Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

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If you love cozy flavors and indulgent textures, you are going to fall head over heels for this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. This sensational dessert brings together the warm embrace of pumpkin and classic fall spices with a luscious, gooey filling nestled atop a moist cake base. Topped with a dreamy brown sugar cream cheese frosting, each bite feels like a comforting hug that combines decadent sweetness with spice-perfect notes. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a gathering, or simply craving something irresistibly autumnal, this cake is your ticket to absolute bliss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together effortlessly, each playing a vital role in creating the unforgettable taste, texture, and color of this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. From creamy pumpkin puree to aromatic spices and silky cream cheese, every element enhances the final masterpiece.

• Yellow cake mix: The simple foundation that gives the cake a light, tender crumb.
• Large egg: Binds the batter and adds a bit of richness.
• Unsalted butter, melted: Brings moisture and a buttery depth to the cake and filling.
• Pumpkin puree: Adds moisture, color, and a fresh pumpkin flavor that’s the heart of the dish.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors and gives a warm, sweet undertone.
• Cream cheese, softened: The star ingredient for the gooey filling and the rich frosting, providing tang and creaminess.
• Eggs (for filling): Help create the smooth, custardy pumpkin spice filling.
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves: Classic fall spices that infuse the filling with aromatic warmth.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens without graininess, perfect for the filling and frosting.
• Brown sugar, packed: Adds a deep caramel flavor to the cream cheese frosting.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure easy removal. In a large mixing bowl, stir together the yellow cake mix, one large egg, melted butter, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and combined. Press this mixture evenly into your baking dish — using your hands or a spatula works well to create an even layer. Be careful not to overmix here; keeping it gentle preserves the cake’s moist texture.

Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Filling

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s beautifully smooth and fluffy. Incorporate the eggs, vanilla extract, pumpkin puree, melted butter, and the warm trio of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Mix everything well until creamy and harmonious. Slowly add powdered sugar, mixing continuously to keep the filling lump-free and perfectly smooth. Pour this luscious filling over the cake base and spread it evenly to cover every inch.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pop the cake into your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The edges should be firmly set, while the center remains delightfully gooey – that’s where the magic lies. Once the baking is done, remove the pan and let the cake cool completely right in the dish before frosting. This step helps the flavors marry and the texture solidify just right.

Step 4: Make the Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

While your cake cools, whip up the frosting by beating together softened cream cheese, butter, and packed brown sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy. A splash of vanilla extract rounds out the flavor perfectly, creating a frosting that’s irresistible on every level.

Step 5: Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cooled, generously spread the brown sugar cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Make sure to cover the surface thoroughly to ensure every bite is rich and creamy. Now you have a stunning Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting that’s ready to wow everyone lucky enough to try it.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

Enhance this cake’s cozy appeal by sprinkling a dusting of cinnamon or a light drizzle of caramel sauce on top. Toasted pecans or chopped walnuts add crunch and complement the pumpkin spice beautifully. Fresh whipped cream or a few roasted pumpkin seeds also make lovely on-the-side additions.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with warm beverages like spiced chai tea, a classic latte, or even a chilled glass of milk. If serving as part of a dessert spread, consider fresh fruit or a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the sweetness and add refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, cut the cake into smaller squares and serve on colorful plates with mini pumpkins or cinnamon sticks as table décor. You might also layer the cake with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice in individual trifle glasses for an elegant presentation that highlights every gooey layer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve freshness and prevent the frosting from drying out. The cake will stay moist and flavorful for up to 5 days — perfect for enjoying a slice anytime.

Freezing

You can freeze the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting for longer storage. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. For best results, freeze before frosting or freeze the cake base separately, then frost after thawing.

Reheating

To reheat, allow the cake to come to room temperature first. Warm individual slices gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds to bring back that gooey softness without melting the frosting completely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature according to your preference.

FAQs

Can I make this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free alternative, and make sure your other ingredients don’t contain gluten. The rest of the recipe remains the same, delivering all the warmth and gooey goodness you crave.

Is it possible to make this cake vegan?

Yes, by substituting dairy-free cream cheese, vegan butter, and using a vegan cake mix, you can enjoy this decadent treat without animal products. You may also replace eggs with flax eggs or another egg substitute.

How do I know when the cake is perfectly baked?

The edges should appear set and slightly golden, while the center should still jiggle slightly when you gently shake the pan. This gooey center is what makes the cake so special. Don’t overbake or it will lose that signature texture.

Can I add more spices to the filling?

Definitely! If you love extra warmth, increase the cinnamon or nutmeg slightly. A pinch of ginger or allspice can also bring exciting new layers of flavor to the pumpkin spice gooey filling.

What’s the best way to get a smooth cream cheese frosting?

Make sure the cream cheese and butter are softened before mixing, and add powdered sugar gradually while beating at medium speed. This helps incorporate air and prevents lumps, yielding a fluffy, silky frosting perfect for spreading.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is truly a celebration of everything we love about fall flavors and indulgent textures in one delightful dessert. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying something new, this recipe is straightforward, rewarding, and absolutely delicious. I encourage you to give it a try and surprise your friends and family with a slice of warm, gooey pumpkin spice heaven that’s sure to become a cherished favorite.

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