As the leaves turn and the air takes on that crisp, golden hue, there’s something undeniably magical about the aroma of baking in the kitchen. Enter my Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting—a delightful way to welcome autumn flavors. This recipe is a whimsical blend of soft, melt-in-your-mouth cake and a rich, gooey filling that’s sure to transport you to your favorite fall memories. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings, but it’s also super easy to whip up, with a few gluten-free and vegan twists for those with dietary preferences. So, are you ready to savor the taste of the season in a uniquely scrumptious way? Let’s get baking!
Why Is This Cake So Irresistible?
Indulgent, Rich Flavor: The combination of spiced pumpkin and creamy frosting creates a decadent treat that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Perfectly Gooey Texture: The cake’s unique filling maintains that delightful gooeyness, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite.
Simple Steps: Despite its impressive taste, this recipe is incredibly easy to follow—perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers alike!
Customizable Options: With gluten-free and vegan alternatives available, everyone can join in on the fun. If you love easy fall desserts, check out this Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake.
Crowd-Friendly: Your family and friends will be raving about this cake at every gathering, making it an instant favorite for seasonal celebrations!
Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Ingredients
• Here’s what you’ll need to create this enchanting Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake!
For the Cake Base
- Yellow Cake Mix – Provides the base structure and sweetness; gluten-free cake mix can be used for a gluten-free option.
- Large Egg – Binds ingredients together for a well-structured cake.
- Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, melted) – Adds moisture and richness to the cake.
- Pumpkin Puree (1 cup + 1/2 cup) – Essential for the gooey texture and imparts classic pumpkin flavor.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp x 2) – Deepens the flavor of both the cake base and filling.
For the Pumpkin Spice Filling
- Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened x 2) – Offers creaminess and tang, making the filling irresistible.
- Large Eggs (2) – Used in the filling for creaminess and stability.
- Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp) – Enhances the delightful pumpkin spice flavor.
- Ground Nutmeg (1/2 tsp) – Adds earthy warmth to the filling.
- Ground Cloves (1/4 tsp) – Brings an aromatic spice note that rounds out the flavors.
- Powdered Sugar (4 cups in filling) – Sweetener that gives bulk and texture; add gradually to keep it lump-free.
For the Frosting
- Unsalted Butter (1/4 cup, softened) – Adds richness and creaminess to the frosting.
- Brown Sugar (1/4 cup, packed) – Provides sweetness and a wonderful caramel note to the frosting.
- Powdered Sugar (2 cups for frosting) – Creates a smooth texture; adjust sweetness to taste.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp for frosting) – Enhances the overall flavor of the frosting.
Get ready to indulge in a joyful baking experience as you assemble these ingredients for your delicious Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Prepare Cake Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, 1 large egg, melted unsalted butter, 1 cup of pumpkin puree, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended, then press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Step 2: Make Pumpkin Spice Filling
In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s creamy and smooth. Add in 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup of melted butter, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground cloves. Mix these ingredients together until the filling is creamy, then gradually fold in the powdered sugar until you achieve a smooth consistency.
Step 3: Bake
Pour the creamy pumpkin spice filling over the cake base in the baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The edges of the cake should be set, but the center will remain soft and slightly gooey. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan.
Step 4: Make Frosting
While the cake cools, prepare the frosting by beating together the remaining softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup of softened unsalted butter, and 1/4 cup of packed brown sugar until it becomes fluffy and light. Gradually add in the 2 cups of powdered sugar, mixing until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Finally, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for added flavor.
Step 5: Frost the Cake
Once your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake is entirely cooled, use a spatula to spread the luscious cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Feel free to decorate with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped nuts if you’d like, adding that final touch to your delightful autumn dessert. Enjoy your baking masterpiece with family and friends!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake
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Watch Your Mixing: Avoid overmixing the cake batter to keep it from becoming dense. A gentle fold is all you need for a soft texture in your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.
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Check for Gooeyness: The center of the cake should be slightly jiggly when you take it out of the oven for that perfect gooey texture. Don’t be afraid to trust your instincts!
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Adjust Sweetness Thoughtfully: If you find the frosting too sweet, reduce powdered sugar or add a pinch of salt for a more balanced flavor.
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Cooling Time Matters: Make sure to cool the cake completely before frosting. This ensures the frosting spreads smoothly without melting into the cake.
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Add Personal Touches: Consider garnishing your cake with chopped pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch that elevates your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake.
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Freezer Friendly: This cake freezes well! Wrap slices tightly and store in the freezer for up to a month. Just thaw before enjoying again!
Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Variations
You can easily customize the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with various substitutions and enhancements to make it uniquely yours!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix to replace regular cake mix for a delicious gluten-free option.
- Vegan-Friendly: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use vegan cream cheese and butter for a fully vegan cake.
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling to introduce delightful crunch and flavor.
- Extra Spices: Boost the spice profile by adding a pinch of ginger or allspice. It adds warmth and an exciting depth to the flavor.
- Less Sweet: Dial down the sweetness by reducing the powdered sugar in the frosting; you can always taste as you go!
- Pumpkin Pie Version: For a pie-like filling, add in more pumpkin puree, plus a dash of evaporated milk for creaminess and richness.
- Garnish Ideas: Top your frosted cake with a sprinkle of cinnamon or even some caramel drizzle for a stunning presentation.
- Different Frosting: Swap the cream cheese frosting for a whipped cream topping; this lightens it up, offering a lovely contrast to the gooey cake.
Feeling inspired? If you’re into easy, comforting desserts, check out this delightful Honey Pepper Cheese recipe for another cozy treat!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
As the aroma of spiced pumpkin fills your kitchen, think about elevating your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with delightful pairings that make every bite even more special.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla contrasts wonderfully with the cake’s warm spices, enhancing the overall treat.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it adds a fluffy texture that balances the cake’s richness—perfect for those cream lovers!
- Caramel Drizzle: A sweet finish, a drizzle of caramel sauce gives an indulgent touch that complements the cake’s warm flavors.
- Chai Tea: The spiced notes of chai echo the pumpkin cake, creating a cozy pairing that warms both heart and soul on chilly evenings.
- Coffee: A rich, dark brew enhances the flavors in the cake, making it a comforting choice for afternoon treats or brunch gatherings.
- Pecan Toppings: Chopped pecans sprinkled on top add crunch and nutty depth that play beautifully against the cake’s gooey texture.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: Who doesn’t love a seasonal classic? The flavors match perfectly, enveloping you in a warm autumn embrace!
- Chocolate Drizzle: Infusing a hint of dark chocolate into the experience introduces a decadent flavor contrast to the cake’s sweetness.
- Fresh Berries: The bright acidity of strawberries or raspberries cuts through the richness while bringing a burst of color to your plate.
- Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A light dusting on the frosting adds an extra sweet note and a little crunch, making your dessert even more festive!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cake base up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the yellow cake mix, egg, butter, pumpkin puree, and vanilla, then pressing it into the baking dish. Once it’s ready, store it covered in the refrigerator. Additionally, the pumpkin spice filling can be made and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, simply pour the filling over the prepared cake base and bake as directed. For the frosting, you can mix it up to 2 days in advance; just keep it refrigerated and stir before using. This way, your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake will remain just as delicious with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake
Fridge: Store your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and maintains its delightful gooey texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 1 month—perfect for those unexpected cravings!
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw a slice of cake in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Original Cake: Ensure the cake is fully cool before wrapping to prevent condensation and maintain its soft and gooey center.
Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pumpkin puree for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree, look for a brand that lists “100% pure pumpkin” on the label without added spices or sugars. This ensures you get that rich, authentic pumpkin flavor. I often prefer using organic pumpkin puree for its natural taste!
How should I store leftover Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake?
Store your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will remain fresh for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before placing it in the container to maintain its gooey texture. You can reheat individual slices gently in the microwave for the best results.
Can I freeze this cake, and how do I do it?
Very! To freeze your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place slices in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake in the fridge overnight and gently reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to revive its gooey goodness.
What should I do if the center of my cake isn’t gooey enough?
The gooey center comes from precise baking! If it seems too set, make sure to bake just until the edges are firm but the center remains slightly jiggly. If it turns out too firm, don’t worry—next time, reduce the baking time by a few minutes, checking around the 40-minute mark.
What are the dietary options for this cake?
The more the merrier! You can easily make this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake gluten-free by using a gluten-free cake mix. For a vegan option, substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tbsp flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water per egg) and use vegan cream cheese along with vegan butter. Everyone can indulge and enjoy the festivities!
Decadent Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cake mix, 1 egg, melted butter, 1 cup pumpkin puree, and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and press into the baking dish.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs, vanilla, remaining pumpkin puree, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Mix until creamy, then fold in powdered sugar until smooth.
- Pour the filling over the cake base and bake for 40-45 minutes. The edges should be set; the center should remain soft.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare the frosting by beating together remaining cream cheese, softened butter, and brown sugar until fluffy. Gradually mix in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Once cooled, spread frosting evenly over the cake. Garnish as desired.
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