Caramel Pumpkin Poke Cake

Caramel Pumpkin Poke Cake is a decadent fall dessert featuring a moist pumpkin-spiced cake soaked with rich caramel sauce. Topped with fluffy whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel, this cake is perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy treat on a crisp autumn day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super moist and flavorful with pumpkin and caramel goodness
• Easy to make using a cake mix or homemade batter
• Perfect for serving a crowd during holidays and parties
• Make-ahead friendly for stress-free entertaining
• Customizable with toppings like nuts or toffee bits

Ingredients

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

• 1 box spice cake mix (or yellow cake mix with 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice)
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 (8-ounce) container whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip) or homemade whipped cream
• Optional toppings: chopped pecans, toffee bits, additional caramel drizzle

Directions

this recipe

1. Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, and water. Mix until smooth.
3. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Poke Holes: Allow the cake to cool slightly. Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork, poke holes all over the top of the cake.
5. Add Caramel and Condensed Milk: In a bowl, combine the caramel sauce and sweetened condensed milk. Pour the mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
6. Chill the Cake: Refrigerate the cake for at least 1-2 hours to let the caramel mixture set.
7. Top the Cake: Spread the whipped topping evenly over the cooled cake.
8. Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped pecans, toffee bits, and drizzle additional caramel sauce if desired.
9. Serve: Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Additional Time: 1-2 hours (chilling)
• Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Twist: Use chocolate cake mix instead of spice cake for a richer flavor.
• Cinnamon Swirl: Add a swirl of cinnamon sugar before baking for extra warmth.
• Cheesecake Layer: Add a layer of cream cheese frosting under the whipped topping.
• Pecan Crunch: Mix crushed graham crackers and pecans for a crunchy topping.
• Butterscotch Poke Cake: Replace caramel with butterscotch sauce for a unique spin.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store the cake covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: The cake can be frozen (without the whipped topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheating: This cake is best served chilled or at room temperature. Avoid reheating to maintain the creamy topping.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade pumpkin cake instead of a cake mix?

Yes, a homemade pumpkin cake will work perfectly. Just follow the same instructions for poking and adding the caramel mixture.

2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free caramel sauce, whipped topping, and a non-dairy sweetened condensed milk alternative.

3. How do I keep the cake from getting too soggy?

Avoid overfilling the holes and let the cake cool before adding the caramel and condensed milk mixture.

4. Can I use caramel ice cream topping for this recipe?

Yes, any smooth caramel sauce will work well. Just ensure it is pourable.

5. What can I use instead of sweetened condensed milk?

Try using a mixture of evaporated milk and sugar or use sweetened condensed coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

6. Can I add chocolate chips to the cake batter?

Absolutely! Mini chocolate chips add a delightful touch of chocolate.

7. Can I make this cake a day ahead?

Yes, it actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

8. What can I use instead of whipped topping?

Homemade whipped cream or stabilized whipped cream are great alternatives.

9. Can I use fresh pumpkin puree?

Yes, just make sure it is smooth and not too watery.

10. Can I use other toppings besides caramel and nuts?

Yes, try crushed cookies, mini marshmallows, or a dusting of cinnamon.

Conclusion

Caramel Pumpkin Poke Cake is a delicious and easy dessert that delivers all the cozy flavors of fall. The moist pumpkin cake, rich caramel filling, and creamy whipped topping make this dessert irresistible. It’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or simply treating yourself to a special slice of autumn delight!

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