Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that captures the essence of fall, this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is just what you need! It’s rich, creamy, and has that perfect balance of sweetness and spice. I remember the first time I made this cake; the aroma filled my kitchen and drew everyone in. It’s a beloved recipe that brings warmth to busy weeknights and is sure to impress at family gatherings or Thanksgiving dinners.

Every bite of this gooey butter cake feels like a cozy hug, making it an instant favorite among friends and family. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying those special moments with your loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly and easily.
• Perfect for Sharing: This cake serves 12 people, making it ideal for parties and celebrations.
• Comforting Flavor: The warm spices and pumpkin create a deliciously comforting dessert that everyone will love.
• Gooey Goodness: The unique gooey texture makes it stand out from traditional cakes—it’s truly something special!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that the ingredients for this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe are simple and wholesome. They come together to create a scrumptious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. 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 Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is its flexibility! You can easily tailor it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are a few fun variations to try:

• Add Some Chocolate Chips: Stir in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
• Switch Up the Spices: Experiment with different spices like allspice or cardamom for a unique flavor profile.
• Make it Nutty: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the filling for added crunch.
• Top with Whipped Cream: Serve each slice with a dollop of dairy-free whipped cream for extra creaminess.

How to Make Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheating your oven to 350 degrees is crucial as it ensures even baking. A hot oven helps achieve that golden-brown top we all love!

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 prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.

Step 3: Make the Cake Base

In the bowl of an electric mixer, combine the boxed cake mix, one stick of melted butter (which is half a cup), and one egg. Mix well until everything is blended smoothly. This mixture forms the base layer of your gooey butter cake.

Step 4: Press the Base into the Pan

Pour your cake batter into your prepared pan, pressing it evenly along the bottom. Don’t worry if it looks thin; it’s meant to be that way!

Step 5: Create the Pumpkin Filling

In another bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, super soft cream cheese, three eggs, dark brown sugar, one stick of melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Beat on low until combined well. Scrape down any bits stuck on the sides for an even mixture.

Step 6: Pour Over Cake Base

Carefully pour the pumpkin filling over your cake batter in the pan. Spread it gently so everything is evenly distributed; this will create that delicious gooey layer on top!

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place your pan in the oven and bake for about 40 to 50 minutes until the top is golden brown. The center should still be slightly gooey because that’s what makes this cake so special!

Step 8: Let It Rest

Once baked, let your cake cool for at least ten minutes before cutting into it. This resting period allows everything to set slightly while keeping that lovely gooey texture intact.

Now you’re ready to enjoy every delicious bite of this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake! It’s guaranteed to become a cherished recipe in your home just like it has in mine.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Making this delightful dessert can be a breeze with just a few helpful tips!

• Use softened cream cheese: Ensuring your cream cheese is super soft helps achieve a smooth filling without lumps, giving your cake that velvety texture we all love.
• Don’t overmix: When combining the pumpkin filling, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture rather than the gooey consistency you want.
• Check for doneness carefully: Since the center should be slightly gooey, keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a little batter clinging to it.
• Let it cool: Allowing the cake to rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting not only helps it set but also makes it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.
• Store properly: If you have leftovers (though they’ll likely disappear quickly), store them covered in the fridge. It keeps the flavors fresh and maintains that delicious gooeyness.

How to Serve Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Serving this pumpkin gooey butter cake can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present this delightful dessert beautifully.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light and airy touch, complementing the rich flavors of the cake.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts: Sprinkling some chopped nuts on top adds a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the gooiness of the cake.
• Cinnamon sugar dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar creates an appealing visual and enhances the warm spices in your cake.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The classic pairing! A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts into the warm cake, adding creaminess that balances out its sweetness.
• Spiced apple cider: This warm drink enhances fall vibes and pairs perfectly with each bite, making every moment cozy and delightful.
• Autumn salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cranberries, and walnuts provides a refreshing contrast to the rich dessert, creating a well-rounded meal experience.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the flavors in your pumpkin gooey butter cake, making for a satisfying side dish.

Now that you’re equipped with tips and serving ideas, get ready to impress your guests with this scrumptious Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake is perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal treat to enjoy throughout the week or share with family and friends during gatherings. With a few simple storage tips, you can keep this delicious dessert fresh and ready to serve.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Cut the cake into individual slices for easy serving later.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• To reheat individual slices, remove them from the refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
• Heat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
• For a crispy top, place under a broiler for a few seconds, watching closely to prevent burning.

FAQs

Here are some common questions readers might have about this delightful recipe.

Can I use pumpkin puree from a can for the Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree is a convenient option that works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pie filling.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake is done?

The cake should be golden brown on top, and the center should still be slightly gooey. A toothpick inserted should come out with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Can I substitute cream cheese in my Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe?

Yes! You can use dairy-free cream cheese alternatives if you’re looking for a non-dairy version without sacrificing flavor and texture.

Is there an alternative to yellow cake mix for my Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake?

You can make your own cake base using flour, baking powder, sugar, and other ingredients if you prefer a homemade touch.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake! It’s a comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion—especially during fall celebrations like Thanksgiving. The rich flavors of pumpkin and warm spices will surely bring smiles around your table. Enjoy every gooey bite and feel free to share your experience with friends and family. Happy baking!