Name: Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake: 7 Reasons to Love This Dessert
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box spice cake mix (15.25 oz); 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling); ½ cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice; 12 oz caramel sauce (jarred or homemade, warmed); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1½ cups powdered sugar; 8 oz whipped topping (thawed); ¼ cup chopped pecans

Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake is the ultimate fall dessert—ultra-moist spice cake infused with rich caramel sauce and topped with a fluffy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or cozy weekends, this cake delivers a burst of autumn flavors in every bite. The combination of pumpkin puree and caramel sauce creates a gooey, delightful texture that nobody can resist. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this cake!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake

There are countless reasons to adore this Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, thanks to the use of a cake mix. You can whip it up in just 45 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy fall celebrations. Second, the flavor is unbeatable; the blend of pumpkin spice and caramel brings a cozy warmth that perfectly complements chilly autumn days. Third, this cake is versatile—it can be served as a dessert or a sweet treat for brunch gatherings. Fourth, it’s a hit at parties and potlucks, making it a crowd-pleaser. Additionally, the moistness from pumpkin puree ensures each slice is rich and satisfying. Lastly, it’s a simple way to indulge in seasonal flavors without the fuss of traditional baking.

Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake: 7 Reasons to Love This Dessert - Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake - main visual representation

Ingredients for Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake

Gather these items:

1 box spice cake mix (15.25 oz)
1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
½ cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
12 oz caramel sauce (jarred or homemade, warmed)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1½ cups powdered sugar
8 oz whipped topping (thawed)
¼ cup chopped pecans

How to Make Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Step 2: In a large bowl, mix cake mix, pumpkin puree, oil, eggs, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth.
Step 3: Pour batter into pan and bake 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 4: Let cake cool slightly. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake about ¾ of the way down.
Step 5: Warm caramel sauce and pour over cake, filling each hole. Reserve a small amount for topping.
Step 6: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and mix well. Gently fold in whipped topping.
Step 7: Spread frosting evenly over cake. Drizzle with reserved caramel and sprinkle with pecans if desired.
Step 8: Chill briefly or serve immediately.

Pro Tips for the Best Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake

Keep these in mind:

This cake is perfect for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or weekend baking.
Use real pumpkin puree for best results; it makes a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
For an extra indulgent touch, serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream.
Consider adding chocolate chips to the batter for a delightful twist.

Best Ways to Serve Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake

This cake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with:

Vanilla ice cream: A scoop on top brings a delightful contrast to the warm cake.
Extra caramel drizzle: Drizzling more caramel sauce over the top adds richness.
Coffee or spiced tea: Pairing this dessert with a warm drink enhances the cozy experience.

How to Store and Reheat Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake

To keep your cake fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you’d like to reheat it, simply pop a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until warm. This is a great dessert to prepare ahead of time for meal prep or gatherings!

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake

What’s the secret to perfect Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake?

The key lies in using high-quality ingredients, particularly the pumpkin puree. Make sure your cake isn’t overbaked, as that can dry it out. Poking holes and allowing caramel to seep in is crucial for that moist texture. This method is what makes this cake a wonderful pumpkin dessert with caramel drizzle.

Can I make Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this cake a day in advance. Just ensure to store it properly in the refrigerator. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. This makes it a fantastic choice for Pumpkin Caramel Cake for Thanksgiving or any gathering.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake?

To avoid overmixing the batter, mix just until combined. Also, be careful not to poke the holes too deep; you want the caramel to fill the holes without making the cake fall apart. Following the simple Pumpkin Caramel Cake instructions will yield the best results.

Variations of Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake You Can Try

If you’re looking to mix it up, here are some delicious variations:

Chocolate Pumpkin Poke Cake: Add cocoa powder to the cake mix for a chocolate twist.
Pumpkin Spice Poke Cake: Increase the pumpkin pie spice for an extra flavor punch.
Pumpkin Pudding Cake: Swap out some cake mix for pumpkin pudding for a creamier texture.
Nutty Version: Add walnuts or almonds for a delightful crunch.