Introduction
Oh, the crisp air, the vibrant leaves, the cozy sweaters! There’s a special kind of comfort that autumn brings, and for many of us, it’s inextricably linked with the warm, inviting aroma of pumpkin spice. But what if I told you that embracing that delightful feeling, that quintessential fall flavor, could be incredibly easy, even on your busiest days? Forget complicated recipes and endless ingredient lists. Today, we’re diving into a little secret that will unlock pure pumpkin spice bliss with astonishing simplicity. Get ready to fall in love with the easiest, most delicious treat imaginable.
Why Make This Recipe
Achieve bakery-worthy taste with minimal effort with just three simple ingredients. It is perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings! Every bite is a delightful explosion of warm pumpkin spice, comforting and perfectly balanced. You do not need for a grocery haul – chances are, you already have these staples in your pantry. From mixing to baking, this cake comes together in a flash, satisfying your sweet tooth without the wait. A fantastic base recipe that’s easy to adapt to your personal preferences and dietary needs.
How to Make 3-Ingredient Pumpkin Spice Cake
You will make this cake with very few steps. First, you will get your ingredients. Then, you will mix them. Next, you will bake it. Finally, you will cool it and enjoy it.
Ingredients of: 3-Ingredient Pumpkin Spice Cake
- Pumpkin Puree (not pumpkin pie filling!)
- Spice Cake Mix
- Water (or milk substitute for richness)
Directions of: 3-Ingredient Pumpkin Spice Cake
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to [Temperature]°F ([Temperature]°C). Lightly grease a [Pan Size/Type] baking pan.
- Combine the Magic: In a large mixing bowl, combine the entire packet of spice cake mix, the can of pumpkin puree, and the water.
- Mix Until Just Combined: Mix until just combined using a spatula or electric mixer on low speed. Be careful not to overmix! A few lumps are perfectly fine.
- Pour & Bake: Pour the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan.
- Golden Perfection: Bake for [Baking Time] minutes. Or bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool & Enjoy: Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
How to Serve 3-Ingredient Pumpkin Spice Cake
Serve your cake plain. Or, you can add a dollop of whipped cream. You can also sprinkle powdered sugar or cinnamon. A drizzle of caramel sauce or cream cheese frosting also tastes great. Enjoy it with a hot cup of coffee or chai latte.
How to Store 3-Ingredient Pumpkin Spice Cake
Store leftover 3-ingredient pumpkin spice cake, covered, at room temperature for up to [Number] days. Or, store it in the refrigerator for up to [Number] days.
Tips to Make 3-Ingredient Pumpkin Spice Cake
- Puree vs. Pie Filling: Always use pumpkin puree. Never use pumpkin pie filling. Pie filling has added sweeteners and spices.
- Do not Overmix: Overmixing will make a dense cake. Mix only until the ingredients are wet.
- Pan Size Matters: Change baking time if you use a different size pan.
- Cool Completely: Let the cake cool completely. This helps it set and keeps it from crumbling when you slice it.
Variation
- Add-Ins for Extra Flavor: Add chocolate chips, chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, or dried cranberries.
- Dietary Adaptations: Use a gluten-free cake mix for gluten-free. Use a dairy-free cake mix and dairy-free milk like almond milk for dairy-free.
- Baking Beyond a Sheet Cake: Make muffins or cupcakes. Adjust baking time.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree for this 3-ingredient pumpkin spice cake?
No, you must use 100% pure pumpkin puree. Do not use pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling has added sugar and spices. This will change the cake’s taste and texture a lot.
Q2: What if my spice cake mix does not have enough “spice” for my liking in this 3-ingredient pumpkin spice cake?
Yes, you can add more spice! Feel free to add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon more of pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, or a mix of ginger and nutmeg to the dry cake mix. Do this before you add the pumpkin puree and water.
Q3: How do I know when my 3-ingredient pumpkin spice cake is fully baked?
To check if it is baked, put a wooden toothpick or a thin stick into the middle of the cake. If the toothpick comes out clean, or with only a few wet crumbs, your 3-ingredient pumpkin spice cake is ready!

Classic 3-Ingredient Pumpkin Spice Cake
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking pan
- large mixing bowl
- spatula
- wire rack
- toothpick
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 15 oz can Pumpkin Puree not pumpkin pie filling!
- 1 box Spice Cake Mix standard size
- 1 cup Water or milk substitute for richness
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the spice cake mix, pumpkin puree, and water.
- Mix until just combined with a spatula or on low speed, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing.
