Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Ever craved a dessert that screams autumn and tastes like a warm hug? Look no further than this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake recipe! Silky textures meet comforting spices in this easy-to-make treat, perfect for busy evenings or impressing guests. Inspired by classic gooey butter cake, this pumpkin version adds a festive twist. Let’s explore this dish’s magic!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake

• Effortless preparation: Minimal steps for maximum flavor.
• Intense pumpkin spice: Aromas fill your kitchen with warmth.
• Perfectly gooey texture: Every bite melts in your mouth.
• Crowd-pleasing dessert: Guaranteed to impress family and friends.
• Budget-friendly: Uses simple, accessible ingredients.
• Rekindles cozy memories: The taste of fall in every slice.
• Simple enough for your first try: A foolproof recipe for bakers of all levels.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake. Don’t worry, most of these are pantry staples! Plus, I’ve included some tips for selecting the best ingredients.

Crust Ingredients

• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.5g) salt

Filling Ingredients

• 8 ounces (226g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 15-ounce (425g) can pumpkin puree
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) ground nutmeg
• 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted

For the spices, consider using freshly grated nutmeg for a more intense aroma. You can find high-quality vanilla extract at most grocery stores or specialty baking shops. And of course, make sure your pumpkin puree is 100% pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling!

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter – A delightful fall treat!

Essential Equipment List

Having the right tools can make baking so much easier! Here’s a list of what you’ll need for this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake recipe.

• 9×13 inch baking pan: Essential for the cake’s shape and even baking.
• Mixing bowls: For preparing the crust and filling separately.
• Electric mixer: To ensure smooth and creamy fillings.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for baking success.

No electric mixer? Don’t worry! You can use a good old-fashioned whisk and some elbow grease. A rubber spatula is also handy for scraping down the sides of the bowl to make sure everything is well combined.

Recipe Details

Here’s a quick overview of what to expect when making this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 12
• Difficulty: Easy

This recipe is perfect for a weekend treat, or anytime you’re craving a little pumpkin spice!

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to get baking? Follow these simple steps to create your own Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake masterpiece!

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.

Pro Tip: For extra insurance against sticking, line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang to easily lift the cake out after baking.

Step 2: Make the Crust

1. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt.
2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even layer.

Troubleshooting: If the crust is too dry, add a teaspoon of cold water at a time until the mixture comes together. Don’t overwork it!

Step 3: Bake the Crust

1. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.

The crust should be lightly golden around the edges. This par-baking step ensures a sturdy base for the gooey filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Beat until well combined.

Sensory Cue: The aroma of the spices will start to fill your kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Step 5: Add the Sugar

1. Gradually add the powdered sugar to the filling, beating until smooth and lump-free.

Adding the powdered sugar gradually helps prevent a cloud of dust and ensures it mixes in evenly.

Step 6: Incorporate the Butter

1. Stir in the melted butter until it’s fully incorporated into the filling. The mixture should be smooth and glossy.

Melted butter adds richness and helps create that signature gooey texture.

Step 7: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the pumpkin filling evenly over the baked crust.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set. The edges should be slightly golden.

Timing: Keep an eye on the cake towards the end of the baking time. A slight jiggle in the very center is okay, as it will continue to set as it cools.

Step 8: Cool and Dust

1. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before cutting it into squares.
2. Dust generously with additional powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

Pro Tip: For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each slice.

CHECK OUT: Apple Bread The Perfect Fall Treat – Another delicious option for Fall.

Tips for Success

Here are some expert tips to ensure your Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake turns out perfectly every time:

• Soften the cream cheese: This is crucial for a smooth filling. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
• Don’t overbake: Overbaking will result in a dry cake. The center should be slightly jiggly when you take it out of the oven.
• Use quality spices: Freshly ground spices will give the best flavor.
• Cool completely: Resist the urge to cut into the cake while it’s still warm. It needs to cool completely to set properly.
• Dust generously: A generous dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness.

Variations & Substitutions

Want to customize your Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake? Here are a few ideas:

• Chocolate chips: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolatey twist.
• Pecans or walnuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the filling before baking for added crunch.
• Maple syrup: Substitute 1/4 cup of maple syrup for some of the granulated sugar in the crust for a richer flavor.
• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the crust to make this cake gluten-free.

Experiment with different spice combinations to create your own unique flavor profile. A pinch of cloves or allspice can add extra warmth.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake

This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions and pairings to elevate your experience:

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream is the perfect complement to the warm, spiced cake.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra decadent treat.
• Coffee or tea: Pair with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy fall treat.

Health Benefits

While this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake is definitely a treat, it does offer some nutritional benefits. Pumpkin is a good source of Vitamin A, which is important for vision and immune function. Cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg are also known for their antioxidant properties.

• Pumpkin provides Vitamin A.
• Spices offer antioxidant benefits.

Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Storage & Reheating

Here’s how to properly store and reheat your Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake:

• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
• Freezing: You can also freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

No, pumpkin pie filling is already sweetened and spiced, which will alter the flavor and texture of the cake. Use 100% pumpkin puree.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake can be made a day ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and dust with powdered sugar just before serving.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is done when the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs attached.

Can I use a different size pan?

Using a different size pan will affect the baking time. If using a smaller pan, the cake may take longer to bake. If using a larger pan, it may bake faster.

Can I add other spices?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other spices such as cloves, allspice, or cardamom.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a snapshot of the estimated nutritional information per serving:

• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 200mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 40g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Total Sugars: 25g
• Protein: 3g

Exact nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more fall-inspired treats? Check out these other delicious recipes:

• Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon Honey Butter – A sweet and savory cornbread with a delightful cinnamon honey butter.
• Apple Bread The Perfect Fall Treat – A moist and flavorful apple bread perfect for breakfast or dessert.
• Pumpkin Ricotta Caramelized Onion Tart – A savory tart with a creamy pumpkin ricotta filling and sweet caramelized onions.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake is fast, flavorful, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whip it up tonight—tag us with your masterpiece! Share this recipe with your friends and family who would love it! Join our vibrant community on Facebook and Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and more tasty ideas! Happy cooking! Let us know how it goes—comment below!

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