As the leaves start to turn and a crispness fills the air, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of baking to bring warmth to our homes. This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is my secret weapon for embracing the cozy vibes of fall. Not only is it delightfully easy to whip up, but it also transforms ordinary gatherings into unforgettable moments filled with rich, spiced goodness. Picture yourself slicing into a cake that’s soft and moist, revealing a gooey filling that captures the essence of autumn in every bite. This dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for sending a sweet invitation to friends and family to gather around your table. How do you like to celebrate the flavors of the season?
Why Is This Cake a Must-Bake?
Warm, Cozy Indulgence: This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake wraps you in a blanket of fall flavors, making it the perfect treat for cool evenings. Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip this up in no time! Gooey Center Heaven: The slightly gooey filling adds a unique twist, ensuring every bite is a delightful surprise. Dress It Up: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or some chopped pecans for an extra layer of texture and flavor. If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy our Pumpkin Cream Cheese or Pumpkin Cupcakes Moist for more sweet pumpkin delights!
Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Ingredients
• Craft the perfect fall dessert with these simple ingredients, keeping the pumpkin spice flavors front and center!
For the Cake Base
- Yellow Cake Mix – Gives the cake its structure and a delightful sweetness; feel free to use a gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free option.
- Egg (1 large) – Binds your ingredients together, helping the cake rise beautifully.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds rich moisture and enhances the cake’s flavor; swap for dairy-free butter for a vegan choice.
- Pumpkin Puree (1 cup + 1/2 cup) – Infuses the cake with that signature pumpkin flavor and moisture; you can use fresh pumpkin if cooked and drained of excess moisture.
- Vanilla Extract (2 tsp) – Elevates the overall flavor profile, bringing out the sweet pumpkin spice notes.
For the Gooey Filling
- Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened) – Provides a creamy texture to both the filling and frosting, lending a tangy richness; opt for vegan cream cheese if needed.
- Eggs (2 large) – Offers stability and moisture to the filling for that perfect gooey texture.
- Ground Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves – These spices create the iconic pumpkin spice taste; adjust the amounts for your personal preference!
For the Frosting
- Powdered Sugar (4 cups + 2 cups for frosting) – Sweetens the frosting and helps achieve a fluffy consistency.
- Brown Sugar (1/4 cup, packed) – Adds depth and richness, perfectly complementing the cream cheese frosting.
Embrace the fall flavors in this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and get ready for a sweet celebration!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake releases easily after baking. This preparation step is key to achieving that perfect gooey center!
Step 2: Mix the Cake Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, one large egg, melted butter, one cup of pumpkin puree, and two teaspoons of vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer or a whisk, blend the mixture until it’s smooth and well combined, about 2-3 minutes. The batter will be thick and sweet, forming the perfect base for your cake.
Step 3: Press the Cake Base into the Dish
Once the cake batter is smooth, pour it into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom with a spatula. This ensures uniform baking for your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake. Press down gently to create a solid foundation, ready to hold that delightful gooey filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Gooey Filling
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add in the two large eggs, half a cup of pumpkin puree, the remaining teaspoon of vanilla extract, melted butter, and your desired spices, mixing until creamy and well combined. This filling will create that luscious, gooey center everyone will love.
Step 5: Incorporate the Sugar
Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud, until fully incorporated and smooth. This sweet mixture ends up as the topping on your cake. Pour the creamy filling over the pressed cake batter in the baking dish, ensuring even coverage for consistent gooeyness throughout the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges look set but the center jiggles slightly—this is key to achieving that desired gooey texture. Be careful not to over-bake; it should retain a soft, custard-like consistency in the center.
Step 7: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. Cooling time is essential, as it lets the cake finish setting and prevents the gooey filling from spilling out when cut. Patience will pay off with that delightful slice!
Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake is cooling, prepare the brown sugar cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, and packed brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Gradually add the remaining powdered sugar, mixing until you achieve a smooth, spreadable frosting.
Step 9: Frost the Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely, generously spread the brown sugar cream cheese frosting over the top using an offset spatula. Let the frosting cascade over the edges for a beautiful presentation. Now your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake is ready to show off its delicious, creamy crown!
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the cake into squares and serve, optionally garnishing with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped pecans on top. This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for sharing with friends and family, making it a delightful centerpiece for any fall gathering!
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. Enjoy it chilled or reheated for a cozy treat!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This helps restore the gooey texture while keeping the flavors fresh.
Best Enjoyed Fresh: While this cake is still tasty after storage, it’s best to indulge while fresh for the perfect gooey experience!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Enhance your autumn celebrations with delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement the cozy flavors of this gooey cake.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop adds creamy richness, balancing the warm spices and enhancing the cake’s gooey texture. The contrast in temperature creates a delightful experience.
