Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake Recipe: A Deliciously Irresistible Dessert

If you’re searching for the ultimate fall dessert that combines the warmth of pumpkin spice with the rich, buttery goodness of cake, look no further than the Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake. This delectable treat is perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or anytime you want to impress your friends and family with a unique, delicious dessert. With a soft, gooey filling and a buttery crust, this cake will become a staple in your fall recipe collection.

What Makes This Cake Special?

The Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake is a delightful twist on the traditional St. Louis butter cake. It features a dense, buttery base topped with a creamy, spiced pumpkin filling. What sets this cake apart is its unique texture — the bottom layer is chewy and dense, while the pumpkin topping remains soft, gooey, and bursting with flavor. The combination of sweet and spice makes it perfect for cozy fall days or special holiday celebrations.

Ingredients Breakdown

To make this Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

1 box yellow cake mix: The foundation of our cake, providing a buttery and moist base.
4 large eggs: 1 egg for the base layer and 3 eggs for the pumpkin filling to bind the ingredients together.
8 ounces unsalted butter (2 sticks): Melted, with half used for the base and the other half for the filling to add richness.
1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree: Gives the filling a distinct pumpkin flavor and creamy texture.
8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Ensures a smooth and creamy filling.
1 tbsp vanilla extract: Adds a hint of warmth and enhances the overall flavor.
1 cup dark brown sugar: Provides sweetness and a slight molasses flavor that complements the pumpkin.
1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1 tsp ground nutmeg, and 1/4 tsp ground ginger: The spice trio that brings the classic fall flavor to life.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Base Layer

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9-inch springform or round cake pan with parchment paper and a light coat of cooking spray.
Mix the Base Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, 1 egg, and 1 stick of melted butter. Mix until the ingredients form a soft dough.
Create the Crust: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, ensuring a smooth layer that covers the entire base.

2. Making the Pumpkin Filling

Blend the Filling Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, softened cream cheese, remaining 3 eggs, dark brown sugar, vanilla extract, melted butter, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger). Beat on low speed until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and smooth. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate everything evenly.
Pour the Filling: Carefully pour the pumpkin filling over the base layer in the pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

3. Baking the Cake

Bake the Cake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center still has a slight jiggle. The filling should be set but gooey.
Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting into it. This will allow the filling to firm up slightly while still maintaining its gooey texture.

Essential Tips for Best Results

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese is very soft before mixing. This will help achieve a smooth, lump-free filling.
Don’t Overmix: When preparing the filling, mix on low speed just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air and affect the cake’s texture.
Check for Doneness: The cake is ready when the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. Overbaking will result in a less gooey texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using Cold Cream Cheese: Cold cream cheese can result in a lumpy filling. Always ensure it is softened to room temperature.
Skipping Parchment Paper: Without parchment paper, the cake may stick to the pan, making it difficult to remove without breaking.
Overbaking: This cake is meant to be gooey, so avoid baking until completely firm.

Serving and Presentation Tips

For a stunning presentation, serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Add a few toasted pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra flair. This cake also pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced tea, making it a comforting treat on a chilly day.

Variations and Substitutions

Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute dairy-free butter and cream cheese to accommodate a dairy-free diet.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for an extra kick of fall flavor.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Electric mixer
9-inch springform or round cake pan
Parchment paper
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Rubber spatula

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Pairing Suggestions

This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake pairs well with creamy vanilla ice cream or a scoop of pumpkin gelato. For a cozy touch, serve it alongside a cup of spiced chai or cinnamon apple cider.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Be sure to cook and puree the pumpkin until smooth, and drain any excess liquid to maintain the desired consistency.

2. What can I use instead of dark brown sugar?
You can substitute light brown sugar if dark brown sugar is unavailable, but the flavor may be slightly less rich.

3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake can be made a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

The Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake is a delightful and comforting dessert that captures the essence of fall with every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family and subscribe to our blog for more delicious ideas!