Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the leaves turn golden and the air fills with the scent of cinnamon, I can’t help but crave the warmth of a delightful dessert. Enter my Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting—a true homage to fall! This recipe combines irresistibly gooey pumpkin layers with luscious brown sugar cream cheese frosting, making it the perfect centerpiece for autumn gatherings or a cozy night in. Not only is this cake a showstopper that will impress your guests, but it’s also easy enough to whip up on a whim—no fancy skills required! Plus, it can easily be tailored for gluten-free or vegan diets, ensuring everyone can enjoy a slice. So, who’s ready to indulge in this slice of fall magic? Why is this cake a must-have? Ultimate Fall Flavor: The warm spices of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg create a cozy sensation that will instantly transport you to autumn bliss. Irresistibly Gooey: This cake features a unique gooey center that makes each slice a delightfully messy indulgence. Effortless Preparation: With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, this recipe is perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers. Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe for gluten-free or vegan diets, so everyone can savor the goodness! Showstopping Presentation: Topped with a rich brown sugar cream cheese frosting, this cake is sure to be the star of any gathering. Pair it with a scoop of ice cream for an unforgettable treat! Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Ingredients • Get ready to create this cozy fall dessert! For the Cake Base Yellow Cake Mix – Provides the cake base structure; you can use a gluten-free mix for a gluten-free version. Large Egg (1) – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture; for a vegan option, try 1 flax egg. Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, melted) – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with dairy-free butter for a vegan treat. Pumpkin Puree (1 cup for filling) – Infuses the cake with moisture and pumpkin flavor; ensure it’s well-drained if homemade. Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the overall flavor profile. For the Gooey Filling Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened) – Creates a luscious filling texture; vegan cream cheese works for plant-based diets. Brown Sugar (1/4 cup, packed) – Adds a rich, caramel-like flavor to the filling. Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp) – Provides warm spice flavor; feel free to add extra for that cozy taste. Ground Nutmeg (1/2 tsp) – Complements and elevates pumpkin flavors. Ground Cloves (1/4 tsp) – Adds depth to the cake’s spice profile. Powdered Sugar (2 cups) – Sweetens the filling and helps thicken it; adjust for your preferred sweetness. For the Frosting Unsalted Butter (1/4 cup, softened) – Adds richness to the frosting; substitute with a vegan option if needed. Powdered Sugar (4 cups) – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; feel free to adjust for less sweetness. Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the frosting’s flavor, making it irresistible. With these ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from whipping up a delightful Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting that everyone will love! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Step 1: Prepare Cake Base Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, one large egg, 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter, 1 cup of pumpkin puree, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended, then press the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Step 2: Make Pumpkin Spice Gooey Filling In a separate bowl, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese until fluffy and creamy. Add in 1/4 cup of packed brown sugar, 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup of melted butter, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves. Mix until completely smooth, gradually adding 2 cups of powdered sugar until the filling is lump-free and silky. Step 3: Bake the Cake Carefully pour the gooey filling over the cake base, spreading it evenly. Place the assembled cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The edges should be set while the center remains slightly gooey and jiggly. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan before frosting. Step 4: Prepare Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting In a mixing bowl, beat together 1/4 cup of softened unsalted butter and 8 ounces of cream cheese until light and fluffy. Add 1/4 cup of packed brown sugar and mix until combined. Gradually add 4 cups of powdered sugar and beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Finally, mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. Step 5: Frost the Cake Once the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake has cooled completely, take your creamy brown sugar frosting and spread it generously over the top of the cake. Use a spatula to smooth it out evenly, ensuring every slice will have a delicious layer of frosting. This will add a beautiful finish to your warm, spiced dessert, making it even more enticing. Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Perfect Baking Time: Bake your cake until the edges are set but the center remains slightly gooey. This contrast will create an irresistible texture in your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Avoid Overmixing: When preparing the cake base, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a drier cake, losing that precious gooeyness we crave! Cream Cheese Softening: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This will help you achieve a smooth, creamy frosting without lumps, perfect for topping your cake. Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to experiment by adding extra spices like ginger or cardamom for a unique twist. This could elevate the overall flavor profile of your gooey cake! Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting. This ensures your creamy frosting doesn’t melt into a puddle, keeping your Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake looking beautiful! Variations & Substitutions for Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Get ready to play in the kitchen and make this delightful dessert your own! Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix for a cake that everyone can enjoy without sacrificing flavor or gooeyness. Vegan Delight: Substitute the egg with a flax egg and use vegan butter and cream cheese for a completely plant-based treat that’s just as delicious! The creamy frosting remains irresistible. Spice it Up: Add a teaspoon of ginger or a pinch of cardamom to the filling for an extra warm spice kick that enhances the pumpkin flavor. It’s a simple twist that will wow your friends! Nut-Tastic: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for added crunch and depth. You’ll love the delightful contrast between the gooeyness and the nutty texture. Caramel Drizzle: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle caramel sauce on top of the frosting before serving. This adds a gorgeous layer of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spices. Chocolate Version: Replace part of the pumpkin puree with chocolate pudding mix or chocolate chips for an unexpected chocolate twist that balances the pumpkin spice perfectly. Storage-Friendly Mini Cakes: Instead of one large cake, pour batter into muffin tins for individual portion sizes that are great for sharing or freezing. Each mini cake will make a delightful personal treat! Frosting Variations: Swap the brown sugar for maple syrup in