Indulge in the warm and comforting flavors of fall with a delicious slice of pumpkin spice cake topped with maple buttercream. One slice contains 832 calories, making it a decadent treat to savor.
But calories shouldn't be the only concern when it comes to food. The pumpkin and spices used in the cake are packed with nutrients and antioxidants, making this dessert a guilt-free pleasure. A single slice provides a good source of vitamin A and fiber.
In this article, we'll explore the flavor and texture of the cake, the role of maple buttercream, and tips for the perfect frosting. We'll also provide detailed baking instructions and advice on how to store leftovers.
A slice of pumpkin spice cake with maple buttercream contains 832 calories, 49g of fat, 97g of carbohydrates, and 5g of protein. While the calorie count is high, the cake is made with wholesome ingredients such as pumpkin puree, whole wheat flour, and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. These ingredients provide important nutrients, including vitamin A, iron, and fiber. If you're watching your calorie intake, you can enjoy a smaller slice or substitute some of the butter with applesauce for a lower-fat option.
Flavor Profile of Pumpkin Spice Cake
Pumpkin spice cake is a staple dessert during the fall season, and for good reason. The warm and comforting flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger make this cake a delicious and fragrant treat. The pumpkin puree gives the cake a moist and tender crumb, while the spices add depth and complexity to the flavor profile. When topped with sweet and buttery maple frosting, this cake becomes irresistible. The aroma and taste of pumpkin spice cake are sure to evoke feelings of warmth and coziness, making it the perfect dessert for a chilly autumn day.
Texture of Pumpkin Spice Cake
The texture of pumpkin spice cake is both fluffy and moist, thanks to the combination of pumpkin puree and oil in the batter. The crumb is tender, but not too dense, making it easy to slice and serve. When baked correctly, the cake should be slightly springy to the touch and have an even color throughout. The spices give the cake a warm and cozy flavor, while the pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness and a hint of earthiness. Overall, the texture of pumpkin spice cake is perfect for pairing with a rich and buttery frosting such as maple buttercream.
Role of Maple Buttercream
Maple buttercream is the perfect complement to pumpkin spice cake, adding a sweet and buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the warm spices of the cake. The buttercream is made with butter, powdered sugar, maple syrup, and a touch of vanilla extract. The maple syrup not only adds sweetness, but also gives the frosting a rich and velvety texture. The combination of pumpkin spice cake and maple buttercream creates a decadent and indulgent dessert that is perfect for any fall occasion.
Ingredients in the Cake
The ingredients for pumpkin spice cake typically include all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, oil, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree. These ingredients work together to create a moist and tender cake with warm and comforting flavors. You can also adjust the recipe by substituting some of the flour for almond flour or using coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for added health benefits. Overall, the ingredients in pumpkin spice cake are wholesome and packed with nutrients, making it a perfect dessert to enjoy guilt-free.
Ingredients in the Maple Buttercream
The ingredients for maple buttercream include unsalted butter, powdered sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. The butter and powdered sugar provide a creamy base for the frosting, while the maple syrup adds sweetness and richness. A touch of salt balances out the flavors and enhances the sweetness of the frosting. Overall, the ingredients in maple buttercream are simple and delicious, making it the perfect complement to pumpkin spice cake.
Baking Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Cake
To make pumpkin spice cake, preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch cake pan with cooking spray. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients, including both types of flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices. In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients, including the sugars, eggs, oil, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree. Mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until well combined. Slowly pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely before frosting with maple buttercream. For best results, use room temperature butter and be sure to sift the powdered sugar to prevent lumps in the frosting.
Tips for Perfect Maple Buttercream frosting
To make the perfect maple buttercream frosting, be sure to use room temperature butter and sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the mixing bowl. Add the maple syrup slowly, using a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired sweetness and consistency. You can also adjust the thickness of the frosting by adding a splash of milk or heavy cream. Before frosting the cake, be sure to let the buttercream come to room temperature and give it a quick whip in the mixer to make it creamy and spreadable.
Best Time to Serve the Cake
Pumpkin spice cake is a perfect dessert for any fall occasion, from Halloween parties to Thanksgiving dinners. Serve it alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy and comforting treat. You can also enjoy pumpkin spice cake as a snack or a sweet breakfast treat, pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream or cream cheese frosting. No matter the occasion, pumpkin spice cake is a crowd-pleaser that is sure to impress your guests.
How to Store Leftover Cake
To store leftover pumpkin spice cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. You can also store the cake and frosting separately, frosting it just before serving. Keep the cake at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. When ready to serve, let the cake come to room temperature and give the frosting a quick whip in the mixer to make it creamy and spreadable. Leftover pumpkin spice cake also freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let the cake thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions: Slice Pumpkin Spice Cake With Maple Buttercream
1. What ingredients are in the cake and frosting?
The pumpkin spice cake contains flour, sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, baking soda, and salt. The maple buttercream frosting includes butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and maple syrup.
2. Is this cake gluten-free?
No, this cake is not gluten-free as it contains flour.
3. What is the serving size for the calorie count provided?
The calorie count is for one slice of pumpkin spice cake with maple buttercream frosting. The serving size would depend on how the cake is sliced or portioned.
4. Can this cake be made ahead of time?
Yes, this cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. The frosting should be stored separately and added to the cake before serving.
5. Can the recipe be modified for dietary restrictions?
Yes, the recipe can be modified to be made vegan or dairy-free by using plant-based substitutes for butter and eggs. It could also be made with a gluten-free flour blend to make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.