This easy Pumpkin Poke Cake tastes like pumpkin pie in cake form! The spice from the moist cake combined with the pumpkin filling makes this the perfect autumn cake!

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Ultimate Pumpkin Poke Cake: Your Go-To Fall Dessert Recipe

As the vibrant hues of autumn emerge and a refreshing crispness fills the air, there’s a longing for comforting flavors that truly capture the essence of the season. This **Ultimate Pumpkin Poke Cake** is precisely that—more than just a dessert, it’s an immersive experience that embodies all the warmth and delightful tastes of fall in every single forkful. Picture a wonderfully moist and aromatic spice cake, lovingly infused with a rich, velvety pumpkin pudding. This decadent base is then crowned with a light, airy whipped topping, a luxurious drizzle of golden caramel sauce, and a sprinkle of crunchy Heath bits, adding a delightful textural contrast. It’s a harmonious symphony of flavors and textures designed to transport you straight into your happiest autumn memories.

If you’ve been searching for an effortlessly impressive dessert that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the harvest season, your search ends here. This recipe masterfully combines baking simplicity with an extraordinary flavor profile, making it an ideal choice for a wide array of occasions. Whether it’s the centerpiece for a festive holiday gathering, a comforting treat for cozy family dinners, or simply a delightful indulgence to enjoy with your favorite warm beverage, this cake fits the bill. Its innovative “poke” technique ensures that each bite is saturated with luscious pumpkin goodness, distinguishing it from ordinary cakes. Prepare to bake a dessert that will not only garner rave reviews but also become a cherished, eagerly anticipated part of your annual autumn traditions.

A slice of Pumpkin Poke Cake with a fork and a bite on it.

Why This Pumpkin Poke Cake is a Must-Try for Fall

This isn’t merely another pumpkin-flavored dessert; it’s a thoughtfully designed masterpiece, balancing exquisite flavors and delightful textures for maximum enjoyment with minimal effort. The foundation of this spectacular treat is a tender, aromatic spice cake, which serves as the ideal canvas for the star ingredient: a rich and creamy pumpkin pudding. Unlike many desserts where pumpkin plays a supporting role, this poke cake ingeniously integrates the smooth pumpkin filling directly into the cake itself. By strategically poking holes into the warm, freshly baked cake, we create numerous small pockets that eagerly absorb the sweet, spiced pudding. This unique method guarantees that every single bite is not only incredibly moist but also bursting with deep, authentic pumpkin flavor, leading to an unparalleled level of satisfaction.

But the journey into indulgence doesn’t conclude there. A generous, cloud-like layer of whipped topping adds a refreshing lightness, providing a beautiful contrast to the denser cake and its creamy filling. To elevate the experience further, a lavish drizzle of caramel sauce introduces a buttery, sweet counterpoint that perfectly complements the pumpkin and spice notes. The final touch comes from a sprinkle of crushed Heath bits, which deliver a delightful crunch and a subtle hint of toffee, adding another layer of complexity. This carefully curated combination transforms a simple cake into something truly extraordinary. It’s a standout dessert that tastes like the very best pumpkin pie and a perfectly spiced cake had a delicious, harmonious fusion. Truly pure indulgence, it’s the perfect treat for embracing the enchanting cool days of autumn and celebrating the joyful holidays that lie ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crafting the Perfect Pumpkin Poke Cake

What specific type of pudding mix is required for this recipe?

The foundational element for a successful poke cake, especially this Pumpkin Poke Cake, lies in selecting the correct pudding mix. It is absolutely imperative that you use **Instant Pudding**. This is a critical distinction because instant pudding is formulated to set quickly and firmly when combined with milk, without the need for any cooking. This property allows it to seamlessly seep into the holes of your warm cake, creating that signature moist, tender, and flavor-infused texture. If you mistakenly purchase “Cook and Serve” pudding, it will not achieve the desired consistency when simply mixed with cold milk and pumpkin puree. Instead, you’ll end up with a runny, unappealing liquid that won’t properly integrate into the cake. To avoid disappointment, always meticulously check the pudding box for the prominent word “Instant.” Sometimes this detail isn’t immediately obvious, so a careful scan of the packaging before you buy is highly recommended to ensure your cake turns out perfectly.

Can I substitute the spice cake mix with an alternative flavor?

