Irresistible Pumpkin Spice Poke Cake : The Ultimate Cozy Fall Dessert

When the air turns crisp and pumpkins start showing up everywhere, it’s officially time to bake something cozy — and nothing says fall quite like this Pumpkin Spice Poke Cake. With its tender spiced crumb, creamy filling, and luscious topping, this dessert brings together everything we love about autumn baking in one sweet, simple treat.

This easy pumpkin poke cake starts with a boxed cake mix, gets a creamy boost from sweetened condensed milk, and finishes with a whipped topping that’s irresistible. Whether you’re baking for Thanksgiving, a fall potluck, or just a lazy weekend, this cake fits right into your lineup of fall yummy recipes.

If you love seasonal bakes, you’ll also enjoy the cozy flavors of the Pumpkin Twists — another fall favorite that’s flaky, spiced, and perfect with coffee.

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What Is a Pumpkin Spice Poke Cake?

A pumpkin poke cake is a moist, flavorful cake made by poking holes in the baked surface and pouring a rich filling — often sweetened condensed milk or pudding — over the top. The filling seeps into every bite, creating a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

This version uses a spice cake mix or yellow cake mix blended with pumpkin puree and warm fall spices, making it one of the most delicious and foolproof pumpkin desserts with cake mix you’ll ever try.

Much like the Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies, this cake captures everything cozy and comforting about pumpkin spice season.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Dessert

This pumpkin cake with sweetened condensed milk is a total crowd-pleaser because it’s:

• Ridiculously easy – uses a boxed cake mix and pantry staples.
• Perfectly moist and rich thanks to the poke technique.
• Customizable – add nuts, chocolate chips, or caramel drizzle.
• Festive and crowd-friendly, ideal for potlucks or family dinners.
• Make-ahead friendly – tastes even better the next day!

If you’re a fan of quick desserts that look fancy, you’ll love these Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles — another make-ahead fall treat that’s always a hit.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Pumpkin Spice Poke Cake

For the Cake

• 1 box spice cake mix (or yellow cake mix for a milder flavor)
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup water
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

For the Filling

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping

• 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade)
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (for dusting)
• Optional garnish: crushed graham crackers, caramel drizzle, or chopped pecans

Want to level up your fall baking game? Pair this cake with a batch of Pumpkin Fluff Dip for a dessert table that captures every sweet, spiced flavor of the season.

Kitchen Equipment Checklist

To make this cozy dessert, you’ll need:

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Hand or stand mixer
• Spatula
• Wooden spoon or chopstick (for poking holes)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

These tools are also handy for other autumn treats like Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal — a warm, hearty breakfast version of your favorite fall flavors.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Poke Cake Step-by-Step

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, water, and spices. Beat until smooth and creamy.
3. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Poke the Cake: Let the cake cool for 10 minutes, then use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly across the top.
5. Pour the Filling: Slowly pour sweetened condensed milk over the warm cake, letting it sink into the holes. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results).
6. Top It Off: Spread whipped topping over the cooled cake, sprinkle with cinnamon, and add your favorite garnishes.

For a creamy variation, try filling the cake with pudding instead — just like the creamy center in these Cottage Cheese Egg Bake cups, which show how texture transforms a dish!

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Tips for Perfect Texture and Flavor

• Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
• Don’t skip the holes — they’re what make the cake extra moist.
• Chill the cake before serving for the creamiest texture.
• Add caramel or toffee bits for a fun crunch.
• For extra spice, add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger.

If you enjoy rich, spiced flavors, pair this with Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls for the ultimate fall dessert spread.

Creative Cake Fillers and Add-In Ideas

Looking for cake filler ideas or creative twists? Try these:

• Maple syrup – for a breakfast-style flavor.
• Cream cheese frosting – swirl into the top before chilling.
• Butterscotch pudding – for a caramel-like surprise.
• Chocolate ganache – for a pumpkin mocha vibe.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts – adds a perfect crunch.

These cake add-ins let you create endless variations to fit any craving or occasion.

Easy Ingredient Swaps and Flavor Variations

• Use yellow cake mix instead of spice cake for a milder version.
• Replace sweetened condensed milk with pumpkin pie filling for a twist on pumpkin pie poke cake.
• Add crushed graham crackers on top for a “pumpkin pie crust” effect.
• Use maple whipped cream for an extra fall kick.

If you like cozy desserts with creative twists, you’ll love the Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Pancakes — another warm, protein-packed fall favorite.

How to Store, Chill, and Serve Pumpkin Poke Cake

• Refrigerate: Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Serve: Cold or slightly chilled for a creamy texture.

To complement the warm pumpkin flavors, serve with a glass of Lavender Lemonade for a light, refreshing balance.

Perfect Occasions to Serve Pumpkin Spice Poke Cake

This cake is the star of any fall dessert table! Ideal for:

• Thanksgiving dinner
• Halloween parties
• Autumn birthdays
• Potlucks and family get-togethers
• Office celebrations or bake sales

It’s one of those fall dessert recipes with easy cake mixes that look bakery-made but take minimal effort.

How to Decorate and Present Pumpkin Poke Cake Beautifully

• Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar or pumpkin pie spice.
• Add caramel drizzle for extra decadence.
• Garnish with whipped cream rosettes and crushed pecans.
• Serve each slice with a side of Fruit Dip for a creamy, refreshing contrast.

Non-Alcoholic Pairing Ideas for Pumpkin Desserts

Pair your pumpkin spice poke cake with:

• Hot apple cider
• Chai latte
• Spiced herbal tea
• Pumpkin spice cold brew
• A creamy vanilla smoothie

You can even sip on Lavender Lemonade for a floral, citrusy complement.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Poke Cakes

1. Overbaking: Check early — dry cake won’t absorb filling well.
2. Not poking deep enough: Make sure holes go halfway down.
3. Pouring too soon: Let the cake cool slightly before adding filling.
4. Skipping chill time: Cooling ensures the layers set properly.

Who Will Love This Recipe (and Why It’s Perfect for Fall)

This dessert is perfect for anyone who loves pumpkin spice, from beginners to baking pros. It’s great for busy families, college students, or anyone who needs a foolproof fall dessert.

If you love classic comfort desserts with a twist, you might also enjoy the Apple Crisp with Oatmeal — another fall staple that never disappoints.

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FAQs About Pumpkin Spice Poke Cake

1. Can I use homemade cake batter instead of a mix?
Yes, though a boxed mix keeps it simple and consistent.

2. Can I make it the day before?
Absolutely! It’s even better the next day after chilling overnight.

3. Can I use evaporated milk instead of condensed milk?
Not quite — condensed milk is thicker and sweeter, key for the poke cake texture.

4. How can I make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free sweetened condensed coconut milk and whipped topping alternatives.

5. What toppings work best?
Crushed graham crackers, caramel drizzle, or cinnamon sugar are all great.

Final Thoughts + Call to Action

This Pumpkin Spice Poke Cake is everything you want in a fall dessert — rich, creamy, and bursting with pumpkin flavor. It’s effortless, inexpensive, and guaranteed to make your kitchen smell amazing. Perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or cozy nights in, this dessert is proof that you don’t need to be a professional baker to create something special.

If you loved this recipe, please share it with your friends, save it for later, and subscribe to Lyndy’s Kitchen for more cozy seasonal desserts like the Pumpkin Brownies and Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies — both irresistible treats for fall.

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