Cinnamon Chocolate Cake with Cinnamon Mascarpone Frosting

Recipes

Medically reviewed by Christiana George Updated Date: January 6, 2026

I did not grow up in a sport-playing or sport-watching household.  The only sport my husband’s family watches is soccer, mostly the World Cup games and that is only on every four years.  So last weekend was just a regular weekend for us.  No crazy Superbowl parties.  No yelling, no screaming, no cursing, no jumping, no arms waving.  Just a nice peaceful family weekend.  I used this quiet time to bake a cake. 

I had Valentine’s on the brain when making this cake, but really you can make it for any occasion.

I still had two jars of homemade dulce de leche left and wanted to use some as a filling.  Usually my in-laws use it to fill a yellow cake, but I wanted a chocolate cake.  I also knew I wanted to make the Cinnamon Mascarpone Frosting I made for my Churro Cupcakes.  I really love that frosting.  It’s light, fluffy and not too sweet. Then I thought I would try adding cinnamon to the cake also to give it a little extra special taste.



The cake recipe makes two 9 inch round cakes, but since I had a 9 inch heart cake pan, I made two heart shaped cakes.  They did turn out with some bubbling in the middle, but they were completely baked and I was going to cover them with frosting anyway.  

For the filling I piped a small border of frosting around the sides of the cake and filled it in with a dulce de leche and crème fraïche mixture, then topped it with thinly sliced strawberries.  Then I simply placed the other cake on top and frosted it.

I did go a little fancy on the frosting.  I wanted to try a floral type pattern.  I used an Ateco #827 tip and just swirled flowers all around the cake.  I was in kind of a rush to finish before the baby woke from his nap, so it is not perfect.  We will just call it a rustic look.

Then of course it looked to plain to me, so I added some lettering.  I didn’t want to mess up the cake by writing directly on it, so I chose to use chocolate candy melt.  I traced the cake pan on a piece of white paper, and wrote my lettering on it.  Then I placed a piece of wax paper over the paper and taped it to the counter.  With a piping bag and a Wilton #4 tip, I traced the letters with chocolate melt and let them harden, then carefully peeled them from the wax paper and placed them on the cake.

I was very pleased at how the cake turned out, especially the taste.  The complimentary cinnamon in the cake and in the frosting was a treasure.  And the sweetness of the the dulce the leche and the strawberries paired well with the chocolate cake.  The cake was moist, but not heavy, the filling was not overpowering, just a tease in the middle.  And the frosting was the pièce de résistance.  A symphony of flavors with a dramatic ending.

Cinnamon Chocolate Cake with Cinnamon Mascarpone Frosting

by The Sweet Chick



Prep Time: 20-30 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Keywords: bake dessert chocolate cinnamon dulce de leche whipped cream cake

Ingredients (two 9 inch cakes)

For the cake

  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 3/4 cups flour
  • 3/4 cup cocoa
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup crème fraîche or sour cream
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup boiling water

For the filling

  • 1/2 cup dulce de leche
  • 1/2 tablespoon crème fraîche or sour cream
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, thinly sliced

For the frosting

  • 2 cup heavy cream
  • 16 ounces mascarpone cheese, room temperature
  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 3 drops red food coloring

Instructions



For the cake

Preheat oven to 350º F.

In a large bowl, sift together sugar, flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon and salt.

In a stand mixer place eggs, milk, vanilla, and crème fraîche. Mix on low for about 1 minute.

Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix on low for about 3 minutes until all incorporated.

Stir in boiling water and carefully mix on low until batter is smooth (batter will be thin).

Divide batter into two greased 9 inch cake pans.

Bake at 350º F for 30 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Cool completely before filling.



For the filling

In a small bowl mix together the dulce de leche and crème fraîche, until smooth.

Using a pastry bag with tip or a Ziplock bag with tip cut off, pipe a border around the outer edge of the first cake.

