Indulge in the delightful fusion of seasonal flavors with this cream cheese frosted chocolate pumpkin cake. This dessert combines the rich, earthy taste of pumpkin with the decadence of chocolate and the smooth, tangy sweetness of cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any fall gathering or simply as a cozy treat to enjoy at home, this cake is sure to impress with its moist texture and harmonious blend of spices.
While most ingredients in this recipe are common pantry staples, the canned pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice might be less familiar to some. Canned pumpkin is typically found in the baking aisle, often near other pie fillings. Pumpkin pie spice is a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, and can usually be located with other spices or baking ingredients.
Ingredients for Cream Cheese Frosted Chocolate Pumpkin Cake
flour: The base ingredient for the cake, providing structure and texture.
baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise.
baking soda: Another leavening agent that reacts with acidic ingredients to create a light, airy texture.
cinnamon: A warm spice that adds depth and flavor.
pumpkin pie spice: A blend of spices that enhances the pumpkin flavor.
white sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps with browning.
vegetable oil: Adds moisture and richness to the cake.
vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
canned pumpkin: Provides moisture, flavor, and a tender crumb.
eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure.
mini chocolate chips: Add bursts of chocolate in every bite.
cream cheese: The base for the frosting, providing a rich, tangy flavor.
butter: Adds creaminess and richness to the frosting.
powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
vanilla extract: Adds an extra layer of flavor to the frosting.
One reader, Kelley Mccullough says:
This cake is a delightful blend of flavors! The moist pumpkin pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate chips, and the cream cheese frosting adds a heavenly touch. A must-try for fall baking!
Techniques Required for Making This Delectable Cake
How to grease and flour a pan: Grease the pan with butter or oil, then add a small amount of flour and shake it around until the entire surface is coated. Tap out any excess flour. How to combine dry ingredients: Use a whisk or sifter to mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice evenly. How to fold in chocolate chips: Gently mix the chocolate chips into the batter using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed without overmixing. How to cream together cream cheese and butter: Use a mixer to blend the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. How to add powdered sugar gradually: Add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture a little at a time, mixing well after each addition to avoid lumps. How to check cake doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is done.
How To Make Cream Cheese Frosted Chocolate Pumpkin Cake
Takes very little effort in the kitchen, this moist and fluffy pumpkin cake is made from pumpkin puree, cream cheese frosting, and chocolate chip sprinkles.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Cake:
- 2cupsflour
- 1tbspbaking powder
- 2tspbaking soda
- 1tspcinnamon
- 1tsppumpkin pie spice
- 1¾cupswhite sugar
- ½cupvegetable oil
- 1tspvanilla
- 2½cupscanned pumpkin
- 4eggs
- 1cupmini chocolate chips
For Frosting:
- 8ozcream cheese,softened
- ⅓cupbutter,softened
- 3¼cupspowdered sugar
- 1tspvanilla extract
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour a 9 by 13 pan.
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In a large bowl combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice.
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In a separate bowl combine sugar, oil, vanilla, pumpkin, and eggs.
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Add the pumpkin mixture to the flour mixture and gently stir until combined. Do not overmix. Fold in chocolate chips.
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Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
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Cream together cream cheese and butter.
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Add in powdered sugar a little at a time.
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Add in vanilla and turn mixer on medium high and mix until light and fluffy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 642.67kcal
- Fat: 27.01g
- Saturated Fat: 10.76g
- Trans Fat: 0.32g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10.24g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.43g
- Carbohydrates: 95.90g
- Fiber: 2.69g
- Sugar: 75.08g
- Protein: 6.60g
- Cholesterol: 90.47mg
- Sodium: 407.32mg
- Calcium: 154.63mg
- Potassium: 179.01mg
- Iron: 1.72mg
- Vitamin A: 532.39µg
- Vitamin C: 2.30mg
Helpful Technique for Achieving the Perfect Cream Cheese Frosting
When folding in the chocolate chips into the batter, make sure to do so gently to avoid deflating the cake. This ensures an even distribution of chocolate throughout the cake without overmixing, which can result in a denser texture.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Delicious Recipe
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients before starting. This ensures you have everything ready and can mix quickly.
Use canned pumpkin: Opt for canned pumpkin instead of fresh to save time on preparation.
Room temperature dairy: Ensure cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for easier mixing.
