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Pumpkin Better Than Sex Cake Recipe

4.5 from 144 reviews

This Pumpkin Better Than Sex Cake is a luscious, moist dessert combining the warmth of pumpkin puree with a rich yellow cake base. Enhanced by sweetened condensed milk soaking into holes poked in the cake, it’s layered with creamy Cool Whip and topped with crunchy Heath bits and a decadent caramel sundae sauce drizzle. Perfect for festive occasions or any time you crave an indulgent fall-inspired treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake

  • 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
  • 1 can pumpkin puree (15 oz, not pumpkin pie mix)

Toppings and Filling

  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz, fat-free optional)
  • 1 package Cool Whip (8 oz)
  • 1/2 bag Heath bits (4 oz from an 8 oz bag)
  • Caramel sundae sauce (to drizzle, amount to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix and pumpkin puree. Stir until a smooth, lump-free batter forms.
  2. Bake the Cake: Grease two 9×13-inch baking dishes or prepare one dish if slicing horizontally later. Pour the batter evenly into the dishes. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 23-28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  3. Cool the Cake: Remove cakes from the oven and allow to cool for approximately 10 minutes until warm but not hot.
  4. Poke Holes in the Cake: Use the handle end of a wooden spoon to poke holes across the surface of both cake layers to facilitate the absorption of the sweetened condensed milk.
  5. Add Sweetened Condensed Milk: Pour half of the can evenly over the first cake layer, filling the holes and covering the surface. Pour the remaining half over the second layer. The milk will soak into the cake, adding moisture and sweetness.
  6. Refrigerate the Cake Layers: Place both cake layers in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the condensed milk to fully absorb.
  7. Assemble the Layers: Place the first cake layer on a serving plate and spread half of the Cool Whip evenly over it. Position the second cake layer on top and spread the remaining Cool Whip over the top.
  8. Top the Cake: Sprinkle Heath bits generously over the top Cool Whip layer for a crunchy texture.
  9. Drizzle with Caramel: Drizzle caramel sundae sauce over the top evenly, adjusting the amount according to your preferred sweetness level.
  10. Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the assembled cake for 3-4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set thoroughly before serving.

Notes

  • Ensure you use pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie mix, to avoid extra spices and sugars.
  • Fat-free sweetened condensed milk works well as a lighter option without sacrificing moisture.
  • For easier assembly, chilling the cake layers after soaking helps keep the structure firm.
  • Heath bits add a unique crunch; alternatively, chopped toffee or pecans can be used.
  • Caramel sauce can be store-bought or homemade; drizzle lightly to balance sweetness.

Keywords: Pumpkin cake, Better Than Sex Cake, autumn dessert, layered cake, pumpkin puree dessert, caramel dessert, Heath bits cake