If you’ve been searching for a truly crowd-pleasing fall dessert, the Pumpkin Poke Cake Recipe is about to become your new go-to. This tender, spiced cake is as easy as it is beautiful, with luscious caramel oozing into every bite and a dreamy layer of cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re hosting a holiday meal or just craving some cozy comfort, this cake hits the sweet spot every time. Its vibrant pumpkin flavor, gooey texture, and irresistible toppings make it a dessert that gets requested over and over again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pumpkin Poke Cake Recipe keeps things simple but memorable by relying on a handful of pantry staples and a couple of rich, flavorful add-ins. Each ingredient plays a key role, whether in bringing out warm autumn spices, adding moisture, or creating that iconic gooey poke cake effect.

Spice cake mix (15 ounces): The shortcut that gives the cake its warmly spiced backbone, making this recipe both quick and loaded with flavor.
Canned pumpkin puree (15 ounces): Provides a velvety moisture and classic autumn flavor that’s unmistakable in every bite.
Large eggs (2): Key for binding the batter together and creating a fluffy, tender crumb.
Vegetable oil (1/2 cup): Adds moistness, ensuring your cake stays soft and luscious even after poking and topping with caramel.
Pumpkin pie spice (2 teaspoons): Brings that unmistakable warmth and cozy aroma to the cake.
Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Layering extra cinnamon into the batter intensifies the fall flavors.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Just enough to balance out the sweetness and deepen all the other flavors.
Caramel sauce (11 to 12 ounces): The star of the “poke” process—use your favorite homemade or store-bought caramel for sticky-sweet goodness in every slice.
Cream cheese frosting: Either homemade or store-bought, this creamy topping is essential to lift the cake into dessert heaven.
Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): A handful of toasted nuts sprinkled on top will add crunch and a pretty finish.

How to Make Pumpkin Poke Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Lightly spray your 9 x 13 inch pan with nonstick cooking spray and, if you’d like extra insurance for easy removal, line it with parchment paper. This step makes serving (and clean up) a total breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the spice cake mix, pumpkin puree, eggs, vegetable oil, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and cinnamon. Beat everything together on medium speed with an electric mixer, just until it’s smooth and silky—this should take less than a minute. The batter will be thick and deeply aromatic, promising a rich flavor ahead!

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Spread your thick pumpkin batter evenly into the prepared pan. Pop it into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The Pumpkin Poke Cake Recipe is ready when it springs back gently to the touch and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Step 4: Poke and Pour Caramel

As soon as the cake is out of the oven and still warm, transfer it (pan and all) to a wire rack. Using a thick straw or the end of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly across the cake—aim for 35 to 50 holes. Slowly pour the caramel sauce over the surface, taking your time so the caramel seeps into every delicious crevice. Gently smooth the top with a spoon or offset spatula, ensuring full caramel coverage.

Step 5: Frost and Finish

Once the cake has cooled for a bit (you don’t want the frosting to melt), spread your cream cheese frosting generously over the top. For a festive touch and added crunch, sprinkle over chopped pecans or walnuts. Serve the cake warm, at room temperature, or chilled, depending on your mood—it’s heavenly every way.

How to Serve Pumpkin Poke Cake Recipe

Garnishes

This cake already shines with its cream cheese frosting and caramel, but a shower of toasted pecans or walnuts adds amazing crunch and an eye-catching finish. Feeling festive? A sprinkle of cinnamon or a little dusting of pumpkin pie spice on top looks gorgeous and hints at the flavors inside.

Side Dishes

Bring your dessert table together by serving the Pumpkin Poke Cake Recipe alongside freshly brewed coffee, hot apple cider, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a special touch, a dollop of whipped cream on the side complements the dense, gooey texture perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Instead of slicing in the pan, you can cut the cake into elegant squares and arrange them on a platter, topping each with a swirl of extra frosting and a caramel drizzle. For parties, try baking in mini muffin pans for scrumptious little bites—guaranteed to disappear in no time!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, the Pumpkin Poke Cake Recipe can be stored covered in the fridge for up to a week if you’ve used homemade cream cheese frosting. If you’ve used shelf-stable store-bought frosting, you can keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to five days. Just be sure to keep it tightly wrapped to stay moist and delicious.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead treat. For best results, slice the cake into portions, wrap each tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and place in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving for the freshest texture and flavor.

Reheating

Pumpkin Poke Cake is wonderful served at room temperature, but if you prefer it slightly warm, just microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds. This softens the caramel and brings out the cake’s cozy spice notes—a true comfort dessert moment!

FAQs

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned?

Absolutely! As long as your homemade puree is thick and not watery, it will work beautifully in the Pumpkin Poke Cake Recipe. Just be sure to strain off any excess liquid before adding to your batter.

What if I don’t have spice cake mix on hand?

If you only have yellow cake mix, add a tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice and an extra teaspoon of cinnamon to mimic those classic autumn flavors. The result will still be tender, flavorful, and delicious.

Can I make the Pumpkin Poke Cake Recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use a gluten-free spice cake mix and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free as well. The texture remains lovely with very little change in flavor.

How do I keep the caramel from pooling only in some holes?

Pour the caramel slowly, giving it time to soak in gradually. You can also use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the caramel over the surface and help it seep more evenly into all the nooks and crannies.

Is it possible to make this cake ahead for a party?

Definitely! The Pumpkin Poke Cake Recipe actually gets better after a few hours of chilling, as the caramel has time to soak all through the cake. Simply cover and refrigerate, then frost just before serving for best results.

Final Thoughts

Nothing brings people together and says “welcome” like a homemade treat, and this Pumpkin Poke Cake Recipe is everything you want in a fall dessert—easy, cozy, gooey, and guaranteed to disappear in a flash. Go ahead, give it a try and savor every last delightful bite!