Why You’ll Love this Pumpkin Torte Recipe
If you’re a fan of cozy, autumn-inspired desserts, you’ll absolutely love this Pumpkin Torte recipe. It captures everything that’s wonderful about fall in each bite.
The warm spices blend perfectly with the creamy pumpkin, creating a comforting flavor that feels like a hug. Plus, the texture is incredible—moist and rich, with a delightful crunch from the pecans.
It’s an easy dessert that looks impressive, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. I can’t resist serving it warm with a dollop of whipped cream.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it every autumn!
Ingredients of Pumpkin Torte
When it comes to whipping up a delightful Pumpkin Torte, having the right ingredients on hand is essential. This recipe isn’t only simple but also packed with flavors that scream fall. You’ll be amazed at how easily these ingredients come together to create a dessert that feels like it took hours to prepare.
Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to make this cozy treat.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Torte:
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 large eggs
- 1 (15 ounce) can Libby’s canned pumpkin
- 1 (12 fluid ounce) can Carnation Evaporated Milk
- 9 ounces yellow cake mix (that’s about half a box)
- 1/2 cup pecans
- 1/2 cup melted butter
Now, let’s chat about some of these ingredients. First off, if you’re anything like me, you might’ve a stash of spices in your cupboard that could rival a mini grocery store.
Don’t hesitate to get fresh spices for the best flavor—trust me, it makes a difference. And when it comes to the canned pumpkin, Libby’s is a classic choice, but feel free to use any good-quality pumpkin puree you find.
As for the pecans, they add that wonderful crunch that balances the creamy filling, so try to resist the urge to munch on them before they get sprinkled on top.
Oh, and melted butter? It’s like the magic glue that holds this deliciousness together, so don’t skimp on it. Just thinking about it makes me want to bake one right now.
How to Make Pumpkin Torte

Making a Pumpkin Torte is as simple as mixing a few ingredients and letting your oven do the heavy lifting. First, grab a mixing bowl and combine 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves. This spice blend is what gives your torte that warm, cozy vibe that practically screams fall.
Once you’ve got that all mixed up, it’s time to beat 2 large eggs in another bowl. You want to get them nice and frothy—think of it as a mini workout for your arms. After that, stir in one 15-ounce can of Libby’s canned pumpkin and the sugar-spice mixture you just made. The pumpkin adds that rich, creamy texture, while the spices will make your kitchen smell like heaven.
Next, slowly pour in a 12-fluid ounce can of Carnation Evaporated Milk and stir until everything is well combined. It’s like creating a beautiful orange pumpkin potion—who wouldn’t want to plunge into that?
Now, take a 9×13-inch baking pan and pour your pumpkin mixture into it, spreading it out evenly. Here comes the fun part: sprinkle about half of a 9-ounce box of yellow cake mix on top. It doesn’t have to be perfect; just toss it on there like you’re sprinkling fairy dust.
Then, grab 1/2 cup of pecans and sprinkle those beauties over the cake mix. Not only do they add a delightful crunch, but they also remind you that you’re an adult who can totally handle pecans in dessert. Finally, drizzle 1/2 cup of melted butter over everything—because let’s be real, butter makes everything better.
Pop it in the oven at 350°F for about an hour, and while it bakes, try not to hover by the oven like a puppy waiting for treats. The anticipation is part of the fun, after all.
And there you have it! A Pumpkin Torte that’s not just a dessert, but a warm hug in a pan. Enjoy it warm, with a dollop of whipped cream if you’re feeling fancy, or just dig in with a fork right from the pan—because who are we kidding? Sometimes, you just need to be a little bit reckless in the kitchen.
Pumpkin Torte Substitutions & Variations
While sticking to the classic Pumpkin Torte recipe is delightful, experimenting with substitutions and variations can elevate your dessert game.
I love swapping the yellow cake mix for a spice cake mix for an extra flavor boost. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using almond flour or a gluten-free cake mix.
For a twist, add chocolate chips or dried cranberries to the topping. You can even substitute coconut oil for the melted butter for a unique taste.
Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices to suit your palate; a pinch of nutmeg can add a lovely warmth!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Torte
What pairs well with the rich flavors of Pumpkin Torte? I love serving it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream, which adds a light and airy contrast.
A scoop of vanilla ice cream also works wonders, melting slightly over the warm torte. If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzling caramel sauce can elevate the dessert to new heights.
For a cozy touch, I sometimes brew a spiced chai or a rich coffee, both complementing the warm spices in the torte.
Finally, a sprinkle of toasted pecans on top offers a nice crunch that balances the soft texture beautifully. Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Pumpkin Torte turns out perfectly, it’s helpful to keep a few tips in mind. First, use fresh spices for the best flavor; they can make a noticeable difference.
Make sure your eggs and evaporated milk are at room temperature, as this helps with even mixing. Don’t skimp on the pecans; they add a wonderful crunch!
If you want a richer taste, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Finally, let the torte cool completely before serving; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Enjoy your baking, and I can’t wait for you to taste this delicious treat!