Pumpkin Spice Poke Cake – Easy and Delicious Recipe
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, my kitchen becomes a cozy haven filled with the warm scents of cinnamon, nutmeg, and everything pumpkin! There’s something I absolutely adore about pumpkin spice treats this time of year, and this Pumpkin Spice Poke Cake has quickly become a seasonal favorite in our household.
Rich and creamy with a tender crumb, each bite takes me back to cozy afternoons spent with family, gathering around the table with sweets that feel like home. This easy fall dessert is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply enjoying on a chilly evening in front of the fireplace. Trust me, it’s a recipe you’ll want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal effort, this is a perfect dessert for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Creamy and Decadent: The sweetened condensed milk and whipped topping create a decadent sauce, soaking into the cake for a dreamy texture in every bite.
- Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether you’re serving family or friends, this dessert is sure to impress! It’s a hit at potlucks and dinner parties alike.
- Perfectly Spiced: With pumpkin puree and a hint of pumpkin pie spice, every bite is bursting with comforting fall flavors.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This cake tastes even better after chilling in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Pumpkin Spice Poke Cake – Easy and Delicious Recipe
- 1 package (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin puree
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup of vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 cup of buttermilk
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups of whipped topping
- Additional pumpkin pie spice for garnish
Let’s Make It Together
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, pumpkin puree, eggs, vegetable oil, pumpkin pie spice, and buttermilk. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 28-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool for about 15 minutes. Using the round handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the surface, about 1 inch apart.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and additional pumpkin pie spice. Pour this mixture over the cooled cake, allowing it to soak in the holes.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours or overnight. Before serving, spread the whipped topping over the top and sprinkle with extra pumpkin pie spice.
Delicious Variations to Try
- Chocolate Pumpkin Spice Poke Cake: Mix in a cup of cocoa powder to the batter for a rich chocolate twist that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin.
- Nutty Topping: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the whipped topping for an indulgent crunch and additional flavor.
- Maple Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the whipped topping for a sweet and rich finish.
- Update the Flavors: Try swapping some of the pumpkin puree with applesauce for a zesty apple flavor or elect to use spice cake mix for a different twist!
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make-Ahead Advice: This cake is even more delicious when made the day before. The extra chill time allows the flavors to deepen, making each bite even more luscious!
- Ingredient Swaps: You can use Greek yogurt instead of buttermilk for a bit of tang and a thicker texture without losing that creamy taste.
- Slicing Tricks: To get cleaner slices, run your knife under hot water before cutting into the cake. Dry it off between slices for a prettier presentation.
- Storage Suggestions: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to 4 days, but let’s be honest, it won’t last that long!
What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
- Calories: 310
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Sugar: 26g
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 220mg
Common Questions Answered
-
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! The cake is best when made a day in advance, allowing it to chill and soak up those delicious flavors. -
Can I use different ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap buttermilk for Greek yogurt or use chocolate cake mix for a delightful twist. -
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. -
How long does it last?
This cake can last in the fridge for about 4 days, but good luck with leftovers!
A Cozy Closing Note
This Pumpkin Spice Poke Cake embodies the essence of fall – warm, inviting, and utterly delicious. It’s a recipe that brings people together, just like those cherished moments spent around the dinner table. Save this Pumpkin Spice Poke Cake – Easy and Delicious Recipe to your cozy treats board so it’s ready when you need a sweet escape! Celebrate the season with every creamy, spiced bite!
PrintPumpkin Spice Poke Cake
- Total Time: 120 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and decadent pumpkin spice poke cake that’s perfect for fall gatherings and cozy evenings.
Ingredients
- 1 package (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin puree
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup of vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 cup of buttermilk
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups of whipped topping
- Additional pumpkin pie spice for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Combine the yellow cake mix, pumpkin puree, eggs, vegetable oil, pumpkin pie spice, and buttermilk in a large bowl. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 28-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool for about 15 minutes. Using the round handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the surface, about 1 inch apart.
- Whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and additional pumpkin pie spice in a separate bowl. Pour this mixture over the cooled cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours or overnight. Before serving, spread the whipped topping over the top and sprinkle with extra pumpkin pie spice.
Notes
For a richer flavor, consider adding cocoa powder for a chocolate twist or nuts for a crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
