Better Than Fall Pumpkin Cake (The Cozy Dessert You Need This Season!)

Oh friends, thank you for stopping by today! I can’t wait to share this pumpkin cake with you—it’s simple, comforting, and oh-so-perfect for fall. This Better Than Fall Pumpkin Cake is a soft vanilla cake enriched with pumpkin puree, soaked in luscious sweetened condensed milk, and kissed with warm cinnamon. It’s everything autumn should taste like in one bite!

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Overview of Recipe Content

This pumpkin cake is the definition of a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy enough for weeknights but special enough for Thanksgiving dessert. Think of it as the fall version of a poke cake—it’s moist, flavorful, and topped with creamy goodness.

Why you’ll love it:

• Just 5 ingredients (plus pantry staples from the cake mix box).
• Perfectly spiced, moist, and comforting.
• A make-ahead dessert that only gets better as it sits.
• Easy enough for beginners but impressive enough for guests!

What it tastes like: A cross between pumpkin pie and a soft vanilla cake—moist, custardy, and rich with cinnamon warmth.

Ingredient List:

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• 1 box vanilla cake mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as directed on the box)
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Tools you’ll need:

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or hand mixer
• Wooden spoon (for poking the cake!)

Suggested substitutions:

• Swap spice cake mix for extra autumn spice.
• Add a sprinkle of nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice.
• Top with whipped cream or cream cheese frosting for indulgence.

How to Make Better Than Fall Pumpkin Cake

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1. Prepare the cake mix: In a large bowl, mix your vanilla cake batter according to the box instructions. Stir in the pumpkin puree and cinnamon until smooth.
2. Bake: Pour into a greased 9×13 baking dish and bake as directed on the cake mix box (usually 25–30 minutes).
3. Poke & soak: While still warm, use a wooden spoon handle to poke holes all over the cake. Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the top, letting it seep into the cake.
4. Cool & chill: Let the cake cool completely. Chill for at least 2 hours for best flavor.
5. Serve: Top with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired. Slice and enjoy the cozy taste of fall!

What to Serve with Better Than Fall Pumpkin Cake

This cake pairs beautifully with:

• A hot mug of apple cider 🍎
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream 🍨
• Freshly whipped cream with a dusting of cinnamon

Tips for Making It Perfect

• Don’t skip chilling—the flavors meld and deepen overnight.
• For extra spice, stir in ½ teaspoon nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice.
• If making ahead, cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Storage Instructions

• Fridge: Store covered for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze slices wrapped in plastic + foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheat: Best served cold or at room temp, but you can microwave for 10–15 seconds if you like it warm.

General Information

Pumpkin desserts are a staple in American fall baking traditions. This cake is a playful twist on the famous “Better Than Anything Cake,” but with a seasonal pumpkin flair.

For more cozy fall favorites, try my:

• Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this with spice cake mix instead of vanilla?
Yes! Spice cake mix enhances the pumpkin flavor even more.

Do I have to use condensed milk?
It’s what gives the cake its moist texture, but you could try evaporated milk + sugar as a lighter option.

Can I frost it?
Absolutely—cream cheese frosting is divine here!

Does this cake taste more like pumpkin pie or cake?
It’s a hybrid: soft like cake, custardy like pie.

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Conclusion

This Better Than Fall Pumpkin Cake is everything we love about autumn—warm, spiced, sweet, and comforting. Bake it once, and I promise it’ll become your go-to fall dessert.

If you loved this, try my other pumpkin recipes like Pumpkin Spice Pancakes and Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins.

Happy baking, friends! 🍂💛

Interactive Elements

If you make this recipe, please leave a review below!
And don’t forget to share your cake photo on Pinterest here or tag me on Instagram @poulefrecipe.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 12 servings)

Calories	Carbs	Protein	Fat	Sugar
310	45g	4g	12g	28g

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