Name: Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box yellow cake mix; 4 large eggs (1 egg and 3 eggs separated); 8 ounces unsalted butter (2 sticks separated and melted); 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

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that screams fall, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe! This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will warm your heart and fill your home with the cozy scents of cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s rich, gooey, and oh-so-delicious, making it a fantastic treat for family gatherings or even just a busy weeknight when you need a little something sweet.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. You can whip it up in no time, and the end result is always a showstopper. Everyone will be asking for seconds, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your home just as it has in mine!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple ingredients: You probably have most of these items in your pantry already!
Quick prep time: In just 10 minutes, you can get this cake into the oven.
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this gooey treat.
Perfect for gatherings: It’s a crowd-pleaser that works beautifully for Thanksgiving or any fall celebration.
Make-ahead convenience: Bake it ahead of time and enjoy the lovely flavors all week long!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this scrumptious Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry; they’re easy to find!

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 mix things up based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences!

Add chocolate chips: Toss in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for an extra decadent touch.
Try different spices: Experiment with pumpkin pie spice instead of individual spices for a quick flavor boost.
Use alternative sweeteners: Swap out dark brown sugar for coconut sugar if you’re looking for a healthier option.
Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix to accommodate dietary restrictions while still enjoying this delicious treat.

How to Make Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the moment you pop it in.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pan

Grab your springform pan or round cake pan and line it with parchment paper. A quick spritz of cooking spray will help everything release perfectly after baking.

Step 3: Mix the Cake Base

In the bowl of an 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. This will form a thin base layer that’s super easy to make!

Step 4: Spread the Base Layer

Pour this mixture into your prepared pan and press it down evenly across the bottom. Remember, it’s just a thin layer, so don’t fret if it doesn’t cover every inch perfectly.

Step 5: Combine the Pumpkin Filling

In another bowl (you can keep using that handy mixer!), combine pumpkin puree, super soft cream cheese, three eggs, dark brown sugar, the remaining stick of melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Beat on low speed until fully mixed—scraping down the sides helps ensure everything blends nicely.

Step 6: Pour Over Cake Base

Gently pour this luscious pumpkin filling over your cake batter in the pan. The layers may seem like they want to mix together but don’t worry; they’ll separate beautifully during baking.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden Brown

Now comes the magic! Place your pan in that preheated oven for about 40 to 50 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the top should be golden brown while the center remains delightfully gooey!

Step 8: Let It Rest

Once baked, allow your cake to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing into it. This waiting time helps set those gooey layers just right.

And there you have it—a rich, creamy slice of heaven that embodies all the warm flavors of fall! Enjoy every bite of your homemade Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Making a perfect pumpkin gooey butter cake is all about the little details! Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out deliciously gooey every time.

Use room temperature ingredients: Allowing your cream cheese and eggs to sit out for about 30 minutes before using them helps create a smoother batter. This ensures everything blends well together, resulting in a creamy filling.
Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined helps retain the cake’s moisture and gooey texture. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture that strays from the classic gooey goodness we love.
Check for doneness carefully: Baking times may vary depending on your oven. Keep an eye on the cake during the last few minutes of baking; you want it golden brown but still slightly soft in the center for that ideal gooeyness.
Cool before serving: Allowing the cake to cool for at least 10 minutes before cutting not only makes slicing easier but also helps set the filling slightly, enhancing its flavor.
Store properly: If you have leftovers (which may be unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors deepen overnight, making your next slice even more delightful!

How to Serve Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Serving your pumpkin gooey butter cake can be as creative as you want! Here are some ideas to enhance this already wonderful dessert experience.

Garnishes

Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, airy finish and complements the spices beautifully without overpowering them.
Toasted Pecans: Chopped toasted pecans sprinkle a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts perfectly with the cake’s softness.
Caramel Drizzle: A warm caramel drizzle over individual slices can elevate your presentation and add an extra layer of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin.

Side Dishes

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a creamy contrast to the warm, gooey cake, making every bite heavenly.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce balances the sweetness of the cake nicely. It’s a classic pairing that feels festive and fresh!
Spiced Apple Cider: Serve with warm spiced apple cider for a cozy drink that complements the autumn flavors of your dessert perfectly.
Chai Tea: A cup of chai tea with its spices will harmonize beautifully with your pumpkin gooey butter cake, creating an inviting autumnal treat for everyone.

Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dessert—it’s sure to become a fall favorite among family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake is not only delicious but also a fantastic candidate for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment, making your holiday gatherings even easier.

Storing Leftovers

Let the cake cool completely before storing.
Cover the cake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Allow the cake to cool completely, then slice it into portions if desired.
Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Place slices of the cake on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil to avoid drying out.
Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual slices for about 30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

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

Absolutely! While yellow cake mix gives a classic flavor, you can experiment with spice cake mix or even vanilla cake mix for a different twist. Just keep in mind that alterations may affect the final taste and texture.

What makes this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe so gooey?

The gooey texture comes from the cream cheese and pumpkin puree mixture which creates a rich filling that remains soft and slightly undercooked in the center when baked. This is what gives it that signature gooey taste!

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

The top should be golden brown, and the edges will pull away slightly from the sides of the pan while still having a gooey center. A toothpick inserted into the center will come out with some moist crumbs attached.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe?

Yes! If you want an extra crunch or sweetness, feel free to fold in some chopped pecans or chocolate chips into your pumpkin filling before pouring it over the cake layer.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake is truly special; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings comfort and joy to any gathering. I hope you enjoy making this delightful dessert as much as I do! It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones during those cozy fall evenings. Happy baking—can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!

Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews

Author: Autumn
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe. This delightful dessert combines a rich, creamy pumpkin filling with a buttery cake base, creating a gooey texture that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for family gatherings or a sweet treat on a busy weeknight, this recipe is easy to prepare and uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Enhance the experience with whipped coconut cream or toasted pecans for added flavor and texture. This cake embodies autumn in every bite, making it an ideal centerpiece for your seasonal celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare a springform or round cake pan by lining it with parchment paper and spritzing it with cooking spray.
In an electric mixer, combine the cake mix, one stick of melted butter, and one egg until well mixed.
Spread the mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan.
In another bowl, blend pumpkin puree, soft cream cheese, three eggs, remaining melted butter, dark brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg until smooth.
Pour the pumpkin filling over the cake base without mixing them together.
Bake for 40 to 50 minutes until golden brown on top while remaining gooey in the center.
Allow the cake to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.