Certainly! While a classic spice cake mix inherently complements the pumpkin and autumn theme beautifully, this recipe offers wonderful flexibility for customization. Should you prefer a milder cake base or wish to experiment with different flavor profiles, you are absolutely welcome to swap the spice cake mix for a standard white cake mix or a traditional yellow cake mix. To ensure that your chosen alternative still delivers that quintessential autumn flavor profile, we strongly advise incorporating 1 tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice directly into the dry cake mix before you proceed with baking. This simple yet impactful addition will infuse your cake with the warm, aromatic notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, significantly enhancing the overall pumpkin pie-like experience of the final dessert. Other excellent, though less conventional, options might include a gingerbread cake mix for an extra festive touch or a rich yellow butter cake mix for an added layer of indulgence.

What other pudding flavors complement pumpkin in this recipe?

The inherent versatility of poke cakes makes them an excellent vehicle for exploring a multitude of exciting flavor combinations! While classic vanilla pudding provides a wonderfully subtle and versatile backdrop, allowing the rich pumpkin flavor to take center stage, there’s no need to limit your creativity. For those desiring a richer, more luxurious profile, consider using a cheesecake instant pudding mix. This will introduce a delightful tangy and creamy depth that harmonizes beautifully with the sweetness of the pumpkin. A white chocolate pudding mix offers a sweet, delicate, and sophisticated note, making the cake even more decadent. If you’re feeling adventurous and wish to introduce a warm, caramelized essence, a butterscotch pudding mix can create a truly unique and unexpectedly delightful twist. Additionally, for an intriguing and delicious pairing, you might even consider a banana cream pudding. Feel empowered to experiment with these suggestions or invent your own favorite combination to personalize your Pumpkin Poke Cake experience!

What are the best methods for storing leftover Pumpkin Poke Cake?

Effective storage is paramount to maintaining the freshness, moisture, and deliciousness of your Pumpkin Poke Cake. Given the inclusion of creamy pudding and whipped topping, this cake absolutely requires refrigeration. Any remaining slices or the entire cake should be transferred to an airtight container or meticulously covered with plastic wrap before being placed in the refrigerator. When stored correctly, the cake will retain its exquisite freshness and moist texture for a generous period of up to 5 days, making it an excellent candidate for advance preparation. For extended preservation, this cake is also remarkably freezer-friendly! To freeze, meticulously wrap individual slices or the entire uncut cake first in plastic wrap, and then in a layer of aluminum foil, before placing it in the freezer. It can be safely stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply transfer the frozen cake to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight before serving. This makes it an invaluable option for convenient dessert meal prepping or for savoring a delightful slice at a later date.

Can I prepare this Pumpkin Poke Cake in advance for an upcoming event?

Absolutely, yes! This Pumpkin Poke Cake is an exceptionally well-suited dessert for make-ahead preparation, which is a tremendous advantage for busy holiday entertaining schedules or hectic weeks. You can comfortably bake the cake, poke the requisite holes, generously pour in the pumpkin pudding mixture, and complete the initial chilling period (a minimum of 2 hours) a full day or even two days before your event. Once the pudding layer has firmly set, ensure the cake is tightly covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and kept refrigerated. The whipped topping and the final decorative garnishes, such as caramel sauce and Heath bits, can then be added just a few hours before serving, or even right before your guests arrive. This advanced preparation not only allows the rich flavors to meld and deepen beautifully but also ensures the cake is perfectly chilled, enhancing its taste and delightful texture. Opting to prepare this cake ahead of time significantly alleviates stress on the day of your event, freeing you to concentrate on other important preparations and enjoy your guests.

A slice of Pumpkin Poke Cake on a white plate.

Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Pumpkin Poke Cake Masterpiece

Crafting this irresistibly delicious Pumpkin Poke Cake begins with gathering a selection of readily available and high-quality ingredients. This ensures a smooth and enjoyable baking process, culminating in a truly spectacular fall dessert. Here’s a detailed breakdown of everything you’ll need to create this autumn masterpiece:

