Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of fall, look no further than this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe. This cake is a delightful blend of creamy pumpkin goodness and buttery richness that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, cozy weeknight dinners, or any occasion where you want to spread some warmth and joy.

What makes this cake truly special is its gooey texture combined with the familiar flavors of pumpkin spice. It’s a dish that brings nostalgia and comfort with every bite, reminding us all of chilly autumn days spent with loved ones. Trust me; it’s going to 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 cake in no time.
• Family-friendly: The sweet pumpkin flavor and gooey texture are sure to please everyone, from kids to grandparents!
• Perfect for sharing: This recipe yields 12 servings—enough to impress at any gathering!
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare it a day in advance and simply reheat before serving for stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe are simple and wholesome. You likely already have many of them in your pantry! Let’s gather everything together so we can start baking.

For the Cake Base

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

For the Pumpkin Filling

• 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
• 8 ounces cream cheese (super soft)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to customize it:

• Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch.
• Spice it up: Feel free to add more spices like cloves or allspice for an extra kick.
• Use a different cake mix: Experiment with spice cake mix for a deeper flavor profile.
• Top it off: Serve with whipped coconut cream or dairy-free ice cream for an indulgent treat.

How to Make Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first—let’s get that oven preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures your cake bakes evenly and comes out just right.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pan

Next, grab your springform pan or round cake pan. Line it with parchment paper and spray it with cooking spray. This step is essential as it helps prevent sticking, making it easier to serve!

Step 3: Make the Cake Base

In the bowl of your electric mixer, combine the boxed cake mix, one stick of melted butter (that’s half a cup), and one egg. Mix well until everything is combined into a smooth batter. Pour this mixture into your prepared pan, pressing it down evenly across the bottom. Remember, this will form a thin layer that acts as the foundation for our gooey filling!

Step 4: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

Now, let’s create that luscious pumpkin filling! In another mixing bowl, combine the 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 speed until everything is mixed well—make sure to scrape down the sides so no ingredient gets left behind!

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour that beautiful pumpkin filling over the cake batter in your pan. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 40 to 50 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the top to be golden brown while ensuring the center remains delightfully gooey—after all, it’s called a gooey butter cake!

Step 6: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, take your cake out of the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting into it. This helps set up that amazing gooey texture we all love.

And there you have it—a warm Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake ready to be enjoyed! I hope you love making this as much as I do. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Creating the perfect pumpkin gooey butter cake can be a delightful experience, and with a few tips, you’ll have everyone raving about your dessert!

• Use room temperature ingredients: By allowing your cream cheese and eggs to reach room temperature, they will blend more smoothly into the batter, resulting in a creamier filling.

• Don’t overmix: When combining the pumpkin filling, mix just until combined. Overmixing can introduce air bubbles that may affect the gooey texture you want.

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

• Let it cool before serving: Allowing the cake to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking will help it set and make slicing easier while keeping that delicious gooey center intact.

• Experiment with spices: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of cloves or allspice for an extra layer of flavor that enhances the pumpkin’s richness.

How to Serve Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Presenting your pumpkin gooey butter cake in an appealing way can elevate its deliciousness! Here are some fun ideas to make your dessert stand out at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light and airy touch that complements the rich cake beautifully.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts: Sprinkling some chopped nuts on top gives a nice crunch and adds extra flavor.
• Cinnamon sugar dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top just before serving makes for a lovely visual and taste enhancement.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy coldness of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with warm pumpkin gooey butter cake, creating a comforting contrast.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over each slice not only adds sweetness but also creates an indulgent experience that everyone will love.
• Roasted apples: Sautéed or roasted apples seasoned with cinnamon and sugar bring in additional autumn flavors that harmonize well with the cake.
• Fall salad: A light salad made with mixed greens, dried cranberries, and candied nuts offers a refreshing palate cleanser alongside the richness of the cake.

Enjoy making this scrumptious Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe, and watch as it becomes a favorite at your fall gatherings!

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 it a fantastic dessert option for gatherings or busy weeks.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Cut the cake into individual portions for easier thawing.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, label the bags with dates.

Reheating

• Thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, place slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, warm slices in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe:

Can I use a different type of cake mix for the Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is traditional, you can experiment with spice cake mix or even gluten-free options to add a unique twist to your gooey butter cake!

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

The top should be golden brown, and the center should still be slightly gooey. Use a toothpick; if it comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter), your cake is perfectly baked!

What can I serve with Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped coconut cream or a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream. A sprinkle of pecans on top adds great texture and flavor!

Can I substitute pumpkin puree with something else in this recipe?

While pumpkin puree gives this dish its signature flavor, you could try using sweet potato puree as an alternative. The texture will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe finds a special place in your heart (and your kitchen) this fall! It’s an easy yet impressive dessert that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Enjoy making this treat, and don’t hesitate to share it with loved ones. Happy baking!