Name: Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Delights
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 1 box Yellow cake mix (Opt for gluten-free mix if needed.); 1 large egg (Can be replaced with a flax egg for vegan versions.); 1/2 cup Unsalted butter, melted (Use dairy-free butter as a substitute for vegan.); 1.5 cups Pumpkin puree (Ensure it's pureed and drained if using fresh.); 2 tsp Vanilla extract; 16 oz Cream cheese, softened (Use vegan cream cheese for dairy-free options.); 1/4 cup Brown sugar, packed (Adds depth of flavor.); 1 tsp Ground cinnamon (Can adjust to preference.); 1/2 tsp Ground nutmeg (Complements pumpkin flavor.); 1/4 tsp Ground cloves (Can be omitted for milder taste.); 6 cups Powdered sugar (Consider reducing for less sweetness.)

As autumn beckons with its crisp air and falling leaves, the scent of warm spices and pumpkin seems to dance through my kitchen. This season, I’m thrilled to share my favorite indulgence: Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. It’s a delightful twist on the classic gooey butter cake, infusing each bite with the comforting warmth of fall. What’s even better? This dessert is quick to prepare, making it the perfect choice for spontaneous gatherings, while its gooey texture and sweet frosting turn every slice into a little celebration. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply satiate your own craving for something sweet, this fall dessert promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Curious to see how you can capture the essence of autumn in your own kitchen?

Why is this Pumpkin Spice Cake a Must-Try?

Unforgettable Flavor: This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake melds the rich flavors of pumpkin, warm spices, and creamy frosting for an irresistible taste of autumn.

Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful treat, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.

Impressive Presentation: Topped with a luscious brown sugar cream cheese frosting, this cake looks as good as it tastes.

Versatile Options: Whether you need a gluten-free version or are aiming for a vegan delight, substitutions are easy, appealing to all dietary needs.

Crowd Favorite: It’s a guaranteed showstopper at fall festivities, ideal for impressing friends and family with your baking prowess!

Treat yourself to a slice alongside a dollop of whipped cream, and savor the season!

Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Ingredients

For the Cake Base
• Yellow cake mix – Provides the cake base; opt for gluten-free mix if needed.
• Large egg – Binds the ingredients; can be replaced with a flax egg for vegan versions.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted) – Adds moisture and richness; use dairy-free butter as a substitute for vegan.
• Pumpkin puree (1 cup + 1/2 cup) – Brings flavor and moisture; ensure it’s pureed and drained if using fresh pumpkin.
• Vanilla extract (2 tsp) – Enhances overall flavor profile.

For the Cream Cheese Filling
• Cream cheese (8 oz, softened x2) – Adds creaminess to the filling and frosting; use vegan cream cheese for dairy-free options.
• Brown sugar (1/4 cup, packed) – Adds depth of flavor to the frosting.
• Ground cinnamon (1 tsp) – Spice element; can adjust to preference for a stronger flavor.
• Ground nutmeg (1/2 tsp) – Complements pumpkin flavor.
• Ground cloves (1/4 tsp) – Adds warmth; can be omitted for a milder taste.
• Powdered sugar (4 cups + 2 cups) – Sweetens filling and frosting; consider reducing for less sweetness.

This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is not only a delightful fall dessert but also a versatile treat that can cater to various dietary needs. Enjoy baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish will ensure your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake comes out easily. Use a bit of butter or non-stick spray to coat the bottom and sides evenly, giving you a perfect surface for the cake to rise and bake beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, one large egg, melted butter, one cup of pumpkin puree, and one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir this mixture together until it achieves a smooth, well-blended consistency. Once ready, spread the cake batter evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish to set up a solid base for the gooey filling.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 2–3 minutes. Incorporate the remaining two eggs, the additional half cup of pumpkin puree, one teaspoon of vanilla extract, the melted butter, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Mix it all well until combined, creating a luscious filling that will sit on top of the cake base.

Step 4: Sweeten the Filling
Gradually add in the powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, mixing continuously until creamy and well-blended. The filling should be smooth and thick, ready to add that irresistible gooeyness to the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake. Pour this filling gently over the cake base, making sure to cover it evenly.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Carefully place the baking dish in your preheated oven. Bake the cake for about 40 to 45 minutes, or until the edges are set while the center remains slightly gooey. You’ll know it’s ready when the top looks slightly puffed and jiggles just a bit when moved.

Step 6: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. This cooling process is essential to achieving that signature gooey texture. Allow it to cool for about 30 minutes to an hour on a wire rack, gaining the perfect consistency and flavor.

Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
For the brown sugar cream cheese frosting, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, and packed brown sugar in a clean mixing bowl until fluffy and well-combined, about 3–5 minutes. This will create a rich frosting that beautifully complements the warm spices of the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake.

