Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Welcome to the perfect recipe for all pumpkin spice lovers out there! If you’re looking for a delightful fall dessert that wraps you in warmth and comfort, this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is just what you need. Imagine biting into a moist, gooey cake that’s bursting with pumpkin flavor, topped with a rich cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this cake will be the star of the table and leave everyone wanting more.

What makes this recipe truly special is its ease of preparation and the cozy flavors it brings to any occasion. It’s not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s about creating memories around the table with loved ones. So grab your apron, and let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for those busy days when you crave something sweet.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone from kids to grandparents will love this warm, comforting dessert. It’s sure to become a family favorite!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can whip this up in advance and store it in the fridge, so it’s ready whenever you want a slice.
• Incredibly Delicious: The combination of pumpkin spice and creamy frosting creates an irresistible flavor that’s perfect for fall.
• Versatile Treat: Serve it at parties or enjoy it as an afternoon snack—this cake fits every occasion beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for our Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. You’ll find that these ingredients are easy to come by and will bring your cake to life!

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
• 4 cups powdered sugar

For the Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own by trying out some fun variations.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and texture.
• Chocolate twist: Swirl in some chocolate chips into the batter before baking for a delicious chocolatey version.
• Spice it up: Experiment with additional spices like ginger or allspice to enhance the pumpkin flavor even more.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative to make this treat suitable for dairy-free diets.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish. This step ensures that your gooey cake comes out easily without sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, one egg, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick—it’s what gives our cake that gooey texture we love!

Step 3: Bake the Base Layer

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top. Keep an eye on it; you want a deliciously soft center that still holds together.

Step 4: Make Your Cream Cheese Mixture

While your cake is baking, beat together softened cream cheese, two eggs, vanilla extract, half a cup of pumpkin puree, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in another bowl until smooth. This mixture adds richness and flavor that complements our pumpkin spice base perfectly.

Step 5: Layer It Up!

Once the base layer is baked and slightly cooled, pour the cream cheese mixture over it evenly. Don’t worry if it looks like too much—it will sink into the cake as it bakes!

Step 6: Finish Baking

Return your layered cake back into the oven for another 30-35 minutes. The top should be set but still have that gooey center when you poke it gently with a toothpick. Let it cool completely before frosting.

Step 7: Prepare Your Frosting

For that luscious brown sugar cream cheese frosting we talked about earlier—beat together softened cream cheese, butter, packed brown sugar, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth.

Step 8: Frost Your Cake

Once cooled completely, spread your delicious frosting generously over the top of your gooey cake. Slice into squares and serve up warm or chilled—either way is heavenly!

This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting will surely warm hearts and fill homes with delightful autumn aromas! Enjoy every bite!

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

Creating the perfect Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake is all about the details, and I’m here to share some tips to ensure your baking experience is a breeze!

• Use room temperature ingredients – Bringing your cream cheese and eggs to room temperature helps them blend more smoothly into the batter, resulting in a creamier texture.

• Don’t overmix the batter – Mixing just until combined prevents the cake from becoming tough. A light hand keeps it soft and gooey, which is exactly what we want!

• Check for doneness carefully – Since this cake has a gooey center, use a toothpick to check for doneness. It’s okay if a few moist crumbs stick to it; that means you’ve nailed the gooey factor!

• Chill the frosting before spreading – If your cream cheese frosting seems too soft, chill it for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to spread evenly across the cake without sliding off.

• Let the cake cool completely – Allowing your cake to cool fully before frosting ensures that your delicious topping stays intact and doesn’t melt into the warm cake.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving this delightful Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to make your presentation shine.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream – A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds an extra layer of sweetness and a delightful lightness.
• Toasted Pecans or Walnuts – Sprinkling some toasted nuts on top provides a lovely crunch that complements the gooey texture perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with warm cake, creating an indulgent dessert experience.
• Caramel Sauce – Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over each slice enhances its sweetness and adds a luxurious touch.
• Spiced Apple Slices – Freshly sliced apples dusted with cinnamon make a refreshing contrast to the rich cake, balancing out flavors nicely.
• Hot Apple Cider – Serving this cake alongside a warm cup of spiced apple cider creates a cozy autumn atmosphere perfect for gatherings.

Now that you know how to serve and enhance your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake, get ready to enjoy every luscious bite! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time during busy days.

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

• Slice the cooled cake into individual portions for easier thawing.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• To reheat a slice, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
• Warm in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until just heated through.
• For a slightly crispy edge, consider placing it in a toaster oven for a few minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe:

Can I use a different cake mix for Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Yes! While yellow cake mix works wonderfully, you can experiment with spice cake mix or even gluten-free options if you prefer.

How should I store Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep them fresh and delicious for up to 5 days!

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese frosting ahead of time and store it separately in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before spreading on your cake.

Is this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake suitable for freezing?

Yes! The gooey cake freezes beautifully. Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn and enjoy it within three months for the best flavor.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting as much as I do! It’s a special treat that brings warmth and comfort, making it perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. Remember to savor each bite and share it with those you love. Happy baking!