If you are looking for a dessert that perfectly captures the cozy flavors of fall with a rich, luscious texture, this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This incredible cake combines the spiced warmth of pumpkin with a remarkable gooey center that will make every bite feel like a comforting hug. From the buttery cake crust to the creamy pumpkin filling, it’s a delightful treat that’s as delicious as it is irresistible—a true crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe shines because of its simple yet essential ingredients that come together to create that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in making this dessert a standout, from the rich cream cheese that adds creaminess to the fragrant spices that give each bite a festive tint.
- Yellow cake mix: The base for the crust giving it a sweet, tender foundation that holds the gooey filling perfectly.
- Eggs: Vital for binding and adding richness both to the crust and the pumpkin filling for a flawless texture.
- Unsalted butter: Adds luxurious moisture and flavor to both crust and filling, ensuring each bite melts in your mouth.
- Cream cheese: Softened to create that signature gooey, velvety filling that makes this cake so special.
- Pumpkin puree: Brings that unmistakable autumn flavor and moisture, making the cake wonderfully moist.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors, tying the pumpkin and spices together beautifully.
- Powdered sugar: Provides sweetness without graininess and helps achieve a smooth, luscious filling.
- Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves: Classic fall spices that give this cake its warm, inviting aroma and a perfect spice balance.
- Salt: Just a pinch to enhance the overall flavor and balance sweetness.
How to Make Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step ensures your cake will bake evenly and release easily from the pan without sticking.
Step 2: Make the Crust
Combine the yellow cake mix, one egg, and melted butter in a large bowl and mix until a dough forms. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish, creating a sturdy but tender base that will support the luscious pumpkin filling beautifully.
Step 3: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling
In a separate large bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and pumpkin puree until smooth and creamy. Add in the eggs, vanilla extract, and remaining melted butter, mixing well before gradually incorporating the powdered sugar along with the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves (if using), and salt. The filling should be perfectly smooth and packed with seasonal flavors.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the pumpkin mixture evenly over the prepared crust and gently spread it out to the edges. Bake in your preheated oven for 40-50 minutes until the edges are set but the center remains just a little gooey. This gooey center is the magic that defines the Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe.
Step 5: Cool and Slice
Allow your cake to cool thoroughly in the pan before slicing to let the filling firm up slightly, making it easier to serve without losing that delightful gooeyness.
How to Serve Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
Garnishes
This cake is fantastic on its own but try topping it with freshly whipped cream, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or even a light drizzle of caramel sauce to amp up the indulgence. Pecans or a pinch of cinnamon sprinkled on top add texture and extra warmth.
Side Dishes
A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cool Greek yogurt pairs wonderfully to contrast the cake’s richness. For a seasonal touch, consider serving it alongside spiced apple cider or a warm cup of chai tea.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra special occasion, serve this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe in individual ramekins or as a layered trifle with whipped cream and crushed gingersnaps. You can also cut it into small squares and serve it as a bite-sized treat at parties or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover cake tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors actually deepen with time, making it even more delicious the next day!
Freezing
This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe freezes well—wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
Warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to revive that gooey texture, or enjoy it chilled if you prefer a firmer consistency.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, you can. Just make sure to cook and puree fresh pumpkin first to the same consistency as canned pumpkin puree for the best texture in your cake.
Is it necessary to use cream cheese in this recipe?
Cream cheese is essential for the gooey texture and tangy flavor that define this cake. Without it, you won’t get that signature gooey filling that makes the Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe so special.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute a gluten-free yellow cake mix for the crust to make the cake gluten-free. Just ensure all your other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
How can I tell when the cake is done?
The edges should be set and slightly browned, but the center will still jiggle just a bit. It sets further as it cools, keeping that perfect gooey texture.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the crust or swirling chocolate chips into the filling are tasty variations that add texture and extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves rich, spiced desserts with a delightful gooey twist. It’s easy to make but feels luxurious and festive, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Once you try it, chances are this recipe will become a beloved staple in your seasonal dessert lineup. So grab your ingredients and get ready to bake something truly special!
Print
Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake is a luscious, seasonal dessert combining a buttery yellow cake crust with a rich, spiced pumpkin cream cheese filling. Perfect for fall gatherings, it offers a delightful balance of gooey texture and cozy autumn flavors. Baked until just set, this cake remains moist and indulgently soft in the center, making it an irresistible treat for pumpkin lovers.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Pumpkin Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, egg, and melted butter. Stir the ingredients until a smooth dough forms. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish to create a solid crust base.
- Prepare the Pumpkin Filling: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and pumpkin puree together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add in the eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter, mixing well to combine. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar followed by the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves if using, and a pinch of salt. Continue mixing until the filling is fully blended and smooth in texture.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the prepared pumpkin filling evenly over the crust layer in the baking dish. Spread it out to cover the crust completely. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes. The cake is done when the edges are set but the center remains slightly gooey to maintain its signature texture.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the baking dish. Once cooled, slice into squares. Optional serving suggestions include topping with whipped cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar for added sweetness and presentation.
Notes
- The center should remain a bit gooey for the best texture; do not overbake.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer flavor and texture.
- You can omit cloves if you prefer less spice.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days.
