The Best Fluffy Pancakes recipe you will fall in love with. Full of tips and tricks to help you make the best pancakes.
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing more comforting than the aroma of a freshly baked pumpkin bundt cake. This moist and flavorful dessert is packed with cozy fall spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, making it a seasonal favorite that’s perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of coffee.
In this post, you’ll learn how to make a homemade pumpkin bundt cake that’s soft, rich, and full of pumpkin flavor — just the way it should be. Whether you’re planning a Thanksgiving feast or looking for an easy fall dessert, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, with simple ingredients like pumpkin puree and a few pantry staples, it’s easier to whip up than you might think.
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Bundt Cake
If you’re searching for the ultimate fall dessert, this moist and flavorful pumpkin bundt cake checks all the boxes. It’s not just a treat for the taste buds — it’s a full-on seasonal experience. Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your baking rotation:
Perfect for Fall and the Holidays
Few desserts capture the cozy spirit of fall like a pumpkin spice cake. This bundt cake is infused with warm autumn spices — cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and pumpkin pie spice — making it a standout choice for seasonal gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving dinner, bringing dessert to a Halloween party, or just craving something festive, this cake delivers all the fall vibes.
Moist and Full of Flavor
Thanks to rich pumpkin puree and a blend of brown sugar and oil, this cake stays moist for days. Unlike some dry or overly dense pumpkin cakes, this one strikes the perfect balance of soft texture and bold flavor. Every bite is filled with the natural sweetness of pumpkin and the comforting warmth of spices.
Easy Yet Impressive
Bundt cakes have a naturally elegant shape that looks beautiful on any dessert table — no need for fancy decorating skills. With just a few basic steps and ingredients, you can create a bakery-worthy dessert right at home. It’s one of those simple recipes that makes you look like a pro, even if you’re new to baking.
Versatile for Any Occasion
While it’s a natural fit for Thanksgiving or fall celebrations, this pumpkin bundt cake can be served year-round. Dress it up with cream cheese frosting, drizzle it with maple glaze, or keep it simple with a dusting of powdered sugar. It’s just as welcome at a weekend brunch as it is at a holiday feast.
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Best Pumpkin Bundt Cake
A great pumpkin bundt cake starts with the right combination of quality ingredients. This recipe is designed to give you a moist, flavorful, and perfectly spiced cake every time. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each ingredient matters:
Pumpkin Puree (Not Pumpkin Pie Filling)
The star of the show is 100% pure pumpkin puree. It adds natural moisture, earthy sweetness, and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor we all love. Be sure to use plain canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices that can throw off the balance of your recipe.
Warm and Cozy Fall Spices
This cake gets its signature flavor from a classic blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and pumpkin pie spice. These warming spices bring out the richness of the pumpkin and create that comforting aroma that makes this cake perfect for autumn. You can adjust the spice levels to your taste, but don’t skip them — they’re essential for that true fall dessert flavor.
Moisture-Boosting Ingredients
To keep your bundt cake soft and rich, you’ll need:
- Brown sugar – Adds sweetness and a touch of molasses flavor.
- Vegetable oil or melted butter – Keeps the crumb tender and moist without making the cake greasy.
- Eggs – Provide structure and help bind the ingredients together for a smooth, even batter.
This trio of ingredients works together to ensure your cake stays deliciously moist — even days after baking.
All-Purpose Flour and Leavening Agents
A base of all-purpose flour gives the cake structure without making it dense. Combined with baking soda and baking powder, your bundt cake will rise beautifully and have a light, airy texture. Don’t forget a pinch of salt, which enhances all the other flavors.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
While this pumpkin bundt cake is fantastic on its own, feel free to customize it:
- Chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch
- Dark chocolate chips for richness
- Golden raisins or dried cranberries for a little tangy sweetness
These add-ins are optional, but they can make your cake even more special.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Bake the Perfect Cake
Baking a moist and flavorful pumpkin bundt cake is easier than you might think — especially when you follow these simple, foolproof steps. From prepping your bundt pan to cooling your cake just right, every detail matters. Let’s walk through the process together so your cake comes out perfect every time.
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Bundt Pan
Before mixing your ingredients, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Proper oven temperature is key to ensuring your pumpkin bundt cake bakes evenly without drying out.
Next, grease your bundt pan thoroughly. Use softened butter or baking spray, making sure to get into every nook and cranny of the pan’s design. Then, lightly dust the pan with flour or granulated sugar to help the cake release easily once baked. This step is crucial — no one wants half their beautiful bundt cake stuck in the pan!
