Easy Caramel Pumpkin Poke Cake Recipe

This Easy Caramel Pumpkin Poke Cake is the ultimate fall dessert! Made with a spiced pumpkin cake, soaked in rich caramel sauce, and topped with fluffy whipped topping, this cake is moist, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible. Perfect for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or any autumn gathering, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Uses a cake mix for convenience, making it simple to prepare.
• Super Moist – The caramel seeps into the cake, keeping it soft and flavorful.
• Perfect for Fall – Pumpkin and warm spices make it the ultimate autumn treat.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better after chilling, making it great for prepping in advance.
• Customizable – Add different toppings to make it your own.

Ingredients

this Recipe

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

• Yellow cake mix
• Pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• Eggs
• Water
• Vegetable oil
• Pumpkin pie spice
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Caramel sauce
• Whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade)
• Chopped pecans or crushed graham crackers (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the cake batter – In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, pumpkin puree, eggs, water, oil, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth.
3. Bake – Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. Poke the cake – Let the cake cool for 10 minutes, then use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake.
5. Add caramel & condensed milk – Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, letting it seep into the holes, followed by half of the caramel sauce. Let cool completely.
6. Top with whipped cream – Spread the whipped topping evenly over the cake.
7. Drizzle & garnish – Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce on top and sprinkle with chopped pecans or crushed graham crackers.
8. Chill & serve – Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: About 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Pumpkin Poke Cake – Use a chocolate cake mix instead of yellow for a unique twist.
• Spiced Upgrade – Add extra cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves for a stronger spice flavor.
• Crunchy Topping – Use toffee bits, crushed gingersnaps, or chopped walnuts instead of pecans.
• Cream Cheese Frosting – Swap whipped topping for a homemade cream cheese frosting.
• Salted Caramel Twist – Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the caramel topping for a sweet-salty balance.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing – Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Reheating – Best served chilled, but if you prefer it warm, microwave slices for about 10 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix?

Yes! Spice cake mix or vanilla cake mix work well with this recipe.

How do I prevent the cake from becoming too soggy?

Let the cake cool slightly before adding the caramel and condensed milk, and avoid oversaturating it.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together.

What’s the best way to poke holes in the cake?

Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a straw for evenly spaced holes.

Can I use homemade caramel sauce?

Absolutely! Homemade caramel will make it even richer and more flavorful.

How do I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free whipped topping and coconut-based condensed milk.

Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, just make sure to stabilize it with powdered sugar or gelatin so it holds up.

What other toppings can I add?

Try mini chocolate chips, crushed pretzels, or even a drizzle of melted white chocolate.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

No, pumpkin pie filling is already sweetened and spiced, which may affect the recipe’s balance.

Conclusion

Easy Caramel Pumpkin Poke Cake is a simple yet decadent dessert perfect for fall gatherings or holiday dinners. With its moist texture, sweet caramel drizzle, and creamy whipped topping, this cake is guaranteed to be a hit. Try different variations to make it your own and enjoy every delicious bite!

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