Irresistible Spiced Pumpkin Cake with Greek Yogurt Swirl (A Cozy Autumn Treat )

First off, thank you so much for being here, friend! Today I’m sharing one of my absolute favorite fall bakes: Spiced Pumpkin Cake with Greek Yogurt Swirl. It’s moist, warmly spiced, and topped with a tangy swirl of Greek yogurt that makes every bite feel comforting and indulgent.

This is the kind of cake that brings people together—it smells like autumn while baking and tastes like a hug on a crisp October day. Whether you serve it for Thanksgiving, a cozy Sunday gathering, or just because, it’s bound to be a hit.

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Overview of Recipe Content

What is Spiced Pumpkin Cake with Greek Yogurt Swirl?

Think of this as a cross between a classic pumpkin loaf and a marbled cheesecake. The base is tender and full of fall spices, while the Greek yogurt swirl adds a creamy, slightly tangy finish that balances the sweetness.

Why You’ll Love It

• Cozy fall flavors in every bite
• Perfect balance of moist cake and creamy swirl
• Simple ingredients you probably already have
• A healthier twist thanks to protein-rich Greek yogurt

What It Tastes Like

Warm, spiced pumpkin with cinnamon and nutmeg notes, paired with the slight tang of yogurt that melts into the cake for a velvety texture.

Health/Nutritional Benefits

• Pumpkin purée is full of vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Greek yogurt adds protein and probiotics.
• Less sugar than most cakes, but all the flavor.

Ingredients

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For the Cake:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup neutral oil (like canola or vegetable)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Greek Yogurt Swirl:

• ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Tools Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk & spatula
• 9×9-inch baking pan (or loaf pan for thicker slices)
• Parchment paper

Substitutions & Additions

• Swap all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
• Add chocolate chips or chopped walnuts for extra texture.
• Maple syrup instead of sugar in the swirl for a deeper fall flavor.

How to Make Spiced Pumpkin Cake with Greek Yogurt Swirl

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1. Preheat & Prep: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking pan with parchment.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk pumpkin purée, sugars, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Combine: Add dry mixture into wet, folding gently until just combined.
5. Prepare Swirl: Stir together yogurt, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla until creamy.
6. Layer & Swirl: Spread pumpkin batter into the pan. Dollop yogurt mixture on top, then swirl with a knife.
7. Bake: 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Cool & Enjoy: Let cool before slicing to let the swirl set beautifully.

What to Serve with Spiced Pumpkin Cake

• A warm mug of chai tea or pumpkin spice latte ☕
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert lovers
• Fresh whipped cream with a dusting of cinnamon

Tips for Making It Perfect

• Don’t overmix the batter—keep it light and airy.
• Room temperature yogurt swirls better.
• For more swirl definition, use a butter knife and drag lightly.

Storage Instructions

• Room Temp: 2 days in an airtight container.
• Fridge: Up to 5 days, keeps swirl fresher.
• Freeze: Slice and wrap individually, freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

General Information

Pumpkin cakes have been a staple in American kitchens for generations, often served at church gatherings and holiday dinners. The yogurt swirl is a modern twist—healthier than cream cheese, but just as creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Can I use flavored Greek yogurt?
You can, but plain keeps the balance best. Vanilla yogurt works in a pinch.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
Use 1 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes—bake in a 9×13 pan, adjust baking time to 40–45 minutes.

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Conclusion

This Spiced Pumpkin Cake with Greek Yogurt Swirl is autumn baked into one pan—moist, spiced, creamy, and wholesome. If you love pumpkin recipes, you’ll also adore my Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars, Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies, Classic Pumpkin Bread, Cinnamon Apple Cake, and Maple Pecan Blondies.

Happy baking, my friend—and don’t forget to share your cake with me on Pinterest!

Interactive Elements

💬 Leave me a comment below—what’s your favorite fall dessert?
📸 Snap a photo of your pumpkin cake and tag me on Pinterest!

Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 12 servings)

Calories	Protein	Carbs	Sugar	Fat	Saturated Fat	Fiber	Sodium
240	6g	32g	18g	9g	2g	2g	140mg

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