Name: Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 1 box Yellow Cake Mix (Opt for gluten-free for dietary needs); 1 large Egg (Use a flax egg for a vegan alternative); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Melted, can substitute dairy-free butter for vegan); 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (Fresh puree can be used for better taste); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Essential for enhancing flavors); 2 large Eggs (Can use flax eggs for vegan option); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Softened, use vegan for dairy-free); 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon (Adjust to taste as needed); 1/2 tsp Ground Nutmeg (Enhances overall aroma); 1/4 tsp Ground Cloves (Strong flavor, use sparingly); 4 cups Powdered Sugar (Reduce for a less sweet filling); 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter (Softened, can switch to dairy-free); 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (Packed for deeper flavor); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (Ensure it's lump-free for best results)

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As I walked through the vibrant autumn farmers’ market, the air filled with the intoxicating scent of spiced pumpkin delights. This season truly calls for cozy baking, and there’s nothing quite like diving into a slice of Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. It’s a delightful union of warm spices and rich sweetness, boasting a gooey center that melts in your mouth, making it the quintessential fall dessert. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to whip up for family gatherings or an indulgent treat at home—perfect for anyone looking to ditch fast food and embrace homemade goodness. Whether you’re vegan or gluten-free, this recipe has an option for you! What’s your favorite way to enjoy pumpkin spice this time of year?

Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting de7wew

Why is Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Irresistible?

Gooey Texture: The luscious center is wonderfully gooey, creating the ultimate fall experience in every bite.

Flavor Explosion: With warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg blended with pumpkin, this cake offers a deliciously aromatic treat that embodies the essence of autumn.

Simple to Make: Even novice bakers will find this recipe easy, perfect for anyone to whip up and impress guests at Thanksgiving or cozy family gatherings.

Versatile Options: Need gluten-free or vegan? Fear not! This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake accommodates various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether served at a party or enjoyed solo, this cake is bound to be a hit, making it perfect for anyone looking to savor homemade desserts rather than fast food.

You’ll want to pair it with a warm scoop of vanilla ice cream for the full experience—just like with our Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake or Biscoff Cheesecake Indulge!

Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Ingredients

• This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is sure to elevate your autumn baking!

For the Cake Base

Yellow Cake Mix – A great foundation for sweetness and structure; opt for gluten-free for a special dietary need.
Large Eggs (1 for base) – Provides binding and moisture; use a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup melted) – Enhances richness and moisture; dairy-free butter works well for vegan needs.
Pumpkin Puree (1 cup) – Adds moisture and the signature pumpkin flavor; fresh puree can be used for an even better taste.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Elevates sweet flavors; don’t skip this for ultimate richness.

For the Filling

Large Eggs (2 for filling) – Acts as a binding agent; substitute with flax eggs to keep it vegan-friendly.
Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened) – Creates a rich and creamy layer; use vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp) – Brings warmth and spice; adjust to taste for more pronounced flavors.
Ground Nutmeg (1/2 tsp) – Complements the pumpkin flavor and enhances the overall aroma.
Ground Cloves (1/4 tsp) – A little goes a long way in adding depth to the pumpkin spice flavor.
Powdered Sugar (4 cups) – Sweetens the filling perfectly; you can reduce for a less sweet taste.

For the Frosting

Unsalted Butter (1/4 cup softened) – Creates a rich base for the frosting; switch to dairy-free butter for vegan.
Brown Sugar (1/4 cup, packed) – Adds depth and caramel notes; a delicious twist to your frosting!
Powdered Sugar (2 cups) – Sweetens the frosting and gives it a smooth texture; ensure it’s lump-free for best results.

Enjoy creating this delightful treat that captures the essence of fall and is sure to be a favorite among friends and family!

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

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Base
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake releases easily after baking. In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, 1 egg, 1/2 cup melted butter, 1 cup pumpkin puree, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and uniformly blended, then press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Filling
In a separate bowl, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese until it becomes fluffy and smooth. Add in 2 eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 cup pumpkin puree, 1/4 cup melted butter, along with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Mix these ingredients well, then gradually sift in 4 cups of powdered sugar until the filling is creamy. Pour this luscious mixture over the cake base, spreading it to cover evenly.

Step 3: Bake
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are set, but the center still has a slight gooeyness to it—an ideal texture for the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake. Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely in the pan, letting those warm autumn scents fill your home.

Step 4: Make the Frosting
In another mixing bowl, blend together 1/4 cup softened butter, 8 ounces of cream cheese, and 1/4 cup packed brown sugar until the mixture is fluffy and well combined. Gradually add in 2 cups of powdered sugar, mixing until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure an even mix, creating a beautifully luscious frosting perfect for topping your cake.

