Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Cake Batter
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the spice cake mix, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Stir until well mixed.
- Add the Wet Ingredients: Add the pumpkin puree, eggs, vegetable oil, and water to the dry mixture. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the ingredients together until smooth and combined.
- Bake: Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 3: Poke Holes and Add Filling
- Poke the Cake: Once the cake is out of the oven, allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. Then, using the end of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake, making sure the holes are large enough for the filling to seep into.
- Pour the Filling: Mix together the sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce in a small bowl. Slowly pour the mixture over the cake, making sure it goes into all the holes. Let the cake cool completely.
Step 4: Add the Topping
- Spread Whipped Topping: Once the cake has cooled completely, evenly spread the whipped topping over the entire surface of the cake.
- Sprinkle with Toffee and Pecans: Generously sprinkle the Heath toffee bits and chopped pecans over the whipped topping.
- Drizzle with Caramel: Drizzle the reserved caramel sauce over the top for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Optional: Add a finishing touch of chocolate shavings or chopped chocolate for an added layer of indulgence.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Chill the Cake: Refrigerate the cake for at least 1-2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the filling fully absorbs into the cake.
- Slice and Enjoy: When ready to serve, slice into squares and enjoy the decadent flavors of this indulgent dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Fall: This cake highlights the best fall flavors, from pumpkin to warm spices, making it the ultimate dessert for the season.
- Ultra Moist: Thanks to the sweetened condensed milk and caramel filling, this cake is incredibly moist, with each bite oozing with rich flavor.
- Easy to Make: Even though it looks impressive, this cake starts with a boxed spice cake mix, making it easy to whip up in no time!
- Irresistible Layers: The combination of creamy caramel, whipped topping, and crunchy toffee bits gives this cake a perfect balance of textures.
Pro Tips
- Make Ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance, which allows the flavors to fully develop. Just store it in the fridge and add extra caramel drizzle before serving!
- Topping Variations: If you prefer, you can swap out the Heath toffee bits for crushed graham crackers or mini chocolate chips.
- Spice Level: Adjust the spice level by adding a bit more cinnamon or cloves if you prefer a bolder flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Better Than Sex Cake is truly a dessert like no other. Each bite delivers a deliciously moist cake layered with caramel, whipped topping, and crunchy toffee bits. It’s perfect for the holiday season or anytime you’re craving a show-stopping dessert. Your guests won’t be able to get enough of this irresistible cake!