2. Mix the Dry and Wet Ingredients Separately
In one large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and your warm fall spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and pumpkin pie spice).
In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients: pumpkin puree, brown sugar, oil (or melted butter), eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well-blended. The pumpkin puree adds moisture, while the oil helps create a soft crumb.
3. Combine the Batter Without Overmixing
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Use a spatula or a mixer on low speed, and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing, which can make the cake tough. If you’re adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit, gently fold them in at this stage.
The batter will be thick and fragrant — exactly what you want in a flavorful pumpkin bundt cake!
4. Pour and Bake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared bundt pan. I recommend using a quality Bundt pan like this one to ensure even baking and easy release. Use a spatula to smooth the top and gently tap the pan on the counter to release any air bubbles.
Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the thickest part of the cake comes out clean. All ovens vary slightly, so begin checking around the 50-minute mark. The cake should be golden brown and slightly springy to the touch.
5. Cool and Unmold the Cake
Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 to 20 minutes. This allows it to firm up and release more easily. After that, gently invert the cake onto a wire rack and lift off the pan. If you greased it properly, it should come out beautifully!
Allow the cake to cool completely before adding any frosting, glaze, or powdered sugar topping — unless you’re serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream (which is also delicious!).
Frosting, Glaze, and Topping Ideas
Once your moist and flavorful pumpkin bundt cake has cooled, it’s time to dress it up! The right topping can elevate your cake from delicious to truly unforgettable. Whether you prefer a creamy frosting, a sweet glaze, or a simple dusting, here are several ideas to make your pumpkin bundt cake shine:
1. Classic Cream Cheese Frosting
You can never go wrong with a rich and tangy cream cheese frosting. It pairs perfectly with the warm spices and natural sweetness of the pumpkin. For easy application on a bundt cake, thin the frosting slightly and drizzle it over the top so it flows down the ridges of the cake.
Ingredients:
- Cream cheese
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- A splash of milk (for drizzling consistency)
This creamy topping adds a bakery-style touch to your homemade pumpkin bundt cake and balances the spices beautifully.
2. Maple Glaze for Fall Flavor
For an elegant, autumn-inspired finish, try a simple maple glaze. It adds a sweet, earthy richness that complements the pumpkin flavor without overpowering it.
Ingredients:
- Powdered sugar
- Pure maple syrup
- Milk or cream
- A pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Drizzle it generously over the cooled cake and watch it settle into the grooves of the bundt — it’s both gorgeous and delicious.
3. Powdered Sugar and Spice Dusting
Sometimes less is more. A light dusting of powdered sugar, possibly mixed with a touch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice, is the perfect minimalist topping. It enhances the cake’s appearance and adds a touch of sweetness without masking the natural pumpkin flavor.
This approach is great if you’re serving the cake with coffee or as part of a fall brunch.
4. Nutty Crunch or Sweet Garnishes
Add texture and visual appeal by sprinkling garnishes over your glaze or frosting. Some favorites include:
- Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts
- Candied ginger
- Pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- Caramel drizzle for extra indulgence
These toppings not only make the cake look stunning, but they also introduce fun textures and extra layers of fall flavor.
Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips
Once you’ve baked the perfect pumpkin bundt cake and added your favorite glaze or frosting, it’s time to serve it — and make sure any leftovers stay fresh and flavorful. Here’s how to enjoy this cozy fall dessert to the fullest, whether you’re serving it at a holiday dinner or saving a slice for later.
How to Serve Pumpkin Bundt Cake
This pumpkin bundt cake is incredibly versatile and works for a variety of occasions. Here are a few serving ideas:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cozy, comforting dessert. The contrast between the warm, spiced cake and cold ice cream is heavenly.
- Pair with a hot drink like coffee, chai latte, or spiced apple cider. The flavors complement the warm spices in the cake perfectly, making it ideal for fall brunches or afternoon tea.
- Add a festive touch for holidays by topping with sugared cranberries, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra decadence.
You can serve it plain, glazed, or frosted — it’s delicious any way you slice it!
Best Way to Store Pumpkin Bundt Cake
This cake stays moist for several days, making it a great make-ahead dessert. Here’s how to store it properly:
- At room temperature: Store your cake in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- In the refrigerator: If your cake is topped with cream cheese frosting, it’s best to refrigerate it. Place it in an airtight container and it will last up to 5 days. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving so the texture softens.
- In the freezer: Yes, you can freeze pumpkin bundt cake! Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap, then again in foil or place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Helpful Tips for Reheating
If you prefer your cake slightly warm, reheat a slice in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds. This brings out the spices and softens the crumb — especially delicious when served with whipped cream or ice cream.