The Best Easy Pumpkin Sheet Cake with Decadent Cream Cheese Frosting

Prepare to fall in love with this incredible Pumpkin Sheet Cake! It’s exceptionally light, moist, and infused with the warm, comforting flavors of autumn. But what truly sets this recipe apart is the absolute best cream cheese frosting – a smooth, tangy, and utterly decadent topping that perfectly complements the spiced pumpkin cake. This delightful sheet cake is not just easy to make; it’s also the ideal dessert for Thanksgiving, special occasions throughout the fall season, or simply when you’re craving a taste of homemade autumn goodness.

This sheet cake recipe offers a harmonious blend of pumpkin and warming spices, creating a flavor profile that evokes cozy fall evenings. Its straightforward preparation makes it a fantastic choice for both novice and experienced bakers alike. The velvety cream cheese frosting elevates every bite, adding a luxurious touch that makes this dessert truly unforgettable. You’ll be amazed at how effortlessly all the elements come together to create such a show-stopping treat.

If you cherish Fall baking as much as we do, you’ll find this pumpkin recipe to be a new favorite. For more pumpkin-inspired delights, be sure to also try our Pumpkin Pie Cake Recipe, the ever-popular Pumpkin Dip Recipe, and the incredibly simple Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe. And for a quick and fun Fall snack, don’t miss our Harvest Puppy Chow Recipe.

Why This Pumpkin Sheet Cake Recipe Works So Well

This pumpkin sheet cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a culinary experience designed for ease and maximum flavor. Whether you’re planning a grand Thanksgiving feast, a cozy fall gathering with friends, or simply seeking a comforting treat, this cake is an absolute winner. Each forkful delivers a rich, perfectly balanced pumpkin flavor, enhanced by aromatic spices that truly capture the essence of autumn. The star, however, is undoubtedly the homemade cream cheese frosting. Its creamy texture and delightful tang cut through the sweetness of the cake, creating a harmonious and utterly delectable dessert that will have everyone reaching for a second slice.

Its sheet cake format makes it perfect for feeding a crowd, ensuring generous portions for everyone without the fuss of individual servings. Plus, the ease of spreading the frosting over a flat surface saves time and makes decorating a breeze. It’s a reliable recipe that consistently delivers moist cake and irresistible frosting, making it a go-to for any occasion. For more festive dessert ideas, don’t forget to check out our Pumpkin Cobbler Recipe, or explore our Strawberry Sheet Cake and Thanksgiving Apple Desserts for other holiday favorites.

Essential Ingredients for Your Pumpkin Sheet Cake

Crafting this incredible pumpkin sheet cake starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect moist texture and rich flavor. Pay attention to the details, especially regarding ingredient temperatures, as this can significantly impact the final result. Gather these items, and you’re well on your way to a truly spectacular fall dessert.

For the Moist Pumpkin Cake

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our cake. For the best texture, always spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents overpacking, which can lead to a dense, dry cake.
• Baking Soda & Baking Powder: These leavening agents are crucial for a light and airy cake crumb. Ensure they are fresh for optimal lift. If you’re out of baking soda, consult our Best Baking Soda Substitutes.
• Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps keep the cake tender and moist.
• Vegetable Oil: Contributes to the cake’s incredible moisture and keeps it tender for days.
• Large Eggs: It’s essential to use room temperature eggs. They emulsify better with other ingredients, creating a smoother batter and a more uniform cake texture.
• Pumpkin Puree: This is where the rich pumpkin flavor comes from! Absolutely vital: use plain pumpkin puree, not the pumpkin pie filling that already contains spices. The latter will alter the flavor balance of the cake.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: A convenient blend of classic fall spices. If you don’t have it, you can easily make your own.
• Cinnamon: Adds an extra layer of warm, aromatic spice that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
• Salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the other flavors, balancing the sweetness and making the pumpkin and spice notes truly shine.

For the Irresistible Cream Cheese Frosting

• Butter: Softened to room temperature. Like cream cheese, room temperature butter whips up beautifully, ensuring a smooth, lump-free frosting.
• Cream Cheese: Softened at room temperature. This is the key to that signature tangy flavor and creamy texture. Using cold cream cheese will result in a lumpy frosting.
• Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. It adds a lovely aromatic depth to the frosting.
• Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioners’ sugar. Sift it before adding to prevent lumps and achieve a silky-smooth frosting.
• Milk: A small amount of milk helps achieve the perfect spreadable consistency. You may need more or less depending on the butter and cream cheese consistency.

You can find the precise measurements for all these ingredients in the detailed recipe card at the bottom of this page.

Delicious Variations to Customize Your Cake

While this pumpkin sheet cake is phenomenal as is, it’s also incredibly versatile! Feel free to get creative with these delicious variations to add your personal touch or cater to different preferences:

• Add Toasted Nuts: For a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, sprinkle a generous amount of chopped pecans or walnuts over the top of the frosting. Toasted nuts will bring out even more flavor.
• Festive Mini Pumpkin Candies: Elevate the fall theme by placing candy pumpkins or other fall-themed sprinkles on top of the cake. This is especially fun for holiday gatherings, ensuring each slice has a festive decoration.
• Drizzle with Caramel or Chocolate: A swirl of warm caramel sauce or a drizzle of melted chocolate over the frosting adds another layer of indulgence and visual appeal.
• Cream Cheese Frosting Swirls: Instead of a flat layer, use a piping bag with a decorative tip to create beautiful swirls or rosettes with the cream cheese frosting for an elegant presentation.
• Spice Adjustments: If you love a bolder spice flavor, feel free to increase the amount of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon slightly. A tiny pinch of ground ginger or cloves can also deepen the warmth.
• Alternate Cake Pan: While designed for a sheet pan (half baking sheet, 18×13 inches), you can certainly bake this cake in a standard 9×13 inch cake pan. Be aware that the baking time will need to be adjusted accordingly, as it will likely take longer due to the thicker batter layer. Always check for doneness with a toothpick.

