What makes this halloween pumpkin latte sheet cake recipe different from a regular pumpkin sheet cake?

This version blends the cozy flavor of a classic pumpkin cake with a warm latte twist using espresso. It keeps all the simplicity of a pumpkin sheet cake with cake mix while adding depth, spice, and a creamy finish that tastes like a fall-inspired dessert you’d enjoy at a café.

Can I use a different cake mix for this pumpkin sheet cake recipe?

Yes, you can use spice cake mix, yellow cake mix, or even white cake mix. Spice cake mix usually creates the best pumpkin sheet cake flavor, while yellow cake mix gives a lighter pumpkin sheet cake taste of home style result.

How do I make the pumpkin sheet cake with cream cheese frosting smoother?

Use softened cream cheese and butter, mix until fluffy, and sift the powdered sugar beforehand. This creates the silky, rich finish that makes a pumpkin sheet cake with cream cheese frosting so irresistible.

Is this similar to a pioneer woman pumpkin sheet cake?

It has the same cozy, approachable feel as a pioneer woman pumpkin sheet cake but adds espresso for a fun twist. This halloween pumpkin latte sheet cake with cake mix stays easy, family-friendly, and perfect for fall celebrations.

Halloween Pumpkin Latte Sheet Cake Recipe

Description

A cozy, fall-flavored pumpkin sheet cake infused with warm pumpkin spice and a hint of latte espresso. Soft, moist, and topped with fluffy cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for Halloween parties, potlucks, and festive gatherings. Decorate with orange swirls, cinnamon dust, or spooky toppers for a deliciously haunting treat.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (for one 9×13 pumpkin latte sheet cake):

For the Cake:

1 box spice cake mix (or yellow cake mix)
1 cup pumpkin purée
3 large eggs
½ cup vegetable oil
½ cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
Optional: ¼ cup brown sugar for extra richness

For the Pumpkin Latte Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1–2 tbsp brewed espresso or coffee
½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
1 tsp vanilla extract

For Decorations (optional):

Orange or black food coloring (for tinted frosting swirls)
Halloween sprinkles
Cinnamon or nutmeg dusting
Candy pumpkins, candy corn, or edible eyes

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Mix the Cake Batter

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 baking pan.
In a large bowl, combine cake mix, pumpkin purée, eggs, oil, espresso, vanilla, pumpkin spice, and brown sugar (if using).
Mix until smooth and well combined — batter will be thick and creamy.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let the cake cool completely before frosting.

Step 3: Make the Frosting

Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.
Add powdered sugar, espresso, pumpkin spice, and vanilla.
Whip until light, creamy, and spreadable.
Tint a portion of frosting orange or black if you want swirls or Halloween designs.

Step 4: Frost & Decorate

Spread frosting over cooled cake.
Add tinted frosting swirls, sprinkles, cinnamon dust, or Halloween candy decorations.
Chill 20–30 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.

Notes

Cake Mix Swap: Spice cake mix gives the best flavor, but yellow or white cake mix also works.
Extra Latte Flavor: Add ½–1 tsp instant espresso powder to the batter.
Texture Boost: Fold in ½ cup chopped pecans or white chocolate chips.
Make Ahead: Bake the cake the day before; frost the next day.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Category: Dessert / Halloween Treat
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American