This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is the ultimate fall dessert! Rich, moist, and filled with the warm flavors of pumpkin spice, this cake is perfectly complemented by a luscious cream cheese frosting sweetened with brown sugar for an extra depth of flavor. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering or just because you love pumpkin, this gooey cake will surely impress everyone who takes a bite. Let’s get baking!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs, divided
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
For the Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
Make the Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake
- Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Base Layer
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, 1 egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even layer.
- Prepare the Filling
- In another mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, pumpkin puree, 2 eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Pour the filling over the base layer in the baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly gooey. Let the cake cool completely in the baking dish before frosting.
Make the Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat Cream Cheese and Butter
- In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add Vanilla and Sugar
- Add the vanilla extract and gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the frosting is fluffy and smooth.
- Frost the Cake
- Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the brown sugar cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Slice and serve.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese, butter, and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- Don’t Overbake: The key to keeping this cake gooey is not overbaking it. The center should still have a slight jiggle when you remove it from the oven.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Recipe Variations
- Pecan Topping: Sprinkle chopped pecans over the frosting for a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the frosted cake for an extra indulgent touch.
- Spiced Frosting: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon to the frosting for even more warm fall flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned? A: Yes! Just be sure to use a thick, well-drained pumpkin puree to avoid adding extra moisture to the cake.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it when ready to serve. Store the unfrosted cake in the refrigerator overnight.
Q: Can I freeze this cake? A: Yes, you can freeze the cake without the frosting. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and frost before serving.
This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect fall dessert—rich, moist, and filled with warm, comforting flavors. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just because you love pumpkin spice. Make this cake and share a slice of gooey, spiced goodness with friends and family. Enjoy!
