Pumpkin dump cake is the ultimate fall dessert, combining the rich, warm flavors of pumpkin with the ease of a no-fuss, one-pan recipe. This dessert has become a go-to for holiday celebrations, especially during the autumn months, because of its simplicity and mouthwatering taste. Made with a few basic ingredients like pumpkin, cake mix, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, it’s a breeze to prepare while delivering that classic pumpkin pie flavor everyone loves.
Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving dinner, a cozy fall gathering, or simply looking for a sweet treat to enjoy with family, this pumpkin dump cake will impress without requiring hours in the kitchen. With its irresistible texture and comforting flavor, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion, making it a must-try for your next celebration!
Link to an authoritative site for baking tips, e.g., King Arthur Baking for general baking advice.
Table of Content
1) What is a Pumpkin Dump Cake and Why You’ll Love It
What Makes a Dump Cake Different from Other Cakes?
The dump cake method is a unique and incredibly easy approach to baking that sets it apart from traditional cakes. Unlike standard cakes that require mixing wet and dry ingredients separately before combining them, a dump cake essentially involves « dumping » all the ingredients into the pan and letting the oven do the work.
This no-mixer-needed technique makes it an ideal recipe for beginners, busy bakers, or anyone who wants to avoid complicated steps in the kitchen. The minimal preparation, paired with the delicious flavors of fall, is what makes the dump cake a go-to choice for many, especially when you’re looking for a hassle-free yet impressive dessert to share at your next celebration.
Why Pumpkin Dump Cake is the Ultimate Fall Dessert
Pumpkin dump cake truly embodies the essence of fall, making it the ultimate dessert for the season. The combination of pumpkin and classic autumn spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves brings a cozy warmth that’s synonymous with cool, crisp weather and the start of the holiday season. There’s something special about these flavors—each bite of pumpkin dump cake is like a warm hug, offering that comforting taste we crave as the days grow shorter and the leaves begin to change.
2)Ingredients You’ll Need for This Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe
For the base:
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the topping:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 2 sticks (1 cup) butter, melted
2)Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pumpkin Dump Cake
Preparation
- Remove eggs from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to bring to room temperature.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray. For easier serving, you can line with parchment paper with overhanging edges.
Pumpkin Layer
- In a large mixing bowl, add the pumpkin puree and evaporated milk.
- Whisk together until completely smooth with no lumps.
- Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
- Add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and all spices (cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt).
- Whisk the mixture for about 2 minutes until very smooth and well combined.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared baking dish, using a rubber spatula to spread it evenly to the corners.
Topping
- Open the box of cake mix and evenly sprinkle the dry mix over the pumpkin layer. Use your hands to spread it gently if needed, creating an even layer. Do not press down.
- In a small bowl, mix the chopped nuts with 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon if using.
- Sprinkle the nut mixture evenly over the cake mix layer.
- Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan until completely liquid.
- Using a spoon, drizzle the melted butter slowly over the entire surface, trying to cover as much of the dry cake mix as possible. Aim to leave no dry spots.
Baking
- Place the baking dish on the middle rack of your preheated oven.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes. Check at 45 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
- The top should be golden brown and slightly crisp, while the pumpkin layer underneath will remain soft and custard-like.
- If the top is browning too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time.
Cooling and Serving
- Remove from oven and place on a wire cooling rack.
- Allow to cool for at least 45-60 minutes before serving warm, or cool completely (about 2 hours) for a firmer texture.
- For best results, refrigerate for 2-3 hours after cooling to room temperature. This helps the cake set properly.
- Cut into squares using a sharp knife, cleaning the blade between cuts for neater slices.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, extra chopped nuts, and a light dusting of cinnamon if desired.
Storage Instructions
- Cover leftover cake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and place in a freezer bag.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Warm individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds if desired.
Tips for Success
- Make sure there are no dry patches of cake mix before baking.
- For a firmer texture, refrigerate the cake before serving.
- The cake tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.
- For a spicier cake, increase the cinnamon to 1.5 teaspoons and add 1/8 teaspoon of cardamom.
- For a sweeter version, sprinkle 1/4 cup brown sugar over the nuts before adding the butter.
What to Serve with This Delicious Pumpkin Dump Cake
- Hailey Bieber Smoothie
- Beet the Blues
- Healthy Cocktails for Your Next Gathering
- Coffee Loophole
- Green Zinger
Nutrition Information
(Per serving, based on 12 servings)
- Calories: 420 calories
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 380mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 30g
This pumpkin dump cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it also brings a delightful mix of flavors and textures that are sure to impress your guests. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, you can have a warm, spiced treat ready in no time, making it ideal for busy holiday seasons or family gatherings.
We’d love to hear from you! Please share your experiences by commenting below and telling us how you made this recipe your own. Additionally, if you enjoyed this cake, don’t hesitate to share it with your friends and family—they’re bound to love it too.
Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite of your pumpkin dump cake!
How to Make a Delicious Pumpkin Dump Cake: Simple Recipe
Description
Delicious Pumpkin Dump Cake combines the fall flavors of pumpkin pie with a buttery cake topping for an easy dessert. This simple recipe requires minimal prep work—just layer, bake, and enjoy the perfect autumn treat!
Ingredients
For the base:
For the topping:
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt until smooth.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the pumpkin layer.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans over the cake mix if using.
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the entire surface.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes, until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm or chilled with whipped cream if desired.
Notes
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can be made 1 day ahead and refrigerated.
For a spicier cake, add 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg to the pumpkin mixture.