Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Ever craved a dessert that’s both comforting and incredibly easy to make? This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake is your answer! With its silky texture and bold pumpkin spice flavor, it’s perfect for busy evenings or impressing guests. Inspired by classic flavors, this cake will become a new family favorite. Let’s explore the magic of this pumpkin delight!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake

• Effortless Preparation: Ready in under an hour.
• Intense Pumpkin Flavor: Rich and satisfying pumpkin spice.
• Gooey Texture: Melts in your mouth with every bite.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for gatherings and holidays.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and a cake mix for convenience.
• Cozy Nostalgia: Rekindles warm, autumnal memories.
• Budget-Friendly: Delicious dessert without breaking the bank.

It’s simply irresistible and simple enough for your first try.

Ingredients Needed for Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake

For the Cake:

• Yellow Cake Mix: 1 box (15.25 ounces) – Provides the base for the cake.
• Cream Cheese: 1 cup (8 ounces), softened – Adds moisture and tanginess.
• Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), melted – Contributes to richness and flavor.
• Pumpkin Puree: 1 (15 ounce) can – The star of the show, adding pumpkin flavor and moisture.
• Large Eggs: 2 – Binds the ingredients together.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: 1 teaspoon – Infuses the cake with warm spices.

For the Gooey Topping:

• Cream Cheese: 1 cup (8 ounces), softened – Creates the creamy, gooey texture.
• Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), softened – Adds richness and helps the topping spread.
• Powdered Sugar: 4 cups – Provides sweetness and structure to the topping.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon – Enhances the flavor of the topping.
• Milk: 1/4 cup – Adjusts the consistency of the topping.

Ensure your butter and cream cheese are properly softened for a smooth batter and topping. For the pumpkin pie spice, you can find it at most grocery stores, or you can easily make your own blend using cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.

Essential Equipment List

• 9×13 inch Baking Pan: Essential for baking the cake evenly.
• Large Mixing Bowls: For combining the ingredients separately.
• Electric Mixer: For creating a smooth and creamy batter and topping.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements.
• Spatula: For spreading the batter and topping evenly.

A stand mixer is helpful but not necessary; a handheld electric mixer works just as well. Using parchment paper to line the pan can make cleanup even easier.

Recipe Details

• • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55-60 minutes

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• Servings: 12-16
• Difficulty: Easy

This recipe is easily scalable – double it for a larger gathering or halve it for a smaller treat.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent the cake from sticking. This ensures easy removal and a clean presentation.

Step 2: Combine Cake Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, softened cream cheese, melted butter, pumpkin puree, eggs, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix until well combined, creating a smooth batter. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.

Step 3: Pour and Spread Batter

Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. This provides a consistent base for the gooey topping.

Step 4: Prepare the Gooey Topping

In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and milk until the topping is smooth and spreadable. Make sure there are no lumps for a perfect topping.

Step 5: Spread the Topping

Gently spread the gooey topping evenly over the cake batter. Ensure it covers the entire surface for maximum gooeyness. Be gentle to avoid mixing the topping with the cake batter.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is set and lightly golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, but the topping should still be slightly soft.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the topping to set properly. Serve and enjoy!

For more delightful fall treats, check out this Apple Bread: The Perfect Fall Treat for another comforting bake.

Want another creamy treat? Check out this Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins

Tips for Success

• Softened Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese and butter are fully softened for a smooth batter and topping.
• Even Spreading: Spread the batter and topping evenly to ensure uniform baking.
• Don’t Overbake: Bake until the topping is set but still slightly soft for the perfect gooey texture.
• Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting to prevent the topping from being too runny.
• Spice Adjustment: Adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice to your preference.

If the topping seems too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.

Variations & Substitutions

• • Chocolate Chips: Add chocolate chips to the cake batter or topping for a chocolatey twist.
  • Nutmeg: Substitute cream cheese with mascarpone for a richer taste.
  • Spices: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg for a warmer flavor.
  • Extract: Add almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty flavor.
  • Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free version.

For a vegan version, use vegan cream cheese and a flax egg substitute.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake

• Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
• Ice Cream: Pair with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Coffee: Enjoy with a cup of hot coffee or tea.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle with caramel sauce for added sweetness.

This cake is perfect for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or a cozy night in.

Health Benefits

Pumpkin provides vitamins A and C, plus fiber for digestion. While this cake is a treat, these nutrients offer added benefits. The cream cheese also adds a source of calcium. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet!

Storage & Reheating

Store the Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. You can also freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Yes, you can use a spice cake mix or even a white cake mix, but the yellow cake mix provides the best flavor and texture.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake can be made a day or two in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

How do I prevent the topping from sinking?

Ensure that the topping is spread evenly and that the oven temperature is consistent. Avoid opening the oven door frequently during baking.

Can I add nuts to this cake?

Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts can be added to the cake batter or sprinkled on top of the gooey topping for added crunch and flavor.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

You can make your own pumpkin pie spice by combining cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 250mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 40g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Total Sugars: 25g
• Protein: 3g

Please note that these values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more delightful treats? Try these gems!

• Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake with Streusel Topping – A perfect pairing with your morning coffee.
• Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding – Another fantastic way to enjoy pumpkin and autumnal flavors.
• Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting – A delightful, bite-sized treat perfect for sharing.

Conclusion

Fast, flavorful, and a definite crowd-pleaser, this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whip it up tonight and tag us with your delicious 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!

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Tasty Plugin

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  "Description": "A delightful and easy Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake with a creamy, gooey topping and warm pumpkin spice flavor.",
  "Ingredients": "

• 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
• 1 cup (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 cup (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup milk

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  "Instructions": "

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, softened cream cheese, melted butter, pumpkin puree, eggs, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
4. In a separate bowl, prepare the gooey topping. Beat together the softened cream cheese and softened butter until smooth and creamy.
5. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and milk until the topping is smooth and spreadable.
6. Gently spread the gooey topping evenly over the cake batter.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is set and lightly golden brown.
8. Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.

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  "Notes": "

• Softened Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese and butter are fully softened.
• Baking Pan: Grease and flour the baking pan thoroughly.

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  "Details": {
    "Prep Time": "20 minutes",
    "Cook Time": "40 minutes",
    "Total Time": "60 minutes",
    "Yield": "12-16 servings",
    "Category": "Dessert",
    "Method": "Baking",
    "Cuisine": "American",
    "Diet": "Vegetarian"
  },
  "Keywords": "pumpkin, gooey butter cake, pumpkin dessert, fall dessert, cream cheese, easy cake recipe",
  "Nutrition": {
    "Serving Size": "1 slice",
    "Calories": "350 kcal",
    "Sugar": "25 g",
    "Sodium": "250 mg",
    "Fat": "20 g",
    "Saturated Fat": "12 g",
    "Unsaturated Fat": "0 g",
    "Trans Fat": "0 g",
    "Carbohydrates": "40 g",
    "Fiber": "1 g",
    "Protein": "3 g",
    "Cholesterol": "75 mg"
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