Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of fall, then this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is just what you need! With its rich pumpkin flavor and creamy texture, this cake is a warm hug on a plate. It’s super easy to whip up, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, who can resist that gooey center? It’s always a hit at Thanksgiving and will surely become a staple in your home, just as it is in mine!

Every bite of this cake reminds me of cozy evenings spent with loved ones. The wonderful aroma wafting through the kitchen while it bakes is enough to bring everyone running. Trust me; you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: In just about an hour, you can have this delightful dessert ready for your guests or family.
• Gooey goodness: The unique texture makes every bite feel indulgent without being overly heavy.
• Fall flavors: With pumpkin and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this cake perfectly embodies the spirit of autumn.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and creamy taste—it’s sure to please all palates!
• Make-ahead option: Bake it in advance and store it for special occasions; it tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake! You probably already have many of these in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cake Base

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 4 large eggs (1 egg and 3 eggs separated)
• 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 its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add chocolate chips: Stir in some dairy-free chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite.
• Make it spicier: If you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cloves to give it an extra kick.
• Swap the frosting: Top with a dollop of whipped coconut cream instead of serving plain for added richness.
• Use different spices: Experiment with allspice or cardamom in place of some spices for a unique twist.

How to Make Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the moment you put it in.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pan

Prepare a springform pan or round cake pan by lining it with parchment paper and spraying it with cooking spray. This step helps prevent sticking, making your life much easier when it’s time to serve!

Step 3: Mix the Cake Base

In the bowl of an electric mixer, combine the boxed cake mix, one stick of melted butter (that’s half a cup), and one egg. Mix well until everything is blended together. This forms a thin layer that will be the foundation of your gooey butter cake.

Step 4: Pour and Press

Pour this mixture into your prepared pan and gently press it down into an even layer. Remember, it should be thin—this base will hold all that delicious pumpkin filling!

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

In another bowl, mix together your pumpkin puree, super soft cream cheese, three eggs, dark brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Beat everything on low until smooth. Scrape down the sides to make sure all those tasty ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 6: Combine Layers

Now pour that luscious pumpkin filling over your cake batter in the pan. The combination of textures here is what makes this dessert so special.

Step 7: Bake It Up!

Bake in your preheated oven for about 40-50 minutes until the top turns golden brown. The center should still be slightly gooey—that’s what we want! It’s part of what makes this cake so delightful.

Step 8: Let It Rest

Once baked to perfection, let your gooey butter cake rest for at least ten minutes before cutting into it. This brief pause allows all those flavors to settle beautifully.

Now you’re ready to enjoy every mouthwatering slice!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Creating the perfect pumpkin gooey butter cake is all about attention to detail and a few helpful tricks!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Having your eggs and cream cheese at room temperature helps them blend smoothly, ensuring a creamy filling without lumps.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined keeps the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture, which we want to avoid in this gooey delight!

• Check for doneness carefully: Since the center is meant to be gooey, make sure not to overbake. The edges should be set while the middle retains some jiggle when gently shaken.

• Let it cool properly: Allowing the cake to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking helps it set up a bit more, making it easier to cut and serve while still being wonderfully gooey.

How to Serve Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

This pumpkin gooey butter cake is a showstopper that deserves some thoughtful presentation. Whether for Thanksgiving or a cozy fall gathering, these serving ideas will make your dessert shine!

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, airy contrast to the rich cake. Just whip some coconut cream until fluffy and sweeten to taste.

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkling chopped pecans on top not only adds an appealing crunch but also enhances the fall flavors with their nutty goodness.

Side Dishes

• Spiced apple cider: This warm beverage complements the flavors of pumpkin beautifully and will keep everyone cozy while enjoying dessert.

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream offers a delightful contrast to the warm cake, creating a comforting balance of flavors and textures.

• Roasted butternut squash salad: Light and refreshing, this salad brings earthy tones that harmonize with the sweetness of the cake, making it a perfect side dish for your fall feast.

• Cranberry sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce adds brightness that cuts through the richness of the cake, providing an excellent flavor pairing that enhances each bite.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your pumpkin gooey butter cake is sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every delicious bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake recipe is not only delicious, but it also makes for an excellent meal prep dessert. You can enjoy it fresh or save some for later, making it a versatile addition to your fall festivities.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it moist.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Cut the cake into individual portions for easier thawing.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, remove from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• For a warm slice, microwave on low power for 15-30 seconds until heated through.
• Alternatively, warm in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful pumpkin gooey butter cake!

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

Absolutely! While yellow cake mix works best, you can experiment with spice cake or even gluten-free mixes if desired. Just keep in mind that flavors may vary slightly.

How long does the Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, this cake can last up to 4 days. If you choose to freeze it, enjoy it within 3 months for optimal freshness!

What makes this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe so special?

The combination of creamy pumpkin filling and buttery cake creates a uniquely gooey texture that is perfect for fall gatherings. It’s a comforting dessert that brings warmth and joy to any table.

Can I make this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just make sure to cover it well to maintain its moisture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake! It’s truly a special dessert that captures the essence of fall and brings smiles all around. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones during Thanksgiving or savoring a slice by yourself, this recipe is sure to delight. Enjoy every gooey bite!