Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

If you crave something sweet, cozy, and irresistibly rich, then you absolutely have to try this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe. This dessert combines the comforting spices of fall with the luscious texture of a butter cake that is creamy and gooey in all the right places. Every bite offers a perfect blend of pumpkin, warm spices, and a buttery base that melts in your mouth, making it a treasured treat to share at family gatherings or as a special indulgence on any day. Trust me, once you make this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe, it’s going to become your go-to seasonal favorite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe plays a vital role in creating its signature taste and texture. From the boxed yellow cake mix providing a sturdy yet soft foundation to the pumpkin puree and warm spices adding that classic autumn flavor, each component is simple but essential.

• Yellow cake mix: The base of the cake that contributes structure and light sweetness.
• Large eggs (4 total): Eggs bind everything together, adding moisture and richness.
• Unsalted butter (8 ounces, melted in two portions): Adds a luxurious buttery flavor and helps achieve that gooey texture.
• Pumpkin puree (1 1/2 cups): Brings natural moisture, pumpkin flavor, and that gorgeous orange hue.
• Cream cheese (8 ounces, super soft): Creates the signature creamy, gooey filling that makes this cake unforgettable.
• Vanilla extract (1 tbsp): Enhances the sweetness and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
• Dark brown sugar (1 cup): Adds deeper caramel notes and sweetness to the filling.
• Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): The quintessential fall spice that warms every bite.
• Ground nutmeg (1 tsp): Adds a subtle nutty, spicy complexity.
• Ground ginger (1/4 tsp): Offers a gentle kick of spice to balance the sweetness.

How to Make Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it’s perfectly heated for even baking. Then prepare your pan—a 9″ or 10″ round cake pan or springform pan lined with parchment paper and sprayed for easy release. This step is key for a neat cake and effortless cleanup.

Step 2: Create the Cake Base

In a mixing bowl fitted with an electric mixer, combine the yellow cake mix, 1 stick (half a cup) of melted butter, and one egg. Mix until everything is thoroughly combined. This forms a thin but sturdy layer that will support the gooey filling without crumbling or turning soggy.

Step 3: Press the Cake Batter into the Pan

Pour this cake batter into the prepared pan and press it down evenly along the bottom. You’re aiming for a thin, even base that acts as a perfect foundation for the luscious pumpkin filling on top.

Step 4: Mix the Pumpkin Gooey Filling

In a clean mixing bowl, add the pumpkin puree, softened cream cheese, the remaining 3 eggs, dark brown sugar, 1 stick of melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Beat everything on low speed until completely blended, making sure to scrape down the sides and bottom so no pockets of cream cheese remain. This filling is the heart of the cake, bringing creamy texture and warming spice notes.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the pumpkin mixture over the pressed cake base in your pan. Spread it evenly to cover the surface. Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes. The top should turn a beautiful golden brown, while the center remains that signature gooey, soft texture that makes this cake truly special—do not overbake!

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, allow your cake to rest for at least 10 minutes. This cooling time is crucial as it helps the gooey center set slightly without losing its decadently moist quality. Then slice it up and prepare to delight in every buttery, spiced bite.

How to Serve Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe, consider dusting it lightly with powdered sugar or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a pretty finish. A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a creamy contrast, while toasted pecans or chopped walnuts bring a wonderful crunch that complements the cake’s softness.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce to amplify its decadence. For a lighter balance, serve with a fresh fruit salad featuring tart apples or cranberries that brighten the palate between rich bites.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress your guests? Serve individual squares on pretty dessert plates garnished with edible flowers or alongside a small cup of hot spiced cider. You can even layer this cake into a trifle dish with whipped cream and cinnamon to create a stunning fall dessert centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe keeps well stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, refrigeration is recommended which extends its life up to five days while maintaining its creamy texture.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen portions can be kept up to three months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

To enjoy a slice after refrigeration or freezing, reheat gently in the microwave for about 20 to 30 seconds or until just warm. Avoid overheating to preserve that gooey consistency that makes this dessert so divine.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin, but you’ll need to cook and puree it yourself first, then drain any excess water to match the consistency of canned pumpkin for the best results in texture.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

While traditional recipes call for butter and cream cheese, you can experiment with dairy-free butter substitutes and vegan cream cheese to make a dairy-free version, though the texture will be slightly different.

What if I don’t have a springform pan?

A regular 9″ or 10″ round cake pan lined with parchment paper works perfectly. Just be sure to use enough non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Absolutely! Just double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan or use two pans, adjusting bake time as needed. Keep an eye on the cake, as baking times can vary slightly.

What does the term “gooey butter cake” mean?

“Gooey butter cake” refers to a style of cake that has a dense, soft, and moist top layer that is slightly underbaked to keep a sticky, gooey texture, paired with a firm crust—this is what makes this pumpkin version so wonderfully decadent.

Final Thoughts

Making the Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a warm, sweet hug from fall itself. The ease of ingredients paired with the extraordinary flavors and textures makes it a standout dessert to bake year after year. I hope you find as much joy in creating and sharing this cake as I do—it truly has a way of making any occasion feel special and cozy. So go ahead, grab your mixing bowl, and treat yourself to a slice of pumpkin heaven!

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