Quick & Easy Pumpkin Sheet Cake Recipe to Try in 2026

Pumpkin sheet cake keeps fall baking uncomplicated: mix a warmly spiced pumpkin batter, spread it in a 9×13-inch pan, and finish the cooled cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting.

The original formula stays the same, including pumpkin puree, oil, brown sugar, milk, and a balanced blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves.

The sections below follow the existing order from pan preparation through baking, cooling, frosting, toppings, serving, and storage.

🧡 Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Sheet Cake

This pumpkin sheet cake is not just good, it is seriously swoon-worthy. From the very first bite, you will be hooked by its soft, tender crumb and cozy fall flavor.

Below is exactly why the recipe is a favorite in so many homes:

1. full of Cozy Spices

The batter is brimming with aromatic spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice. These warm flavors complement the pumpkin puree perfectly, creating that cozy, nostalgic taste we all crave when cooler weather rolls in.

2. Super Moist and Soft Texture

The combination of oil, eggs, and pumpkin puree provides the cake a dream-like texture, moist, fluffy, and never dry. It is the kind of cake that bounces back when you gently press it, with each bite melting in your mouth.

3. Quick and simple to Prepare

You do not need any special equipment or fancy baking skills here. The batter takes shape with a simple whisk and spatula, and the whole thing bakes up beautifully in just under 30 minutes. It is as simple as mix, pour, bake, and frost.

4. Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting—Need We Say More?

This frosting is smooth, slightly tangy, and spiced with a hint of cinnamon. It is the ideal companion to the warmly flavored cake. One spoonful and you will be tempted to lick the bowl clean.

🎃 Ingredients You’ll Need

Below is a full breakdown of all the ingredients you will need to make this luscious pumpkin sheet cake and its cinnamon cream cheese frosting. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to contribute to the cake’s flavor, texture, and richness.

✨ Pumpkin Sheet Cake Ingredients

🔎 Note: Use canned pumpkin puree (like Libby’s) for the best result. Avoid pumpkin pie filling. It contains extra sugar and spices that can throw off the recipe’s balance.

🧁 Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

💡 Tip: Be sure the cream cheese is cold but firm, not whipped or room temp. This supports the frosting hold its shape and stay fluffy.

🎃 Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make the Perfect Pumpkin Sheet Cake

There is something deeply satisfying about baking a cake from scratch, especially one that fills your home with the warm scent of fall spices.

This pumpkin sheet cake recipe is not only simple to follow, but it also rewards you with a beautifully soft, spiced, and moist cake that tastes just as good (if not better) the next day.

Let’s walk through each step in detail so you feel confident every step of the way.

🔥 Step 1: Prep the Pan and Preheat the Oven

Before you begin mixing ingredients, it is important to prepare your pan and preheat your oven. This ensures that when your batter is ready, there is no delay and that your cake bakes evenly.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) if you’re using a conventional oven. This is the optimal temperature for ensuring the cake rises well and bakes through evenly without drying out.

Now, grab your 9×13-inch rectangular cake pan. This is the ideal size for a sheet cake that feeds a crowd without needing layers.

• Lightly grease the pan with butter, nonstick spray, or a thin coating of oil. This supports the cake release easily when it is baked.
• Next, line the pan lengthwise with parchment paper. Allow the ends of the parchment hang over the sides a bit. This makes lifting the cake out after cooling a breeze.
• Set the pan aside.

💡 Why use parchment? Not only does it prevent sticking, but it also ensures you get clean, intact slices when removing the cake from the pan.

🧂 Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

The key to an evenly spiced and fluffy cake starts with the dry mix. Sifting the dry ingredients not only blends them but also breaks up any clumps and brings lightness to your batter.

In a large bowl, add the following dry ingredients:

• 2¼ cups (270g) all-purpose flour – Your primary base
• ¼ cup (25g) cornstarch – Lightens the texture for a more tender crumb
• 2 teaspoons baking powder – supports the cake rise high and evenly
• ½ teaspoon baking soda – Works with the acidic pumpkin for extra lift
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor
• 2½ teaspoons ground cinnamon – The dominant spice that screams “fall”
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger – brings warmth and zing
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg – Earthy and aromatic
• ½ teaspoon allspice – Deepens the flavor profile
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves – Rich and sweet-spicy, a little goes a long way

Using a whisk, mix all the ingredients until everything is well combined. The color will shift slightly as the spices blend throughout the flour.

🧑‍🍳 Pro Tip: Sift the flour and cornstarch first to remove any lumps, especially if they’ve been sitting in your pantry for a while.

When mixed, set the bowl aside. You will be folding this into the wet ingredients shortly.