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Spiced Coffee: The warm notes in spiced coffee echo the flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon, making it an ideal drink to sip while enjoying your cake. Plus, it awakens the senses for a cozy afternoon.
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Candied Pecans: The sweet crunch of candied pecans brings an extra layer of texture that’s irresistible. They can be sprinkled on top or served as a side for an added crunch.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over each slice adds an indulgent touch, enhancing the sweetness and creating a luscious contrast with the cream cheese frosting.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream serves as a refreshing counterpoint to the dense cake, adding a touch of elegance to the dessert.
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Chai Tea: Pair your cake with a steaming cup of chai tea; the aromatic spices deepening the fall flavors while providing a soothing, warming effect.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Celebrate fall with a seasonal favorite! The rich flavors in this latte harmonize beautifully with the cake, uniting fall lovers in warming satisfaction.
Embrace the essence of autumn by serving these delightful additions alongside your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting for an unforgettable gathering!
Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to personalize your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake and elevate its flavors with these delightful variations!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute yellow cake mix with a gluten-free blend to enjoy the same great taste without the gluten.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter and vegan cream cheese for a totally vegan experience that still tastes rich and creamy.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to either the filling or as a topping for a satisfying crunch and added flavor.
- Spice It Up: Off the usual pumpkin spice path by adjusting spices: increase the nutmeg or add a pinch of ginger for warmth.
- Flavor Extracts: Swap vanilla extract with almond or maple extracts to create a unique flavor profile for your frosting.
- Decadent Chocolate: Fold in chocolate chips into the gooey filling for a chocolatey twist that complements the pumpkin spice.
- Fruity Boost: Introduce dried cranberries or apples for a fruity surprise within the moist cake, brightening each bite with extra flavor.
- Less Sweet: Reduce the powdered sugar in the frosting if you prefer a less sweet contrast to the spicy pumpkin flavors.
This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake can adapt beautifully to your taste preferences, making each bite a delightful surprise! Enjoy the essence of autumn in every delicious slice by exploring variations that speak to your palate. If you have time, you might also love trying our Pumpkin Cupcakes Moist or a decadent Pumpkin Spice Sourdough for more seasonal delights!
Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake
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Measure Carefully: Always use the correct cup measurements, especially for flour and sugar, to avoid a dense cake. Proper measuring keeps your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake fluffy and delightful.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to prevent tough cake. Overmixing activates gluten and can lead to a rubbery texture rather than the moist, gooey filling you desire.
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Check for Doneness: Pull the cake from the oven when the edges are set but the center is still jiggly. Overbaking will ruin the gooey texture that makes this cake special.
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Cooling is Key: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting. If you frost a warm cake, the frosting will melt and create a mess instead of a beautiful finish.
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Storage Tips: Keep your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake covered and refrigerated for up to 5 days; serve it chilled or warmed up for a delightful treat!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cakes are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this delightful fall dessert even on your busiest days! You can prepare the cake base and gooey filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the ingredients as directed, but don’t bake it yet! Store the assembled cake mixture covered in the refrigerator. When it’s time to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time for optimal results. For the cream cheese frosting, make it ahead and refrigerate for up to 3 days; just give it a good stir before spreading. This thoughtful prep means you can easily whip up a treat that’s just as delicious, saving time and effort when the moment calls for a sweet celebration!
Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pumpkin for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best pumpkin flavor, look for small, sweet varieties such as Sugar Pie pumpkins. They are sweet and creamy, perfect for baking. Make sure to select pumpkins that feel heavy for their size and have a firm skin without any dark spots or blemishes.
What’s the best way to store the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake?
You can store your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it fresh and gooey, try to enjoy it while it’s at its prime—the flavors meld beautifully when freshly baked!
Can I freeze Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake?
Certainly! To freeze, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. This way, you can still indulge in that gooey goodness whenever you like!
What if my cake is too firm after baking?
If your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake turns out too firm, it might have been overbaked. Aim for a jiggle in the center to ensure a gooey texture. If you find your cake too firm, you can warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This can help revive that delightful gooey experience!
Is this recipe safe for people with gluten allergies?
Yes! You can easily make this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake gluten-free by substituting the yellow cake mix with a high-quality gluten-free cake mix. Ensure that all other ingredients, like the cream cheese and spices, are also gluten-free. Always double-check the labeling to avoid any gluten contamination.
Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine yellow cake mix, one egg, melted butter, one cup of pumpkin puree, and two teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish, pressing down evenly.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until fluffy, then add eggs, half a cup of pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, melted butter, and spices. Mix until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth, then pour over the cake batter.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until edges are set but center jiggles slightly.
- Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the frosting by beating cream cheese, butter, and brown sugar until fluffy. Gradually add remaining powdered sugar.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled cake.
- Slice into squares and serve, optionally garnished with cinnamon or chopped pecans.
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