Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is the perfect dessert for fall, combining the warm flavors of pumpkin with a rich, gooey texture. Ideal for Thanksgiving or any autumn gathering, this cake will impress your family and friends. With its easy preparation and unique flavor profile, it’s a treat that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree, warm spices, and cream cheese creates a mouthwatering taste that’s irresistible.
- Gooey Texture: The unique gooey layer on top makes this cake stand out, offering a delightful contrast to the base layer.
- Seasonal Delight: Celebrate fall with this seasonal dessert that captures the essence of autumn in every bite.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Share this cake at parties, potlucks, or holiday meals; it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into baking your Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything you need at hand can make the process quicker and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Electric mixer
- Springform pan or round cake pan
- Parchment paper
- Cooking spray
- Mixing bowls
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Ensures a smooth batter by thoroughly combining ingredients with minimal effort.
- Springform pan: Allows for easy removal of the cake while maintaining its structure.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, making it easier to lift the cake out of the pan without damage.


Ingredients
This pumpkin gooey butter cake recipe is perfect for fall and a wonderful dessert to make for Thanksgiving!
For the Cake Base
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 large egg
- 8 ounces unsalted butter (1 stick melted)
For the Pumpkin Filling
- 1 1/2 cup 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 that your cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Pan
Prepare a springform pan or a round cake pan by lining it with parchment paper and spraying it with cooking spray. This helps in easy release after baking.
Step 3: Make the Cake Base
In the bowl of an electric mixer:
1. Combine the boxed cake mix, 1 stick melted butter (½ cup), and 1 egg.
2. Mix well until fully combined.
3. Pour this mixture into your prepared pan and press down into an even layer at the bottom.
Step 4: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling
In a clean mixing bowl:
1. Combine pumpkin puree, super soft cream cheese, 3 eggs, dark brown sugar, remaining melted butter (½ stick), vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
2. Beat on low until all ingredients are well mixed. Remember to scrape the bowl’s sides and bottom to ensure everything is incorporated.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Carefully pour the pumpkin filling over the cake batter in your pan.
Bake in a preheated oven for about 40 to 50 minutes until the top turns golden brown. The center should remain slightly gooey—this is what makes it a gooey butter cake!
Step 6: Cool Before Serving
Allow the cake to rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting into it. This resting time helps set up the gooey center while still keeping it soft.
Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake!
How to Serve Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
This pumpkin gooey butter cake recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation.
With Whipped Cream
- Add a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for a light and airy contrast to the rich cake.
Pair with Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream complements the warm, gooey texture perfectly, creating a delightful dessert experience.
Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
- A drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce adds sweetness and enhances the fall flavors of this cake.
Garnish with Nuts
- Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and nuttiness, which pairs well with the creamy texture.
Serve Warm or Cold
- This cake can be enjoyed warm right out of the oven or chilled in the refrigerator, offering two delightful experiences.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
To achieve the best results when making this pumpkin gooey butter cake recipe, consider these helpful tips:
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Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure that your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and a smoother batter.
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Check your oven temperature: Ovens can vary in temperature; use an oven thermometer to make sure yours is accurate for perfect baking.
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Do not overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to keep the cake light and airy without losing its gooey texture.
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Let it cool before slicing: Allowing the cake to rest for at least 10 minutes makes slicing easier and helps maintain its structure.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
Pairing side dishes with this decadent dessert can elevate your meal. Here are some great suggestions:
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Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider brings out fall flavors and complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes offers a savory contrast that’s perfect alongside dessert.
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Green Salad: A fresh green salad with apple slices and nuts adds a light touch that balances out the richness of the cake.
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Caramelized Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts caramelized with balsamic vinegar adds complexity to your meal.
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Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of creamy pumpkin soup serves as a comforting start before indulging in dessert.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like Brie or Gouda paired with figs can create a delightful balance between savory and sweet.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake, avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.
- Not using softened cream cheese – Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature. This helps it mix smoothly with other ingredients, preventing lumps in your batter.
- Skipping the cooling time – Allow the cake to rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting. This step ensures cleaner slices and allows the gooey center to set slightly.
- Overmixing the batter – Mix each component just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture instead of the desired gooeyness.
- Neglecting to check oven temperature – Ovens can vary in temperature accuracy. Use an oven thermometer to ensure yours is at 350 degrees for even baking.
- Using ungreased pans – Always prepare your pan with parchment paper and cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes for easier removal once baked.


Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Ensure it’s completely cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds or until warmed through.
- Stovetop – Place a slice in a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries related to the Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe.
How can I customize my Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe?
You can add nuts or chocolate chips for added texture or use spices like allspice or cloves for additional flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, substitute eggs with flax eggs or apple sauce and use dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives.
What should I serve with my Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake?
This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, enhancing its rich flavors.
How do I know when my cake is done?
The top should be golden brown, and the center should remain slightly gooey when tested with a toothpick.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is not only an ideal fall dessert but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its rich flavors and delightful gooiness will impress anyone who tries it. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients!
Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake
Indulge in the ultimate fall dessert with this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe. This delightful cake features a rich, gooey layer infused with pumpkin puree and warm spices, making it a perfect treat for Thanksgiving or any autumn gathering. With its creamy texture and sweet, spiced flavor, this cake is sure to impress family and friends alike. Easy to prepare and utterly delicious, it’s a seasonal dessert that captures the essence of fall in every bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 large egg
- 8 ounces unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
- 3 large eggs
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare a springform pan by lining it with parchment paper and greasing it with cooking spray.
- In an electric mixer, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and one egg until well mixed. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In another bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, softened cream cheese, three eggs, dark brown sugar, remaining melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until smooth.
- Pour the pumpkin filling over the cake base evenly.
- Bake for 40 to 50 minutes until golden brown on top; the center should remain slightly gooey.
- Allow the cake to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