🥣 Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

Now it is time to build the well-seasoned, moisture-packed base of this pumpkin cake. In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:

• 1 cup (200g) white granulated sugar
• ½ cup (100g) light brown sugar – brings a caramel-like richness
• 3 large eggs, room temperature – supports emulsify the batter for a silky texture
• 1 cup (200g) neutral vegetable oil – Canola oil works perfectly; it keeps the cake soft for days
• 1¼ cups (300g) pumpkin puree – Be sure to use pure canned pumpkin, not pie filling
• ¼ cup (60g) whole milk – brings fluidity to the batter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – brings warmth and rounds out the spice notes

Using a whisk, stir everything together until the mixture is smooth, uniform, and slightly thick. It should be a deep orange color thanks to the pumpkin and spices.

💬 Why whisk by hand? Whisking prevents over-aerating the batter, which can cause it to sink or dry out during baking. It also supports break down the sugars and eggs evenly.

When you’re done, scrape off as much batter from the whisk as you may. Your next step will involve folding with a spatula, not the whisk.

🌀 Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Now it is time to bring the dry and wet ingredients together.

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, about one-third at a time.
• Use a rubber spatula to gently fold the mixture together.

Folding means you are lifting from the bottom and turning the batter over the top gently. This prevents overmixing and keeps the batter airy.

⚠️ do not overmix. Mix just until you see no more dry flour streaks. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a dense and rubbery cake.

You will notice the batter thickens slightly and becomes beautifully smooth and spiced. At this point, resist the urge to keep stirring; it is ready to bake.

🧁 Step 5: Bake the Cake

Now that your batter is ready, grab the prepared cake pan you reserve earlier.

• Pour the batter into the greased and lined 9×13-inch pan.
• Use your spatula to even out the surface, making sure it reaches all corners.
• Give the pan a gentle shake to level out the batter.
• Tap the pan lightly on your countertop when or twice. This supports release any large air bubbles trapped in the batter.

Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 28 minutes, or until:

• The top springs back gently when touched,
• A toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs, not wet batter.

🧁 Baking note: Every oven is different, so start checking around the 26-minute mark. do not open the door too often or the cake may collapse.

When done, the cake will have a slightly domed, golden-brown top with a rich, spiced aroma that will fill your kitchen.

⏲️ Step 6: Cool the Cake

When baked, remove the cake from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool.

Allow it to cool in the pan for about 20 minutes. This allows the structure to set and prevents the cake from falling apart when you flip it.

After 20 minutes:

1. Run a thin knife along the two edges of the pan that aren’t lined with parchment paper. This loosens any cake stuck to the sides.
2. Place a wire rack upside down on top of the cake pan.
3. Firmly hold both the rack and the pan together and flip them.
4. Carefully lift off the pan and peel back the parchment paper.

Now, allow the cake to cool completely on the wire rack before you frost it. This part is key; if the cake is even slightly warm, it will melt the frosting and create a mess.

🧡 Touch test: When you gently press the surface of the cake, it should feel soft and bounce back. You will notice how incredibly moist it is just from the feel alone.

🧁 How to Make Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

No pumpkin sheet cake is complete without a layer of rich, velvety frosting, and this cinnamon cream cheese version is simply perfection. It is tangy, sweet, slightly spiced, and spreads like a dream.

Let’s break down exactly how to make it step by step so you may crown your cake with this creamy topping.

🧈 Step 1: Cream the Butter

Start with ½ cup (113g) of unsalted butter, softened to room temperature. You want it pliable but not melted, press it with your finger, and it should leave a dent without sinking.

• Add the butter to a large mixing bowl.
• Using a hand mixer or stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the butter on medium-high speed for about 2 minutes.
• Scrape down the sides of the bowl halfway through to ensure even creaming.

You are looking for a light, fluffy texture. This creates an airy base that blends beautifully with the sugar and cream cheese.

💡 Pro Tip: Softening the butter properly is key. If it’s too cold, it won’t whip well; too warm, and your frosting will be greasy.

🍬 Step 2: Add the Powdered Sugar

Gradually add 2¼ cups (285g) of powdered sugar in three batches, mixing on low speed after each addition.

• Mix each batch thoroughly before adding the next.
• This method prevents sugar clouds and ensures smooth, lump-free frosting.

After all the sugar is incorporated, the mixture will look thick and creamy.

🔎 Why powdered sugar? It not only sweetens but also supports thicken and stabilize the frosting.

🧊 Step 3: Add Cream Cheese, Vanilla & Cinnamon

Now add the magic ingredients:

• ¾ cup (167g) of cold, block-style cream cheese
• ¾ tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon

Add everything to the bowl and mix on medium-low speed until just combined.

• Stop mixing when the frosting looks smooth and cohesive.
• Overmixing cream cheese can make it lose and runny, so do not overdo it.

🍂 Flavor Highlight: The cinnamon in the frosting echoes the spices in the cake, tying the whole dessert together beautifully.

