Best Pumpkin Poke Cake with Caramel
Simple pumpkin poke cake with caramel recipe is perfect for Thanksgiving. Get all the tips you need for baking a batch of the most delicious fall treat
Nothing says fall comfort like a moist, spiced pumpkin poke cake drizzled with rich caramel sauce. This heavenly dessert combines the warm flavors of pumpkin spice with decadent caramel that seeps into every tender crumb.
My grandmother used to make a similar spiced cake every October, filling our kitchen with the most incredible aromas. This pumpkin poke cake with caramel is incredibly simple to make, requiring just 20 minutes of prep time and ingredients you likely have on hand.
Unlike my popular chocolate poke cake recipe, this autumn version brings cozy seasonal flavors that make it perfect for family gatherings and holiday celebrations.
What is Pumpkin Poke Cake with Caramel?
Ever wonder why it’s called “poke” cake? Well, you literally poke holes all over the cake and pour delicious caramel right into those little pockets! It’s like giving your cake a caramel massage that makes every bite incredibly moist and flavorful.
The technique originated in the 1970s when creative bakers discovered this genius method of infusing cakes with extra flavor. As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this cake definitely proves that theory right! Ready to create some autumn magic in your kitchen?
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Poke Cake with Caramel
Rich Autumn Flavors in Every Bite
This cake delivers the perfect balance of warm pumpkin spice and silky caramel sweetness. The tender pumpkin cake base is infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, creating layers of fall flavor that dance on your taste buds. Every forkful combines the earthiness of pumpkin with the buttery richness of caramel.
Budget-Friendly Family Dessert
Making this cake at home costs a fraction of what you’d pay at a bakery. Most ingredients are pantry staples, and one cake serves 12-15 people generously. Compare that to expensive store-bought desserts, and you’re saving serious money while creating something infinitely more delicious.
Showstopping Presentation
The glossy caramel topping and fluffy whipped cream make this cake look like it came from a professional bakery. It’s similar to my popular tres leches cake in how impressive it looks, but with autumn flavors that make it perfect for holiday entertaining. Why not give this recipe a try and watch your family’s faces light up?
How to Make Pumpkin Poke Cake with Caramel
Quick Overview
This pumpkin poke cake with caramel is surprisingly simple to create. The moist pumpkin spice cake bakes up perfectly fluffy, then gets poked with holes to absorb the luscious homemade caramel sauce.
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Baking Time: 35 minutes
- Cooling Time: 2 hours
- Assembly Time: 15 minutes
The result is an incredibly moist, flavor-packed dessert that melts in your mouth with every bite.
Key Ingredients for Pumpkin Poke Cake with Caramel
For the Pumpkin Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 can pumpkin puree (15 oz)
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- ½ cup water
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Topping:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup caramel sauce (reserved)
- Cinnamon for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, water, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Mix with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes until well combined and smooth.
Step 2: Bake the Cake Pour batter into prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. The cake should spring back lightly when touched in the center.
Step 3: Make the Caramel Sauce While cake bakes, prepare caramel sauce. In a medium saucepan, heat sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts and turns amber colored. Add butter and whisk until melted. Slowly pour in heavy cream while whisking continuously. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and salt. Let cool for 10 minutes.
Step 4: Poke the Cake Once cake is done baking, let it cool for 15 minutes. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake, spacing them about 1 inch apart. The holes should go almost to the bottom of the cake.
Step 5: Add the Caramel Reserve ¼ cup of caramel sauce for topping. Pour the remaining warm caramel sauce over the cake, making sure it fills all the holes. Let the cake cool completely, about 2 hours, allowing caramel to absorb.
Step 6: Make Whipped Topping In a large bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla with electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Spread evenly over cooled cake.
Step 7: Final Touches Drizzle reserved caramel sauce over whipped cream in decorative patterns. Lightly dust with cinnamon. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
What to Serve Pumpkin Poke Cake with Caramel With
This decadent cake pairs beautifully with several complementary options:
Hot Beverages: Serve alongside freshly brewed coffee, spiced chai tea, or hot apple cider to enhance the autumn flavors.
Cold Accompaniments: Vanilla ice cream or cinnamon ice cream creates a delightful temperature contrast that’s absolutely divine.
