Easy Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine the spice cake mix, pumpkin puree, water (or apple cider), and ground cinnamon.
3. Stir with a spatula until the batter is a uniform mahogany color and no dry streaks remain.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smooth the top, and bake for 25-30 minutes.
5. Perform the toothpick test: insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
6. Let the cake cool completely in the pan to ensure the structure sets.
7. Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together using an electric hand mixer until smooth and pale.
8. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt, whipping on high until the frosting is light and airy.
9. Spread a thick, velvety layer of frosting over the cooled cake.