Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that warms your heart and fills your kitchen with the comforting scents of fall, then this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is just what you need. It’s a delightful treat that’s perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or cozy family dinners. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up, and the gooey center will have everyone coming back for seconds!

This cake is special because it combines the rich flavors of pumpkin with a creamy, buttery filling. Each bite offers that sweet, nostalgic taste of autumn. Plus, it’s a fantastic choice for those busy weeknights when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have this cake in the oven before you know it!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the gooey, sweet flavors—perfect for any gathering.
• Versatile dessert: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner, this cake fits right in.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
• Irresistibly delicious: The combination of pumpkin, spices, and cream cheese creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake. No fancy items here—just good stuff that works beautifully together!

For the Cake Base

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

For the Pumpkin Filling

• 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

One of the best things about this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch and depth of flavor.
• Spice it up: Experiment with additional spices like allspice or cloves for a more complex taste.
• Chocolate twist: Fold in some chocolate chips into the pumpkin filling for a chocolatey surprise!
• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix to make this delicious recipe suitable for everyone.

How to Make Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pan

While your oven heats up, grab a springform pan or round cake pan. Line it with parchment paper and spray it lightly with cooking spray. This step helps prevent sticking and makes serving easier later on!

Step 3: Make the Cake Base

In the bowl of an electric mixer, combine the boxed cake mix, 1 stick of melted butter (that’s half a cup), and one egg. Mix until everything is well combined. This forms the base layer that will hold all that gooey goodness.

Step 4: Press into the Pan

Pour your cake batter into the prepared pan and press it down into an even layer at the bottom. It will be thin, but don’t worry—that’s exactly how it should be!

Step 5: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

In another bowl, combine your pumpkin puree, super soft cream cheese, three eggs (the separated ones from earlier), dark brown sugar, another stick of melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Beat on low until fully mixed; remember to scrape down those sides!

Step 6: Pour Over the Base

Gently pour this luscious pumpkin filling over your cake batter in the pan. It will create that delicious gooey layer we’re all excited about!

Step 7: Bake It Up!

Pop your cake in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 40 to 50 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the top should turn golden brown while leaving that delightful gooey center intact.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Once baked to perfection, let your cake rest for at least ten minutes before cutting into it. This waiting period helps set those gooey layers just right!

Now you’re ready to enjoy this warm slice of fall bliss! I can’t wait for you to try this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe—it’s sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Making this delightful pumpkin gooey butter cake is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Having your cream cheese and eggs at room temperature ensures that they mix more smoothly, resulting in a creamier filling.

• Don’t skip the parchment paper: Lining your pan with parchment paper makes it easier to remove the cake without sticking, preserving its gooey top and beautiful edges.

• Check for doneness carefully: Since the center should be gooey, use a toothpick to check around the edges. If it comes out clean from the edges but gooey in the center, you’re good to go!

• Let it rest: Allowing the cake to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing lets it set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve while still keeping that delicious gooey texture.

• Embrace the gooeyness: Remember, this cake is meant to be gooey! Don’t worry if it’s not fully set in the middle; that’s part of its charm.

How to Serve Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

This pumpkin gooey butter cake is not only delicious but also visually appealing. When presenting this festive dessert, consider these creative serving ideas!

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, airy contrast to the rich cake and complements its pumpkin flavor beautifully.

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkling some chopped pecans on top provides a nice crunch and enhances the autumn vibe with their nutty flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream served alongside will create a delightful contrast with the warm cake, making each bite even more indulgent.

• Apple cider: A glass of chilled apple cider pairs wonderfully with this dessert, highlighting fall flavors while offering a refreshing balance.

• Spiced chai tea: Serving slices of this cake with spiced chai tea creates a warm and cozy atmosphere perfect for any gathering or chilly evening.

• Maple syrup drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup over each slice adds an extra touch of sweetness and enhances the pumpkin flavor profile beautifully.

Now that you have all these serving ideas and expert tips, get ready to impress your friends and family with this scrumptious Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This pumpkin gooey butter cake recipe is not only delightful but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week or share it with friends and family during the holidays.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely after baking.
• Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the cake is completely cooled.
• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, remove from the freezer and let thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious dessert!

Can I use a different cake mix for this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! While yellow cake mix works beautifully, feel free to experiment with a spice cake mix for added flavor that complements the pumpkin.

How long does this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe last?

When stored properly in the fridge, this gooey butter cake will last up to 5 days. If you freeze it, you can enjoy it for up to 3 months!

Can I substitute cream cheese in this recipe?

Yes! If you’re looking for a non-dairy alternative, consider using a plant-based cream cheese product. It may slightly alter the texture but will still be delicious.

What should I serve with Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake?

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

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake! It’s truly a special recipe that captures all the cozy flavors of fall. Whether for Thanksgiving or just because, I’m sure you and your loved ones will savor every gooey bite. Enjoy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with those around you!