Imagine digging a fork into a tender, moist cake that’s bursting with rich pumpkin flavor, silky caramel, and creamy topping—all mingling together for pure autumn delight. That’s exactly what you get with Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake, an irresistible dessert that marries warm spices with buttery caramel and pillowy whipped cream. Whether you’re serving this treat at a festive gathering or just enjoying a sweet moment at home, every bite feels like a hug on a chilly day, and it’s unbelievably easy to make (and impossible to resist).

Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Trust me, simple ingredients are all it takes to create a truly unforgettable Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake. Each one brings its own unique flavor, richness, or texture, coming together for a dessert that’s moist, flavorful, and utterly gorgeous.

Yellow cake mix: The convenient base for a soft, tender cake, and it absorbs the flavorful pumpkin perfectly.
Pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie mix): Adds real pumpkin flavor and extra moisture—don’t swap for pie filling!
Large eggs: Essential for structure and richness in every slice.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the crumb light and extra moist.
Water: Just enough to help the batter blend beautifully.
Pumpkin pie spice: Gives that classic fall aroma and warm spice in every bite.
Sweetened condensed milk: Poured over the cake, soaks into the poke holes for creamy decadence throughout.
Caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling): Luscious, buttery, and some always for the top—don’t skip it!
Whipped topping (thawed): Makes the cake cloud-like, creamy, and irresistible.
Cinnamon: Sprinkled for a lovely aroma and just the right amount of spice boost.
Chopped pecans (optional): For those who crave a little crunch and toasty, nutty flavor.

How to Make Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Preheat Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), and don’t forget to lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake releases with ease and bakes up golden and even.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, pumpkin purée, eggs, vegetable oil, water, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix until the batter is completely smooth with no dry spots—this makes for a cake that’s even and perfectly textured.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the smooth batter into your prepared baking dish, using a spatula to even out the top. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell like a bakery straight out of a fall dream!

Step 4: Poke and Soak

While the cake is still warm from the oven, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the top. Then, slowly and evenly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, allowing it to seep down into every nook and cranny for maximum creaminess.

Step 5: Add Caramel and Cool

Next, drizzle 3/4 cup caramel sauce over the cake, reserving a bit for the final topping. Let everything soak in while the cake cools completely. Take your time—this step is what gives our Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake its signature gooeyness.

Step 6: Top It Off

Once your cake is fully cooled, spread an even layer of whipped topping all over. Dust with cinnamon, drizzle on extra caramel sauce (as much as your heart desires!), and sprinkle chopped pecans on top if you want a little crunch and toasty flavor in every bite.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

Place your cake in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving. This helps all those luscious flavors meld together. Once chilled, slice it up and get ready for the compliments to roll in!

How to Serve Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake

Garnishes

For the loveliest finish, swirl on some extra caramel sauce just before serving for that irresistible glossy look. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a scattering of toasted pecans on top adds both beauty and flavor—making every piece feel a bit extra-special.

Side Dishes

Serve your Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake alongside a warm cup of spiced chai or a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. For a lighter touch, a fruit salad with crisp apples or pears complements the richness without overwhelming the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn this poke cake into a showstopper by assembling it in mason jars for individual servings, or cut it into neat squares and pile them artistically on a platter. A dusting of powdered sugar and a cinnamon stick on the side can turn any slice into a festive treat that’s ready for a party or holiday dessert table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake tasting perfectly fresh, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator, where it will stay delicious for up to 4 days—if it lasts that long!

Freezing

Yes, this cake freezes beautifully! Slice it first, then wrap each piece in plastic wrap and store them in a sealed freezer-safe container. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight whenever you’re ready for a taste of fall.

Reheating

If you prefer your Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake slightly warm, just take a slice and pop it in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. The caramel gets gooey and the cake turns extra soft—just don’t overheat, or the whipped topping will melt a bit!

FAQs

Can I use homemade caramel sauce instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade caramel sauce adds a wonderful depth of flavor and will make your Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake even more special. Just make sure it’s pourable so it soaks beautifully into the cake and drizzles easily on top.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

No worries at all—you can easily make your own blend with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves or ginger. The touch of spice is what gives this cake its classic autumn flavor.

Is it necessary to chill the cake before serving?

Yes, chilling is key! Giving the cake a few hours in the fridge lets the sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce soak into every pore, resulting in that signature luscious texture that makes Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake unforgettable.

Can I make Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake a day ahead?

Definitely! In fact, making this cake ahead is a time-saving bonus and actually improves the flavor, giving all the layers a chance to meld for a supremely moist, dreamy dessert.

Are there any nut-free alternatives for topping?

Of course! If pecans aren’t your thing or you need a nut-free option, try crushed graham crackers, toffee bits, or just stick with the classic caramel drizzle and cinnamon for an allergy-friendly crunch.

Final Thoughts

Warm, rich, and wonderfully easy—Pumpkin Caramel Poke Cake is like a celebration of fall and comfort all in one dish. Trust me, one bite and it’s sure to become your new “must bake” treat as soon as the leaves start to turn. Grab those ingredients and treat yourself to a little slice of autumn magic!