Craving Something Pumpkin?

Written by Lindsey Golden, Photography by Mackenzie Miller, Graphic Design by Julia Vasilyev

We are at the point of the year when it is socially acceptable to incorporate pumpkin spice into every aspect of your everyday life (right before peppermint mocha takes over the food world). Yes, we all know the importance of baking your pumpkin bread or pumpkin roll, but it is always a good time to test out a lasting recipe that will leave your friends and family thinking you are a gourmet chef. This easy pumpkin poke cake will satisfy your autumnal cravings in an instant.

Ingredients: 

• 1 box of yellow cake mix (You can also use vanilla or spice cake mix) 

• 3 eggs 

• 1 cup water 

• ½ cup vegetable oil 

• 1 and ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon 

• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice 

• 1 can of sweetened condensed milk 

• 1 jar of caramel 

• 1 tub of cool whip 

Instructions: 

1. Preheat the oven based on the type of pan you will be using. You’ll set it to 350 degrees for a shiny metal or glass pan and 325 degrees for a non-stick pan.

2. Grease the bottom of your pan to prevent sticking. 

3. Mix cake mix, water, eggs, vegetable oil, pumpkin pie spice, and ground cinnamon in a large bowl with a hand mixer or whisk.  

4. Pour mixture into your pan.

5. Bake for 28-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Poke holes in the cake with the end of a wooden spoon. 

7. Pour sweetened condensed milk into the holes, then pour your caramel.

8. Refrigerate for at least thirty minutes before frosting.

9. Smear cool whip on the top of the cake, making sure it’s evenly distributed. 

10. Enjoy!