Spice Cake Mix: This forms the aromatic and flavorful foundation of our cake. A standard box of spice cake mix offers a wonderfully convenient and consistent base, already infused with all the beloved classic autumn spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and sometimes ginger. As thoughtfully discussed in our FAQ section above, you have the flexibility to substitute this with a white or yellow cake mix if those are your preference. However, should you opt for a non-spice cake mix, remember the crucial step of adding 1 tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice to ensure that quintessential fall flavor profile is maintained and enhanced. For dedicated home bakers who enjoy the process, making a spice cake from scratch would undeniably elevate this dessert to an even higher echelon of deliciousness.
Eggs, Oil, and Water: These are the fundamental wet ingredients necessary for preparing your boxed cake mix. It is always best practice to meticulously refer to the specific instructions provided on the back of your chosen cake mix brand for the precise quantities of each ingredient, as these can vary slightly between manufacturers. Adhering to the recommended amounts is vital for ensuring your cake bakes up consistently moist, delightfully tender, and possesses a perfectly structured crumb, making it ideally suited to absorb all the delicious pumpkin pudding that follows.
Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: This is arguably the single most critical ingredient directly responsible for the signature “poke” aspect and the incredible moisture of this cake. It is absolutely essential that you select an **INSTANT** pudding mix; vanilla flavor is typically preferred as it allows the natural richness of the pumpkin to truly shine through without competition. The “instant” characteristic means this pudding will set rapidly and firmly when simply mixed with milk, effectively creating the luscious, creamy filling that permeates every crevice of the cake. A crucial warning: always double-check the packaging to explicitly avoid “Cook and Serve” varieties, as these will simply not achieve the desired thick, set consistency required for this specific recipe, leading to a runny and unsuccessful filling.
Whole Milk: Used in conjunction with the instant pudding mix, whole milk is recommended for preparing your pumpkin filling. Its higher fat content contributes significantly to a richer, undeniably creamier texture and a more decadent mouthfeel for your pudding. While 2% milk can serve as an acceptable substitute, using whole milk will consistently yield a more luxurious and satisfying pudding, ensuring it perfectly complements the spiced cake.
Pure Pumpkin Puree: This is the heart of the authentic pumpkin flavor in our cake! It is absolutely imperative to ensure you purchase pure pumpkin puree and diligently avoid inadvertently grabbing pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling is a distinct product that already contains a blend of spices and sweeteners, which would undoubtedly disrupt the carefully balanced flavor profile of this particular recipe. Pure pumpkin puree, on the other hand, provides a natural, earthy pumpkin taste, granting you complete control over the precise levels of spice and sweetness in your dessert. You can typically locate canned pure pumpkin puree in the baking aisle of most grocery stores.
Whipped Topping (Cool Whip): A light, airy, and fluffy layer of whipped topping provides the perfect crown for this delightful cake. Brands like Cool Whip offer a convenient, stable, and consistently sweet topping that holds its shape beautifully. If you prefer a more artisanal touch, you can certainly opt to make your own homemade whipped cream. Should you choose the homemade route and plan to prepare the cake significantly in advance, consider stabilizing your homemade whipped cream to ensure it maintains its loft and texture over time.
Heath Bits: These delightful, crunchy, and buttery toffee bits serve as a fantastic and essential garnish. They introduce both a wonderful textural contrast and a delicious, caramelized flavor that perfectly complements the soft cake and creamy pudding, significantly elevating the overall eating experience. You can typically find these delectable toffee bits in the baking aisle, often conveniently located near the chocolate chips or other baking inclusions.
Caramel Sauce: A generous, artful drizzle of rich caramel sauce over the top of the finished cake adds an exquisite extra layer of sweetness, a decadent flavor, and undeniable visual appeal. Whether you choose to use a high-quality store-bought caramel sauce for convenience or embark on making your own homemade version, this sweet, buttery topping expertly ties all the intricate flavors of the cake together, transforming each slice into an even more indulgent and memorable treat.

Spice cake mix, caramel sauce, Cool Whip, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla pudding mix, Heath bits, water, and pumpkin puree.

How to Create Your Decadent Pumpkin Poke Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these meticulously detailed steps to bring this sensational Pumpkin Poke Cake to life in your kitchen. Precision in each stage and a little patience during the chilling periods are the key ingredients to achieving a truly perfect, show-stopping result!

Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Cake. Initiate the baking process by preheating your oven to the standard 350°F (175°C). Next, meticulously prepare your chosen spice cake mix by following the exact directions printed on the back of its package. This typically involves thoroughly combining the dry cake mix with eggs, vegetable oil, and water in a spacious mixing bowl, then beating the mixture until it achieves a smooth, uniform consistency. Once prepared, carefully pour the batter into a well-greased and floured 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake the cake for the recommended duration, generally around 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the very center of the cake emerges completely clean. After removing the cake from the oven, allow it to cool on a wire rack for approximately 10-15 minutes. It should still be warm to the touch but not excessively hot for the subsequent step, ensuring optimal pudding absorption.

collage of two photos: a fully baked cake in a baking dish; holes poked in cake.

