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! This cake is a delightful blend of creamy pumpkin goodness and a gooey, buttery layer that will have everyone coming back for seconds. It’s not only perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings but also makes a cozy treat for busy weeknights when you need something comforting.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare. Even if you’re not an experienced baker, you’ll find that this cake comes together quickly and easily. Plus, the warm spices and pumpkin flavor make it a favorite in our home during the cooler months!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious cake without any fuss.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone will adore the rich flavors and gooey texture, making it perfect for family gatherings.
• Make Ahead: Prepare it in advance, so you can enjoy more time with loved ones during the holidays.
• Seasonal Flavor: The warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger bring the taste of fall right into your kitchen.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as an after-dinner treat or even as a sweet breakfast option with coffee!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this scrumptious Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. They come together beautifully to make a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent.

For the Cake Base

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

For the Pumpkin Filling

• 1 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 3 large eggs
• 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 customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in some dark chocolate chips to give your cake an extra rich flavor.
• Nuts Galore: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and texture.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with additional spices like allspice or clove for a deeper flavor profile.
• Frost It Up: Top with a light cream cheese frosting for an extra layer of sweetness!

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 it goes in.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pan

Prepare a springform pan or round cake pan by lining it with parchment paper and giving it a light coat of cooking spray. This step helps prevent sticking, allowing your gooey butter cake to release perfectly.

Step 3: Mix the Cake Base

In an electric mixer bowl, combine the boxed cake mix, half a cup of melted butter (1 stick), and 1 egg. Mix well until everything is combined. This base will form a thin layer at the bottom of your pan, creating that delicious foundation for your gooey filling.

Step 4: Pour & Press

Pour the cake mixture into your prepared pan and press down evenly to create a solid base. Don’t worry if it looks thin; that’s exactly how it’s meant to be!

Step 5: Prepare 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, nutmeg, and ginger. Beat on low until everything is fully combined—don’t forget to scrape down those pesky sides!

Step 6: Pour Over Base

Carefully pour the creamy pumpkin filling over your cake batter in the pan. The layers will blend beautifully while baking.

Step 7: Bake!

Bake in your preheated oven for about 40 to 50 minutes until the top is golden brown. Remember—the center should be slightly gooey; it’s called gooey butter cake for a reason!

Step 8: Rest Before Serving

Let your cake rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting into it. This will help set up those delicious layers just right!

Enjoy every bite of this delightful Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake—it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Making this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake is a breeze, but a few simple tips can elevate your dessert game!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring that your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature helps them blend smoothly, creating a lighter texture in the cake.

• Don’t overmix: While blending the batter, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake, whereas a light touch keeps it gooey and delicious.

• Check for doneness carefully: Since the center should be gooey, keep an eye on the cake as it bakes. A toothpick inserted should come out with some moist crumbs but not wet batter.

• Let it cool slightly before serving: Allowing the cake to rest for at least 10 minutes helps it set and makes cutting easier while preserving that lovely gooey texture.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste! A pinch of clove or allspice can add a delightful depth to the flavor profile.

How to Serve Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Serving this delectable dessert can be just as fun as making it! Here are some suggestions to make your presentation shine.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a luscious touch and complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully while keeping it dairy-free.

• Chopped pecans or walnuts: Sprinkling some chopped nuts on top adds a delightful crunch and enhances the fall flavor experience.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm, gooey texture of the pumpkin cake, creating a comforting contrast.

• Apple cider: A glass of chilled apple cider brings out the autumn vibes and balances the richness of the cake, making for a refreshing sip alongside each bite.

• Spiced chai: The warm spices in spiced chai complement the flavors in your cake and provide a cozy drink option that’s perfect for chilly evenings.

• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad can serve as a refreshing side dish. The natural sweetness and acidity from fresh fruits cut through the richness of the cake, bringing balance to your dessert spread.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’ll have everyone raving about your Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake at Thanksgiving or any fall gathering! Enjoy every gooey, delicious bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake is not only delicious but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, and it’s great for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Let’s dive into the best ways to store it!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air escapes.
• For extra protection, place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw the frozen cake overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Place slices of cake on a baking sheet and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Have questions about this delightful dessert? Here are some answers!

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

Absolutely! Substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free version. Just ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

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

The top should be golden brown, and the center will be slightly gooey. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.

What can I serve with my Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake?

This cake pairs beautifully with whipped topping or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also sprinkle some chopped nuts on top for added texture!

Is this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe suitable for Thanksgiving?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, offering a warm, comforting dessert that captures the essence of fall.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake! It’s truly special with its rich flavors and gooey texture—perfect for sharing with loved ones during those chilly autumn evenings. Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving or just because you need a sweet treat, I know you’ll enjoy every slice. Happy baking!