Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for the ultimate fall dessert, you’ve found it! This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a warm hug in cake form. The gooey pumpkin filling paired with the creamy frosting creates a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight at home or a festive family gathering, this cake will surely bring smiles and warm hearts.

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to whip up. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll find yourself making this delicious cake time and time again. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why it’s become a favorite in many homes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create an impressive dessert without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: This cake is sure to please everyone! Kids and adults alike will love the rich pumpkin flavor and creamy frosting.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or just a cozy night in, this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this cake in advance, making it an ideal choice for busy schedules or last-minute gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make our delightful Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. These are pantry staples that you might already have on hand!

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 Cream Cheese Frosting

• 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 Brown Sugar Cream Cheese 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 quite flexible! Here are some fun ideas to customize your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Use different spices: Experiment with ginger or allspice to give your cake a unique twist.
• Incorporate chocolate: Swirl in some chocolate chips to add a decadent touch.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute non-dairy cream cheese and butter for a dairy-free version.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix with one large egg and melted butter. Add in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract. Mixing these together until smooth creates the base of our delightful cake. The pumpkin adds moisture and flavor while keeping it wonderfully gooey.

Step 2: Pour into Baking Pan

Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan and pour your batter evenly into it. Spreading it out gently ensures even baking. This layer will act as the foundation for our luscious filling.

Step 3: Mix Up the Filling

In another bowl, whisk together softened cream cheese, two eggs, vanilla extract, remaining pumpkin puree, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until it’s creamy. Pour this mixture over your cake batter. Don’t worry if it looks like too much; this is what makes the cake gooey!

Step 4: Bake Away!

Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes or until set. The aroma of spices will fill your kitchen as it bakes – trust me; you won’t be able to resist!

Step 5: Prepare the Frosting

While your cake cools down, let’s whip up that delicious cream cheese frosting! Beat together softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, brown sugar, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until fluffy. This frosting has just the right amount of sweetness to complement our spiced cake.

Step 6: Frost & Serve!

Once your cake has cooled completely (if you can wait!), spread that luscious frosting generously over the top. Cut into squares and serve up this delightful treat! Enjoy every gooey bite of your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting – it’s sure to be a hit!

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

Baking should be a joyful experience, so here are some pro tips to ensure your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake turns out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs and cream cheese to room temperature helps them incorporate better, resulting in a smoother batter and cream cheese frosting.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined keeps the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture that’s less enjoyable.

• Check for doneness: Since ovens can vary, start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done!

• Let it cool: Allow your cake to cool completely before adding the frosting. This prevents melting and ensures that the frosting stays creamy and beautiful on top.

• Store properly: Keep any leftovers covered in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for several days, perfect for those late-night cravings!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Presentation is key when serving this delightful dessert! Here are some ideas to make your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake shine at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans or walnuts: Sprinkling some nuts on top adds a nice crunch and enhances the autumn flavor profile.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream can add an extra layer of richness while keeping it dairy-free.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon on top not only looks appealing but also intensifies the pumpkin spice aroma.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits like apples and pears complements the sweetness of the cake.
• Vanilla non-dairy ice cream: The creamy texture of non-dairy ice cream makes for a delightful contrast to the gooey cake—perfect for those who love a warm-cold combination!
• Coffee or chai tea: A warm beverage pairs beautifully with all things pumpkin spice, enhancing your dessert experience.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: For a savory balance, roasted sweet potatoes bring out similar spices used in the cake while adding nutritional value.

Now that you have all these tips and serving ideas, you’re ready to impress friends and family with your delicious Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting! Enjoy every bite of this cozy treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time for special occasions or cozy nights in, ensuring you always have a delightful dessert on hand. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake for up to a week.
• If you see any signs of spoilage, it’s best to discard it.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• You can freeze the cake for up to 2 months.
• To prevent freezer burn, be sure to remove as much air as possible from the bag.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen slices in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• For a warm treat, microwave each slice for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
• Avoid overheating, as this can dry out the cake.

FAQs

Have questions about making this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting? We’ve got you covered!

Can I use another type of cake mix for this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Yes! While yellow cake mix works beautifully, you can substitute it with spice cake mix or even gluten-free options for a delicious variation.

How do I achieve the best texture for my Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake?

Ensure your cream cheese is softened properly and that you’re measuring your ingredients accurately. Mixing well will also help create that desired gooey texture!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in some chopped walnuts or chocolate chips into the pumpkin filling before baking for an added crunch or sweetness.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting as much as I do! Its rich flavors and gooey texture are sure to bring warmth and joy to your kitchen. Whether it’s a family gathering or just an indulgent treat for yourself, this recipe is bound to become a cherished favorite. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and let the delightful aroma fill your home. Happy baking!