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Moist Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

A slice of moist pumpkin poke cake layered with cream and drizzled heavily with caramel sauce.

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Make this incredibly moist Pumpkin Poke Cake, soaked in sweet caramel and topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting. It is a simple yet impressive autumn dessert perfect for Thanksgiving or any fall gathering.

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) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 package (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed
  • 1/2 cup caramel sundae sauce
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cake mix according to the package directions, substituting the required amount of water with the can of pumpkin puree. Mix until just combined.
  2. Pour the batter into a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake according to the box instructions for a 9×13 pan, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  3. Remove the cake from the oven. While the cake is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a large fork to poke holes all over the surface, spacing them about one inch apart.
  4. Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the top of the warm cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. Let the cake cool completely on the counter.
  5. Prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until fully combined.
  6. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
  7. Drizzle the caramel sundae sauce over the frosting. Sprinkle with chopped pecans, if using.
  8. Chill the cake for at least one hour before slicing and serving to allow the flavors to set.

Notes

  • For an extra layer of flavor, you can use a box of spice cake mix instead of yellow cake mix.
  • If you prefer a lighter topping, substitute the cream cheese frosting with a simple layer of stabilized whipped cream.
  • This cake stays incredibly moist because of the liquid soaking in; keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator.

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