the frosting for a more unique, earthy flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully. This is a simple change that offers an entirely new taste! Feel free to explore different combinations, and if you’re looking for more inspiration, check out my delicious recipes like Honey Peach Cream Cheese or Biscoff Cheesecake Indulge. Enjoy making this seasonal favorite your own! Make Ahead Options These Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cake base and the gooey filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the first two steps of the recipe, then cover and refrigerate the cake base and filling separately. When you’re ready to bake, pour the filling over the cake base and bake as directed. To maintain its gooey texture, avoid overbaking—leave the center slightly jiggly. Once the cake is fully cooled, frost it with the cream cheese frosting right before serving for that fresh, creamy touch. This will ensure your dessert is just as delicious and satisfying as if made the same day! How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake Fridge: Store the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps retain its delicious gooey texture while keeping it fresh. Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. This preserves its flavor and ensures it stays gooey upon defrosting. Reheating: For a delightful warm slice, reheat individual pieces in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat! Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer the frozen Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake to the fridge to thaw overnight before serving. This maintains its texture and flavors beautifully! What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting As autumn fills the air with its crisp charm, consider branching out with some delightful pairings to elevate your dessert experience. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness of mashed potatoes complements the gooey texture of the cake perfectly, balancing sweetness with savory bliss. Celebrate warmth with a cozy side that makes your meal feel complete! Warm Apple Cider: Its spiced, fruity notes enhance the cake’s flavors and evoke the essence of fall, creating a heartwarming beverage for any gathering. This drink wraps you in comfort while keeping your taste buds tantalized! Pecan Pie Bar Bites: Offering a nutty crunch, these sweet bites provide a delightful contrast to the moist gooey cake, ensuring a tempting mix of textures. A perfect addition that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that wonderfully complements the dense and gooey layers of your cake. This classic element is a surefire way to enhance your dessert! Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is perfect for embracing the warm spices while adding an extra layer of indulgence to the cake. Its chilliness mingles delightfully with the warm cake—luxury in every bite! Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in a chai latte echo the flavors of the gooey cake, making it a beautiful beverage pairing for a cozy afternoon. Sip, savor, and enjoy an experience as comforting as your fall favorite! Pumpkin Spice Latte: Keep the pumpkin theme going with this iconic drink that echoes the flavors in your dessert for a fully immersive autumn experience. A match made in seasonal heaven that truly embraces the spirit of fall! Caramel Drizzle: A sweet caramel drizzle over each slice enhances the richness of the cream cheese frosting and adds a touch of decadence. Drizzle on a simple yet stunning presentation that elevates this delicious dessert! Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs What type of pumpkin puree should I use? You can use either canned pumpkin puree or homemade puree. If you’re using fresh pumpkin, be sure to drain excess moisture to avoid a soggy cake. Canned puree is a convenient option and consistently yields great results! How should I store leftover Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake? Store your leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps the cake fresh and maintains its gooey texture, ensuring every slice remains delicious! Can I freeze Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. What if my filling is too runny? If your gooey filling appears too runny, this could be due to overmixing or not allowing it to set during baking. Make sure you follow the baking time, ensuring the edges are set but the center is still slightly gooey. If you encounter runniness, you can try adding a bit more powdered sugar to thicken the filling. Can I make adjustments for dietary restrictions? Yes! This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake can easily be modified. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free cake mix. For vegan options, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use vegan cream cheese and butter. These changes ensure everyone can enjoy a slice! How long does it take to thaw a frozen cake? To thaw your frozen Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake, it’s best to transfer it to the refrigerator and let it sit overnight. This gentle thawing process preserves the cake’s flavors and gooey texture beautifully, making for a delightful treat when ready to serve! Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Delight Indulge in Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, a delightful fall dessert combining gooey pumpkin layers and brown sugar frosting. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 45 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertsCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake Base1 box Yellow Cake Mix Use a gluten-free mix for a gluten-free version.1 large Egg For vegan option, try 1 flax egg.1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Melted; substitute with dairy-free butter for vegan.1 cup Pumpkin Puree Ensure it's well-drained if homemade.1 tsp Vanilla ExtractFor the Gooey Filling8 oz Cream Cheese Softened; vegan cream cheese works for plant-based.1/4 cup Brown Sugar Packed.1 tsp Ground Cinnamon Feel free to add extra for warmth.1/2 tsp Ground Nutmeg1/4 tsp Ground Cloves2 cups Powdered Sugar Adjust for preferred sweetness.For the Frosting1/4 cup Unsalted Butter Softened; substitute with vegan option if needed.4 cups Powdered Sugar Feel free to adjust for less sweetness.1 tsp Vanilla Extract Equipment 9x13-inch baking dishMixing bowlsSpatula Method Cake PreparationPreheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, egg, melted butter, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.Press the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.Filling PreparationIn a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until fluffy.Add brown sugar, pumpkin puree, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Mix until smooth.Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until lump-free.BakingPour the gooey filling over the cake base and spread evenly.Bake for 40-45 minutes until edges are set and the center is slightly gooey.Cool completely in the pan before frosting.Frosting PreparationBeat together the softened butter and cream cheese until light and fluffy.Add brown sugar, mix until combined.Gradually beat in powdered sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract.Frosting the CakeOnce cooled, spread the creamy buttercream over the top of the cake.Smooth out evenly with a spatula for an enticing finish. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 52gProtein: 3gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 125mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesStore in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze wrapped for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
