Pumpkin Ghost Cakes: 5 Wholesome Steps to Cozy Joy

Name: Pumpkin Ghost Cakes: 5 Wholesome Steps to Cozy Joy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; Chocolate chips or candy eyes for decoration

July 3, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s something truly magical about Halloween, isn’t there? The air gets a little crisper, the leaves turn beautiful shades of orange and gold, and the excitement of crafting festive treats fills our kitchens. One of my absolute favorites to whip up are these delightful Pumpkin Ghost Cakes. They not only taste amazing but also add a charming, whimsical touch to any family gathering. I can still remember the first time I made these with my grandchildren; their eyes lit up as they watched me dip the cakes in glaze and decorate them with candy eyes. It was a moment of pure joy! Trust me, these spooky snacks are sure to bring smiles and laughter to your table. Plus, the combination of pumpkin and warm spices is simply irresistible. So grab your mixing bowls and let’s dive into this fun baking adventure together! I promise, you won’t regret it.

Pumpkin Ghost Cakes - detail 1

Ingredients List

To create these delightful Pumpkin Ghost Cakes, you’ll need to gather a few simple ingredients. I always find it helpful to measure everything out before starting, so you can easily add them together as you go. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup pumpkin puree: This is the star of the show! You can use canned pumpkin puree for convenience, or make your own by roasting and pureeing fresh pumpkin. Just ensure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling!
1 cup all-purpose flour: Make sure to spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy. This will give your cakes the perfect texture.
1/2 cup sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness, balancing the warm spices beautifully.
1/2 cup brown sugar: This brings a lovely caramel flavor and moisture to the cakes. Light or dark brown sugar works well here!
1/2 cup vegetable oil: This keeps the cakes moist and tender. If you prefer, you can substitute with applesauce for a lower-fat option.
2 large eggs: These are essential for binding the ingredients together. Room temperature eggs work best!
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
1 teaspoon baking powder: This helps the cakes rise, giving them a nice fluffy texture.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside the baking powder for extra lift.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: This warm spice is a must for that cozy fall flavor.
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg: Adds a lovely aromatic quality that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch helps to enhance all the other flavors.
1 cup powdered sugar: For the glaze that makes these cakes extra special!
2 tablespoons milk: This will help to achieve the right consistency for your glaze.
Chocolate chips or candy eyes for decoration: Get creative! These add a fun touch and can really make your ghost cakes come to life.

Now that you have your ingredients ready, you’re one step closer to creating these festive treats! Remember, measuring accurately is key to achieving the best results, so take your time. Happy baking!

How to Prepare Instructions

Making your Pumpkin Ghost Cakes is a delightful experience, and I’m here to guide you through each step! Just follow along, and soon you’ll have these charming treats ready for your Halloween festivities.

Preheat and Mix

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures your cakes bake evenly. While the oven warms up, grab a large mixing bowl and start by adding your pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix these ingredients together until everything is well combined. I like to use a whisk for this, but a spatula works just fine too! Then, crack in your two large eggs and add the vanilla extract. Mix again until you have a smooth, luscious batter. It should smell heavenly already!

Combine Dry Ingredients

Now, let’s tackle the dry ingredients. In another bowl, combine your all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mixing these together separately is key because it helps distribute the baking powder and spices evenly throughout the batter. You don’t want any clumps of flour or spices in your cakes! Once mixed, gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients. Gently stir until just combined; it’s okay if there are a few small lumps. Overmixing can make the cakes tough, and we want them to be soft and fluffy!

Fill Molds and Bake

Next, it’s time to fill your cupcake molds! Grease them lightly with cooking spray or line them with paper liners for easy removal. Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, fill each mold halfway with the batter. This helps them rise nicely without overflowing. Now, pop them in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick into the center of one cake; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, they’re ready! Remember, every oven is a bit different, so keep an eye on them!

Cool and Glaze

Once your cakes are baked to perfection, carefully remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time is crucial because glazing warm cakes can make a mess! While they cool, you can prepare the glaze by mixing your powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until smooth. Once the cakes are completely cool, dip the tops into the glaze, letting any excess drip off. Now comes the fun part—decorate with chocolate chips or candy eyes to give them their ghostly character! Trust me, they’ll look adorable!

