Dessert

Fluffy Pumpkin Caramel Cake

Name: Fluffy Pumpkin Caramel Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp ground cloves; 1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling); 1/2 cup milk; Whipped cream or frosting (optional for topping)

Bysarra August 18, 2025

Jump to Recipe

A moist, tender pumpkin cake infused with warm autumn spices and finished with a rich caramel touch. This dessert is perfect for gatherings, holiday dinners, or whenever you want a cozy, comforting treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Fluffy Pumpkin Caramel Cake strikes the perfect balance between light texture and indulgent flavor. The natural sweetness of pumpkin pairs beautifully with the buttery caramel, making each bite unforgettable. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also makes a stunning dessert centerpiece.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Ground ginger
Ground cloves
Salt
Pumpkin purée
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Unsalted butter (melted or softened)
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Heavy cream (for caramel)
Additional butter and sugar (for caramel)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or round cake pans.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
In another bowl, beat together pumpkin purée, granulated sugar, brown sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
While the cake cools slightly, prepare the caramel sauce by heating sugar until melted and amber-colored, then carefully whisk in butter and heavy cream.
Drizzle the caramel over the cooled cake before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 12 servings. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and baking time is 35 minutes, with an additional 15 minutes for cooling and caramel preparation.

Variations

Add a cream cheese frosting layer before drizzling caramel for extra richness.
Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for a nutty crunch.
Make it a layered cake by baking in two round pans and stacking with caramel or cream cheese frosting in between.
Replace caramel drizzle with a salted caramel glaze for a sweet-salty twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds to restore softness.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned purée?

Yes, you can roast and mash fresh pumpkin, just ensure it is well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day ahead and add the caramel before serving for the best presentation.

What type of caramel works best?

A homemade caramel sauce is ideal, but store-bought caramel can also be used for convenience.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free butter, coconut cream for caramel, and plant-based milk alternatives.

Can I add chocolate to this cake?

Absolutely, chocolate chips or a drizzle of chocolate ganache pairs well with pumpkin and caramel.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready.

Can I bake this in a bundt pan?

Yes, a bundt pan works well. Adjust baking time to 45–50 minutes.

What can I serve with this cake?

It pairs beautifully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or spiced lattes.

Can I make cupcakes instead of a large cake?

Yes, pour the batter into lined muffin tins and bake for 18–20 minutes.

Conclusion

This Fluffy Pumpkin Caramel Cake is a delightful autumn-inspired dessert that combines the cozy warmth of pumpkin spice with the indulgent sweetness of caramel. Perfect for holidays or casual gatherings, it is a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit various preferences and occasions. Whether served plain, layered, or with a creamy frosting, it is guaranteed to be a seasonal favorite.

sarra