
This Sweet Crockpot Pumpkin Spice Cake offers a cozy and effortless dessert that fills your kitchen with warm autumn aromas. The combination of pumpkin and spice cake creates a moist, tender texture without much fuss, perfect for those days when you want a comforting treat without turning on the oven or spending hours baking.
I made this cake during a busy holiday weekend, and its rich flavor and easy prep were a lifesaver. Now it's my go to recipe when I want something special with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- One box of spice cake mix: provides the base, loaded with warming spices, choose a high quality brand for deeper flavor
- Pumpkin puree: the heart of the cake, use pure pumpkin without additives for best texture and taste
- Sweetened condensed milk: adds sweetness and moisture, giving the cake its creamy richness, I recommend the classic full fat version for superior results
Instructions
- Smoothing the Pumpkin Mixture:
- Combine pumpkin puree and sweetened condensed milk in a medium bowl, mixing until completely smooth and uniform. This creamy blend will infuse the cake with moisture and flavor.
- Layering the Cake Mix:
- Sprinkle the spice cake mix evenly across the bottom of your crockpot without stirring. This dry layer will bake from the bottom, helping the cake set properly.
- Pouring the Pumpkin Layer:
- Gently pour the pumpkin and condensed milk mixture over the cake mix layer, spreading it evenly. Do not stir the layers together to maintain the unique texture.
- Initial High Heat Cooking:
- Set the crockpot to high and cook for 1 hour. This high heat jumpstarts the cake mix so it starts to firm up at the base, beginning the transformation.
- Slow Cooking to Set:
- After the hour is up, switch the crockpot to low and cook for another hour. This gentler heat lets the cake layer slowly cook through without burning.
- Mixing and Final Cooking:
- Stir the cake and pumpkin layers together thoroughly inside the crockpot, blending them into a smooth batter. Cover and cook on low for an additional 1 to 2 hours or until set to your liking. If the cake feels too moist, keep cooking in 30 minute increments until the texture firms up.

Pumpkin is my favorite ingredient here because it adds both vibrant flavor and wonderful moistness. I remember serving this cake at a family gathering where everyone was drawn to the fragrant spices and creamy texture. It quickly became a favorite that we look forward to each fall.
Storage Tips
Store leftover cake covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors meld beautifully after a day or two and it tastes even better chilled. To serve, warm slightly in the microwave or eat cold straight from the fridge.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try using canned butternut squash puree instead of pumpkin for a slightly sweeter variation. Swap sweetened condensed milk with coconut condensed milk for a dairy free option that adds a subtle coconut flavor. Spice cake mix can be replaced with yellow or vanilla cake mix plus a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to customize the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a classic touch. Add chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top for a bit of crunch and nuttiness. Drizzle a bit of caramel sauce over slices to enhance the sweet, spiced flavors.

This crockpot pumpkin spice cake is a simple, hands off dessert that delivers warm autumn flavors. It's perfect for busy holidays or cozy weeknights.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → How is the pumpkin mixture prepared?
Combine pumpkin puree with sweetened condensed milk and mix until smooth to create a creamy base.
- → Why layer the cake mix and pumpkin mixture separately?
Layering without stirring preserves a distinct texture that sets during slow cooking for moist, tender results.
- → What cooking settings are used in the crockpot?
Start cooking on high for 1 hour, then switch to low for additional time to gently set the cake.
- → How do I know when the cake is done?
The cake is set when it holds together and is no longer gooey; gentle spoon checks help determine readiness.
- → Can cooking time be adjusted for texture?
Yes, you can extend cooking in 30-minute increments on low to achieve desired firmness and avoiding overcooking.