Name: Pumpkin Poke Cake
Prep time: 1 h 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box yellow cake mix (432 g / 15.25 oz); 1 can (425 g / 15 oz) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling); 3 large eggs; 1/3 cup vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 box (96 g / 3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix; 2 cups cold milk; 1 container (250 g / 8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream); 1/2 cup caramel sauce (optional); 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for dusting)

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Pumpkin Poke Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert that perfectly captures the essence of fall. Made with spiced pumpkin cake, creamy fillings, and luscious toppings, this cake is an easy yet impressive treat for gatherings or everyday indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
Bursting with warm, comforting pumpkin spice flavors
Perfect for holiday celebrations and cozy get-togethers
Make-ahead friendly and great for feeding a crowd
Customizable with various toppings and fillings

Ingredients

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

Pumpkin cake mix or vanilla/yellow cake mix with pumpkin puree
Eggs
Oil or melted butter
Pumpkin pie spice
Sweetened condensed milk or caramel sauce
Whipped topping or cream cheese frosting
Chopped nuts, toffee bits, or cinnamon for garnish

Directions

Preheat your oven and prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray.
Mix the cake batter according to the package instructions, incorporating pumpkin puree and spices if needed.
Bake the cake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, let the cake cool slightly and use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the top.
Pour sweetened condensed milk or caramel sauce into the holes, allowing it to soak into the cake.
Spread whipped topping or frosting evenly over the cake.
Garnish with chopped nuts, toffee bits, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving for best results.

Servings and Timing

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

Variations

Use Chocolate Cake Mix: For a richer twist, use a chocolate cake base.
Add Spices: Enhance the pumpkin flavor with extra cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger.
Filling Options: Instead of condensed milk, try vanilla pudding or butterscotch sauce.
Toppings: Swap out whipped topping for a cream cheese frosting or drizzle with chocolate syrup.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: Serve chilled or bring to room temperature. Avoid reheating to preserve the texture.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

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

Absolutely! Any moist pumpkin cake recipe will work well.

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

Caramel sauce, vanilla pudding, or even a mixture of milk and powdered sugar can work as alternatives.

4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free whipped topping and a dairy-free caramel or condensed milk substitute.

5. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, just make sure the fresh pumpkin is cooked and pureed until smooth.

6. How do I prevent the cake from becoming too soggy?

Avoid overfilling the holes with liquid and let the cake cool properly before adding the filling.

7. Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?

Definitely! Mix-ins like walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips add great texture.

8. What size baking dish should I use?

A standard 9×13-inch baking dish works perfectly for this recipe.

9. How long should I chill the cake before serving?

At least 1 hour, but overnight chilling offers the best flavor and texture.

10. Can I use frosting instead of whipped topping?

Yes, cream cheese frosting or even a simple vanilla or buttercream frosting works great.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Poke Cake is an easy, delicious dessert that’s sure to become a favorite. With its moist cake, rich filling, and creamy topping, it’s a perfect choice for fall and holiday celebrations. Whether you serve it chilled or at room temperature, this cake delivers all the cozy flavors you crave.