How to Make a Perfect Pumpkin Sheet Cake

Creating this irresistible pumpkin sheet cake is a straightforward process, broken down into simple steps. Follow along to achieve a perfectly moist cake and luscious cream cheese frosting every time.

• Step 1: Preheat and Prepare. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). Then, generously spray a half baking sheet (typically 18×13 inches) with a non-stick cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This ensures your cake won’t stick and will come out perfectly clean.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, bring together the wet ingredients. This foundational step is crucial for an evenly mixed batter.

Step 3: Whisk for Smoothness. Whisk together the large eggs, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and pumpkin puree until the mixture is completely smooth and well-incorporated. Ensure there are no streaks of oil or egg yolk.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Bake. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough cake. Pour the batter evenly into your prepared sheet pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting. While the cake cools, it’s time to make the magical frosting. In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until fully incorporated and lump-free. Stir in the vanilla extract. Finally, gradually add 2-3 teaspoons of milk, a little at a time, until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency. Be mindful not to add too much milk too quickly.

Step 6: Frost the Cooled Cake. Once your pumpkin cake has completely cooled (this is essential to prevent the frosting from melting!), evenly spread the prepared cream cheese frosting over the entire surface of the cake using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon. You can create decorative swirls or keep it smooth.

Step 7: Slice, Serve, and Enjoy! Your magnificent pumpkin sheet cake is now ready to be sliced into squares, served to your eagerly awaiting guests, and savored. Enjoy every delightful bite!

Storage Tips for Your Pumpkin Sheet Cake

Proper storage ensures your pumpkin sheet cake remains fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Because it features cream cheese frosting, refrigeration is key.

Refrigerate any leftovers promptly, ensuring the cake is covered tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This prevents it from drying out and absorbing other odors from your fridge. Stored correctly, this delightful pumpkin sheet cake will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It tastes fantastic straight from the fridge, or you can let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for a softer cake and frosting.

For longer storage, you can also freeze slices of this cake! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. The cake can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen cake slices in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before enjoying.

Expert Baking Tips for the Perfect Sheet Cake

Achieving a consistently perfect pumpkin sheet cake is easy with these insider tips and tricks:

• Bring Eggs and Dairy to Room Temperature: This is a golden rule for baking! Room temperature eggs, butter, and cream cheese combine much more smoothly and evenly. Cold ingredients can lead to a lumpy batter or frosting, affecting the overall texture of your final product. Take them out of the fridge at least 30-60 minutes before you start mixing.
• Measure Flour Correctly: For a light and tender cake, avoid packing flour into your measuring cup. Spoon the flour lightly into the cup and then level it off with a straight edge. This prevents adding too much flour, which can result in a dry and dense cake.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet, mix only until just combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough and chewy cake. A few small lumps are perfectly fine!
• Gradually Add Powdered Sugar for Frosting: To achieve a smooth, lump-free cream cheese frosting, add the powdered sugar slowly, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Sifting the powdered sugar beforehand is another excellent way to prevent lumps. If your frosting seems too thick, resist the urge to add too much milk at once.
• Adjust Milk in Frosting as Needed: The consistency of your homemade cream cheese frosting is key for easy spreading. Start with the recommended amount of milk (2-3 teaspoons) and add it very gradually, a few drops at a time, until you reach your desired spreadable texture. Humidity and the exact temperature of your ingredients can affect how much liquid is needed, so trust your judgment and add slowly.
• Cool the Cake Completely: This cannot be stressed enough! Attempting to frost a warm or even slightly warm cake will result in a melted, runny frosting mess. Allow the cake to cool fully on a wire rack before applying the cream cheese frosting. Patience is a virtue here!
• Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality pumpkin puree, fresh eggs, and good butter and cream cheese will make a noticeable difference in the flavor and texture of your finished cake.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Sheet Cake

More Must-Try Pumpkin Recipes

If you can’t get enough of that wonderful pumpkin flavor, we’ve got you covered! Here are some more delightful pumpkin recipes to add to your fall baking list:

• Pumpkin No Bake Cookies – Quick, easy, and full of fall flavor.
• Easy Pumpkin Dip with Cool Whip – A light and fluffy dip perfect for fruit and cookies.
• The Best Pumpkin Cheesecake – A rich and creamy classic for any holiday table.
• Pumpkin Whoopie Pies – Soft, pillowy pumpkin cookies with a sweet cream cheese filling.
• Pumpkin Lasagna – Layers of delicious pumpkin and cream cheese for a no-bake treat.

This Pumpkin Sheet Cake recipe is truly a celebration of autumn flavors, and we are confident it will become a cherished tradition in your home. Make this recipe for your next holiday gathering or simply to bring a little fall cheer into your kitchen. It will definitely be a hit all around! Once you’ve whipped up this masterpiece, please come back and leave a comment to share your experience – we love hearing from you!