Fall is all about warm spices, cozy gatherings, and, of course, pumpkin-flavored treats. One of the easiest (and tastiest) ways to celebrate autumn is with a decadent pumpkin dump cake. Featuring a creamy pumpkin filling, buttery cake mix topping, and a hint of spice, this dessert is destined to become a seasonal favorite. Whether you’re planning a Thanksgiving feast or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this recipe has all the autumn vibes you crave.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Simple: The “dump cake” style means minimal prep and fewer dishes.
- Ultimate Fall Flavor: Pumpkin puree and warm spices capture that classic autumn taste.
- Perfect for Gatherings: A 9×13-inch pan easily feeds a crowd, making it ideal for holidays.
- Versatile Toppings: Personalize each slice with whipped cream, ice cream, or crunchy nuts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Pumpkin Puree (15 oz can): Brings rich pumpkin flavor to the base.
- Evaporated Milk (12 oz can): Adds creaminess without watering down the mixture.
- Eggs (3 large): Helps bind the filling and provide structure.
- Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens up the pumpkin layer.
- Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp): Classic fall spice.
- Ground Nutmeg (½ tsp): Adds a subtle, warm note.
- Ground Ginger (¼ tsp): Lends an extra kick of flavor.
- Ground Cloves (¼ tsp): Deepens the autumn aroma.
- Yellow Cake Mix (about 15 oz): Forms a buttery, crisp topping.
- Unsalted Butter, melted (1 cup): Ensures your cake mix turns golden and delicious.
- Chopped Pecans (½ cup, optional): Adds crunch and nutty flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease or spray a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Pumpkin Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
- Blend until everything is smooth and evenly combined.
- Pour this mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Create the Cake Layer
- Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the pumpkin layer.
- Be sure to cover all the pumpkin mixture for a consistent topping.
- Add Melted Butter and Optional Nuts
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix.
- If you like a bit of texture, top with chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy finish.
- Bake
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges look set.
- Let the cake cool slightly before serving to allow the layers to settle.
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Dump Cake
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick or fork to lightly pierce the top crust. If it comes out mostly dry (with a few moist crumbs), your cake is ready.
- Customization: Swap the yellow cake mix for spice cake mix to enhance the autumn flavors, or try adding chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
- Adjusting Sweetness: For a less sweet version, reduce the sugar by ¼ to ½ cup. You can also experiment with natural sweeteners like coconut sugar.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve Warm: Heating the cake brings out the comforting flavors of pumpkin and spice.
- Top It Off: A scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar elevates each slice.
- Drizzle Sauces: Caramel or chocolate sauce can add even more indulgence to this dessert.
- Beverage Pairing: Serve alongside coffee, spiced apple cider, or a chai latte for a perfectly cozy fall treat.
Storage and Leftovers
- Cool Completely
- Let the cake cool to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation.
- Refrigerate
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil (or transfer slices to an airtight container).
- Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze
- Slice the cake into individual portions.
- Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat
- Microwave individual slices for about 20–30 seconds.
- Or warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Substitute the canned puree with 2 cups of fresh pumpkin puree. Make sure your fresh puree is well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
2. How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Simply use a gluten-free yellow cake mix in place of the standard version. Check package instructions for any specific baking adjustments.
3. What Other Mix-Ins Can I Add?
Feel free to fold in chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or raisins. You can also add spices like allspice or cardamom for a unique flavor boost.
4. How Do I Adjust the Sweetness?
Reduce the granulated sugar by ¼ to ½ cup if you prefer a subtler sweetness. You can also explore sugar alternatives—just follow the conversion guidelines on the packaging.
Conclusion
There’s no denying the cozy, comforting appeal of a freshly baked pumpkin dessert in the fall. This Best Pumpkin Dump Cake recipe checks all the boxes: it’s simple to prepare, brimming with autumn flavors, and versatile enough for any occasion—from a casual family dinner to a festive holiday spread. Whip it up this season, and watch it become your new go-to for an effortless yet irresistibly delicious treat!
Related Fall Desserts to Try
Indulge in the sweet warmth of the season by making this pumpkin dump cake. Share your baking creations with friends and family, and enjoy the taste of fall in every bite!