This is an interesting recipe because it's pumpkin puree mixed with dry cake mix. Then poke holes in it and soak it in sweetened condensed milk. Cover with gooey stuff, and serve. Now. One question I have is how is it going to get a nice spicy pumpkin pie flavor with any spices? If I was making it, I might considering adding some. No, I'm not going to make it: too gunky and sweet and expensive for me. But it sounds like an enjoyable splurge.

Pumpkin Poke Cake

1 box yellow cake mix
1 small can pumpkin puree
1 - 14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk
1 - 8 oz. tub cool whip
1/2 bag Heath Bits
Caramel Sundae Sauce

In a large bowl, mix together the cake mix and pumpkin puree until a smooth batter forms.
Pour batter into a well greased 9x13 baking dish. Bake at 350 degrees according to the directions for a 9x13 cake on the cake mix box.
Let cool for about 10 minutes after baking. Using the bottom of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the top of the cake (this post from a friend has great step by step photos for this part).
Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, filling the holes. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Spread the cool whip over top of cake. Sprinkle on the heath bits, and drizzle caramel over top (just to your liking). Refrigerate for 3-4 hours, or overnight (best).

Here are the rules:

DO NOT USE PUMPKIN PIE FILLING. YOU MUST USE PUMPKIN PUREE IF YOU WANT THE CAKE TO BAKE CORRECTLY.
The cake mix + pumpkin puree version of pumpkin cake may not be for everyone. I like it just fine, especially when it's soaked in Sweetened Condensed Milk and caramel. But if you're not sure about it, feel free to substitute your own pumpkin cake recipe as the cake base.
DO NOT mix together the pumpkin, cake mix, and the other ingredients on the back of the cake mix box!!!! ONLY mix the cake mix and the pumpkin puree.
You must let the sweetened condensed milk soak in all the way. Letting it sit overnight will yield best results.
Use the bottom of a wooden mixing spoon to poke the holes in the cake-- it's just the right size.


It is from this blog: Something Swanky

Take a look at this blog some time - beautiful pictures and decadent recipes. I enjoy just reading about them and imagining.