Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe: The Ultimate Fall Dessert

A Cozy Treat That Feels Like Home

There’s something magical about the crisp fall air, the scent of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen, and the warmth of an oven baking a comforting dessert. If you’re looking for an effortless, crowd-pleasing fall dessert, this Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe is just what you need. Imagine pumpkin pie meeting a buttery, crumbly cake—easy to make, rich in flavor, and perfect for cozy gatherings with your loved ones.

What Is Pumpkin Dump Cake?

Pumpkin Dump Cake is your go-to, no-fuss dessert where you simply “dump” ingredients into a baking dish without the hassle of mixing. The result? A delightful combination of creamy pumpkin filling topped with a buttery, crunchy cake layer that practically melts in your mouth.

Unlike traditional cakes, there’s no need for complex techniques or even an electric mixer. You layer your ingredients, bake, and enjoy. The magic lies in how the cake mix blends with the moist pumpkin base, creating a perfectly balanced dessert with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: No complicated steps—just dump, bake, and savor.
Perfect for Fall Gatherings: Ideal for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or a cozy family dinner.
Customizable: Tweak it with your favorite spices, nuts, or toppings to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleaser: The rich flavors and unique texture make it an instant hit at any event.
Great for Beginners: Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is virtually foolproof.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is key to achieving that perfect blend of creamy and crunchy. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredient	Quantity
Pumpkin puree	1 can (15 oz)
Evaporated milk	1 can (12 oz)
Eggs	3 large
Granulated sugar	1 cup
Pumpkin pie spice	2 tsp
Yellow cake mix	1 box
Unsalted butter (melted)	1 cup (2 sticks)
Chopped pecans (optional)	1/2 cup

Ingredient Notes

Pumpkin Puree: Make sure you’re using pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
Evaporated Milk: Adds creaminess without overpowering the pumpkin flavor.
Cake Mix: Yellow cake mix is traditional, but spice cake mix adds an extra autumn kick.
Butter: Real butter (unsalted) is best for rich flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.

2. Make the Pumpkin Base

In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth and creamy.
Pour this mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish.

3. Add the Cake Mix Layer

Without stirring, evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the pumpkin mixture. The key here is to cover the pumpkin completely for an even bake.

4. Top with Butter and Nuts

Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the entire cake mix. Make sure all dry spots are covered to achieve that golden, crispy crust.
Sprinkle chopped pecans (if using) for an added nutty crunch.

5. Bake to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the edges start to pull away slightly from the sides of the dish.
Allow it to cool for 15-20 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set, making it easier to serve.

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Dump Cake

Use Cold Butter: For an extra crispy topping, consider dotting cold butter cubes across the top instead of melted butter.
Add Texture: Mix in toffee bits, coconut flakes, or oats for an extra layer of flavor.
Spice It Up: Add extra cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of cardamom if you love bold flavors.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cake toward the end of baking to avoid a dry texture.

Variations to Try

Gluten-Free Option: Swap in a gluten-free yellow cake mix. The texture remains just as delightful.
Vegan Version: Use flax eggs and a plant-based butter substitute.
Apple-Pumpkin Twist: Add a layer of thinly sliced apples beneath the pumpkin layer for a fall-inspired fusion.
Chocolate Pumpkin: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the cake mix layer for a sweet surprise.

How to Serve Pumpkin Dump Cake

Warm with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on warm pumpkin dump cake is heavenly.
Chilled with Whipped Cream: If you prefer it cold, top with freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: For added indulgence, drizzle warm caramel sauce just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make pumpkin dump cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just reheat slightly before serving to bring out the flavors. It also tastes great chilled if you prefer it that way.

Do I need to refrigerate pumpkin dump cake?

If there are leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Absolutely. Just ensure it’s pureed to a smooth consistency, similar to canned pumpkin. You may need to adjust the moisture content slightly.

Why is my pumpkin dump cake soggy?

It may need more baking time. Ensure the center is set before removing it from the oven for the perfect texture. Also, make sure you’re not using too much liquid in the pumpkin layer.

Can I freeze pumpkin dump cake?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven before serving.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe is the perfect way to celebrate fall’s cozy flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, attending a potluck, or simply craving a comforting treat, this dessert is sure to impress.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to a slice of autumn bliss. Your taste buds will thank you, and your friends and family will be asking for the recipe. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures in the comments below—we’d love to hear how your pumpkin dump cake turned out!