Tips for Success

When making your Pumpkin Ghost Cakes, a few simple tips can really help ensure they turn out perfectly every time! First, don’t rush the measuring process. Accurate measurements are key to achieving that light and fluffy texture we all love. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, just swap the all-purpose flour for a good gluten-free baking blend. It works like a charm!

Another common mistake to avoid is overmixing the batter. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. A few lumps are totally okay! This keeps your cakes tender and airy. Also, remember to let your cakes cool completely before glazing. If you glaze them too soon, the icing can slide right off—oops!

Finally, if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a handful of chopped nuts or swapping in different spices like ginger or cloves for a fun twist. Baking is all about creativity, so don’t hesitate to make these treats your own! Happy baking!

Variations

One of the best things about Pumpkin Ghost Cakes is how versatile they can be! If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, why not play around with different spices? You could add a pinch of ginger or cloves for an extra warm kick. Some folks even enjoy a touch of allspice—it’s like a fall festival in your mouth!

If you love a bit of crunch, consider folding in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter. It adds a wonderful texture and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin. Just be sure to chop them finely so they mix in well.

For decorations, why not get creative? Instead of just chocolate chips or candy eyes, you could use colored frosting to create fun designs or even sprinkle some edible glitter for a magical touch! You could also top them with crushed graham crackers to mimic a spooky graveyard scene—how fun is that? The options are endless, and it’s a fantastic way to personalize these ghostly delights for your Halloween gatherings! Enjoy the process and let your imagination run wild!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying your Pumpkin Ghost Cakes, it’s always nice to know what you’re indulging in! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per cake, based on standard ingredient brands:

Calories: 180
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 15g
Protein: 2g

These values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use. But don’t let numbers hold you back—these cakes are a delightful treat for your Halloween festivities!

FAQ Section

Can I make these Pumpkin Ghost Cakes ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cakes can be made a day in advance, making them perfect for busy schedules. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container at room temperature. When you’re ready to serve, you can glaze them right before your guests arrive for that fresh, delicious look!

What if I don’t have pumpkin puree?
No worries! If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with applesauce for a different flavor profile. It won’t have that classic pumpkin taste, but it will still keep your cakes moist and delicious. Just make sure to use unsweetened applesauce to keep the sweetness balanced.

Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Just make sure to follow the specific instructions on the blend you choose, as some may require additional ingredients for the best results.

How do I store leftover Pumpkin Ghost Cakes?
To keep your cakes fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just wrap each cake tightly in plastic wrap, and they’ll be good for up to two months.

Can I add more spices to the batter?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices. Adding a dash of ginger or cloves can really enhance the flavor of your Pumpkin Ghost Cakes. Just remember to start with small amounts and adjust to your taste!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying your delightful Pumpkin Ghost Cakes, pairing them with the right treats and beverages can elevate the experience! I love serving these spooky snacks alongside a warm cup of spiced apple cider. The sweet and tangy notes of the cider complement the pumpkin and spices perfectly, creating a cozy autumn vibe.

If you’re hosting a Halloween gathering, consider adding a platter of caramel-dipped apple slices or even some pumpkin-flavored popcorn for a fun, festive touch. The crunchiness of the apples and the sweetness of the caramel balance beautifully with the soft, moist texture of the cakes. And for a little extra flair, you could whip up a simple whipped cream with a dash of cinnamon to dollop on top. It’s a delightful way to enjoy these ghostly treats!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your Pumpkin Ghost Cakes fresh and delicious, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This will help maintain their delightful moisture and texture. If you happen to have more cakes than you can eat in that time, no worries! You can freeze them for up to two months. Just make sure to wrap each cake tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, and then place them in a resealable freezer bag.

When you’re ready to enjoy one of your frozen treats, simply take it out of the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. No need to reheat; these cakes are delightful served chilled or at room temperature. Trust me, they’ll still taste fantastic even after a little hibernation!

Encouragement to Bake

I truly hope you’re inspired to dive into making these delightful Pumpkin Ghost Cakes! There’s something so rewarding about creating festive treats that bring joy to family and friends. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your own variations—maybe add a new spice or try a different decoration! I’d love to hear about your baking adventures and any fun twists you come up with. So roll up your sleeves, enjoy the process, and let those spooky snacks bring smiles to your Halloween celebrations!

You might also like it

Cottage Cheese Chocolate Mousse: 5 Comforting Steps to Bliss

Delicious Apple Cinnamon Loaf: 5 Comforting Steps to Bake

Warm and Comforting Cookies for Your Heart and Home

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.