Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, then look no further than the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. This delightful treat combines everything we love about autumn—rich pumpkin, cozy spices, and indulgent cream cheese frosting—into one irresistibly soft and moist cake. The gooey filling oozes with spicy-sweet flavor, balanced perfectly by the luscious brown sugar cream cheese frosting on top. Trust me, once you try this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, it’ll quickly earn a permanent spot in your seasonal baking lineup.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting just right starts with simple, everyday ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the moist pumpkin puree to the aromatic spices and the creamy frosting components, every element plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

• Yellow cake mix: Serves as the easy and reliable base for a tender cake structure.
• Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together while adding richness.
• Unsalted butter: Adds buttery flavor and moisture; melted for ease in mixing.
• Pumpkin puree: Provides natural moisture and that quintessential pumpkin flavor.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances all the warm flavors and balances sweetness.
• Cream cheese: Used in both filling and frosting for creaminess and tanginess.
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves: Create that signature pumpkin spice warmth.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling and frosting with a silky smooth texture.
• Brown sugar: Gives the frosting a deep caramel-like sweetness.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing your 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, whisk together the yellow cake mix, one large egg, melted butter, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into your prepared dish—it’s the hearty foundation that will hold all that gooey goodness.

Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Filling

In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until fluffy and smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, pumpkin puree, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, mixing until fully combined. Gradually stir in the powdered sugar until you have a silky, no-lump filling. Pour this luscious filling evenly over the cake base and spread gently for an even layer that will melt into the cake while baking.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The key is to watch for firm edges while the center remains slightly wobbly—this ensures that gooey texture we’re aiming for. Once baked, take the cake out and allow it to cool completely in the pan, setting the stage for luscious frosting later.

Step 4: Make the Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat together softened cream cheese, butter, and brown sugar until light and fluffy for a frosting that’s deeply flavorful and wonderfully creamy. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, then stir in vanilla extract to round out the flavor. This frosting adds a dreamy sweetness and richness that perfectly crowns the cake.

Step 5: Frost the Cake

When the cake is completely cool, spread the brown sugar cream cheese frosting generously across the surface with a spatula, smoothing it out so every bite gets that creamy finish. For an indulgent touch, sprinkle chopped pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon on top—it’s the perfect final flourish.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like chopped toasted pecans or a light sprinkle of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice add a festive and textural contrast. For an added pop, a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting pairs beautifully with a warm cup of spiced chai tea or rich coffee. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit or lightly sweetened whipped cream for a luxurious spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the cake in individual ramekins topped with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. Alternatively, cut into bars for a portable treat perfect for fall gatherings or holiday parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cream cheese frosting especially benefits from refrigeration to stay bright and firm. Leftovers typically last 3 to 4 days.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted cake layers tightly wrapped in plastic and then foil for up to 2 months. To freeze the fully assembled Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, freeze uncovered briefly until the frosting hardens, then wrap well to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating

For best results, thaw frozen cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Warm individual slices gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back that freshly baked, gooey sensation without melting the frosting.

FAQs

Can I make this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting vegan?

Absolutely! Swap out the butter and cream cheese for vegan alternatives, and use a gluten-free and egg-replacer-friendly cake mix to adapt this recipe to vegan needs without sacrificing richness.

What can I substitute for pumpkin puree?

If you don’t have pumpkin puree, you can try using canned sweet potato puree or butternut squash puree, as they offer a similar texture and mild sweetness, keeping the cake moist.

Why is my pumpkin spice filling not gooey?

If your filling turned out too firm, you may have baked it too long or not used enough moisture. Be sure to follow the recommended baking time and keep an eye on the center’s jiggle to maintain that ideal gooey texture.

Can I use homemade cake batter instead of boxed mix?

Yes, you can! Just replace the yellow cake mix with your favorite homemade yellow cake recipe. The key is to maintain a similar consistency and flavor profile to complement the gooey filling and frosting wonderfully.

How do I prevent the frosting from melting?

Make sure the cake is completely cool before frosting it. Also, keep the cake refrigerated, especially if your kitchen is warm, to prevent the cream cheese frosting from softening too much or melting.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, family gathering, or just craving a comforting slice of autumn flavors, this cake hits every note perfectly. Give it a try, and soon it will be your new favorite cozy dessert to share with friends and loved ones.

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