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+ servings

Pumpkin Gingerbread Poke Cake

Print Recipe
A slice of pumpkin cake with white frosting and pecans on a white plate, next to a glass of milk and a wooden spoon.
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:40 minutes
Chill Time:4 hours
Total Time:4 hours 55 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 14.5 ounce boxes gingerbread mix
  • 2 ½ cups water
  • 2 eggs
  • 15 ounce can pumpkin puree
  • 3.4 ounce instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold milk
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 8 ounce container whipped topping
  • 1 cup toasted pecans

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
  • In a mixing bowl whisk together the gingerbread mix, water and eggs until well combined.
  • Spray a 9x13 baking dish.
  • Pour the gingerbread batter into the pan and bake at 350 for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  • Remove the cake from the oven and let cool completely.
  • Using the end of a wooden spoon or smoothie straw poke holes all over the cake.
  • In a large bowl whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and milk until combined.
  • Whisk in the pumpkin and brown sugar.
  • Pour the pumpkin mixture all over the cake making sure to get it into the holes.
  • Top with the whipped topping and toasted pecans.
  • Sprinkle with cinnamon if you like.
  • Refrigerate for 4 hours to set.
  • Slice and serve!

Notes

Tips, Tricks & Storage

Don't Skip the Poke
Poking holes all over the warm cake lets the filling seep in perfectly. Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a large straw for even spacing.
Let It Cool
If the cake is too hot, the filling can turn runny. Let it sit for about 10–15 minutes before pouring anything over it.
Spice It Up
Add a little extra cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice if you like a stronger flavor. The warm spices are what make this cake so inviting.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld. 

Substitutions & Variations

However you choose to change it up, this recipe is easygoing and always delicious.
Pumpkin Filling → Carmel, Cream Cheese Frosting, Butterscotch Pudding
Swap the filling for caramel, cream cheese frosting, or even butterscotch pudding for a fun twist on texture and flavor.
Pecans → Walnuts
You can substitute toasted pecans for walnuts, or omit the nuts altogether if you prefer.
Whipped Topping → Homemade Whipped Cream
For a more personal touch, whip heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
Cinnamon Sprinkle Topping → Caramel, Pumpkin Spice 
Instead of adding cinnamon, you can also drizzle caramel or pumpkin spice over the top!
Servings: 12 people
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