Description
This delightful Pumpkin Patch Poke Cake is a seasonal favorite, combining the warm flavors of pumpkin and spice with a creamy vanilla filling. Topped with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel, it’s perfect for autumn gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake:
- 1 box spice cake mix (plus ingredients required on the box)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
For the Filling:
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Topping:
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (optional)
- Pumpkin-shaped candies for garnish
- Crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven and prepare the spice cake mix according to package instructions. Add the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice to the batter.
- Bake the cake in a 9×13-inch pan as directed on the package.
- Poke and Fill:
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
- Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the surface of the cake.
- Prepare the Pudding Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix, cold milk, and cinnamon until the mixture begins to thicken, about 2 minutes.
- Pour the pudding mixture over the cake, spreading it evenly to fill the holes.
- Chill:
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the pudding to set.
- Add the Topping:
- After the cake has chilled, spread the whipped topping over the entire cake.
- If desired, drizzle caramel sauce over the whipped topping, then garnish with pumpkin-shaped candies and crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve, enjoying the creamy, spiced layers of this festive dessert.
- Enjoy this wonderfully spiced and creamy pumpkin dessert that’s sure to be a hit at your autumn gatherings!
Notes
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the filling.
- This cake can be made a day ahead for easy entertaining.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
