Introduction

When the leaves start to change color and the crisp chill of autumn arrives, nothing warms the heart quite like the flavors of pumpkin spice. From lattes to pies, pumpkin has become the ultimate symbol of fall baking. But if you want something different from traditional pumpkin pie or pumpkin bread, this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake is the perfect choice.

This dessert is soft, creamy, spiced, and gooey in the best way possible. With a buttery cake base, a luscious pumpkin cream cheese topping, and a dusting of powdered sugar, it’s a treat that blends the comforting flavors of pumpkin pie with the indulgence of gooey butter cake.

It’s also a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner, attending a potluck, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this cake is guaranteed to impress.

 Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 45–50 minutes

• Total Time: ~1 hour

• Servings: 12–16 squares

 Ingredients

For the Cake Base:

• 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz / 432 g)

• 1 large egg

• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Pumpkin Gooey Filling:

• 1 (8 oz / 225 g) package cream cheese, softened

• 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)

• 3 large eggs

• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• ½ tsp ground nutmeg

• ½ tsp ground ginger

• ½ tsp ground cloves (or use 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice instead)

• 16 oz (450 g) powdered sugar

Garnish (Optional):

• Whipped cream

• Extra powdered sugar

• Caramel drizzle

• Toasted pecans

 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Base

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.

3. In a medium bowl, combine cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg.

4. Mix until a thick dough forms.

5. Press evenly into the bottom of the baking pan.

Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.

2. Add pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.

3. Mix until well combined and creamy.

4. Add spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves or pumpkin pie spice).

5. Gradually beat in powdered sugar until smooth and slightly fluffy.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour pumpkin mixture over the prepared cake base.

2. Spread evenly with a spatula.

3. Bake for 45–50 minutes.

   • The center should still be a little “gooey” but set around the edges.

4. Remove from oven and let cool completely.

Step 4: Serve

• Dust with powdered sugar, slice into squares, and serve with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel.

 Tips for Success

1. Don’t overbake – The gooey texture is the star! The center should jiggle slightly when you remove it.

2. Use pumpkin puree – Not pumpkin pie filling, which already has added sugar and spices.

3. Room temperature ingredients – Softened cream cheese blends much smoother.

4. Cool completely before cutting – Otherwise, it may fall apart.

5. Make ahead – This cake tastes even better the next day after chilling.

 Variations

• Nutty Pumpkin Gooey Cake: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts.

• Chocolate Pumpkin Version: Add ½ cup chocolate chips to the filling.

• Spiced Latte Version: Add 1 tsp espresso powder for a coffee kick.

• Mini Pumpkin Gooey Bites: Bake in a muffin tin for individual servings.

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix.

Serving Suggestions

• Top with fresh whipped cream and cinnamon.

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

• Pair with a pumpkin spice latte or hot apple cider.

• Drizzle with maple syrup or caramel for extra indulgence.

Storage & Freezing

• Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 5 days.

• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge before serving.

• Best served chilled or at room temperature for maximum flavor.

Nutrition (per serving, approx. 1 square of 12)

• Calories: 395

• Protein: 4 g

• Carbohydrates: 54 g

• Fat: 18 g

• Sugar: 40 g

• Fiber: 2 g

Why This Recipe Works

 Combines pumpkin pie + gooey butter cake into one dessert.
 Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients.
 Feeds a crowd – perfect for holidays or potlucks.
Rich, creamy, and full of pumpkin spice flavor.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake is the ultimate fall dessert—warm, spiced, creamy, and indulgent. It’s a cross between pumpkin pie and cheesecake but even easier to make. With its gooey center and buttery cake base, it’s bound to become a seasonal tradition in your home.

Whether you serve it at Thanksgiving, bring it to a fall gathering, or bake it just for yourself, this cake is sure to win hearts (and taste buds).