Pumpkin Poke Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pumpkin poke cake is rich, soft, and packed with warm spices. The “poke” method allows caramel sauce to soak into the cake, creating pockets of sweet, gooey flavor in every bite. Finished with smooth cream cheese frosting, it strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy. Best of all, it uses a cake mix for convenience but tastes completely homemade.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 15 ounces spice cake mix (standard size, do not follow box instructions)
• 15 ounces canned pumpkin puree
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 11 to 12 ounces caramel sauce (about 1 1/3 cups, homemade or store-bought)
• Cream cheese frosting (homemade or 1 store-bought tub, standard size)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the spice cake mix, pumpkin puree, eggs, vegetable oil, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
4. Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
6. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly across the surface of the cake.
7. Pour the caramel sauce evenly over the warm cake, letting it soak into the holes.
8. Allow the cake to cool completely.
9. Spread cream cheese frosting over the top of the cooled cake.
10. Slice and serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12–15 servings. Preparation time is 15 minutes, baking takes about 30 minutes, and cooling and finishing add another 1 hour. Total time is approximately 1 hour 45 minutes.

Variations

• Add chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the frosting for extra crunch.
• Drizzle additional caramel sauce on top for a decorative finish.
• Use a yellow or white cake mix with added spices if you don’t have spice cake mix.
• Swap the cream cheese frosting for whipped cream frosting for a lighter option.

Storage/Reheating

Store the pumpkin poke cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best texture, let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving. This cake is not ideal for reheating, but it tastes delicious chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Frost it just before serving for the freshest look.

Can I use homemade caramel sauce?

Absolutely. Homemade caramel adds a richer flavor, but store-bought works fine too.

Can I freeze pumpkin poke cake?

Yes, you can freeze it (without frosting) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and add frosting before serving.

Do I need to refrigerate the cake after adding frosting?

Yes, because of the cream cheese frosting, the cake should be stored in the refrigerator.

What can I use instead of cream cheese frosting?

Whipped cream frosting or buttercream are great alternatives.

How do I prevent the cake from being too soggy?

Make sure not to overdo the caramel sauce pour it evenly and let it soak in naturally.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes, but make sure it’s well-puréed and drained of excess water for best results.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use a gluten-free spice cake mix.

How long does it take for the caramel to soak in?

Usually about 15–20 minutes while the cake is cooling.

What’s the best way to serve this cake?

Serve chilled or at room temperature, topped with a drizzle of caramel and maybe a sprinkle of cinnamon for garnish.

Conclusion

Pumpkin poke cake is an easy yet impressive dessert that captures the essence of fall in every bite. With its moist pumpkin base, gooey caramel filling, and tangy cream cheese frosting, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you serve it at a holiday table or a casual gathering, this cake is guaranteed to become a seasonal favorite.

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