120gTrans Fat: 120gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 120gSugar: 120gVitamin A: 120IUVitamin C: 120mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 120mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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