Name: Chocolate Pumpkin Cheesecake Cake Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 30 min
Cook time: 2 h 35 min
Total time: 8 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 24 ounces (678g) cream cheese, room temperature; 1 cup (225g) packed light brown sugar; 3 tbsp (24g) all-purpose flour; 15 oz can pumpkin puree; 1/4 cup (58g) sour cream; 1/2 tbsp vanilla extract; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 3/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 3/4 tsp ground cloves; 1/4 tsp ground ginger; 4 large eggs, room temperature; 2 cups (260g) all-purpose flour; 2 cups (414g) sugar; 3/4 cup (85g) natural unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup (240ml) milk; 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil; 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup (240ml) boiling water; 16 oz (452g) cream cheese, room temperature; 2 1/2 cups (600ml) heavy whipping cream, cold; 1 cup (115g) powdered sugar; 1/2 cup (58g) cocoa powder; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; Chocolate chips; Candy pumpkins

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If you are ready to fall in love with a dessert that beautifully brings together the rich depth of chocolate and the cozy warmth of pumpkin, then this Chocolate Pumpkin Cheesecake Cake Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine moist, tender chocolate cake layers hugging a velvety pumpkin cheesecake center, crowned with luscious chocolate cream cheese whipped frosting. This dessert is the ultimate celebration of flavors and textures, perfect for those crisp autumn days or any time you want to delight friends and family with something truly spectacular and unique.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two single-layer dark chocolate cake rounds, placed directly on a white marbled surface. Both cakes have a rich, deep brown color with a soft, slightly textured surface and edges that are slightly rounded. One cake is positioned in the front, taking most of the focus, while the other is slightly blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t let the list intimidate you because each ingredient is simple, familiar, and plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that beautiful autumnal color. From creamy cream cheese to warm spices and rich cocoa powder, these components come together seamlessly.

Cream cheese (24 oz for cheesecake + 16 oz for frosting): The silky, tangy base that makes the cheesecake and frosting irresistibly creamy.
Light brown sugar (1 cup): Adds subtle caramel notes that complement the pumpkin perfectly.
All-purpose flour (3 tbsp + 2 cups): Provides structure to both the cheesecake and chocolate cake.
Pumpkin puree (15 oz can): The star autumn ingredient bringing natural sweetness and moisture.
Sour cream (1/4 cup): Adds tang and richness to the cheesecake for a perfect balance.
Vanilla extract (2 tsp + 1.5 tsp + 1 tbsp): Enhances all the flavors and adds warmth.
Ground spices: cinnamon (2 tsp), nutmeg (3/4 tsp), cloves (3/4 tsp), ginger (1/4 tsp): This spice blend creates that signature pumpkin pie vibe.
Large eggs (6 total): Bind and enrich the batter for a moist texture.
Unsweetened cocoa powder (3/4 cup + 1/2 cup for frosting): Delivers the deep chocolate flavor and color.
Baking soda (2 tsp) and salt (1 tsp): Leaven and balance the sweetness.
Milk (1 cup) and vegetable oil (1 cup): Keep the cake moist and tender.
Boiling water (1 cup): Activates the cocoa for rich flavor and a smooth batter.
Heavy whipping cream (2 1/2 cups): Whipped to lightness for the dreamy frosting.
Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the frosting with a fine texture.
Optional chocolate chips and candy pumpkins: For garnishing and festive flair.

How to Make Chocolate Pumpkin Cheesecake Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Cheesecake

Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (148°C). Line a 9-inch cake pan thoroughly with aluminum foil, pressing it smoothly to make sure you can lift the cheesecake out easily after baking. In a large bowl, gently combine cream cheese, brown sugar, and flour on low speed to avoid air bubbles that cause cracks. Then add pumpkin puree, sour cream, vanilla, and the fragrant spices, mixing until smooth. Incorporate eggs one at a time, taking care to scrape the bowl after each addition. Pour this luscious batter into your foil-lined pan and nestle it inside a larger pan filled halfway with warm water to create a gentle water bath. Bake for about an hour to an hour and ten minutes, then let it rest inside the oven, first closed, then slightly ajar, for slow cooling that prevents cracking. Finally, chill the cheesecake for 4 to 5 hours until firm and ready to layer.

