Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Recipe

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Welcome the Flavors of Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Recipe

Nothing says cozy like the warm, inviting aroma of pumpkin and spices wafting through your kitchen. That’s exactly why I adore this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Recipe—it’s the perfect blend of soft, moist cake with a richly spiced cream cheese filling that practically melts in your mouth. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to brighten up a crisp fall afternoon or a crowd-pleasing dessert for your next family dinner, this recipe will quickly become your go-to.

I first made this cake on a chilly October weekend, and what really struck me was how effortlessly it comes together despite its indulgent taste. You’ll enjoy the bubbling layers of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves mingling beautifully with pumpkin puree and silky cream cheese. Trust me, this is a dessert that brings everyone to the table with a smile.

Market Basket & Pantry Picks

Getting the right ingredients together is the first step to nailing this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Recipe. I always recommend checking your pantry before a trip to the store—sometimes you have hidden treasures like vanilla extract or pumpkin puree waiting to star in your dessert. Plus, knowing your substitutions ahead of time can save you a last-minute scramble.

• Yellow cake mix: The base of the cake that keeps it light and fluffy. You can also use from-scratch yellow cake batter if you prefer.
• Pumpkin puree: Look for 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best texture and flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Melting it enhances richness while keeping control over salt content.
• Cream cheese: Softened at room temperature for smooth mixing in the filling and frosting.
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves: The classic pumpkin spice trio that delivers that signature fragrant warmth.
• Powdered sugar and brown sugar: Essential for creating the luscious sweetness in both the filling and frosting layers.
• Eggs and vanilla extract: These bind and flavor components bring moisture and depth to the batter and filling.

Cook Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Recipe Step by Step

Ready to get baking? This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Recipe breaks down into simple steps that anyone can follow. I love how it fills my kitchen with a cozy, spicy scent as it bakes—such a rewarding experience every time.

1. Preheat & Prepare: Heat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. This ensures a golden crisp around the edges and easy removal.
2. Mix the Cake Base: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, 1 large egg, ½ cup melted unsalted butter, 1 cup pumpkin puree, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir until the batter is smooth and evenly blended, then press it firmly into the pan as your cake foundation.
3. Whip the Creamy Filling: Beat together 8 oz softened cream cheese, 2 large eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, ½ cup pumpkin puree, ½ cup melted butter, 1 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp nutmeg, ¼ tsp cloves, and 4 cups powdered sugar until velvety smooth. This rich layer is the gooey heart of the cake.
4. Layer & Bake: Pour the cream cheese filling gently over the cake base, smoothing it out carefully. Bake for 40-45 minutes until the center is set but still slightly jiggly—this keeps it perfectly gooey inside.
5. Craft the Frosting: While the cake cools, mix 8 oz softened cream cheese, ¼ cup softened butter, ¼ cup packed brown sugar, 2 cups powdered sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until creamy and luscious.
6. Finish & Chill: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Let it chill at room temperature for optimal spreading or refrigerate for firmer frosting before slicing.

Serving the Dish with Flair

I love bringing this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Recipe out for gatherings, especially during fall. Its bubbly, fragrant layers always steal the show. When serving, cut generous squares so everyone gets a luscious slice of that cream cheese filling and silky frosting. You’ll enjoy the smiles around the table and the requests for seconds.

Fun Variations with Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Recipe

• Add ½ cup chopped toasted walnuts or pecans into the cream cheese filling for a delightful crunch.
• Swap in maple syrup for part of the powdered sugar to infuse a subtle, natural sweetness.
• Stir in miniature chocolate chips to the cake base for bursts of melty chocolate surprise.
• Try a tangy orange zest twist in the frosting to brighten up the cozy spices.
• Blend some brewed espresso or instant coffee powder into the batter for a warm mocha undertone.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Keep the cake covered in an airtight container for up to 5 days to enjoy fresh flavors.
• Freeze: This cake freezes beautifully—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting.
• Reheat: Bring slices to room temperature or warm briefly in a microwave for about 15 seconds to restore gooey perfection.
• Frosting Prep: Make the frosting up to a day ahead and keep chilled, then spread just before serving for freshest taste.

Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Recipe FAQs

• Can I use homemade pumpkin puree? Absolutely! Just be sure it’s smooth and not too watery to keep the cake’s texture perfect.
• What pan size works best? A 9×13-inch pan is ideal to get that perfect gooey middle and golden edges.
• Can I make this gluten-free? You can try a gluten-free yellow cake mix, but results may vary—just watch baking time closely.
• Why is my filling not gooey? Check that you don’t overbake. It should be set but still have a slight jiggle in the center when fresh from the oven.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, just use a larger baking dish or two pans, and adjust baking time slightly—start checking at 40 minutes.

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