If you’re craving an effortless dessert that bursts with cozy fall flavors, the Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe is about to become your new best friend. This cake combines the rich, spiced pumpkin filling with a buttery, crunchy cake topping in one easy-to-make dish that feels like autumn in every bite. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a casual treat, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss, turning simple pantry staples into a warm, inviting dessert everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role—from the silky pumpkin puree setting the creamy base to the yellow cake mix creating that irresistible crumbly top. Together, they build a perfect balance of texture and spice that truly shines once baked.
- Pumpkin puree: Provides the moist and flavorful foundation packed with fall spices.
- Evaporated milk: Adds creaminess and helps create a custard-like texture.
- Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together ensuring the cake holds its shape.
- White sugar: Sweetens the filling just right without overpowering the spices.
- Cinnamon, ground ginger, and nutmeg: Classic pumpkin pie spices delivering warm, aromatic notes.
- Yellow cake mix: Acts as the crunchy, buttery topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling.
- Melted butter: Soaks through the dry cake mix for a rich, golden crust.
- Chopped pecans (optional): Add a delightful nutty crunch if you want a bit of extra texture.
How to Make Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish. This ensures your cake won’t stick and will bake evenly, setting you up for success right from the beginning.
Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg until you have a smooth, uniform mixture. This blend is what gives the cake its luscious, creamy texture and that unmistakable pumpkin spice flavor.
Step 3: Layer the Pumpkin Mixture
Pour the pumpkin filling into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Getting this layer smooth allows the topping to bake evenly and creates the perfect contrast between creamy and crispy.
Step 4: Add the Cake Mix Topping
Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over the pumpkin layer. Don’t worry about pressing it down; leaving it loose is exactly what will give the cake that signature crumbly crust.
Step 5: Drizzle Melted Butter
Pour the melted butter over the dry cake mix, making sure to cover as much surface as possible. The butter soaks through and transforms the cake mix into a beautifully golden, buttery layer that adds richness to every bite.
Step 6: Top with Pecans (Optional)
If you love a little crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans on top before baking. They toast in the oven adding a nutty flavor and delightful texture that pairs perfectly with the spices and sweetness.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the edges are crisp. You’ll know it’s done when you see the cake bubbling around the edges and that gorgeous color forming on top.
How to Serve Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top of your Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe is an absolute game-changer. The cold creaminess contrasts so beautifully with the warm cake, enhancing the comforting, cozy vibe. For an extra touch, sprinkle some cinnamon or crushed pecans on the garnish.
Side Dishes
This cake shines brightest when served alongside a cup of hot coffee, chai tea, or apple cider. These warm beverages complement the spices in the pumpkin cake and make for a perfectly cozy snack or dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe in individual ramekins or mini mason jars. That way, each guest gets their own perfectly portioned dessert. You can also drizzle caramel sauce on top or sprinkle extra chopped nuts and a pinch of cinnamon right before serving to make it look as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is quite possible because this cake disappears quickly), cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The cake stays moist and flavorful for up to 4 days.
Freezing
You can freeze Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe either whole or sliced. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or place in a freezer-safe container. It keeps well for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to serve.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers warm, reheat slices in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. This refreshes the texture and brings back that freshly baked feel, especially if paired with a scoop of your favorite ice cream.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Fresh pumpkin can be used, but you will need to cook and puree it first. The texture and moisture content of homemade pumpkin puree varies, so the cake consistency might be slightly different, but it will still taste delicious.
Is it necessary to use evaporated milk?
Evaporated milk adds richness and creaminess that regular milk doesn’t provide. However, if you don’t have it on hand, whole milk or half-and-half can be used as substitutes, but expect a slightly lighter texture.
Can I skip the nuts on top?
Absolutely! The pecans are optional and mainly add texture and a nutty flavor. The cake is delightful without them and still has a wonderful crunch from the cake topping and butter.
How spicy is this Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe?
The spice blend of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg is warm but not overpowering. If you prefer a stronger spice kick, feel free to increase the spices slightly or add a pinch of cloves or allspice.
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, swap the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified. The result should be equally delicious with a similar texture.
Final Thoughts
Summoning cozy fall vibes with ease, the Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe is the perfect dessert to whip up when you want something impressive without the stress. Its combination of simple ingredients, inviting flavors, and easy assembly makes it a staple to keep in your recipe arsenal. I encourage you to try it for your next gathering or just to treat yourself—you’ll soon see why it’s a beloved favorite that brings warmth and smiles every time.
Print
Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy Pumpkin Dump Cake is a delightful autumn dessert combining smooth pumpkin puree with warm spices and a crunchy cake topping. Perfect for festive gatherings or a cozy treat, it offers a wonderful blend of creamy and crisp textures in every bite.
Ingredients
Pumpkin Mixture
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1½ cups white sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp nutmeg
Topping
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 cup melted butter
- ¾ cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mix Pumpkin Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Layer Pumpkin Mixture: Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure an even bake throughout the dessert.
- Add Cake Mix Topping: Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the pumpkin layer, covering the surface completely.
- Drizzle Melted Butter: Pour the melted butter over the dry cake mix topping, making sure to cover as much of the surface as possible. This will create a crispy, golden crust.
- Add Pecans (Optional): If using, sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the top to add extra texture and flavor.
- Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are crisp. Insert a toothpick in the center to ensure it comes out clean for doneness.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving to let the layers set for easier slicing and enhanced flavor.
Notes
- For a nuttier texture, substitute pecans with walnuts or omit nuts for a nut-free option.
- You can add whipped cream or vanilla ice cream as a topping for serving.
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor impact.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- This recipe is easily doubled for larger gatherings.
