If you’re craving that perfect blend of cozy fall flavors with a texture that’s so irresistible you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds, the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. This scrumptious dessert brings together a buttery cake crust with a luscious, spiced pumpkin cheesecake layer that oozes gooey goodness in every bite. It’s the ultimate autumn treat that’s surprisingly simple to make but feels like an extravagant indulgence, perfect for sharing with friends and family or savoring all by yourself on a chilly evening.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Recipe relies on a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that iconic autumn hue. From the golden yellow cake base to the creamy, spiced pumpkin filling, every ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to make this dessert shine in your kitchen.
- Yellow cake mix (15.25 oz): Forms the buttery, tender crust that supports the pumpkin filling perfectly.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1 cup total): Adds richness and moisture both to the dough and the creamy filling.
- Large eggs (4 total): Provide structure and help bind all the ingredients together for that chewy, gooey texture.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Gives the filling its decadently smooth, slightly tangy base that balances the spices beautifully.
- Pumpkin puree (15 oz): Imparts that unmistakable pumpkin flavor and moisture to keep each bite meltingly soft.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors, adding warmth and depth to the spiced pumpkin layer.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tsp), nutmeg (1/2 tsp), ginger (1/2 tsp), and cloves (1/2 tsp): Classic pumpkin pie spices that bring warmth, aroma, and that cozy fall feeling to every forkful.
- Powdered sugar (16 oz): Sweetens and lightens the pumpkin cream cheese filling, creating that perfect balance of sweet and spice.
- Optional garnishes like whipped cream, caramel sauce, and toasted pecans: Elevate the finished cake with added texture and flavor layers.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Cake Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan—this sets the stage for your gooey masterpiece. Then, mix the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and one egg in a medium bowl until a thick dough forms. Press this dough evenly into the pan’s bottom, creating a sturdy, buttery crust that will hold the luscious pumpkin filling.
Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Pumpkin Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until perfectly smooth and free of lumps. Next, add the pumpkin puree, three eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract, and mix until everything is fully combined. This base will soon become that irresistible gooey layer that defines this cake.
Step 3: Infuse with Spices and Sweetness
Blend in your carefully measured ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves to the filling for that signature pumpkin pie aroma. Gradually stir in the powdered sugar, mixing until the filling becomes smooth and slightly fluffy, ensuring a sweet yet spicy sensation in every bite.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the pumpkin filling evenly over your prepared cake crust, spreading it so the gooey layer bakes uniformly. Bake in your preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, keeping an eye out for the edges to set while the center remains decadently soft and gooey—that’s the hallmark of success for this recipe.
Step 5: Cool and Garnish
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the cake cool completely right there—it helps the filling set just enough without losing that gooey charm. Before serving, you can dust with powdered sugar and add some optional whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or toasted pecans to bring extra flair and flavor.
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like a swirl of whipped cream, a drizzle of rich caramel sauce, or a handful of toasted pecans transforms this already irresistible cake into a showstopper. These touches not only enhance the flavor but also add delightful textures and eye-catching appeal.
Side Dishes
While this cake is a dessert hero on its own, pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a warm cup of spiced cider elevates the entire experience. The cold creaminess of ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, gooey cake, making every bite even more indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by serving your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Recipe in individual ramekins for personal dessert portions or layering it with cinnamon whipped cream in a trifle bowl for a stunning presentation. Even simple square slices plated with a dusting of powdered sugar and a few pecans look elegant and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors tend to meld even more, making each slice just as delightful the next day. Just keep it covered well to maintain moisture and prevent the cake from drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save portions for later, this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight for best texture.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers warm and gooey, reheat slices gently in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or until warmed through. Avoid overheating to preserve that perfect gooey texture that makes this cake so special.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade cake mix instead of boxed cake mix?
Absolutely! While the boxed yellow cake mix keeps this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Recipe quick and simple, a homemade yellow cake batter works just as well and can add an extra personal touch if you prefer baking from scratch.
What kind of pumpkin puree should I use?
Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, as the latter contains added sugars and spices that will alter the cake’s flavor balance. Canned pumpkin puree is convenient and perfect for this recipe.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Swap the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free cake mix of the same weight, ensuring it has a similar texture, and confirm that all other ingredients you use are gluten-free as well.
Is this cake suitable to make ahead for a party?
Yes, it’s a fantastic make-ahead dessert. Bake the day before and refrigerate overnight; just add your garnishes right before serving to keep them fresh and beautiful.
Why is the center supposed to remain slightly gooey?
The signature gooey center is what gives this cake its magic — it’s rich, moist but slightly underbaked compared to traditional cakes to ensure that soft, indulgent texture that blends perfectly with the tender crust and spiced filling.
Final Thoughts
The Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Recipe is one of those treats that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s approachable enough for everyday baking but special enough to impress guests anytime you want to celebrate fall flavors. Once you make it, this cake will quickly claim a permanent spot in your dessert rotation, spreading cozy vibes with every slice. Go ahead and try it—you won’t regret bringing this gooey delight into your life!
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Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake is a delightful fall dessert that features a rich, spiced pumpkin cream cheese filling layered over a buttery yellow cake crust. Baked until the edges are set and the center remains irresistibly gooey, it’s perfect for seasonal gatherings and cozy treats. Topped with optional whipped cream, caramel sauce, or toasted pecans, this cake captures the essence of pumpkin spice in every bite.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 15 oz pumpkin puree
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 16 oz powdered sugar
Optional Toppings
- Whipped cream
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Caramel sauce
- Toasted pecans
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
- Make the Crust. In a medium bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and one egg. Stir until a thick dough forms, then press this dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create the crust base.
- Prepare the Filling. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, the remaining three eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract, mixing until the mixture is fully combined.
- Add Spices and Sweetener. Stir in the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, mixing until the filling is smooth and slightly fluffy.
- Assemble the Cake. Spread the pumpkin filling evenly over the prepared cake crust in the baking pan.
- Bake. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center remains slightly gooey for that perfect texture.
- Cool. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan to help it set properly before cutting.
- Serve. Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar and cut into squares. Optionally, top with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or toasted pecans to add extra flavor and texture.
Notes
- For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and butter to achieve a rich and creamy texture.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Adjust the spices to your preference for a milder or stronger pumpkin spice flavor.
- Let the cake cool completely to ensure clean slices and proper setting of the filling.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