Step 2: Methodically Poke the Holes. While your cake is still pleasantly warm, procure a wooden spoon handle, the blunt end of a sturdy chopstick, or any similar round-ended utensil. With careful precision, proceed to poke numerous, evenly spaced holes across the entire surface of the cake. Aim for the holes to be approximately 1 inch apart from each other. Do not hesitate to make the holes deep enough, ensuring they nearly reach the bottom of the cake. These precisely created cavities will serve as the essential channels for our delectable pumpkin pudding, facilitating its thorough absorption. The residual warmth of the cake is crucial here, as it significantly aids in the pudding’s ability to permeate the cake’s structure more effectively.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Pumpkin Pudding Filling. In a separate, generously sized mixing bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix with the cold whole milk. Vigorously whisk these ingredients together until the mixture becomes completely smooth and begins to visibly thicken. This process usually takes about 2-3 minutes of continuous whisking. Once you observe the pudding starting to thicken, carefully add the pure pumpkin puree. Continue to whisk with renewed vigor until the pumpkin puree is thoroughly and seamlessly combined with the pudding, resulting in a perfectly silky, consistently smooth, and vibrant pumpkin pudding filling.

collage of three photos: vanilla pudding and pumpkin puree in a mixing bowl; pumpkin pudding spread on top of cake in a layer; final layer of whipped topping added.

Step 4: Expertly Fill the Cake. With the utmost care, pour the prepared pumpkin pudding mixture evenly over the surface of the poked cake. Your primary objective here is to encourage as much of the pudding as possible to directly seep into the freshly created holes. Utilize the back of a spoon or a flexible offset spatula to gently, yet thoroughly, spread the remaining pudding evenly across the entire surface of the cake, ensuring that all the holes are completely filled. Avoid applying excessive pressure; instead, gently encourage the pudding to settle into every cavity, creating a uniformly moist and flavorful interior.
Step 5: Crucial Chilling for Pudding Setting. Once the pudding layer is evenly spread, lightly cover the baking dish with plastic wrap, ensuring it doesn’t touch the pudding if possible, and then meticulously transfer it to the refrigerator. Allow the cake to chill undisturbed for a minimum duration of 2 hours. This crucial chilling period is absolutely essential, as it permits the pudding to fully set and deeply penetrate the cake’s crumb, thereby creating its distinctive moist, rich, and flavorful interior. Resisting the temptation to accelerate or skip this refrigeration step is vital for the cake’s ultimate success!
Step 6: Apply the Fluffy Whipped Topping. After the initial and vital 2-hour chilling period has elapsed, carefully retrieve the cake from the refrigerator. Proceed to evenly spread your chosen whipped topping (whether it’s convenient Cool Whip or luxurious homemade whipped cream) over the firmly set pumpkin pudding layer. Once the whipped topping is smoothly applied, re-cover the cake and return it to the refrigerator for an additional 2 hours, or ideally, for an even longer duration. This secondary chilling period allows the whipped topping to firm up beautifully and integrate harmoniously with the underlying layers, guaranteeing a perfect, clean slice with every serving.
Step 7: Gracefully Garnish and Prepare for Serving. When you are moments away from presenting your magnificent Pumpkin Poke Cake, carefully remove it from the refrigerator. Generously sprinkle the entire top surface with Heath bits. These crunchy, buttery toffee pieces will introduce a delightful textural contrast and an irresistible caramelized flavor. Following this, artfully drizzle a rich caramel sauce decoratively over the entire cake. This final touch adds an exquisite layer of sweetness, visual allure, and ties all the intricate flavors together into a cohesive, indulgent experience.

A Pumpkin Poke cake with caramel sauce and heath bits for garnish.

Step 8: Slice and Indulge! Utilizing a sharp knife, carefully slice the cooled and set cake into generous, inviting squares. Serve immediately and savor the moment as everyone delights in this incredible, quintessential taste of autumn!

Looking down on a slice of Pumpkin Poke Cake garnished with caramel sauce.

