If you’re searching for a show-stopping dessert that brings all the cozy flavors of fall into one delightful bite, the Pumpkin Patch Poke Cake Recipe is your new best friend. It combines the warm spices of a classic pumpkin spice cake with a luscious pudding filling that seeps into every hole, making each forkful moist and flavorful. Topped with fluffy whipped cream and playful pumpkin-shaped candies, this cake isn’t just delicious—it’s a festive centerpiece perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply indulging in the beauty of autumn at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pumpkin Patch Poke Cake Recipe relies on straightforward pantry staples and a few fun extras, each ingredient playing a vital role to elevate the flavors, textures, and autumnal color palette. From the spice cake base to the creamy vanilla pudding filling, everything combines beautifully into a comforting and irresistible treat.
- Spice cake mix (1 box): Provides a perfectly spiced foundation, but feel free to use your favorite homemade spice cake recipe for a personal touch.
- Pumpkin puree (1 cup): Adds moistness and that signature rich pumpkin flavor crucial for the seasonal vibe.
- Pumpkin pie spice (1 teaspoon): Enhances the warm spices, creating that quintessential pumpkin spice taste.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz package): Thickens into a creamy filling that seeps into the cake’s holes, making it deliciously soft.
- Cold milk (2 cups): Helps the pudding set perfectly with a smooth, velvety texture.
- Cinnamon (½ teaspoon): Boosts the spice profile in the pudding for added warmth.
- Whipped topping (8 oz container): Adds a light, fluffy layer that balances the richness of the pudding and cake.
- Caramel sauce (½ cup, optional): A sweet drizzle that adds a luscious, buttery finish.
- Pumpkin-shaped candies: Festive garnish that makes the cake visually fun and perfect for fall celebrations.
- Crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs: Adds a bit of crunch and rustic charm atop the whipped topping.
How to Make Pumpkin Patch Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven as directed on the spice cake mix box. Next, prepare the cake batter according to the package instructions, but here’s the magic touch — stir in the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice. This transforms ordinary spice cake into a pumpkin-infused masterpiece, making every slice aromatic and moist.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch baking pan and bake it for the recommended time on your box or recipe. The aroma alone will make your kitchen feel like a cozy pumpkin patch in autumn. Allow the cake to cool slightly once it’s baked, which prepares it for the key step ahead.
Step 3: Poke the Cake and Prepare Filling
Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the top of the cake about an inch apart. This is where the pudding filling will work its magic, soaking into the cake and keeping every bite wonderfully moist. Meanwhile, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and cinnamon until the mixture thickens—this creamy blend will fill those holes and add a smooth texture contrast.
Step 4: Pour Pudding and Chill
Evenly pour the thickened pudding mixture over the cake, gently spreading it so it seeps deeply into the holes. Once evenly coated, pop the cake into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This chilling step is crucial—it allows the pudding to set fully and infuse the cake layers with irresistible creaminess.
Step 5: Add Whipped Topping and Garnishes
After chilling, spread a generous layer of whipped topping over the cake. If you love a little extra indulgence, drizzle caramel sauce on top for an added layer of flavor. Finish by sprinkling crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs and topping with pumpkin-shaped candies for that cute and festive final touch that everyone will adore.
How to Serve Pumpkin Patch Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Think beyond the pumpkin candies! A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg dusted lightly on your whipped topping can enhance the spice notes. Add chopped pecans or toasted coconut flakes if you’re craving some crunch. These little changes personalize your Pumpkin Patch Poke Cake Recipe and keep it feeling fresh each time.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a warm cup of spiced apple cider or a creamy latte. If serving for an after-dinner treat, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of crème fraîche offers a delightful creamy complement to the spiced cake.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your cake on a rustic wooden board with autumn leaves scattered around for an Instagram-worthy display. For a fun party twist, slice into bite-sized squares and serve in mini cupcake liners with a tiny pumpkin candy on top. Presentation can make your Pumpkin Patch Poke Cake Recipe as memorable as its flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Pumpkin Patch Poke Cake Recipe covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays moist and fresh for up to 4 days, making it perfect for planning ahead or enjoying over several days.
Freezing
If you want to keep the cake longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. It freezes well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight to maintain its creamy, luscious texture.
Reheating
This cake is best served chilled. However, if you prefer a slightly warmer dessert, allow the chilled slice to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as that can disrupt the pudding and whipped topping layers.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pumpkin pie spice instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! A homemade blend with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves will work beautifully in this Pumpkin Patch Poke Cake Recipe. It allows you to customize the spice profile to your liking.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting a gluten-free spice cake mix and ensuring the pudding mix is gluten-free, you can enjoy this delightful dessert without worry. Just double-check ingredient labels for safety.
Can I replace the whipped topping with homemade whipped cream?
Definitely. Freshly whipped cream adds a wonderful, light texture and a richer flavor that complements the pumpkin and pudding layers perfectly.
What if I don’t have pumpkin-shaped candies?
No worries! You can use other fall-themed decorations like candy corn, toasted nuts, or even small fondant leaves to keep the festive spirit alive in your Pumpkin Patch Poke Cake Recipe.
How long should the cake chill before serving?
For best results, refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, though overnight chilling is even better to let all the flavors meld and the pudding filling set firmly inside the cake.
Final Thoughts
The Pumpkin Patch Poke Cake Recipe is truly a celebration of fall’s best flavors wrapped into one easy, fun dessert. With its moist, spiced base, creamy pudding infusion, and whimsical toppings, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and share this cozy taste of autumn with friends and family!
Print
Pumpkin Patch Poke Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pumpkin Patch Poke Cake is a delightful autumn dessert featuring a moist spice cake infused with pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice. Holes are poked into the baked cake to soak up a cinnamon-spiced vanilla pudding, creating a rich and creamy center. Topped with whipped topping, caramel drizzle, and festive pumpkin-shaped candies, this cake is perfect for fall gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients
Spice Cake
- 1 box spice cake mix (plus ingredients required on the box) or homemade spice cake using your favorite recipe
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Pudding Filling
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
Topping and Garnish
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- ½ 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 according to the spice cake mix package instructions to ensure the cake bakes evenly.
- Mix the Batter: Prepare the spice cake mix as directed on the box. Stir in 1 cup of pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to infuse warm autumn flavors into the batter.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch baking pan and bake as per the package directions until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Poke Holes in the Cake: After baking, let the cake cool slightly. Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the surface, allowing the pudding to soak in deeply.
- Prepare and Pour Pudding: Whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, 2 cups of cold milk, and ½ teaspoon cinnamon until thickened. Pour this pudding mixture evenly over the cake, ensuring it fills the poked holes.
- Chill the Cake: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to let the pudding set inside the cake for a creamy, moist texture.
- Add Whipped Topping: Spread the 8 oz container of whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake to create a light and fluffy topping layer.
- Optional Garnishes: Drizzle ½ cup caramel sauce over the whipped topping if desired. Garnish with pumpkin-shaped candies and sprinkle with crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs for added texture and festive appeal.
- Serve: Slice the cake into 12 servings and serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a homemade spice cake, use your favorite recipe in place of the boxed mix.
- Ensure the cake is slightly cooled before poking holes to prevent breaking.
- Use cold milk for the pudding to help it set properly.
- Caramel sauce and garnishes are optional but add a nice decorative and flavor touch.
- This cake can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
