Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is my go-to for cozy gatherings and holiday feasts. With its rich, creamy pumpkin filling and delightful gooey texture, it’s a showstopper that never fails to impress. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family Thanksgiving dinner, this cake brings warmth and joy to every occasion.

What makes this recipe so special? It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. You can whip it up in no time, and I guarantee your loved ones will be coming back for seconds (and thirds!). So grab your mixing bowl, and let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious dessert in the oven before you know it!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet pumpkin flavor and gooey texture—perfect for any gathering.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for Thanksgiving or just a cozy family night, this cake fits any fall occasion beautifully.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Bake it a day in advance; it tastes even better after sitting overnight as the flavors meld together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This pumpkin gooey butter cake recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Gather these items to create a dessert that will leave everyone wanting more!

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 recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch!
• Spice it up: Experiment with additional spices like cloves or allspice for a unique twist on flavor.
• Swap the filling: Try using sweet potato puree instead of pumpkin for a different taste that’s equally delicious.
• Top it off: Serve with whipped coconut cream or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for an indulgent finish.

How to Make Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350 degrees. This ensures your cake bakes evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pan

Next, prepare a springform pan or a round cake pan by lining it with parchment paper and spraying it with cooking spray. This makes removing the cake so much easier once it’s baked!

Step 3: Make the Cake Base

In the bowl of an electric mixer, combine the boxed cake mix, 1 stick of melted butter (that’s 1/2 cup), and 1 egg. Mix well until fully combined. Pour this mixture into your prepared pan, pressing down to form an even thin layer at the bottom. This will serve as the foundation for our gooey filling.

Step 4: Create the Pumpkin Filling

In another bowl, beat together pumpkin puree, super soft cream cheese, the remaining 3 eggs, dark brown sugar, another stick of melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Beat on low speed until everything is mixed well—don’t forget to scrape down those sides!

Step 5: Combine Layers

Pour that luscious pumpkin filling right over your cake batter in the pan. It might look like too much filling but trust me—it’s going to be perfect!

Step 6: Bake Away!

Pop your cake in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 to 50 minutes until the top is golden brown. Remember—the center should be delightfully gooey! Once it’s done baking, let it rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting into it.

And there you have it! A scrumptious Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake that’s sure to be a hit wherever you serve it. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Creating the perfect Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake is easier than you might think! With these handy tips, you’ll ensure your cake turns out gooey and delicious every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Allowing cream cheese, eggs, and butter to reach room temperature helps them blend more easily, resulting in a smoother filling without lumps.

• Don’t overmix the batter – Mixing just until combined prevents the cake from becoming dense. A light touch gives you that airy, gooey texture we all love!

• Check for doneness carefully – Since the center should be gooey, use a toothpick to check; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter, it’s perfect!

• Let it rest before serving – Allowing the cake to cool for at least 10 minutes sets the gooey center and makes it easier to cut into perfect slices.

How to Serve Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

This delightful dessert is sure to impress your family and friends! Here are some fun ways to present and enjoy your Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream – A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, airy feel and complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts – Sprinkling some toasted nuts on top adds a lovely crunch and enhances the autumn flavors.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream – The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream provides a wonderful contrast to the rich flavors of the cake.
• Caramel sauce drizzle – A warm caramel sauce drizzled over each slice adds an indulgent touch that takes this dessert over the top.
• Fresh fruit salad – A refreshing fruit salad made with apples, pears, and berries balances the richness of the cake for a well-rounded dessert experience.
• Coffee or spiced tea – Serving this cake with a warm cup of coffee or spiced tea enhances its cozy fall vibes and makes for a delightful pairing.

Now that you have everything you need to make and serve this fabulous Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake, gather your ingredients and enjoy creating this seasonal treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

This pumpkin gooey butter cake recipe is not only delicious but also fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it properly, and enjoy it later, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cake with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Wrap slices of the cake tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air pockets.
• Place the wrapped slices into a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• For individual slices, microwave on low power for about 20-30 seconds until warmed through.
• If reheating a whole cake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees and warm for about 15-20 minutes until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful dessert, you’re not alone! Here are some answers to common inquiries.

Can I use a different type of cake mix for this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe?

Yes! While yellow cake mix works beautifully, you can experiment with vanilla or even spice cake mixes for a different flavor profile. Just ensure it’s a similar texture!

How can I make this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use vegan butter instead of unsalted butter. Be sure to check that your cake mix is also dairy-free.

What should I serve with Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped coconut cream or a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds a nice touch too!

How should I store leftovers from the Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze portions for later enjoyment!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this pumpkin gooey butter cake recipe a try! It’s such a warm and inviting dessert that captures the essence of fall in every luscious bite. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving or just a cozy night at home, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy making it as much as you’ll enjoy eating it—happy baking!