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Pumpkin Better Than Sex Cake Recipe

4.5 from 71 reviews

A moist and decadent pumpkin cake layered with sweetened condensed milk, creamy Cool Whip, crunchy Heath bits, and drizzled with caramel sauce. This ‘Better Than Sex’ cake delivers irresistible autumn flavors with a delightful texture contrast, perfect for fall gatherings and dessert lovers alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake

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

Toppings and Filling

  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk (fat-free is okay, 14 oz)
  • 1 package Cool Whip (8 oz)
  • 1/2 bag Heath bits (8 oz bag)
  • Caramel sundae sauce, as needed

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix and pumpkin puree. Stir together until you have a smooth, lump-free batter ready for baking.
  2. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into two greased 9×13-inch baking dishes or bake one and slice it horizontally. Bake in a preheated oven 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 the cakes from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes to slightly firm up.
  4. Poke Holes in the Cake: Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the tops of both cake layers carefully without breaking the layers apart; this helps the sweetened condensed milk soak in.
  5. Add Sweetened Condensed Milk: Pour half of the sweetened condensed milk over the first cake layer, filling the holes and coating the surface. Repeat with the second cake layer and the remaining milk.
  6. Refrigerate the Cake Layers: Place both cake layers in the refrigerator and chill for 30 minutes to allow the milk to fully absorb, making the cake moist and flavorful.
  7. Assemble the Layers: Place the first chilled cake layer on a serving dish and spread half of the Cool Whip evenly over the surface. Carefully add the second cake layer on top and spread the remaining Cool Whip evenly.
  8. Top the Cake: Generously sprinkle Heath bits over the Cool Whip layer to add a crunchy, sweet texture.
  9. Drizzle with Caramel: Finish by drizzling caramel sundae sauce over the cake, adjusting the amount according to your sweetness preference.
  10. Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the fully assembled cake for 3-4 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld and the cake to firm up before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Use pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie mix, to get the best flavor and texture.
  • You can bake one cake and slice it horizontally if you don’t have two pans.
  • Using fat-free sweetened condensed milk is a lighter option without sacrificing moisture or sweetness.
  • Chilling time is important for the cake to absorb all the condensed milk and for the toppings to set nicely.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Pumpkin cake, Better Than Sex cake, caramel dessert, fall dessert, layered cake, pumpkin recipe, creamy cake, easy pumpkin cake