This pumpkin cake is super simple and only needs three ingredients: pumpkin purée, cake mix, and eggs. It’s fluffy, moist, and perfect for fall!
Who knew something so easy could taste so good? I love serving it warm with a little whipped cream on top. It’s like a cozy hug in cake form! 🍰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: Use canned pumpkin puree for convenience. It adds moisture and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own by roasting and puréeing fresh pumpkins!
Spice Cake Mix: This is the magic ingredient! It brings warm flavors. If you don’t have spice cake mix, yellow or vanilla cake mix works too. Just add a teaspoon of cinnamon and nutmeg for that spicy kick!
Eggs: Eggs help bind everything together and keep the cake fluffy. For a vegan option, replace eggs with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce for each egg you want to substitute.
How Do I Make Sure My Cake is Moist and Fluffy?
The key to a moist, fluffy cake lies in mixing and baking just right. Don’t over-mix the batter after adding the dry ingredients; blend until just combined. Over-mixing can lead to a dense cake!
- Use an oven thermometer to check that your oven is at the right temperature.
- Keep an eye on the baking time; start checking for doneness a few minutes early. You want a toothpick to come out clean, not dry.
- Let the cake cool in the pan, as this helps retain moisture before cutting it into squares.
How to Make Pumpkin 3 Ingredient Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 (15.25 oz) box spice cake mix
- 3 large eggs
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cake takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 35 to 40 minutes to bake. You’ll have your delicious treat ready in just about 50 minutes. Perfect for a cozy gathering or a sweet night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan. If you’d like, you can simply spray it with non-stick spray for easier cleanup!
2. Mix the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, add the canned pumpkin puree, spice cake mix, and three large eggs. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. It should look like a thick batter.
3. Pour the Batter Into the Pan:
Carefully pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring there are no lumps.
4. Bake!
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—or with just a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on it, as ovens can vary!
5. Cool the Cake:
Once baked, let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step helps keep it moist!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When the cake is cool, cut it into squares. Serve each piece with a dollop of whipped cream and a dusting of ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice to make it extra special!
Enjoy this easy, moist, and flavorful pumpkin cake that’s perfect for fall gatherings or any time you need a sweet treat!
Can I Use a Different Flavor of Cake Mix?
Absolutely! While spice cake mix pairs wonderfully with pumpkin, you can use yellow or vanilla cake mix as a substitute. Just add a teaspoon of cinnamon and nutmeg to mimic those cozy autumn flavors!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly for freezing!
What Should I Serve With This Cake?
This pumpkin cake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with toppings! Serve it with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a sprinkle of chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and flavor.
Can I Make This Cake Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this cake vegan by substituting the eggs with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce for each egg. It will keep the cake moist and delicious!