Step 8: Frost and Serve
Once the cake has fully cooled, generously frost the top with your luscious cream cheese frosting. Spread evenly, letting the frosting drizzle down the sides for an inviting look. Slice your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake into squares and serve it alongside a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of fall delight!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake

Mind Your Mixing: Avoid overmixing the cake base; it can lead to a denser texture. Use a spatula to gently combine without incorporating too much air.
Perfectly Gooey Center: Keep an eye on the baking time. The cake should be slightly jiggly in the center when you remove it from the oven for that ideal gooey texture.
Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool fully before frosting. This step is crucial for maintaining the delicious gooeyness of the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake.
Cream Cheese Consistency: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a silky and smooth frosting that spreads easily.
Adjusting Sweetness: Feel free to decrease the powdered sugar in the frosting if you prefer less sweetness. The brown sugar adds plenty of flavor on its own!
Add Crunch: For extra texture, consider folding in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the cream cheese filling before baking.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

The cozy flavors of autumn call for delightful accompaniments that enhance your pumpkin spice experience.

Velvety Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the gooey texture, creating a heavenly combination. It adds a refreshing coolness that balances the warmth of the spices perfectly.
Whipped Cream: A light dollop of whipped cream adds an airy touch and enhances the sweetness of the cake, making every bite indulgent. Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to the cream for an extra fall touch.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice brings an inviting sweetness that complements the spiced cake beautifully. The rich flavors of caramel harmonize with the pumpkin, creating a flavor fusion destined to delight.
Maple Glazed Pecans: The crunch of maple-glazed pecans adds texture and depth, making for a delightful contrast to the soft cake. Their nutty flavor pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin spices, offering a gourmet touch to your dessert spread.
Chai Tea: A warm cup of chai tea enhances the cozy vibes of the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake, complementing the spices and warming your heart with each sip. The spicy notes in chai echo the flavors of the cake, creating a comforting experience.
Cider Cocktails: An apple cider cocktail or a spiced drink rounds out your meal perfectly, providing a festive edge. The fruity flavors play wonderfully against the pumpkin, making it an ideal pairing for fall gatherings.

Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Customization

Explore the delicious possibilities of your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with these fun twists that enhance flavor and cater to various dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free blend for a safe indulgence for those with gluten sensitivities. You’ll still enjoy all that lovely gooey goodness!
Vegan Delight: Replace the large eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and grab some vegan cream cheese and dairy-free butter. You won’t miss the dairy here!
Nutty Crunch: Add in chopped pecans or walnuts to the cream cheese filling for a delightful crunch, complementing the soft gooey texture wonderfully. These nuts add both flavor and visual appeal.
Chocolate Swirl: Incorporate a handful of chocolate chips into your batter or a chocolate fudge swirl in the filling for a decadent twist. Chocolate and pumpkin make a surprisingly delightful pairing!
Spicy Kick: For a little extra warmth, elevate the spices by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or more cinnamon for a cozy, spiced sensation. Just a hint can make a world of difference!
Fruity Fusion: Mix in a half cup of chopped dried cranberries or apples for an unexpected burst of flavor and texture. The sweetness of fruits balances out the spices beautifully!
Frosting Fun: Experiment with flavored cream cheese frosting by adding maple syrup or a splash of bourbon for a gourmet touch. It’s the kind of richness you’ll want to spread on everything!
Sweetener Switch: Substitute brown sugar in the frosting with honey or maple syrup for an alternative sweetening option, making it a bit different while retaining that rich essence.

Feel free to explore these variations while baking your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake. For a delightful pairing, consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a rich slice of White Chocolate Cheesecake that your guests will love!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake

Fridge: Store leftover Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and gooey.

Freezer: You can also freeze slices of the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to restore that delightful gooey texture.

Wrapping: For best results, always ensure the cake is completely cool before wrapping to prevent excess moisture buildup.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting 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, melted butter, pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla, spreading it in the pan, and refrigerating it. The cream cheese filling can also be made up to 3 days ahead; just blend the ingredients, store it in an airtight container, and pop it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the filling over the chilled base and bake as directed. This way, your cake will still be just as delicious, and you’ll enjoy the convenience of having most of the work done ahead of time!

Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree, look for a deep orange color and a thick consistency. It should have a smooth texture without any dark spots or an overly watery appearance. If using fresh pumpkin, make sure to puree and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in your cake.

What is the best way to store leftover Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cool before sealing it to maintain its gooey texture. If you find that it has firmed up after chilling, a quick reheat in the microwave for about 10 seconds will restore its soft, delectable consistency!

Can I freeze Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake?
Absolutely! You can freeze slices of this delightful cake for up to 3 months. To do this, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheate briefly in the microwave for a few seconds until it’s gooey again.

What should I do if my cake turns out too dry?
If your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake turns out drier than expected, it may be due to overbaking. To ensure a moist texture, avoid baking it more than 40-45 minutes. You should see a slight jiggle in the center when it’s done. If it’s already baked, consider serving it with a drizzle of warm cream cheese frosting or topping it with whipped cream to add moisture back in.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes! To make a gluten-free version of the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake, simply substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free mix. Ensure that all other ingredients, like the cream cheese and any added toppings, are also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy this fall dessert without compromising on flavor or texture!

Can I make this cake vegan?
Very! To create a vegan version of the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp of water per egg, let sit for 5 minutes), use vegan butter, and swap in vegan cream cheese for the frosting. This keeps the cake deliciously indulgent while catering to dietary restrictions.