Expert Tips for Achieving Pumpkin Poke Cake Perfection

Crafting the perfect Pumpkin Poke Cake is an enjoyable and straightforward endeavor, especially when armed with a few expert tips. These invaluable pointers will help you skillfully navigate common baking challenges and ensure your dessert emerges as an undeniable showstopper every single time:

Poking at the Right Temperature: Timing is key for the poking stage. Ensure your cake is pleasantly warm but not scorching hot when you begin to poke the holes. If the cake is too hot, its delicate structure might tear easily. Conversely, if it’s too cold, it won’t absorb the luscious pudding as effectively. Aim for a temperature that allows you to comfortably handle the baking pan without discomfort.
Achieving Even Hole Distribution: Strive for consistency when poking the holes, spacing them approximately an inch apart across the entire surface of the cake. This meticulous spacing guarantees that every single slice receives an equitable and generous distribution of the creamy pumpkin pudding, preventing any dry spots and maximizing the rich, infused flavor throughout the cake.
Instant Pudding: A Non-Negotiable Ingredient: We cannot emphasize this point enough – only instant pudding will correctly set without any cooking. Products labeled “Cook and Serve” will unfortunately remain liquid, thereby compromising the intended texture and ultimately ruining your cake. Always, always double-check the product label to confirm it explicitly states “Instant.”
Embrace the Chill Time: The two distinct chilling periods prescribed in this recipe are absolutely essential for success. The initial chill allows the pumpkin pudding to fully absorb into the cake and set firmly, creating its signature moistness and rich flavor. The subsequent chilling period is vital for helping the whipped topping to firm up nicely, which is crucial for achieving clean, effortless slices and an appealing presentation. Do not cut short these vital refrigeration steps!
Gentle Hand for Spreading: When it comes to spreading both the pumpkin pudding and the whipped topping, employ a gentle hand and ideally use an offset spatula. This technique facilitates a smooth and even distribution of each layer without inadvertently tearing the delicate cake beneath or undesirably mixing the distinct layers.
The Importance of Quality Ingredients: While this recipe smartly leverages a cake mix for its convenience and reliability, selecting high-quality ingredients can significantly elevate the final taste profile. Opt for 100% pure pumpkin puree (never pumpkin pie filling) and fresh, full-fat milk for a noticeably richer and more authentic flavor experience.
Unleash Your Topping Creativity: While the combination of caramel sauce and Heath bits is undeniably phenomenal, feel completely free to experiment with other garnishes! Consider a delicate dusting of cinnamon, a sprinkle of finely chopped pecans or walnuts, an elegant showering of powdered sugar, or even a drizzle of luxurious white chocolate for unique and varied flavor profiles that cater to your personal preferences.
Mastering Clean Slices: For presentation-perfect, impeccably clean slices, try this professional trick: dip your knife in hot water and meticulously wipe it clean between each individual cut. This simple yet effective method prevents the layers from sticking to the blade and results in beautifully neat, professional-looking servings every single time.

Delicious Variations and Thoughtful Serving Suggestions

While the classic Pumpkin Poke Cake is an absolute delight on its own, this versatile recipe provides a fantastic foundation for creative variations and thoughtful serving ideas, allowing you to personalize it and make it uniquely yours for any occasion:

Creative Cake Mix Swaps: Beyond the recommended white or yellow cake options, consider baking with a gingerbread cake mix for an extra festive and spicy kick during the holidays, or a simple vanilla cake mix if you prefer a milder base that truly lets the pumpkin flavor dominate. As a reminder, if you opt for a non-spice cake, remember to add a tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice to the batter to ensure that rich, autumnal flavor profile.
Pudding Flavor Adventures: As previously explored in our FAQ section, cheesecake, white chocolate, or butterscotch instant pudding mixes are all excellent and exciting alternatives to the traditional vanilla. For the more adventurous palates, a chocolate pudding could offer an intriguing and unexpectedly delicious pairing, especially for those who adore the combination of pumpkin and chocolate.
Elevated Toppings: For an even richer and tangier finish that pairs exquisitely with pumpkin, consider topping your cake with a smooth cream cheese frosting instead of conventional whipped topping. Alternatively, for a more gourmet touch, you could prepare a homemade stabilized whipped cream. For garnishes, experiment with toasted coconut flakes, crunchy candied pecans, or a fragrant sprinkle of extra pumpkin spice to add depth and visual appeal.
Adult Indulgence: For an extra special, adult-oriented treat, consider lightly brushing the freshly poked cake with a touch of spiced rum or a good quality bourbon after making the holes, just before pouring in the pumpkin pudding. This will infuse the cake with subtle, warming notes.
Individual Portions: Instead of baking one large sheet cake, you can easily bake this recipe in a muffin tin to create charming individual Pumpkin Poke Cake cupcakes. Remember to adjust the baking time accordingly for smaller portions.

