Pumpkin Caramel Bourbon Poke Cake: A Decadent Fall Dessert
Pumpkin Caramel Bourbon Poke Cake is a moist pumpkin spice cake soaked with rich caramel and bourbon sauce.Whipped cream and toasted pecans add a light and crunchy finish.The flavors are warm, sweet, and perfectly balanced.Ideal for Thanksgiving and autumn gatherings.Easy to prepare ahead of time for entertaining.A luxurious dessert that captures the essence of fall.
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Cake
- 1 box spice cake mix
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- ½ cup water
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
For the Bourbon Caramel Filling
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- ¾ cup caramel sauce
- 3 tablespoons bourbon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish
- ½ cup toasted pecans, chopped
- Extra caramel sauce
- Ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Combine cake mix, pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, water, and pumpkin pie spice. Beat until smooth.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes, then poke holes across the surface using the handle of a wooden spoon.
- Whisk together sweetened condensed milk, caramel sauce, bourbon, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the bourbon caramel mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Spread whipped cream over the cake and top with toasted pecans, caramel drizzle, and a light dusting of cinnamon.
- Slice and serve chilled or slightly cool.
Notes
- Pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, should be used.
- Bourbon adds warmth and depth without overpowering.
- Sweetened condensed milk creates a rich filling.
- The cake tastes even better the next day.
- Toasted pecans add excellent crunch.
- Homemade caramel sauce gives superior flavor.
- Chill thoroughly before serving.
- Perfect for make-ahead entertaining.