Craving a super simple, incredibly delicious fall dessert? Look no further! This Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a ridiculously easy dessert that combines the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin pie with the convenience of a cake mix. Prepare to be amazed by how quickly this comes together and how utterly satisfying it is!
What is Pumpkin Dump Cake ?
Have you ever heard a dessert described as a “dump” cake and wondered, “What on earth is that?” Well, it’s not actually dumped from a garbage can (whew!). It’s called a dump cake because you literally “dump” the ingredients into the pan and bake it. No mixing bowls, no fussy layering – just pure, unadulterated dessert bliss! Who came up with this ingenious method? Was it a busy mom, a lazy baker, or perhaps someone who knew the key to happiness was a delicious dessert with minimal effort? They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and this cake might just unlock everyone’s hearts! The simplicity of this dish is a testament to the fact that great food doesn’t need to be complicated. What are you waiting for? Dive in and experience the magic of the Pumpkin Dump Cake!
Why You’lll Love This Pumpkin Dump Cake
This Pumpkin Dump Cake is a game-changer! First and foremost, the ease of preparation is a huge win. You can have it prepped and in the oven in less than 10 minutes. Plus, making this dessert at home is a massive money-saver compared to buying a pumpkin pie or fancy fall-themed dessert from a bakery. Finally, the toppings! A generous sprinkle of cinnamon and a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes it to the next level. Craving something similar but with apples? Check out our Apple Dump Cake recipe for another delightful twist! Trust me; you’ll fall in love with how effortless and scrumptious this Pumpkin Dump Cake is. What are you waiting for? Get in the kitchen and whip one up – you’ll be so happy you did.
Key Ingredients for Pumpkin Dump Cake :
Here’s what you’ll need to create this fall masterpiece:
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- 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
- 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 box (15.25 ounce) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, melted
- Optional: 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
How to Make Pumpkin Dump Cake :
This Pumpkin Dump Cake is incredibly simple, delicious, and satisfying! You’ll love how the pumpkin layer blends with the buttery, cakey topping. Get ready for a warm, comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The preparation time only takes about 10 minutes and baking can take up to 30minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Pumpkin Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and lump-free.
- Pour into Dish: Pour the pumpkin mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Make sure it covers the entire bottom of the pan to ensure an even bake.
- Sprinkle Cake Mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the pumpkin mixture. Do not stir! This helps create the “dump cake” effect where the cake mix bakes on top to create a crust.
- Drizzle Butter: Pour the melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix. Try to distribute it as evenly as possible so that all parts of the cake mix are moistened.
- Add Nuts (Optional): If desired, sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts evenly over the cake mix and melted butter. This adds a wonderful nutty flavor and texture.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Check the cake at around 45 minutes; if the top is browning too quickly, you can tent it loosely with foil for the remaining baking time.
- Cool: Let the cake cool for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the cake to set properly and the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Serve warm and enjoy! Garnish with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dusting of cinnamon for an extra special treat.
What to Serve Pumpkin Dump Cake With

Pumpkin Dump Cake is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to take it to the next level:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that enhances the warm, spiced flavors of the cake.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over the top complements the pumpkin perfectly.
- Spiced Latte: Enjoy a warm spiced latte alongside the cake for a cozy fall treat.
Top Tips for Perfecting Pumpkin Dump Cake :
Follow these tips to make sure your Pumpkin Dump Cake is perfect every time!
- Even Butter Distribution: Make sure the melted butter is evenly distributed over the cake mix. This ensures that every part of the cake has a rich, buttery flavor. If you notice some dry spots during baking, you can gently spoon some of the melted butter from other areas to cover them.
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can make the cake dry. Start checking for doneness around 50 minutes; a toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cake Mix Variations: You can experiment with different cake mix flavors. Spice cake mix enhances the pumpkin flavor, or try using a butter pecan cake mix for added nuttiness.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the sugar in the pumpkin mixture by 1/4 cup. You can also use a sugar-free cake mix to decrease the overall sugar content.
- Nuts: If you are using nuts, toast the nuts lightly before putting them into the cake. This can provide an intense nutty flavor. Also, you can use other kinds of nuts, like pecan or hazelnut.
- Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce it to 1 teaspoon. For a more intense spice flavor, increase it to 3 teaspoons. You can also add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg for extra warmth.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Storing:
- Refrigerate: Store leftover Pumpkin Dump Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating:
- Individual Slices: Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, or the cake may become dry.
- Oven: For a larger portion, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the cake with foil and bake for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- From Frozen: To reheat from frozen, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight. Then, follow the oven or microwave instructions above.
Final Thoughts:
This Pumpkin Dump Cake recipe is a winner because it’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious. It’s the perfect fall dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight treat or a crowd-pleasing dessert for a holiday gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. So, grab your ingredients and get baking!
FAQs:
Can I use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned?
While canned pumpkin puree is recommended for consistency and convenience, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just make sure to strain it well to remove excess moisture before using it in the recipe.
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes, you can experiment with different cake mix flavors such as spice or butter pecan to enhance the overall flavor profile of the cake.
Can I omit the nuts?
Yes, if you have a nut allergy or simply don’t prefer nuts, you can omit them without affecting the overall outcome of the recipe.
How do I prevent the cake from becoming too soggy?
Ensure the melted butter is evenly distributed over the dry cake mix to prevent soggy patches. Also, avoid overbaking the cake to maintain its texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free cake mix to make this recipe gluten-free. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, you can make your own blend by combining cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest