Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that embodies the spirit of fall, you’ve come to the right place! This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is not just a treat; it’s a hug in dessert form. The combination of warm pumpkin flavors and creamy frosting makes this cake a favorite among friends and family. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, this recipe will quickly become your go-to seasonal delight.

I love how this cake brings everyone together, whether it’s at a family dinner or a simple afternoon coffee break. Every bite is rich and gooey, and the cream cheese frosting adds that perfect touch of sweetness. Trust me, once you bake this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for those busy days when you still want something homemade.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves pumpkin spice! It’s a great way to introduce the flavors of fall to even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can bake this cake ahead of time and frost it just before serving. It stays delicious for days!
• Gooey Goodness: Each slice has that delightful gooey layer filled with pumpkin goodness—it’s simply irresistible!
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a birthday, or just because, this cake fits right in at any celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are simple and wholesome—just what you need for a comforting fall treat! Gather them up, and let’s get started on creating something special.

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 Layer

• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Nuts: Stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Swap the Frosting: Try using whipped coconut cream instead of cream cheese frosting for a lighter option.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like ginger or allspice to give your cake an extra kick.
• Chocolate Twist: Fold in some chocolate chips into the gooey layer for a chocolatey surprise!

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. Preheating ensures even baking, which is key to achieving that perfect texture.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, one egg, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. This simple batter serves as the base for our gooey layers!

Step 3: Create the Gooey Layer

In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese with two eggs until smooth. Then add in remaining pumpkin puree along with vanilla extract and spices. Folding this mixture into your batter creates that signature gooey effect!

Step 4: Bake

Pour half of your cake batter into the prepared pan. Next, gently pour over the creamy mixture before adding the rest of your batter on top. Bake for about 40-45 minutes until set but still soft in the center.

Step 5: Prepare the Frosting

While your cake cools down slightly, whip together softened cream cheese with brown sugar and softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing until smooth.

Step 6: Frost & Serve

Once your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake has cooled completely, spread on that heavenly cream cheese frosting. Slice up pieces full of gooey goodness and enjoy every bite!

This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is bound to be a hit wherever you serve it. Happy baking!

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

Creating the perfect Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake is a delightful experience, and with these simple tips, you’ll ensure it turns out beautifully every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs and cream cheese to room temperature helps them blend more smoothly, creating a velvety texture in your cake and frosting.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir just until the ingredients are combined for that light, gooey goodness.

• Check doneness with a toothpick: Since this cake is gooey, using a toothpick to test for doneness can be tricky. Look for moist crumbs rather than a clean pick to ensure you have that perfect gooey center.

• Let it cool completely before frosting: Allowing the cake to cool fully prevents the frosting from melting off. This step ensures your layers stay intact and visually appealing when served.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste! Adding more cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance those warm flavors even further, making it uniquely yours.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving this delicious cake is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to make your dessert stand out!

Garnishes

• Cinnamon dust: A light sprinkle of cinnamon over the top adds a beautiful finishing touch and enhances the pumpkin spice flavor.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts: These not only add a crunchy texture but also lend an earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the cake.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, top each slice with fluffy whipped coconut cream for an extra layer of creamy goodness.

Side Dishes

• Hot Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider complements the pumpkin flavor perfectly and makes for a cozy pairing on chilly days.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the gooey cake, balancing flavors while adding a delightful cold element.
• Autumn Salad: A fresh salad featuring mixed greens, dried cranberries, nuts, and a light vinaigrette brings brightness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the cake.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These add an earthy sweetness that pairs well with pumpkin flavors while also providing additional nutritional value to your meal.

Now that you’re equipped with these serving suggestions and pro tips, get ready to impress your friends and family with this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that’s perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance, ensuring you have a delicious dessert ready for any occasion or simply to enjoy at home throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Cut the cake into individual slices for easy serving later.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy!

Reheating

• To reheat, remove a slice from the fridge or freezer.
• If refrigerated, warm it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• For frozen slices, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious dessert!

Can I use a different cake mix for the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Absolutely! While yellow cake mix works beautifully, you can substitute it with spice cake mix or even gluten-free cake mix if preferred.

How do I make the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting less sweet?

To reduce sweetness, you can lower the amount of powdered sugar in the frosting and add a splash more vanilla extract for flavor without added sweetness.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned for this recipe?

Yes! Fresh pumpkin can be used instead of canned puree. Just make sure it’s cooked and blended until smooth.

How long does the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake last in the fridge?

The cake will last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when stored properly.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

Yes! You can replace butter with dairy-free options and use dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy making this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting as I did! It’s truly a special recipe that captures all the comforting flavors of fall. Whether you’re sharing it at gatherings or savoring each bite alone, this cake is bound to bring warmth and happiness. Enjoy baking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I can’t wait to hear how it turns out!