Get ready to transform your kitchen into a fall flavor paradise with this mind-blowing Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Layer Cake that will make your taste buds dance with joy! Imagine a moist, rich cake that perfectly balances the warm, comforting spices of pumpkin with the irresistible decadence of chocolate chips - this isn't just a dessert, it's a seasonal sensation that will have everyone begging for seconds. Whether you're hosting a cozy family gathering or looking to impress your friends with a show-stopping dessert, this recipe is your ticket to becoming a baking superstar!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, ensuring even coating to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined and no lumps remain.
- In a separate large bowl, combine granulated sugar and brown sugar. Add vegetable oil and whisk until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Add eggs one at a time to the sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to create a smooth, homogeneous batter.
- Fold in the pumpkin puree, mixing until the batter is uniform in color and texture.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Divide the batter equally between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from oven and let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Once cooled, frost with cream cheese frosting or dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips
- Ingredient Temperature Matters: Ensure eggs and other wet ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and a more consistent batter.
- Don't Overmix: Mix your batter just until ingredients are combined to keep the cake tender and prevent a tough texture.
- Check Cake Doneness Carefully: Use the toothpick test, but remember that a few moist crumbs are okay - they help keep the cake soft.
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: Patience is key! Let the cake layers cool entirely to prevent frosting from melting.
- For Extra Flavor: Consider toasting the chocolate chips briefly in a dry pan to enhance their richness.
- Storage Tip: This cake stays moist for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Make It Ahead: The cake layers can be prepared a day in advance and wrapped tightly to maintain moisture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 65mg