One-bowl method: Combine dry and wet ingredients in one bowl to minimize cleanup.
Preheat oven early: Start preheating the oven before you begin mixing to save waiting time.
Use a mixer: Use an electric mixer for the frosting to achieve a smooth, fluffy texture quickly.
Substitute Ingredients For Cream Cheese Frosted Chocolate Pumpkin Cake Recipe
flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour blend: If you need a gluten-free option, a gluten-free flour blend can be used to maintain the texture and structure of the cake.
baking powder - Substitute with 1/4 tsp baking soda + 1/2 tsp cream of tartar: This combination can mimic the leavening effect of baking powder.
baking soda - Substitute with 3 tsp baking powder: If you don't have baking soda, you can use baking powder, but you will need more of it.
cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can provide a similar warm spice flavor to the cake.
pumpkin pie spice - Substitute with 1/2 tsp cinnamon + 1/4 tsp nutmeg + 1/4 tsp ginger: This combination replicates the flavor profile of pumpkin pie spice.
white sugar - Substitute with brown sugar: Brown sugar adds a deeper, molasses-like flavor and extra moisture to the cake.
vegetable oil - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used to reduce fat content while keeping the cake moist.
vanilla - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but pleasant flavor profile.
canned pumpkin - Substitute with sweet potato puree: Sweet potato puree has a similar texture and sweetness, making it a good alternative.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tbsp ground flaxseed with 3 tbsp water per egg. This is a good vegan alternative that helps bind the ingredients.
mini chocolate chips - Substitute with chopped dark chocolate: Chopped dark chocolate can provide a richer flavor and similar texture.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a tangy flavor and creamy texture similar to cream cheese.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter.
powdered sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar blended into a powder: Blended coconut sugar can be a less processed alternative to powdered sugar.
vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a unique sweetness and flavor to the frosting.
Presentation Ideas for a Stunning Chocolate Pumpkin Cake
Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the chocolate pumpkin cake into elegant, bite-sized squares to ensure a refined presentation. This allows each guest to enjoy a perfect balance of flavors without feeling overwhelmed.
Use decoration: Garnish each piece with a delicate swirl of cream cheese frosting using a piping bag. Add a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips on top for a touch of texture and visual appeal.
Incorporate seasonal elements: Place a small, edible pumpkin candy or a thin slice of roasted pumpkin next to each piece of cake to highlight the seasonal theme and add a pop of color.
Add a contrasting sauce: Drizzle a light chocolate ganache or caramel sauce artistically around the plate to complement the cake's flavors and enhance the overall presentation.
Use elegant plating: Serve the cake on a pristine, white plate to make the colors and textures of the dessert stand out. Consider using a rectangular or square plate for a modern touch.
Incorporate fresh elements: Add a few fresh mint leaves or a small cluster of berries to the plate for a burst of freshness and a vibrant contrast to the rich cake.
Create height and dimension: Stack two small pieces of cake slightly off-center to create a sense of height and dimension on the plate. This adds visual interest and sophistication to the presentation.
Use a dusting of powdered sugar: Lightly dust the plate and the cake with powdered sugar just before serving to add a touch of elegance and a hint of sweetness.
Highlight textures: Ensure the cream cheese frosting is whipped to a light and fluffy consistency, creating a beautiful contrast with the dense, moist chocolate pumpkin cake.
Finish with a flourish: Add a small, edible gold leaf or a delicate chocolate curl on top of each piece of cake for a luxurious finishing touch that will impress even the most discerning culinary professionals.
Essential Tools for Baking This Delightful Dessert
Oven: Used to bake the cake at a consistent temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
9 by 13 pan: The baking pan size specified for this recipe to ensure even baking.
Mixing bowls: Used to combine the dry ingredients in one and the wet ingredients in another.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour, sugar, oil, and pumpkin.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities of ingredients like baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract.
Spatula: Handy for folding in the chocolate chips and scraping down the sides of the mixing bowls.
Whisk: Useful for combining dry ingredients thoroughly.
Electric mixer: Ideal for creaming together the cream cheese and butter, and for mixing the frosting until light and fluffy.
Toothpick: Used to check if the cake is done by inserting it into the center and seeing if it comes out clean.
Cooling rack: Allows the cake to cool evenly after baking.