Step 5: Frost the Cake
Once your cake is completely cool, it’s time to frost it. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake using a spatula or a knife. Aim for a smooth finish, allowing the rich frosting to showcase the delicious gooey texture underneath. Your cake is now ready to be served, offering a delightful treat to share with family and friends.

Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting a9ktiu

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake

Fridge: Store the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Cold storage keeps it fresh and ready to enjoy anytime!

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy it warm, simply microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds. The gooey texture will be revived, making every bite delicious!

Thawing: When you’re ready to indulge, thaw in the fridge overnight for the best flavor and texture.

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake

Don’t Overmix: Mixing your cake base too much can lead to a dense texture—just stir until combined for the perfect gooey cake.
Check for Gooeyness: The center should jiggle slightly when you pull it out of the oven. This ensures the signature gooey texture of the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake is achieved.
Smooth Frosting: Scrape down the bowl frequently while preparing the frosting to avoid lumps and achieve a silky texture everyone will love.
Spice Adjustment: Feel free to tweak the cinnamon and nutmeg to match your taste preferences—more spice can really elevate the fall flavor!
Serving Warm: Serving the cake warm enhances the gooey experience, especially when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cozy dessert.

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

Indulging in a slice of this warm and gooey delight inspires thoughts of cozy gatherings and sweet family moments around the table.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, adding creamy coldness that beautifully contrasts with the warm gooey cake, enhancing every bite.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle this rich sauce over each slice for a decadent touch that deepens the fall flavors and brings out the sweetness of the pumpkin.
Fall Salad: A light salad featuring mixed greens, candied nuts, and roasted squash offers a refreshing crunch, balancing the cake’s sweetness.
Spiced Chai Latte: Sip on this warm spiced beverage as it complements the pumpkin spice profile, wrapping you in autumn flavors with every sip.
Creamy Hot Chocolate: Rich, chocolatey bliss is perfect alongside the cake, creating a comforting dessert duo that’s hard to resist during chilly evenings.
Maple Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of this sweet, airy topping to tie wonderfully to the caramel notes in the cake, enhancing its peak fall essence.
Pumpkin Pie Martini: For a grown-up treat, this festive cocktail echoes the flavors of the cake, allowing for a delightful, spirited finish to your meal.

Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Variations

Feel free to personalize this delicious treat to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix for a cake that everyone can enjoy without gluten.
Vegan Delight: Swap eggs for flax eggs and use vegan cream cheese and butter to make this dessert plant-based without losing flavor.
Nutty Texture: For a delightful crunch, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling. It creates a fantastic contrast to the cake’s gooeyness.
Extra Spice: Craving more warmth? Add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or a dash of pumpkin pie spice for an aromatic kick.
Dairy-Free Frosting: Use coconut cream in place of cream cheese and butter for a rich, dairy-free frosting that pairs beautifully with the cake.
Chocolate Twist: Add chocolate chips to the filling for a sweet surprise; the combination of pumpkin and chocolate is truly delightful!
Fruity Addition: Incorporate diced apples or pears into the filling for a fruity flair that complements the pumpkin spice beautifully.

Take the indulgent experience to the next level by serving your cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, just like with our Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake, creating a warm and comforting dessert worthy of any occasion.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cake base up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the yellow cake mix, egg, melted butter, pumpkin puree, and vanilla, then press it into your greased baking dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. The filling can also be made ahead—just beat the cream cheese and mix it with the remaining ingredients, refrigerating the batter separately for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, bake the cake with the filling and frost it with the cream cheese frosting after cooling. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious, gooey texture with minimal last-minute effort!

Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting idunhb

Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! You can use canned pumpkin puree for convenience, but if you have access to fresh pumpkins, roasting and pureeing your own is a lovely alternative. Just make sure it’s not spiced or sweetened!

How can I store the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake?
You’ll want to store your cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps retain its moisture and flavors. If the weather is warm, be particularly diligent about sealing it well to avoid drying out.

Can I freeze the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake?
Yes, you can! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. It will keep nicely in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and for that gooey texture, pop it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.

What should I do if the center doesn’t seem gooey enough?
No worries! If your cake comes out too firm, it might have baked for too long. Each oven is different, so keep an eye on your cake and test for gooeyness by ensuring the center jiggles slightly when pulled from the oven. To rescue an already baked cake, you can serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream to boost that gooey sensation!

Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Very! For a gluten-free option, just swap the regular yellow cake mix for a gluten-free one. If you’re looking for a vegan treat, substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg) and use vegan cream cheese and butter. Enjoy the deliciousness worry-free!

What’s a good way to serve the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake at gatherings?
I often suggest serving it warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, for a truly comforting experience. You could even drizzle a bit of caramel sauce for that extra indulgence! It’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser!