Description
This Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake is a decadent fall dessert combining a buttery cake crust with a rich, creamy pumpkin filling spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Baked to achieve a delectably gooey center, this cake is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy weekend treats.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Pumpkin Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, egg, and melted butter. Mix well until a uniform dough forms. Press this dough evenly to cover the bottom of the prepared baking dish, forming a solid crust base.
- Prepare the Pumpkin Filling: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and pumpkin puree until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter, mixing well to combine. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, followed by the spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, optional cloves, and a pinch of salt. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until smooth and fully combined.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the pumpkin filling evenly over the prepared crust in the baking dish. Spread the filling evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes. The cake should be set around the edges but still slightly gooey in the center when done.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely before slicing. Serve as is or topped with whipped cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar for added sweetness and presentation.
Notes
- Do not overbake to maintain the gooey center texture.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened for smooth mixing.
- The optional ground cloves add depth to the spice but can be omitted for a milder flavor.
- This cake is best served at room temperature or slightly chilled.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
