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 delightful fall dessert that will warm your heart and home, this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is just what you need. The combination of gooey pumpkin filling and creamy frosting creates a sweet escape into autumn. It’s perfect for everything from busy weeknights to family gatherings, making it a versatile treat that everyone will adore.

This cake has a special place in my heart. Each bite brings back cozy memories of chilly evenings spent with loved ones, sharing laughter and stories around the table. Trust me, once you taste this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake, it will quickly become a highlight of your seasonal recipe rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves pumpkin spice! Kids and adults alike will enjoy this delicious dessert.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Bake it in advance, store it in the fridge, and serve it when you’re ready—ideal for busy days!
• Gooey Goodness: The rich, moist texture of this cake combined with the creamy frosting makes every slice irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! This recipe uses basic pantry staples that are easy to find and come together beautifully to create your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.

For the Cake Base

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

For the Cream Cheese 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 how flexible it can be! You can easily adjust it to suit your taste or dietary needs.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Switch up the spices: If you prefer a different flavor profile, try using ginger or allspice instead of cinnamon.
• Make it chocolatey: Add a layer of chocolate chips to the cream cheese filling for a rich twist.
• Top with caramel: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the frosting for an indulgent finish.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This step ensures that your cake doesn’t stick to the pan later on. A well-prepared pan leads to easy serving!

Step 2: Mix the Cake Base

In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, egg, melted butter, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. This base is what gives your gooey cake its delightful texture. Don’t worry if it’s slightly lumpy; that’s perfectly okay!

Step 3: Pour into the Pan

Spread the cake batter evenly in your prepared baking dish. It’s important to get an even layer so that it bakes uniformly. This will help achieve that coveted gooey center we love!

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, eggs, vanilla extract, additional pumpkin puree, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until creamy. This layer adds richness to your cake while enhancing its pumpkin flavor.

Step 5: Layer and Bake

Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter in the pan. Use a spatula to gently spread it out if needed—this helps ensure every slice gets that creamy goodness! Bake for about 40-45 minutes or until golden brown on top. The center might still look slightly jiggly; don’t worry—it will set as it cools.

Step 6: Prepare the Frosting

While your cake cools down a bit (but not too much!), whip together powdered sugar, softened cream cheese, butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until fluffy. This frosting is what takes your dessert from good to absolutely fabulous!

Step 7: Frost Your Cake

Once cooled completely (if you can wait!), spread your delicious cream cheese frosting generously over the top of your gooey cake. Take a moment to admire your creation—you did such a great job!

Now slice yourself a piece (or two!) and enjoy this comforting treat that’s bursting with fall flavors!

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

Creating the perfect Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake is all about those little details that enhance flavor and texture. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your cake turns out wonderfully every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your cream cheese, eggs, and butter to room temperature ensures they blend together smoothly, creating a creamy frosting and a well-mixed batter.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined helps to keep the cake light and airy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture which we want to avoid in this gooey delight!

• Check for doneness early: Ovens vary, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the timer goes off. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs for that perfect gooey consistency.

• Let it cool completely before frosting: Allowing your cake to cool fully prevents the frosting from melting into the cake. This way, you’ll have beautifully layered flavors and textures when you serve it.

• Store properly: If you have leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will keep your cake fresh and delicious!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Presenting your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake beautifully can take your dessert from delicious to extraordinary! Here are some fun ways to serve it that will impress your friends and family.

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans or walnuts: Sprinkle some on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin spice perfectly.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, dollop some whipped coconut cream on each slice for an extra creamy touch.
• Cinnamon dusting: A light sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top adds an inviting aroma and enhances the fall flavors visually.

Side Dishes

• Hot apple cider: This warm beverage pairs beautifully with pumpkin flavors, making it a cozy addition to your dessert spread.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast that balances the spiced cake perfectly.
• Maple syrup drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup adds sweetness and complements the spices in the cake while enhancing its autumnal vibe.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries can lighten up the meal while providing contrasting textures and flavors.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to create an enchanting experience around your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is not only a delightful treat but also a fantastic option for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time, store it properly, and enjoy it at your leisure!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake for up to a week.
• If the frosting has been added, keep it refrigerated to maintain its texture.

Freezing

• To freeze the cake, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• To reheat slices, place them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• Alternatively, you can warm the slices in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions about this tasty recipe!

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

Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free yellow cake mix as a substitute. Just follow the remaining ingredients and instructions as stated.

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

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate it to extend its life up to a week.

Can I use other types of frosting on this cake?

Yes! While cream cheese frosting pairs perfectly with this gooey cake, you could also try whipped cream or a simple vanilla buttercream if you prefer something different.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake is done baking?

The cake is done when the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting! It’s truly a special recipe that captures the essence of fall and brings comfort to any gathering or quiet afternoon at home. Enjoy every gooey bite, and don’t hesitate to share it with loved ones—after all, good food is best enjoyed together! Happy baking!