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Irresistible Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake

pumpkin caramel poke cake - featured image

A moist pumpkin cake infused with creamy caramel and topped with luscious cream cheese frosting, perfect for fall gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box pumpkin spice cake mix
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • ¾ cup water
  • ⅓ cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ cup caramel sauce
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whipped topping (or whipped cream), thawed
  • Extra caramel sauce for drizzling (optional)
  • Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • Sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, pumpkin puree, water, oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth and well combined, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  4. While the cake is still warm, use a wooden spoon handle or skewer to poke holes evenly across the surface, about 1 inch apart.
  5. In a small bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce. Pour the mixture over the cake, letting it seep into the holes. Let the cake cool completely.
  6. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Fold in the whipped topping until light and fluffy.
  7. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
  8. Drizzle extra caramel sauce over the frosting and sprinkle with chopped nuts or cinnamon, if desired.
  9. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

[‘Don’t underbake the cake to avoid a gummy texture.’, ‘Slightly warm the caramel sauce for easier pouring and better absorption.’, ‘Poke holes evenly across the cake for better distribution of the filling.’, ‘Keep frosting ingredients chilled for easier spreading and smoother texture.’, ‘Customize toppings with crushed graham crackers or chocolate chips for a fun twist.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: Pumpkin, Caramel, Poke Cake, Fall Dessert, Cream Cheese Frosting, Thanksgiving Dessert