🧁 Step 4: Frost the Cake

When your cake has completely cooled, it is time for the fun part: frosting!

• Transfer the cake to a large tray or serving board.
• Scoop all of the frosting onto the top and use an offset spatula to spread it evenly.
• You may also use the back of a spoon if you do not have a spatula.

The texture of this frosting is thick enough to hold peaks, but smooth enough to glide effortlessly over the cake.

🥜 Optional: Add Crunchy Toppings

To finish, sprinkle ½ cup (50g) of roughly chopped pecans or walnuts over the top.

• This brings a lovely nutty crunch to contrast with the soft cake and creamy frosting.
• Add more or less based on preference, or skip it entirely if you prefer it nut-free.

👩‍🍳 5 Expert Tips for Pumpkin Sheet Cake Success

Want bakery-level results at home? Follow these tried-and-true tips to get the perfect pumpkin sheet cake every single time.

✅ 1. do not Skip the Parchment Paper

Lining your cake pan (even if it is greased) ensures the cake comes out clean, especially for soft and moist batters like this one. Allow the parchment overhang on the sides for easy lifting when cooled.

✅ 2. Use Canned Pumpkin Purée, Not Pie Filling

Pumpkin pie filling has added sugar and spices, which can throw off the flavor and texture of your cake. Stick to pure canned pumpkin (like Libby’s) for consistency and control over the spice profile.

✅ 3. Mix Batter Gently—do not Overmix

When you add the dry ingredients, switch from whisk to spatula and fold until just combined. Overmixing develops gluten and results in a dense, chewy texture rather than a light and tender one.

✅ 4. Allow the Cake Cool Completely Before Frosting

Cream cheese frosting and warm cake do not mix literally. The frosting will melt and slide off if the cake is warm. Give it plenty of time to cool on a wire rack before frosting.

✅ 5. Use Cold, Block-Style Cream Cheese

Avoid spreadable or whipped cream cheese, which will make your frosting runny. For the perfect texture, use cold, full-fat block cream cheese straight from the fridge.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Sheet Cake

This versatile cake may be dressed up or down for different occasions. Below is a quick reference table to help you serve it the right way, no matter the moment.

🧡 Tip: The cake travels well! Just keep it in the baking dish with a cover, or transport it on a sturdy tray if already frosted.

🎉 Final Thoughts

If you are looking for the ultimate fall dessert that is equal parts cozy, easy, and crowd-pleasing, this pumpkin sheet cake checks every box.

It is wonderfully moist, beautifully spiced, and layered with a dreamy cinnamon cream cheese frosting that pulls it all together.

Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering, a holiday table, or just a weekend treat, it is a guaranteed favorite.

And when you’ve fallen in love with the cake (you will!), why not try a few more pumpkin-packed favorites?

Easy Pumpkin Sheet Cake

A moist 9×13 pumpkin sheet cake with warm fall spices and smooth cinnamon cream cheese frosting.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 28 minutes

Total Time 48 minutes

Servings 15 servings

Difficulty Easy

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Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups (270 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (25 g) cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (100 g) light brown sugar
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup (200 g) vegetable or canola oil
• 1 1/4 cups (300 g) pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup (60 g) whole milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 2 1/4 cups (285 g) powdered sugar
• 3/4 cup (167 g) cold cream cheese
• 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract, for frosting
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, for frosting

Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease or line a 9×13-inch pan.
2. Whisk the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices in a bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the sugars, eggs, oil, pumpkin puree, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until no flour streaks remain.
5. Spread the batter evenly in the pan and bake for about 28 minutes, checking from minute 26.
6. Cool the cake in the pan before frosting.
7. Beat the butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar. Mix in the cold cream cheese, vanilla, and cinnamon.
8. Spread the frosting over the cooled cake and add optional nuts or seasonal decorations.

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🎃 More Cozy Pumpkin Recipes to Try Next

If you’re into warm spices, fluffy cakes, and easy prep, you’re going to love these:

• 🧁 The Cutest Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe for Brunch – This cozy cake with a crumb topping is perfect with your morning coffee or weekend brunch.
• 🍰 Best 15-Min Prep Pumpkin Spice Cake Recipe for Fall – Moist, classic, and topped with cream cheese frosting, it is the perfect go-to for fall baking.
• 🍂 Quick & Cozy Pumpkin Crunch Cake for Busy Moms – A dump-and-bake gem layered with pumpkin, cake mix, and buttery crunch—no fuss, all flavor.

dana

Dana Brooks is a home-cooking writer at Feastbears, where she shares easy family recipes, cozy dinners, quick desserts, and beginner-friendly kitchen tips. Her goal is to make everyday cooking feel simple, warm, and enjoyable for busy home cooks.