Fill in with the dulce de leche mixture and spread evenly with spatula.

Then placed sliced strawberries over the mixture.

Place second cake on top of first one, lining up the edges.

Place cake in fridge while preparing frosting.

For the frosting

With an electric mixer on medium speed, whisk heavy cream until stiff peaks form (be careful not to overbeat, or cream will be grainy).



In another bowl, whisk together mascarpone, cinnamon and confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Gently fold whipped cream into mascarpone mixture until completely incorporated. Add food coloring as you fold.

Using your pastry bag and favorite tip or with a spatula, spread the frosting over the cake, completely covering it, then place in fridge to set. Keep refrigerated.

Cupcake recipe adapted from Hershey’s Kitchens

Filling recipe by The Sweet Chick

Frosting recipe adapted from Martha Stewart



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Are Pumpkin Puree Safe for Acid Reflux?

Health

Aneeza Pervez
Updated Date:
January 2, 2026
Are Pumpkin Puree Safe for Acid Reflux

Pumpkin puree, made from cooked and blended pumpkin, is a versatile ingredient often used in soups, desserts, and savory dishes. Its naturally sweet and creamy texture makes it a popular choice for healthy recipes. But if you suffer from acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), you might be asking: “Is pumpkin puree safe for acid reflux?”

The good news is that pumpkin puree is generally safe for acid reflux sufferers. With its mild, low-acid nature, high fiber content, and rich nutritional profile, pumpkin puree can actually help soothe digestion and reduce reflux symptoms. However, portion size, preparation methods, and accompanying ingredients can all influence how well it works in a reflux-friendly diet.

In this article, we’ll explore why pumpkin puree is considered safe for acid reflux, its nutritional benefits, and tips for incorporating it into your meals without triggering symptoms.



Is Pumpkin Puree Acidic or Alkaline?

Pumpkin puree is considered a low-acid food, with a pH level ranging between 4.9 and 5.2. While this places it in the mildly acidic category, its overall effect on digestion is gentle, making it a safe option for most people with acid reflux.

Additionally, pumpkin puree has alkalizing properties when metabolized in the body, helping to neutralize stomach acid and reduce irritation in the esophagus. Compared to other acidic foods like tomatoes or citrus fruits, pumpkin puree is far less likely to trigger reflux symptoms.

Author Tip: Is Pumpkin Puree Acidic?

Nutritional Profile of Pumpkin Puree

Pumpkin puree is packed with essential nutrients that promote overall health and support digestion. Here’s what makes it a nutrient-dense, reflux-friendly food:

1. High in Fiber

  • One cup of pumpkin puree contains about 7 grams of fiber, which supports healthy digestion, reduces bloating, and prevents overeating—one of the common triggers of acid reflux.

2. Low in Calories and Fat

  • With only 80 calories per cup and virtually no fat, pumpkin puree is light and easy to digest, making it a perfect option for those managing reflux symptoms.

3. Rich in Vitamins

  • Vitamin A: Promotes healthy mucous membranes, including those in the digestive tract, helping to protect the esophagus from stomach acid.
  • Vitamin C: Reduces inflammation and promotes healing.
  • Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant that soothes and protects the digestive lining.

4. Contains Essential Minerals

  • Potassium: Helps maintain electrolyte balance and supports muscle function, including the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which prevents stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus.
  • Magnesium: Relaxes the digestive muscles and helps reduce reflux episodes.

5. High Water Content

  • Pumpkin puree is about 90% water, which helps hydrate the body and dilute stomach acid, reducing reflux symptoms.

Also Read: Is Pumpkin Soup Acidic?

Why Pumpkin Puree is Good for Acid Reflux?

Research suggests that Pumpkin puree offers a range of benefits that make it suitable for acid reflux sufferers. Here’s why:

1. Gentle on the Stomach

  • Pumpkin puree’s low acidity and smooth texture make it soothing for the stomach and esophagus, reducing the risk of irritation.

