Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that perfectly captures the essence of fall, look no further than this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe! This cake is not just a treat; it’s a warm hug on a plate. The rich flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg come together to create a gooey texture that melts in your mouth. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or special family gatherings—everyone will be asking for seconds!

I love how simple this recipe is, yet it brings such joy to the table. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or just want to indulge in a slice of something sweet, this cake will surely become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dessert in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the rich flavors and gooey texture.
• Perfect for gatherings: This cake serves 12, making it great for parties or potlucks.
• Fall flavors galore: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices makes every bite feel like autumn.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare this cake in advance and simply reheat before serving!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake is easy with these simple, wholesome ingredients. Gather them up, and let’s get started on creating something delicious!

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 4 large eggs (1 egg and 3 eggs separated)
• 8 ounces unsalted butter (2 sticks separated and melted)
• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! If you’re feeling adventurous, here are some variations you can try:

• Add nuts: Sprinkle in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Spice it up: Consider adding extra spices like cloves or allspice for a more complex flavor profile.
• Chocolate twist: Fold in some chocolate chips into the pumpkin mixture for a chocolatey surprise.
• Cream cheese frosting: Top your cooled cake with a light cream cheese frosting for an extra layer of sweetness.

How to Make Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First thing’s first—preheat your oven to 350 degrees. This step ensures that your cake bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pan

Prepare a springform pan or a round cake pan by lining it with parchment paper and giving it a light spray of cooking spray. This will help your cake slide out easily once it’s done baking.

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 cup), and one egg. Mix well until everything is combined. This forms the base layer of your gooey butter cake.

Step 4: Create the Cake Layer

Pour your batter into the prepared pan and press it down evenly across the bottom. Remember, this layer will be thin—it’s just there to provide structure for all that gooey goodness on top!

Step 5: Combine the Filling

In another bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, super soft cream cheese, three eggs, dark brown sugar, one stick of melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Beat everything together on low speed until fully combined—make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl so no ingredient gets left behind!

Step 6: Pour Over Base

Now comes the exciting part! Pour that luscious pumpkin filling over your previously prepared cake batter in the pan. It’s going to look pretty amazing already!

Step 7: Bake Away

Pop that beauty into your preheated oven and bake at 350 degrees for about 40 to 50 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want that top to be golden brown while ensuring that center stays delightfully gooey.

Step 8: Let It Rest

Once it’s done baking, let your Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake rest for at least ten minutes before cutting into it. This little wait allows everything to set up just right!

Enjoy every gooey slice!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

This recipe is a delightful treat that’s sure to impress, and with a few helpful tips, you can elevate it even further!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures all ingredients blend well together.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the pumpkin filling ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can create a tougher texture instead of the desired gooeyness.

• Check for Doneness: Since ovens vary, start checking the cake around 40 minutes. The top should be golden brown, but the center should still have that signature gooey quality.

• Let It Cool: Allowing the cake to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking lets it firm up slightly, making it easier to cut without losing that delicious gooey interior.

• Store Properly: If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This cake tastes delightful cold or at room temperature!

How to Serve Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Presenting your pumpkin gooey butter cake can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to make your dessert shine at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A light dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a luscious touch that complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.

• Chopped Pecans: Sprinkle some toasted chopped pecans on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the cake.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a wonderful contrast in temperature and texture, making each bite even more indulgent.

• Apple Cider: Serve alongside a glass of warm apple cider for a cozy fall vibe that pairs perfectly with pumpkin flavors.

• Maple Pecan Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, maple vinaigrette, and pecans provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the cake.

• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea makes for an excellent pairing, enhancing the flavors of the pumpkin spice while providing a comforting finish to your dessert experience.

You’re all set! With these tips and serving suggestions, your Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake will be a hit at any gathering this fall. Enjoy every gooey bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it, making entertaining during the busy fall season a breeze. Here’s how to keep your cake fresh:

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the cake cool completely, then cut it into individual portions.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, remove from the freezer and thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• You can warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dessert!

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree in the Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe?

Using pumpkin pie filling is not recommended as it contains added spices and sweeteners that may alter the flavor and texture of your cake. Stick with plain pumpkin puree for best results!

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

Your cake is ready when the top is golden brown and slightly firm to the touch, but remember, it’s meant to be gooey in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Can I make this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free version available at most grocery stores. Just ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What can I serve with my Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake?

This cake pairs beautifully with whipped coconut cream or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe! It’s a special treat that brings warmth and comfort during those cozy fall gatherings. Enjoy every gooey bite, and don’t hesitate to share this delightful dessert with family and friends! Happy baking!