Wine Pairings: A glass of Moscato, Port, or Riesling complements the sweet caramel and spiced pumpkin flavors perfectly.
Seasonal Sides: Fresh sliced apples, toasted pecans, or a small scoop of pumpkin butter add extra fall flair to each serving.
Top Tips for Perfecting Pumpkin Poke Cake with Caramel
Don’t Skip the Cooling Time
Allow the cake to cool for at least 15 minutes before poking holes. This prevents the cake from falling apart while still being warm enough for the caramel to absorb properly.
Poke Holes Strategically
Make holes about 1 inch apart and go almost to the bottom of the pan. Use a wooden spoon handle or skewer for consistent hole sizes that allow maximum caramel absorption.
Watch Your Caramel Carefully
When making homemade caramel, stay by the stove and stir constantly. Sugar can go from perfect amber to burnt very quickly. If it gets too dark, start over.
Ingredient Substitutions
Can’t find pumpkin pie spice? Make your own with 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ginger, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon cloves. You can also use spice cake mix instead of yellow cake mix for extra flavor.
Temperature Matters
Pour the caramel while it’s still warm but not hot. Too hot and it will make the cake soggy; too cool and it won’t absorb properly.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Refrigerator Storage: Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 5 days. The cake actually gets better after a day as the flavors meld together.
Freezing Instructions: This cake freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Serving from Cold: This cake is best served chilled directly from the refrigerator. The cool temperature helps the layers hold together perfectly and enhances the caramel flavor.
Make-Ahead Tips: You can bake the cake and add caramel up to 2 days ahead. Add the whipped cream topping and final caramel drizzle on the day of serving for best presentation.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/15 of cake) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 385 |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 54g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Sugar | 45g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 285mg |
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes! Use 1 cup of fresh pumpkin puree. Roast pumpkin until tender, then puree until smooth. Make sure to drain excess moisture before using.
What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
Make your own blend using 2 teaspoons cinnamon, 1 teaspoon ginger, ½ teaspoon nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon ground cloves.
Can I make this cake without eggs?
Replace each egg with ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce or use commercial egg replacer following package directions.
How do I know when my caramel is ready?
The sugar should be a deep amber color and smell nutty, not burnt. It typically takes 8-10 minutes of constant stirring over medium heat.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Absolutely! Heat 1½ cups of quality caramel sauce until pourable, then proceed with the recipe. Homemade tastes better, but store-bought works in a pinch.
Why is my cake dense?
Overmixing the batter can create a dense cake. Mix just until ingredients are combined, and make sure your baking powder isn’t expired.
How far ahead can I make this cake?
The complete cake keeps well for 3 days in the refrigerator. For best results, add the whipped cream topping the day you plan to serve it.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Use two 9×13 pans or one large sheet pan. Adjust baking time as needed, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
Additional Tips for Success
Seasonal Variations: Try this recipe with different seasonal flavors. In spring, substitute strawberry puree for pumpkin and use strawberry sauce. Summer calls for peach puree with caramel, while winter works beautifully with apple butter and cinnamon caramel.
Presentation Ideas: Garnish individual slices with a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds, a cinnamon stick, or a small dollop of additional whipped cream for restaurant-quality presentation.
Kid-Friendly Modifications: Reduce the spices by half for children who prefer milder flavors. You can also add mini chocolate chips to the batter for extra appeal.
Dietary Adaptations: This recipe can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free cake mix. For dairy-free options, substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use dairy-free butter alternatives.
This pumpkin poke cake with caramel truly embodies everything wonderful about fall baking. The combination of warm spices, creamy textures, and rich caramel creates a dessert that’s both comforting and impressive. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply treating your family to something special, this cake delivers every single time.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and reliability. Even novice bakers can achieve professional-looking results, while experienced cooks will appreciate the room for creativity and personal touches. Make it once, and it’s guaranteed to become a seasonal favorite that friends and family will request year after year.
So grab your apron, preheat that oven, and get ready to create some autumn magic. Your kitchen will smell absolutely incredible, and your taste buds will thank you for every single bite of this amazing pumpkin poke cake with caramel!