2. Aids in Digestion

  • The fiber content in pumpkin puree helps regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and reduce bloating—key factors in managing acid reflux.

3. Prevents Overeating

  • Its fiber and water content promote a feeling of fullness, preventing overeating, which is a common reflux trigger.

4. Reduces Inflammation

  • Pumpkin’s antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds can soothe irritation in the esophagus caused by stomach acid.

5. Supports the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES)

  • Minerals like magnesium and potassium help keep the LES functioning properly, preventing stomach acid from traveling back into the esophagus.

Tips for Using Pumpkin Puree in a GERD-Friendly Diet

To ensure pumpkin puree works well in a reflux-friendly diet, follow these tips:



1. Choose Unsweetened Pumpkin Puree

  • Opt for pure, unsweetened pumpkin puree. Avoid canned pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars, spices, and preservatives that may trigger reflux symptoms.

2. Watch Your Portion Size

  • Stick to 1/2 to 1 cup per serving. Even reflux-friendly foods can cause discomfort if consumed in large quantities.

3. Avoid High-Fat Additions

  • Skip heavy creams, butter, or fried preparations when using pumpkin puree. Pair it with low-fat or non-fat ingredients instead.

4. Pair with Alkaline Foods

  • Combine pumpkin puree with reflux-friendly ingredients like oats, bananas, or lean proteins to create balanced meals.

5. Avoid Spicy or Acidic Additions

  • Refrain from adding spicy seasonings or acidic ingredients like vinegar or citrus to pumpkin puree dishes, as these can irritate the stomach and esophagus.

Related to Read: Are Pumpkin Seeds Safe for Acid Reflux?

Reflux-Friendly Pumpkin Puree Recipes

1. Pumpkin Oatmeal

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup oats
  • 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Cook oats in almond milk as directed.
  2. Stir in pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and honey.
  3. Serve warm as a hearty, reflux-friendly breakfast.

2. Pumpkin and Banana Smoothie

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 small banana
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Blend all ingredients until smooth.
  2. Serve as a refreshing, acid reflux-friendly snack.

3. Pumpkin Soup

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • A pinch of salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. Heat pumpkin puree and vegetable broth in a pot over medium heat.
  2. Stir in almond milk and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Serve warm with a slice of whole-grain bread.

More Pumpkin Recipes: Pumpkin, Banana, & Apple Yogurt Smoothie



Pumpkin Dulce de Leche Chocolate Chip Cookies

Pumpkin Spice Crepes with a Cinnamon Mascarpone Filling

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Puree and Acid Reflux

1. Is pumpkin puree acidic?

Pumpkin puree is mildly acidic but has alkalizing effects when metabolized in the body, making it safe for acid reflux sufferers.

2. Can pumpkin puree trigger acid reflux?

Pumpkin puree is unlikely to trigger reflux. However, consuming it in large quantities or pairing it with fatty or spicy ingredients may cause discomfort.

3. Is canned pumpkin puree safe for GERD?

Yes, plain canned pumpkin puree is safe for GERD, but avoid sweetened or spiced varieties like pumpkin pie filling.

4. How much pumpkin puree can I eat if I have acid reflux?

Stick to 1/2 to 1 cup per serving to avoid overeating, which can put pressure on the stomach and trigger reflux symptoms.

5. What are other reflux-friendly vegetables?

Other reflux-friendly vegetables include zucchini, carrots, spinach, cucumbers, and sweet potatoes.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin puree is a nutrient-dense, low-acid food that is generally safe and beneficial for individuals with acid reflux or GERD. Its high fiber and water content, along with its soothing properties, make it a great addition to a reflux-friendly diet.

Whether enjoyed in oatmeal, smoothies, or soups, pumpkin puree can help improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and prevent reflux symptoms when consumed in moderation. Just be sure to avoid high-fat or overly spiced preparations to get the most out of this versatile and healthy ingredient.





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