Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Welcome to the perfect recipe for all pumpkin spice lovers out there! If you’re looking for a dessert that truly captures the essence of fall, then this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is just what you need. This delightful cake features rich layers of gooey pumpkin filling paired with a creamy frosting that will make your taste buds dance with joy. It’s not only a treat for your palate but also a warm hug on a chilly autumn day.

This recipe is special because it can easily fit into any occasion, whether it’s for a busy weeknight treat or a sweet addition to your family gatherings. Once you make this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake, it will quickly become a seasonal favorite that you’ll want to whip up again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The simple steps and straightforward ingredients mean you can have this delicious cake ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves pumpkin spice! This cake is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it a day in advance, and let the flavors meld together for an even richer taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a cozy night in, this cake fits right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is simple and fun! These wholesome ingredients come together to create something magical. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cake

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Gooey Filling

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves

For the Frosting

• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it to suit your tastes! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch to your cake.
• Spice It Up: Feel free to add extra spices like ginger or cardamom for an added flavor kick.
• Chocolate Swirl: Incorporate some chocolate chips into the filling for a sweet twist that chocolate lovers will adore!
• Frosting Alternatives: Try using whipped coconut cream instead of cream cheese frosting for a lighter option.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, egg, melted butter, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract. Mixing these ingredients well creates a flavorful base that will hold all the gooiness together.

Step 2: Create the Gooey Filling

In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and eggs until smooth. Then add in the remaining pumpkin puree, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This gooey filling adds richness and depth of flavor that perfectly complements the base.

Step 3: Layer It Up

Pour half of the cake batter into your prepared pan. Next, gently spread the gooey filling over this layer. Finally, dollop the remaining cake batter on top. Don’t worry about making it perfect; those imperfections are what give this cake its charm!

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean from one side but still slightly moist from the other. This is where all those delicious flavors meld together!

Step 5: Make Your Cream Cheese Frosting

While your cake cools down slightly, prepare your cream cheese frosting by beating together softened cream cheese, brown sugar, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth. Spread generously over your cooled cake for that final touch of sweetness.

And there you have it! Your very own Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is ready to be enjoyed. Each bite is like taking in all those cozy autumn vibes! Enjoy sharing it with friends or savoring it all by yourself—either way, it’s bound to bring joy!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

To ensure your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake turns out perfectly, here are some handy tips to keep in mind!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Letting your cream cheese and eggs sit out for about 30 minutes before using them helps create a smoother batter and frosting, ensuring everything blends together seamlessly.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined prevents the cake from becoming dense. A light hand will yield that delightful gooey texture we all love.

• Monitor baking time closely: Every oven is different, so check your cake a few minutes before the suggested bake time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs for the perfect gooey consistency.

• Chill the frosting: After making the cream cheese frosting, let it chill in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes before spreading it on the cooled cake. This will make it easier to work with and provide a lovely texture.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels to suit your taste! Adding a pinch more cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance that cozy autumnal flavor even further.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Presentation is key when serving this delightful dessert! Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game and impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of light, airy whipped coconut cream on top adds a lovely contrast in texture and enhances the flavors beautifully.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts: Sprinkling some finely chopped nuts on top gives an extra crunch and complements the pumpkin spice notes perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm gooey cake, creating a delicious blend of flavors and temperatures.
• Spiced apple cider: Serve warm spiced apple cider alongside for a cozy drink option that echoes the fall theme.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: Their natural sweetness and earthy flavor make them a fantastic side dish that balances out the richness of the cake.
• Mixed green salad: A fresh salad with cranberries and pecans provides a nice contrast to the rich dessert, keeping your meal balanced.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, ensuring you have a delightful treat ready whenever the pumpkin spice cravings hit.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate the cake, where it will stay fresh for about a week.
• If you’ve already frosted the cake, keep it in the fridge to maintain the cream cheese frosting’s texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap slices of the cake tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until warm.
• Alternatively, warm slices in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• Be sure not to overheat to keep that gooey texture intact!

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Let’s address some common ones.

Can I make Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free version. Just ensure all other ingredients are also certified gluten-free.

What can I substitute for eggs in Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?

You can use unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas as an egg substitute. Use 1/4 cup of either per egg needed in the recipe.

How should I store my Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to a week. See our storage tips above for more details!

Can I use other types of frosting on this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake?

Yes! While cream cheese frosting pairs perfectly with this cake, feel free to try whipped cream or even a simple vanilla buttercream if you prefer something different.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is truly a special treat that captures all the cozy flavors of fall. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do and that it brings warmth and joy to your gatherings or cozy nights at home. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try—I’d love to hear from you! Happy baking!