Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is one of my absolute favorites. It’s rich, creamy, and perfectly spiced with all those warm flavors we love during this season. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this cake brings everyone together with its gooey goodness and inviting aroma.

What makes this recipe even more special is its simplicity. You won’t need to spend hours in the kitchen; in just about 70 minutes, you can have a delightful dessert ready to impress your loved ones. Plus, it’s an ideal treat for Thanksgiving or any autumn gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up this dessert without breaking a sweat.
• Family-friendly: This gooey cake is loved by kids and adults alike! It’s the perfect way to indulge everyone’s sweet tooth.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare this cake in advance and let it chill in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. It’s great for stress-free entertaining!
• Deliciously spiced: The combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger creates that classic fall flavor we all crave.
• Gooey goodness: The unique texture of this cake will have everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Gather these items before you start baking:

For the Cake Base

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 4 large eggs (1 egg and 3 eggs separate)
• 8 ounces unsalted butter (2 sticks separated and melted)

For the Pumpkin Filling

• 1 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 8 ounces cream cheese (super soft)
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger

Variations

One of the best things about this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add some chocolate: Stir in chocolate chips for a delicious twist that adds sweetness and richness.
• Switch up the spices: Experiment with different spices like cardamom or allspice for a unique flavor profile.
• Make it nutty: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for added texture.
• Try different frostings: Top with cream cheese frosting or whipped topping if you want an extra layer of sweetness.

How to Make Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and gives it that beautiful golden color.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pan

Grab your springform pan or round cake pan and line it with parchment paper. Lightly spray it with cooking spray too. This will help prevent sticking, making it easier to remove your delicious creation later.

Step 3: Make the Cake Base

In an electric mixer bowl, combine the boxed cake mix, 1 stick of melted butter (that’s half a cup), and one egg. Mix well until it forms a smooth batter. Pour this mixture into your prepared pan and press it down evenly on the bottom. It’s okay if it’s thin; it will create a nice base for our gooey filling!

Step 4: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

In another mixing bowl, beat together pumpkin puree, super soft cream cheese, three eggs, dark brown sugar, another stick of melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Beat on low until fully mixed—don’t forget to scrape down those sides! This step is key because we want every bite packed with flavor.

Step 5: Combine Layers

Pour that luscious pumpkin filling over the cake batter you’ve carefully spread in your pan. It’s going to look divine!

Step 6: Bake Away!

Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the top should turn golden brown while retaining that signature gooey center!

Step 7: Let It Rest

Once baked, give your cake some time to cool down for at least 10 minutes before cutting into it. This allows it to set up nicely while still being wonderfully gooey inside.

And there you have it—your very own Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake! Perfectly sweetened and deliciously spiced—a true fall favorite that surely won’t last long on your dessert table! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Creating the perfect Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake is a delightful journey, and these tips will help ensure it turns out wonderfully every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature makes it easier to blend the ingredients smoothly, resulting in a creamier filling that enhances the gooey texture.

• Don’t overmix: Once you combine the filling ingredients, mix just until smooth. Overmixing can incorporate too much air into the batter, leading to a cake that isn’t as dense and gooey as desired.

• Check the doneness carefully: Since the center should remain gooey, start checking your cake around the 40-minute mark. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs attached but not wet batter.

• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing the cake to sit for at least 10 minutes after baking helps it set up a bit more, making slicing easier while still preserving that delicious gooey center.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste! Adding a pinch of cloves or allspice can add an extra layer of warmth that complements the pumpkin beautifully.

How to Serve Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

When it comes to serving your Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake, presentation can make all the difference! Here are some creative ideas to elevate this delightful dessert.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light and fluffy touch that contrasts beautifully with the rich cake.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts: Sprinkling some chopped nuts on top adds a delightful crunch and enhances the autumn flavors.
• Cinnamon sugar dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar just before serving gives an appealing finish and boosts that warm spiced aroma.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the gooey texture of this cake, providing a delicious contrast.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice adds a decadent touch, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
• Apple cider: Serving slices alongside warm apple cider creates a comforting fall experience that complements the pumpkin flavors beautifully.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad with apples, pears, and berries balances out the richness of the cake while adding vibrant color to your plate.

Now you’re ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake! Enjoy every gooey bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring you have a delightful dessert ready to impress your guests or simply enjoy at home.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• After the cake has cooled, cut it into individual slices.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Place a slice of cake on a baking sheet and cover it with foil.
• Warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Enjoy that gooey goodness!

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might pop up while making this delicious dessert!

Can I use a different cake mix for the Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is traditional, you can experiment with spice cake mix or even vanilla for a different flavor profile. Just keep an eye on the baking time as it may vary slightly.

What makes this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe so special?

This recipe combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and warm spices with a unique gooey texture that’s truly irresistible. It’s the perfect fall dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

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

The top should be golden brown and slightly puffed up. Remember, the center should remain a bit gooey, which is what makes this cake so delightful! A toothpick inserted should come out with some moist crumbs attached.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe?

Yes! Adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and texture. Just fold them into the pumpkin filling before pouring it over the cake layer.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake as much as I do! It’s a beautiful blend of flavors that captures the essence of fall and brings warmth into any gathering. Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving or enjoying it on a cozy afternoon, this dessert is sure to be a hit. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share it with those you love!