Spreader or offset spatula: Used to evenly spread the cream cheese frosting over the cake.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Chocolate Pumpkin Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days.
If you want to store the cake for a longer period, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the refrigerator.
To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
When you're ready to serve the frozen cake, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, let the cake come to room temperature before serving.
If you want to freeze individual slices of the cake, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. This way, you can easily grab a slice whenever you want without having to thaw the entire cake.
When storing the cake, make sure to keep it away from any strong-smelling foods, as the cream cheese frosting can easily absorb odors.
If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as mold or an off-odor, discard the cake immediately.
How To Reheat Leftover Cream Cheese Frosted Chocolate Pumpkin Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover cream cheese frosted chocolate pumpkin cake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the cake loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the frosting from burning. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cake is heated through and the frosting is soft and gooey.
For a quicker method, you can use the microwave. Place a single slice of the cream cheese frosted chocolate pumpkin cake on a microwave-safe plate. Heat it on high power for 15-20 seconds, or until the cake is warm and the frosting is melted. Be careful not to overheat, as the cake may become rubbery.
If you prefer a crispy texture, you can reheat the cream cheese frosted chocolate pumpkin cake in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place a slice of the cake in the air fryer basket and heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the cake is warm and the frosting is melted. Keep an eye on the cake to ensure it doesn't burn.
For a more indulgent treat, you can transform your leftover cream cheese frosted chocolate pumpkin cake into a delicious bread pudding. Cut the cake into small cubes and place them in a greased baking dish. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Pour the mixture over the cake cubes and let it soak for 15-20 minutes. Bake the bread pudding in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.
If you want to enjoy your leftover cream cheese frosted chocolate pumpkin cake without reheating, you can crumble it over a bowl of vanilla ice cream or yogurt. The combination of the rich, moist cake and the cool, creamy base is simply irresistible.
Interesting Trivia About Chocolate Pumpkin Cakes
A fun fact about this cream cheese frosted chocolate pumpkin cake recipe is that the combination of pumpkin and chocolate chips creates a unique flavor profile that balances the sweetness of the chocolate with the earthy, spiced notes of the pumpkin. This makes it a perfect dessert for autumn gatherings and holiday celebrations.
Is Making This Cream Cheese Frosted Cake at Home Cost-Effective?
This cream cheese frosted chocolate pumpkin cake recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like flour, sugar, vegetable oil, and canned pumpkin are affordable and commonly found in most kitchens. Specialty items like mini chocolate chips and cream cheese might add a bit to the cost, but overall, it's a budget-friendly dessert. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.
Is This Decadent Dessert Healthy or Unhealthy?
This cream cheese frosted chocolate pumpkin cake recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The cake itself contains a significant amount of sugar, oil, and chocolate chips, which contribute to its high calorie and fat content. The cream cheese frosting, made with butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar, further adds to the calorie and fat count. While the pumpkin puree does provide some nutrients, such as vitamin A and fiber, the overall nutritional value of the cake is overshadowed by the less healthy ingredients.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the cake batter and frosting, or replace some of the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour to increase the fiber content
- Replace some of the oil with unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas to reduce the fat content
- Opt for dark chocolate chips, which contain more antioxidants than milk chocolate chips
- Reduce the amount of frosting used, or make a lighter frosting using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese and butter
By incorporating these changes, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of this cake that still satisfies your sweet tooth.
Editor's Opinion on This Indulgent Chocolate Pumpkin Treat
This chocolate pumpkin cake with cream cheese frosting is a delightful fusion of flavors. The moist pumpkin base, enhanced by warm spices and mini chocolate chips, offers a comforting autumnal taste. The cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy contrast that balances the sweetness perfectly. The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all levels. However, consider adding a pinch of salt to the frosting to elevate its flavor profile. Overall, it's a crowd-pleasing dessert that's perfect for fall gatherings.
Enhance Your Cream Cheese Frosted Chocolate Pumpkin Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Cream Cheese Frosted Chocolate Pumpkin Cake Recipe:
This cream cheese frosted chocolate pumpkin cake recipe is a must-try for any dessert lover. The combination of pumpkin and chocolate chips creates a moist and flavorful cake, while the cream cheese frosting adds a rich and tangy finish. With easy-to-follow instructions and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Trust in the blend of spices and the balance of sweetness to deliver a delightful treat that will impress your family and friends.
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