When it comes to serving, this cake effortlessly shines as a standalone dessert, but here are some ideas to make its presentation and enjoyment even more memorable:

Perfect Pairing with Warm Beverages: A generous slice of Pumpkin Poke Cake is the quintessential accompaniment to a warm cup of freshly brewed coffee, a luxurious pumpkin spice latte, or a soothing herbal tea, especially delightful on a crisp autumn afternoon or evening.
Star of the Dessert Bar: If you’re hosting a festive gathering, this cake makes for an outstanding and highly appreciated centerpiece on a fall-themed dessert bar. Arrange it artfully alongside other seasonal delights such as warm apple crisp, classic pecan pie, and an assortment of autumn-spiced cookies.
Complement with Ice Cream: For an extra layer of decadence and a delightful temperature contrast, serve a slice of the cake with a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream or a scoop of cinnamon-spiced ice cream. The cold, melting ice cream beautifully enhances the moist cake.
The Grand Finale for Holidays: This hearty and flavorful cake is robust enough to serve as the impressive grand finale to a Thanksgiving dinner or any significant fall holiday meal. Its quintessential seasonal flavors make it an ideal and celebratory conclusion.

Craving More Fall Recipes? Discover Your Next Favorite!

If you’ve thoroughly embraced and fallen in love with the comforting, rich flavors of autumn, and your culinary curiosity is piqued for more delightful treats, then look no further! Explore this curated selection of fantastic recipes that promise to keep your kitchen filled with the warm, inviting aromas of the season:

Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Apple Spice Poke Cake
Banana Pudding Poke Cake
Red Velvet Poke Cake
Boston Cream Poke Cake
Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
Ultimate Chocolate Poke Cake
Carrot Poke Cake
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cake
The Best Poke Cake Recipes
No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake
Black Forest Poke Cake
Eggnog Poke Cake

Pumpkin Poke Cake

This easy Pumpkin Poke Cake tastes like pumpkin pie in cake form! The spice from the moist cake combined with the pumpkin filling makes this the perfect autumn cake!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars by 10 Reviews

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Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 33 minutes

Total Time: 48 minutes

Servings: 12 servings

Author: Brandie Skibinski

Ingredients

1 box spice cake mix
ingredients needed to make the cake: eggs, oil and water (use the amounts given on the back of the box)
3.4 ounce box instant vanilla pudding mix
2 ½ cups whole milk
15 ounce can pure pumpkin puree
8 ounces whipped topping (Cool Whip)
½ cup heath bits, for garnish
caramel sauce, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Prepare the cake mix and bake per the directions on the back of the box.
When the cake comes out of the oven, take a wooden utensil handle or something similar and poke holes all over the cake, about 1 inch apart.
In a large bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and milk until smooth. Add the pumpkin puree and whisk again until smooth.
Pour pudding over the cake. Take care to pour it right into the holes as much as possible. Spread it all out, and using the back of the spoon, gently push the pudding down into the holes.
Place in the fridge for 2 hours to set. After the two hours, spread the whipped topping on top of the cake and place it in the fridge again for 2 hours or longer to set.
When ready to serve, add heath bits and caramel sauce for garnish.
Slice and serve.

Notes

Please refer to our comprehensive FAQ’s and detailed ingredient list above for substitutions and answers to common questions.
The other ingredients you need to make the cake (oil, eggs, water) may vary by brand. Always use the specific amounts recommended on your cake mix box.
This recipe is also delicious with vanilla or yellow cake mix. If using, we recommend adding 1 tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice to the cake mix for enhanced fall flavor.
This cake must be kept refrigerated. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Nutritional Disclaimer

“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.

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Conclusion: Your New Favorite Fall Dessert Awaits!

There you have it – a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to creating the ultimate Pumpkin Poke Cake, a dessert that is not just a recipe but a promise to be a cherished highlight of all your autumn celebrations. With its perfectly moist spice cake, luxuriously creamy pumpkin pudding, fluffy and light whipped topping, and delightful combination of rich caramel and crunchy toffee garnishes, this cake offers an utterly captivating blend of flavors and textures that truly embodies the heartwarming spirit of fall.

It’s an incredibly easy-to-make, consistently crowd-pleasing treat that allows for wonderful creative customization, ensuring a truly memorable and delightful experience for everyone who is fortunate enough to try a slice. So, gather your ingredients with enthusiasm, preheat your oven with anticipation, and prepare to fill your home with the inviting, comforting aromas of pumpkin and spice. Whether you’re baking for a special holiday occasion, a festive family gathering, or simply to indulge in the cozy comforts of the season, this Pumpkin Poke Cake is destined to become a beloved and enduring tradition. Don’t just bake a cake; create a moment of pure, autumnal bliss. Happy baking!