Step 1: Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat your oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. Add the pumpkin: Mix in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until smooth and fully incorporated.
5. Alternate wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with the brewed coffee and milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until everything is combined—be careful not to overmix.
6. Bake the cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
7. Cool the cakes: Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Beat the cream cheese and butter: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the powdered sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition. If the frosting is too thick, add 1 tablespoon of brewed coffee or milk to thin it out to your desired consistency.
3. Add flavoring: Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Layer the cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, place the first layer on a serving platter or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
2. Top with the second layer: Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
3. Decorate: For extra flair, sprinkle the top with ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice. You can also garnish with crushed coffee beans, chocolate shavings, or even a few dollops of whipped cream.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate: Although the cake can be served immediately, it’s best to refrigerate it for 1-2 hours to let the frosting firm up a bit and allow the flavors to meld.
2. Serve: Slice and serve with a hot cup of coffee or a pumpkin spice latte for the perfect fall treat!