Gooey Pumpkin Crumble Cake – The Ultimate Cozy Fall Dessert

Friends, I am so excited you’re here! 🍂 Today, I’m sharing one of my absolute favorite fall desserts: Gooey Pumpkin Crumble Cake. If you’ve been craving something sweet, spiced, and unapologetically comforting, this recipe is about to win your heart.

This isn’t just a cake—it’s a cross between a pumpkin pie, a cobbler, and a buttery crumb cake all rolled into one. The base is soft and golden, the filling is rich and custardy, and the crumble topping? Oh, it’s pure magic.

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Overview of Recipe Content

What is Gooey Pumpkin Crumble Cake?

Think of this as a pumpkin pie in cake form. The yellow cake base gives it structure, the pumpkin purée makes it silky, and the buttery crumble on top seals the deal. It’s a dessert that feels both rustic and indulgent.

Why You’ll Love It

• Simple pantry ingredients (hello, cake mix shortcut!).
• Perfect for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or a cozy weekend bake.
• Make-ahead friendly.
• It tastes like fall in every bite.

Flavor & Texture

Warm pumpkin spice, a touch of sweetness, creamy custard-like filling, and that buttery crumble crunch.

Health & Seasonal Benefits

Pumpkin is naturally high in fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants. Plus, it’s a seasonal star from September through November.

Ingredients You’ll Need

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For the Cake Base:

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1 egg
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Pumpkin Filling:

• 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin purée
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1 cup sugar (or brown sugar for deeper flavor)
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ½ tsp ginger
• ½ tsp cloves
• ½ tsp salt

For the Topping:

• 1 cup reserved cake mix
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup chopped pecans (optional but amazing)
• ¼ cup butter, softened

Tools Needed

• 9×13 baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Spatula

Substitutions & Additions

• Swap pecans for walnuts or skip for nut-free.
• Use gluten-free cake mix for a GF version.
• Add chocolate chips for a sweet twist.

How to Make Gooey Pumpkin Crumble Cake

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1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 pan.
2. Make the base: Mix cake mix, egg, and melted butter until crumbly. Press into the pan.
3. Pumpkin filling: Whisk pumpkin, eggs, evaporated milk, sugar, and spices. Pour over crust.
4. Crumble topping: Combine reserved cake mix, brown sugar, pecans, and softened butter. Sprinkle evenly on top.
5. Bake for 45–50 minutes until the center is set and topping is golden.
6. Cool slightly before serving warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

What to Serve with Gooey Pumpkin Crumble Cake

• Freshly whipped cream.
• Vanilla bean ice cream.
• A drizzle of caramel sauce.
• Hot apple cider, chai tea, or a bold espresso.

Tips for Making It Perfect

• Don’t overbake—the center should be just set for that “gooey” texture.
• Chill for a firmer slice (great for next-day leftovers).
• Use fresh pumpkin purée if you want a deeper flavor.

Storage Instructions

• Fridge: Store covered for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Microwave slices for 20–30 seconds for that fresh-baked warmth.

General Information

Pumpkin desserts have deep roots in American fall traditions, especially around Thanksgiving. This recipe is a modern twist on the old-fashioned “pumpkin dump cake” popular in community cookbooks.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It tastes even better the next day.

2. Can I use fresh pumpkin purée?
Absolutely, just make sure it’s well-drained.

3. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free yellow cake mix.

4. What if I don’t have evaporated milk?
Half-and-half or heavy cream works too.

Conclusion

This Gooey Pumpkin Crumble Cake is the dessert your fall gatherings have been waiting for. With its warm spices, custardy pumpkin filling, and buttery topping, it’s guaranteed to disappear fast.

If you loved this recipe, try these too:

• Maple Pecan Bars

Interactive Elements

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I’d love to see your creations! Leave a review below, or snap a photo and tag me on Pinterest or Instagram. 🍰

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 12 servings)

Calories	Carbs	Protein	Fat	Saturated Fat	Fiber	Sugar	Sodium
310	42g	4g	14g	7g	3g	28g	260mg

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