About this cake

This cake mixes pumpkin, cream cheese, and a crunchy top. It feels warm and sweet. You can make it for a weeknight dessert or a party treat. Learn more and see a similar cake at a caramel crunch cake page.

why make this recipe

You will love the soft pumpkin layer and the crisp crumb top. The cream cheese layer makes the cake rich and smooth. You can make it ahead and serve cold. If you want a layer version, try this layer cake idea for more ways to bake.

how to make Pumpkin Caramel Crunch Cake

Preheat the oven and get a 9×13 pan ready. Make the crust, then make the cream cheese layer. Add the pumpkin mix on top. Finish with the crumb topping. Watch the bake time so the center sets but the top does not burn. For a different crunch, you can read a crunchy toffee cake method at this toffee crunch cake.

Ingredients :

1 box (15.25 oz / 432 g) spice cake mix
½ cup melted butter
1 large egg
16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
½ tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
¾ cup crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafer crumbs
¼ cup brown sugar
¼ cup melted butter
½ cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Optional: pinch of sea salt
1 cup heavy cream or whipped topping
2 Tbsp powdered sugar

Directions :

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, combine cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg until crumbly.
Press half of the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch pan.
Beat cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
Spread the cream cheese mix evenly over the crust layer.
Mix the remaining half of the cake mixture with pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Gently spoon and spread this pumpkin mix over the cheesecake layer.
In a small bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter for the crunchy topping.
Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the top.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the center is set and the edges are golden.
Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Top with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, and extra crumb topping before serving.

how to serve Pumpkin Caramel Crunch Cake

Cut the cake into squares. Add a spoon of whipped cream or whipped topping. Drizzle extra caramel and a pinch of sea salt if you like. For a richer cream top, see a whipped caramel idea at this creamy caramel cake.

how to store Pumpkin Caramel Crunch Cake

Cover the cake with plastic wrap or store in a tight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap pieces in foil and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving. For more storage tips on a similar cake look at this decadent cake guide.

tips to make Pumpkin Caramel Crunch Cake

Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth mix.
Press the crust well so it holds the layers.
Do not overmix the pumpkin top; keep it light.
Let the cake chill well so slices hold their shape.
Warm the caramel a little so it pours easy.

variation (if any)

Add chopped nuts to the crumb top for more crunch.
Swap the spice cake mix for yellow cake mix for a milder taste.
Use maple syrup in the caramel for a fall twist.
Add a thin layer of pecan praline between the pumpkin and crumb for more flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
A: Yes. Cook and puree fresh pumpkin, then drain extra water. Use the same amount as the canned puree.

Q: Can I skip the cream cheese layer?
A: You can, but the cake will lose the rich cream layer. You can add more pumpkin mix instead.

Q: Can I make this gluten free?
A: Use a gluten-free spice cake mix and gluten-free crumbs. Check all labels for gluten free notes.

Q: How long before serving should I make this cake?
A: Make it the day before for best texture. Chill at least 2 hours, or overnight.

Q: Can I use cool whip instead of whipped cream?
A: Yes. Thawed cool whip works fine and saves time.

Conclusion

Try another bright cake to serve with this dessert. See the full recipe for a Delicious Lemon Strawberry Cake Recipe You Must Try!