Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake

This Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake is a delightful combination of moist pumpkin cake and rich cream cheese layers, making it an ideal choice for afternoon tea or brunch. Its unique blend of flavors and textures offers a comforting, seasonal treat that appeals to everyone. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just indulging in a cozy weekend dessert, this cake stands out with its beautiful swirls and delicious taste.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The warm spices and creamy cheese create a delightful taste that’s perfect for fall.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Dessert: Great for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations.
• Stunning Presentation: The beautiful cream cheese swirls make this cake not just tasty but also visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake, having the right tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9” x 5” loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9” x 5” loaf pan: Perfectly shaped to give your cake the ideal size and texture.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when beating together the batter and cream cheese mixture.

Ingredients

This Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake recipe combines pumpkin cake and cheesecake layers into one beautiful dessert that’s perfect for afternoon tea or brunch.

For the Pumpkin Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (dark or light)
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

• 8 ounces block cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

How to Make Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325° F. Grease a 9” x 5” loaf pan. For extra insurance against sticking, you can also line the pan with a layer of parchment paper before greasing; this is optional.

Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the following:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Baking soda
4. Fine salt
5. Pumpkin pie spice

Mix well until combined. In another bowl, beat together:
– Eggs
– Granulated sugar
– Brown sugar
– Vegetable oil
– Canned pumpkin puree
– Vanilla

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Layer

In a separate bowl, mix together:
– Cream cheese (softened)
– Granulated sugar
– Egg
– Vanilla

Once smooth, gradually add in the flour until well blended.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake Layers

Pour half of the pumpkin batter into the greased loaf pan. Then spread half of the cream cheese mixture over it. Repeat by pouring in the remaining pumpkin batter followed by the rest of the cream cheese layer.

Step 5: Create Swirls

Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl through the layers to create design patterns without fully blending them together.

Step 6: Bake

Place in preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake

Serving Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake can be a delightful experience. This cake is versatile and pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments, making it suitable for different occasions.

With Coffee or Tea

• Perfect Pairing: Enjoy slices of the cake alongside your favorite coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Light and Airy: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a light texture that complements the creamy swirl in the cake.

Garnished with Nuts

• Crunchy Texture: Sprinkling chopped pecans or walnuts on top can provide a nice crunch and enhance the flavor profile.

Served Warm

• Warm Delight: For an extra indulgent experience, serve the cake warm. It enhances the flavors and makes the cream cheese even creamier.

With Ice Cream

• Decadent Dessert: A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside a slice of the cake creates a delicious contrast between warm and cold.

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How to Perfect Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake

To achieve the best results with your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing eggs and cream cheese to room temperature helps create a smoother batter and better texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to avoid a dense cake. Overmixing can lead to undesired texture.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center to determine if it’s baked through. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
• Cool Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before removing it. This helps maintain its shape and prevents breaking.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great suggestions:

1. Apple Cider: The sweet-tart flavor of apple cider complements the spices in the cake beautifully.
2. Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: These treats add an extra touch of sweetness and spice, perfect for brunch gatherings.
3. Cheese Platter: A mix of soft cheeses can contrast nicely with the richness of the cake, creating a delightful tasting experience.
4. Fresh Fruit Salad: Lighten up dessert time with refreshing fruit that balances out the sweetness of the cake.
5. Pumpkin Spice Latte: Enhance that autumnal vibe by serving this classic drink alongside your slice of cake.
6. Chocolate Drizzle: A simple chocolate drizzle on top adds richness and decadence to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake can be easy, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold eggs or cream cheese can lead to a lumpy batter. Always let these ingredients come to room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: This can make your cake dense instead of light and fluffy. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour rather than scooping it directly from the bag, which can lead to too much flour and a dry cake.
• Skipping oven preheating: Baking in an unheated oven can disrupt cooking times and texture. Always preheat your oven fully before placing the cake inside.
• Using expired leavening agents: Check your baking powder and baking soda for freshness. If they’re outdated, they won’t help your cake rise properly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Containers: Use an airtight container or tightly wrap the cake in plastic wrap.

Freezing Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake

• Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months for the best quality.
• Containers: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for about 20-30 seconds. Be careful not to overheat it.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat with a lid on; warm for about 5 minutes or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake different from regular pumpkin bread?

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake features layers of creamy cheesecake filling, making it richer and more decadent than traditional pumpkin bread.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. It tastes even better after resting as the flavors meld.

How do I prevent my cream cheese swirl from sinking?

Make sure both batters are of similar thickness when layering them in the pan. This helps keep the swirl intact during baking.

What can I substitute for pumpkin puree?

You can use butternut squash puree or even sweet potato puree as alternatives if you can’t find pumpkin puree.

Final Thoughts

The Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake is a delightful dessert that combines cozy flavors perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it with nuts or spices according to your taste. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to impress family and friends!

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Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake

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• Author: Tia
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 12 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warm flavors of fall with this Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Cake, a luxurious dessert that combines rich pumpkin spice cake with a velvety cream cheese layer. Perfect for afternoon tea, brunch, or holiday gatherings, this cake features beautiful swirls that not only look stunning but also offer a delightful contrast of textures and tastes. With its moist crumb and creamy filling, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite that your friends and family will love.

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Ingredients

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• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 8 ounces cream cheese
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9” x 5” loaf pan.
2. In one bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. In another bowl, beat the eggs, sugars, vegetable oil, pumpkin puree, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Gradually combine the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just mixed.
4. For the cream cheese layer, blend softened cream cheese with sugar, egg, vanilla, and flour until smooth.
5. Pour half of the pumpkin batter into the prepared pan. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over it. Repeat with remaining batters and swirl gently.
6. Bake for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool before slicing.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 75 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (92g)
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 55mg