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Moist Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

A moist slice of pumpkin poke cake topped with whipped cream and drizzled generously with caramel sauce.

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You will make this incredibly moist Pumpkin Poke Cake for your next fall gathering. This recipe infuses a spiced pumpkin cake with rich caramel and tops it with a simple cream cheese frosting, creating a comforting autumn treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
  • 1 can pumpkin puree (15 oz)
  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
  • 1 package (8 oz) Cool Whip or whipped topping
  • 1/2 bag Heath bits (8 oz, optional for topping)
  • Caramel sundae sauce (for drizzling)
  • For Cream Cheese Frosting: 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • For Cream Cheese Frosting: 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • For Cream Cheese Frosting: 3 cups powdered sugar
  • For Cream Cheese Frosting: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cake mix according to the package directions, but substitute the required amount of water with the can of pumpkin puree. Mix until just combined.
  2. Bake the cake in a 9×13 inch baking pan according to the package instructions for that size.
  3. When the cake comes out of the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes.
  4. Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a large fork to poke holes all over the top of the warm cake, spacing them about one inch apart.
  5. Pour the can of sweetened condensed milk evenly over the entire surface of the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
  6. Prepare the cream cheese frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
  7. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
  8. Drizzle the caramel sundae sauce over the frosting.
  9. If you are using them, sprinkle the Heath bits over the caramel layer.
  10. Chill the cake for at least two hours before slicing and serving to allow the caramel to fully set into the cake.

Notes

  • For an even richer caramel flavor, warm the caramel sauce slightly before drizzling it over the frosting.
  • If you want a lighter topping, substitute the cream cheese frosting with stabilized whipped topping.
  • This cake tastes best when served cold, making it an excellent make-ahead Thanksgiving dessert idea.

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