For the Gooey Layer:
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups hot water
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or caramel sauce for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Beat with a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and well combined (about 2–3 minutes).
3. Add the Gooey Layer
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and cocoa powder.
- Gradually stir in the hot water until the mixture is smooth and resembles chocolate syrup.
- Pour the gooey mixture evenly over the cake batter in the prepared pan. Do not stir—it will settle into the batter as it bakes.
4. Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a little gooeyness is okay!).
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Slice the cake into squares and serve warm for the ultimate gooey experience.
- Optional: Top with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Enjoy every bite of this rich, spiced, and decadent Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake!
- Perfect as a standalone dessert or paired with your favorite fall beverages like hot cocoa or spiced cider.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to keep the cake light and tender.
- Serve Warm: The gooey layer is at its best when served warm, so enjoy it fresh out of the oven!
- Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
This Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake combines the moist, spiced goodness of pumpkin with the rich, molten texture of a gooey chocolate layer into a dessert that’s both satisfying and indulgent. The straightforward preparation ensures consistent results without requiring advanced baking skills, while the customizable options allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste. Whether served as a standalone dessert or customized with your favorite toppings, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity.
Conclusion: A Dessert Everyone Will Love
Whether you’re craving something sweet and seasonal, looking for a way to simplify dessert prep, or simply want to indulge in a homemade treat, this Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake is sure to delight. Its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and practical preparation make it a standout recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Plus, its adaptability means you can tailor it to suit any occasion.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this cake might just inspire others to try it too! 🍴✨
