I had to take on a baking project today because 1) you know I can’t stand an empty cake plate and 2) I’ve single-handedly demolished every last Milk Dud in the house and had to have something else to move on to. Besides (and I know this is bizarre), about six months ago I decided on a freak impulse to hoard canned pumpkin (don’t ask), and now I’m doing my best to make a dent in my stash. So far I’ve made pumpkin bread, pumpkin bars, and most recently, this perfect layer cake. It’s gorgeous to look at and filled with warm, autumnal spices that will make your house smell amazing and bring a smile to everyone you serve it to. And I have no reservations in making such bold promises.