Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder dissolved in 1 teaspoon warm water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or two 8-inch round cake pans. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and espresso powder until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat on medium speed for about 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.
- Turn the mixer to low speed and gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake tough.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- While the cake cools, prepare the espresso buttercream. Beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time. Mix in the heavy cream and the dissolved espresso mixture. Beat on high for 2 minutes until light and airy.
- Once the cake is entirely cool, spread the espresso frosting evenly over the top. For a decorative touch, you can sprinkle a little extra pumpkin spice or cocoa powder over the surface before serving.
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian