Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Snack Cake
A delicious Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Snack Cake is the perfect treat for any occasion. This cake combines the warm flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon, making it ideal for fall gatherings, cozy afternoons, or a sweet finish to your dinner. Its moist texture and delightful snickerdoodle topping will surely impress your guests and leave them craving more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The blend of pumpkin puree and cinnamon creates a unique taste that stands out.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps, you can whip this cake up in no time, perfect for busy bakers.
- Versatile Dessert: Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, this cake suits all occasions beautifully.
- Moist and Delicious: The use of butter and pumpkin ensures a rich, moist texture that melts in your mouth.
- Perfectly Spiced: The addition of pumpkin pie spice gives each bite a seasonal touch that everyone will love.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready makes the experience enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 8×8 square baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Non-stick spray
Importance of Each Tool
- 8×8 square baking pan: This size is perfect for even baking and easy portioning.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to mix ingredients without mess.
- Whisk or electric mixer: These tools help achieve a light and fluffy batter.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for consistent results.
Ingredients
A super moist pumpkin cake that is covered in a seasonal cinnamon sugar mixture and baked to perfection.
For the Cake
- 1/2 cup butter (melted)
- 1 egg
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 3/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/4 cup flour
For the Topping
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
How to Make Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Snack Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare an 8×8 square baking pan by spraying it with non-stick spray.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl:
1. Combine melted butter, egg, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract.
2. Ensure that the melted butter isn’t too warm to prevent scrambling the egg.
3. Mix until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Add the following to the pumpkin mixture:
– Pumpkin pie spice
– Salt
– Baking powder
– Flour
Stir until all dry ingredients are incorporated into the batter.
Step 4: Pour into Pan
Pour the batter into your greased 8×8 baking pan evenly.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl:
– Combine sugar, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice for the topping.
– Sprinkle this mixture liberally over the top of your cake batter.
Step 6: Bake
Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25-27 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean when inserted into the center.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow your cake to cool slightly before serving warm. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Enjoy this delightful Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Snack Cake!
How to Serve Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Snack Cake
Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Snack Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want it plain or dressed up, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.
Warm with Whipped Cream
- Serve the cake warm and top it with a generous dollop of whipped cream for a classic treat.
A La Mode
- For an indulgent option, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The warmth of the cake pairs perfectly with the cold ice cream.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Enhance the pumpkin flavor by drizzling caramel sauce over each slice. This adds a rich sweetness that complements the spices.
Paired with Coffee
- Enjoy your Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Snack Cake alongside a hot cup of coffee. The flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon blend beautifully with your morning brew.
Festive Platter
- Arrange slices on a festive platter for gatherings. Garnish with cinnamon sticks or mini pumpkins for a seasonal touch.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Snack Cake
To ensure your Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Snack Cake turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh pumpkin puree and new spices enhance the cake’s flavor and texture.
- Don’t overmix – Mix just until combined to maintain a tender crumb.
- Check doneness carefully – Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
- Let it cool – Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. This helps set the texture.
- Store properly – Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Snack Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Snack Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
- Spiced Chai Tea – A warm spiced chai complements the flavors in the cake beautifully.
- Apple Cider – Serve warm apple cider alongside for a cozy fall treat.
- Cheese Plate – A selection of creamy cheeses provides a savory contrast to the sweet cake.
- Pumpkin Soup – A light pumpkin soup can serve as an excellent appetizer before dessert.
- Roasted Pecans – Crunchy roasted pecans add texture and flavor when served on the side.
- Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad balances out the richness of the cake, making for a lighter meal option.
- Cranberry Sauce – Sweet and tart cranberry sauce offers a unique twist that pairs well with pumpkin desserts.
- Chocolate Fondue – For those who love chocolate, serving fondue allows guests to dip pieces of cake for added decadence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Snack Cake turns out perfectly, be mindful of these common mistakes.
-
Ingredients: Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to an uneven texture. Always use precise measurements for the best results.
-
Overmixing: Mixing the batter too much can make the cake dense. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
-
Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect cooking time. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
-
Skipping Toppings: Omitting the cinnamon sugar topping will reduce flavor. Don’t skip this step; it adds delightful sweetness and crunch.
-
Not Using Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold ingredients can cause the batter to seize. Allow your butter and egg to reach room temperature before mixing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Snack Cake
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Snack Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Snack Cake special?
This cake blends the warm flavors of pumpkin with a delightful cinnamon sugar topping, creating a cozy dessert that’s perfect for fall.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes! You can substitute fresh pumpkin puree for canned pumpkin. Just ensure it’s well-cooked and blended smooth.
How do I customize my Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Snack Cake?
Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture. You can also adjust spices according to your preference!
What is the best way to serve this cake?
Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top for an extra indulgent treat.
Final Thoughts
The Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Snack Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different mix-ins or toppings, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the cozy flavors of fall!
Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Snack Cake
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 9 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the warmth of fall with our Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Snack Cake, a delightful treat that perfectly marries pumpkin spice flavors with a sweet cinnamon sugar topping. This moist cake is simple to prepare and serves as an ideal dessert for gatherings, cozy afternoons, or just to enjoy at home. Its rich texture and inviting fragrance will fill your kitchen with the essence of autumn. With just one bite, you’ll be transported to a world of seasonal bliss, making it a must-try recipe for everyone who loves comforting desserts.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter (melted)
- 1 egg
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 3/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/4 cup flour
- Topping: 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease an 8×8 square baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, egg, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until well mixed.
- Stir in the pumpkin pie spice, salt, baking powder, and flour until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- For the topping, mix sugar, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice together and sprinkle over the batter.
- Bake for 25-27 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 27 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 75g)
- Calories: 195
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
