Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is the ultimate fall dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. Perfect for Thanksgiving or cozy family dinners, this cake is not only simple to make but also delivers a rich, gooey texture that everyone will love. With the flavors of pumpkin and spices harmonizing in every bite, it stands out as a delightful treat that encapsulates the essence of the season.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Cake Layer
• For the Pumpkin Filling
• How to Make Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare Your Pan
• Step 3: Make the Cake Layer
• Step 4: Create the Pumpkin Filling
• Step 5: Assemble Your Cake
• Step 6: Bake the Cake
• Step 7: Cool Before Serving
• How to Serve Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
• With Whipped Cream
• Top with Pecans
• Serve Warm with Ice Cream
• Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
• Pair with Hot Beverages
• How to Perfect Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
• Reheating Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
• How do I know when my Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake is done?
• Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
• Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort with just a few ingredients, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a rich flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dessert: Whether for Thanksgiving or a casual get-together, this cake fits any occasion beautifully.
• Gooey Texture: The signature gooey center makes this cake unique and utterly satisfying.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its sweet aroma and decadent taste, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will ensure your baking experience goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Springform pan or round cake pan
• Parchment paper
• Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool helps achieve a smooth batter quickly, ensuring all ingredients blend evenly without lumps.
• Springform pan: Ideal for easy release of your gooey butter cake without damaging its delicate structure.

Ingredients

This pumpkin gooey butter cake recipe is perfect for fall and a wonderful dessert to make for Thanksgiving!

For the Cake Layer

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1 large egg
• 8 ounces unsalted butter (1/2 cup melted)

For the Pumpkin Filling

• 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
• 3 large eggs
• 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

How to Make Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures even baking for your delicious cake.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pan

Prepare a springform pan or round cake pan by lining it with parchment paper and applying cooking spray. This step prevents sticking.

Step 3: Make the Cake Layer

In the bowl of an electric mixer, combine:
1. The boxed cake mix
2. 1 stick (1/2 cup) melted butter
3. 1 egg

Mix well until fully combined. Pour this mixture into your prepared pan, pressing it down into an even layer at the bottom.

Step 4: Create the Pumpkin Filling

In another bowl, combine:
1. The pumpkin puree
2. Super soft cream cheese
3. 3 eggs
4. Dark brown sugar
5. The remaining stick (1/2 cup) melted butter
6. Vanilla extract
7. Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger

Beat on low speed until all ingredients are fully mixed, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl.

Step 5: Assemble Your Cake

Pour the pumpkin filling over the cake layer in your pan, spreading it evenly.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Place your assembled cake into the preheated oven and bake for about 40 to 50 minutes until the top is golden brown but still slightly gooey in the center.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

After baking, let your pumpkin gooey butter cake rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting into it. This allows it to set slightly while keeping that wonderfully gooey texture intact.

Enjoy this delicious dessert that’s sure to become a favorite!

How to Serve Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Serving your Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few simple touches. Here are some creative ways to present this dessert:

With Whipped Cream

• Freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy texture that balances the gooeyness of the cake.

Top with Pecans

• Chopped pecans sprinkle a nutty crunch on top, complementing the pumpkin flavors beautifully.

Serve Warm with Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over warm cake creates a comforting and indulgent treat.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• A rich caramel drizzle elevates the sweetness, creating a decadent dessert experience.

Pair with Hot Beverages

• Enjoy it alongside hot coffee or chai tea for a cozy fall dessert time.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

To ensure your Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips:

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps in achieving a smooth batter and better incorporation of flavors.
• Do not overmix: Beating too much can lead to a tough cake; mix just until combined.
• Check for doneness carefully: The center should remain slightly gooey; use a toothpick to check for doneness without overbaking.
• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing the cake to rest helps it set up and makes for cleaner slices.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm beverage that’s perfect for fall, adding a fruity contrast to the cake.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These provide a savory balance with their crispy edges and earthy flavors.
3. Butternut Squash Soup: A creamy soup that complements the pumpkin flavor while being seasonal and comforting.
4. Cranberry Sauce: A tart addition that cuts through the richness of the cake, offering refreshing brightness.
5. Maple Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots glazed in maple syrup create an inviting side that pairs well with pumpkin desserts.
6. Cheese Platter: Include various cheeses like brie or goat cheese to offer a savory option alongside your sweet dessert.
7. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad dressed in vinaigrette adds freshness, balancing the richness of the cake.
8. Chocolate Chip Cookies: For those who love chocolate, serving cookies on the side adds extra indulgence and variety!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect pumpkin gooey butter cake can be challenging. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smoother batter and a better texture in your cake.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined, especially after adding the pumpkin filling.
• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial for this recipe. Use kitchen scales or measuring cups for precision.
• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different. Check the cake around the 40-minute mark to ensure it doesn’t overbake. It should be golden brown on top but still gooey in the center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover pumpkin gooey butter cake in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the cake on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for about 20-30 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as it may dry out.
• Stovetop: Use a nonstick skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid and warm for about 5 minutes, checking often.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the pumpkin gooey butter cake recipe.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree, but make sure it’s well-drained and smooth to maintain the right consistency in your cake.

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

The top should be golden brown, and the center should be slightly gooey when you insert a toothpick; it should come out with some moist crumbs attached.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can fold in walnuts or chocolate chips into the pumpkin filling for added texture and flavor.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

You can substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free version available at most grocery stores, ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

This pumpkin gooey butter cake recipe is an irresistible dessert that captures the essence of fall. Its creamy, gooey texture paired with warm spices makes it perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or chocolate chips, making it uniquely yours!