Step 2: Bake the Chocolate Cake Layers

Time to warm the oven back up to 350°F (176°C). Prepare two 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper and grease. Mix your dry ingredients—flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt—until uniform in a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla until combined. Blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, then stir in boiling water to achieve a smooth, thin batter. Divide this evenly between pans and bake for 35-40 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Let these chocolate masterpieces cool on racks completely before frosting.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Cream Cheese Whipped Frosting and Assemble

Whip cream cheese alone until velvety and lump-free. In a separate large bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla just to soft peaks. Gently blend the cream cheese into the whipped cream until thick and spreadable. Level the rounded tops off your cakes if needed, then place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread about a cup of frosting evenly across it. Carefully lift the chilled pumpkin cheesecake out of the pan using the foil and place it on top. Layer another cup of frosting on the cheesecake, then add the second chocolate cake layer. Trim edges if layers don’t perfectly align, then frost the entire cake. Decorate with chocolate chips around the base and pipe pretty frosting shells along the edges. Add festive candy pumpkins if you’re in the mood for whimsy! Chill until ready to enjoy—best within 4 or 5 days.

How to Serve Chocolate Pumpkin Cheesecake Cake Recipe

The image shows a close-up view of a three-layer cake standing on a white marbled surface. The bottom and top layers are dark brown chocolate cake with a soft, crumbly texture, while the middle layer is thick, yellow, and smooth, resembling pumpkin or custard. Between each cake layer is a thin spread of light brown chocolate frosting. The cake is covered in a smooth coat of light brown frosting, decorative swirls of the same frosting line the top edge, and small orange pumpkin-shaped frosting decorations with green tops sit on the top of the cake. Chocolate chips are scattered around the base of the cake on the white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Bringing this cake to the table can be as festive or elegant as you like. Consider adding a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted pecans on top, or a dusting of cocoa powder for a professional touch. Fresh whipped cream dollops along each slice or a drizzle of caramel sauce make a sensational presentation and add complementary sweetness.

Side Dishes

This cake holds its own as a dessert star, but pairing it with lightly spiced chai tea or a hot cup of coffee balances the sweetness and highlights the cozy pumpkin spices. A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream alongside adds a cooling contrast that makes every bite even more indulgent.

Creative Ways to Present

For a seasonal centerpiece, consider slicing the cake into smaller portions and serving on mini dessert plates, each accented with a single candy pumpkin or a sprinkle of edible gold dust. Another fun idea is to turn it into dessert parfaits by layering crumbled cake with dollops of the frosting and fresh whipped cream in clear glasses—perfect for parties or intimate gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Chocolate Pumpkin Cheesecake Cake Recipe well covered in an airtight container in the fridge. This preserves freshness and keeps the frosting creamy and delicious. It’s best enjoyed within 4 to 5 days to experience the flavors at their peak.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake if you want to save it for later. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving to maintain its perfect texture and taste.

Reheating

This cake is wonderful enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t usually necessary. However, if you prefer it slightly warmer, allow slices to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as it may affect the frosting’s texture.

FAQs

Can I make this cake dairy-free or vegan?

While this recipe relies heavily on dairy for its texture and flavor, with careful substitutions like dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based milk, and egg replacers, you might create a version suitable for dairy-free or vegan diets. Keep in mind the textures and flavors will differ somewhat from the original.

Why does the cheesecake need a water bath when baking?

The water bath creates gentle, even heat around the cheesecake, which helps to prevent cracks and keeps the texture smooth and creamy rather than dry or crumbly. It’s a crucial step for a perfect pumpkin cheesecake layer.

Can I make the cheesecake or cake layers in advance?

Absolutely! Both the cheesecake and cake layers can be baked a day ahead and kept refrigerated, which actually makes assembly easier. Just be sure everything is fully cooled before assembling to maintain the clean layers.

What is the best way to slice the cake?

Use a long, serrated knife wiped clean between cuts to create neat, even slices. Chilling the cake before slicing also helps maintain its structure for picture-perfect servings.

Can I omit the candy pumpkins and chocolate chips?

Definitely! They are purely decorative and optional. Your cake will be just as delicious without them if you prefer a simpler look or if you want to customize the garnish to your liking.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try this Chocolate Pumpkin Cheesecake Cake Recipe and see how the marriage of two amazing desserts creates something truly unforgettable. It’s one of those recipes you’ll want to make again and again — perfect for holidays, special occasions, or cozy nights at home. Enjoy every rich, creamy, spiced bite with those you love!