Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, spice cake mix, evaporated milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and smooth.
Step 2: Prepare the Gooey Layer
- Beat the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
- Layer the Batter: Pour half of the pumpkin cake batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Add Gooey Layer: Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the pumpkin layer, spreading it gently but evenly.
- Top with Remaining Batter: Pour the remaining pumpkin batter on top of the cream cheese layer, ensuring it covers it completely.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
- Bake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat Ingredients Together: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until combined.
- Add Vanilla and Milk: Stir in the vanilla extract, adding milk as needed to reach your desired frosting consistency.
Step 6: Frost the Cake
- Spread the Frosting: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Garnish: For an extra touch, sprinkle ground cinnamon on top for added flavor and presentation.
Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for a smoother frosting.
- Don’t Overmix: When mixing the cake batter, avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender and fluffy.
- Store Properly: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Variations to Try
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the cake batter for a delightful crunch.
- Spice It Up: Enhance the spices by adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the batter.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the cream cheese frosting before serving.
Conclusion
The Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a must-try dessert that encapsulates the flavors of fall in every bite. With its moist, gooey center and rich frosting, this cake is perfect for gatherings, holidays, or a cozy night in. So, gather your ingredients and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful autumn indulgence!
Enjoy baking and savoring your delicious Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake!
