Autumn’s Golden Pumpkin Dream

Craving a delightful autumn dessert that’s effortlessly easy to make? Look no further than this incredible Pumpkin Dump Cake. This recipe is a true fall favorite, offering the warm, comforting flavors of the season with minimal prep time. Imagine a rich, creamy pumpkin layer infused with aromatic spices, topped with a buttery, golden cake crumble and crunchy pecans. It’s a dish that tastes just like fall in every single bite, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy gathering with loved ones.

If you’re a devoted fan of pumpkin, this easy pumpkin dump cake recipe is about to become your new obsession. It captures all the magic of pumpkin season in one simple, satisfying dessert. For those who enjoy exploring other pumpkin delights, you might also want to try these Loaded Caramel Pumpkin Blondies, another crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.

The Undeniable Allure of Dump Cakes

Here at Taste and Tell, we are absolutely passionate about easy desserts. And judging by the incredible popularity of our original Dump Cake Recipe, it’s clear that you share our enthusiasm! The concept of a “dump cake” is brilliantly simple: you literally “dump” ingredients into a pan, bake, and voilà – a delicious dessert emerges with minimal effort. This no-fuss approach makes them perfect for any occasion, especially when time is precious but you still want to impress with homemade goodness.

Given the immense success of our classic version, I’m honestly not sure why it took me so long to finally perfect and share this autumnal pumpkin iteration. But trust me, it was worth the wait! This pumpkin dump cake combines a rich, custardy pumpkin base with a wonderfully buttery, crisp crumble topping, creating an irresistible texture and flavor profile. It’s truly a dessert that requires almost no baking expertise, yet delivers a gourmet experience.

A Unique Twist on a Fall Classic

While sharing a similar name, this pumpkin dump cake offers a slightly different experience than my traditional dump cake recipe. This particular version sets up beautifully, forming a more cohesive “cake” that can be neatly sliced and served, much like a classic sheet cake. In contrast, many traditional dump cakes are often best enjoyed scooped into a bowl, given their softer, more pudding-like consistency. The pumpkin and spice in this recipe create a truly unparalleled flavor that is simply perfect for the crisp air of fall.

Interestingly, the rich, creamy pumpkin layer in this cake often draws comparisons to a classic pumpkin pie. So, if the thought of making a homemade pie from scratch feels a bit daunting, this pumpkin dump cake serves as an excellent, stress-free alternative. You get all the beloved flavors and textures of pumpkin pie without the need for intricate crusts or complex baking techniques. For even more pie-inspired ease, you might also consider trying our delightful Pumpkin Pie Cake or these convenient Pumpkin Pie Bars. Whichever you choose, you’re guaranteed a taste of autumn bliss!

Essential Ingredients for Your Pumpkin Dump Cake

Creating this irresistible pumpkin dump cake requires a straightforward list of ingredients, most of which you likely have in your pantry during the fall season. Here’s a breakdown of each component and what makes it crucial for the perfect result:

• Pumpkin Puree: This is the heart of our cake, providing that authentic fall flavor and creamy texture. Always ensure you are using pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which already contains added spices and sugar that would alter the recipe’s balance.
• Evaporated Milk: A key ingredient for achieving a rich, custardy pumpkin layer. It’s vital to distinguish this from sweetened condensed milk; they are entirely different products. Evaporated milk is simply milk with about 60% of its water removed, resulting in a creamier consistency without the added sweetness.
• Sugar: We use a balanced blend of both granulated sugar and light brown sugar. Granulated sugar provides foundational sweetness, while brown sugar adds a deeper, molasses-like flavor and contributes to the cake’s moistness, perfectly complementing the pumpkin and spices.
• Eggs: Eggs are essential for binding the pumpkin mixture and creating that desirable custard-like filling. For a truly rich and decadent filling, I recommend using four full eggs. If you prefer a slightly firmer texture, using three eggs will also work effectively.
• Spices: The magic of fall baking truly comes alive with spices. I love a generous combination of both ground cinnamon and a high-quality pumpkin pie spice blend. This duo ensures a warm, aromatic profile that is quintessential to pumpkin desserts.
• Cake Mix: This is where the “dump” in dump cake comes into play, making the topping incredibly easy. You’ll need just the dry cake mix. A yellow cake mix is my personal preference as it provides a neutral, buttery flavor that allows the pumpkin to shine. However, a spice cake mix can also be used for an extra layer of warmth, just be sure to adjust (significantly cut back on) the additional spices you add to the pumpkin layer to avoid overpowering the cake.
• Pecans: These provide a wonderful textural contrast, adding a much-needed crunch to the soft pumpkin and cake topping. Chopped walnuts or another favorite nut would also be an excellent substitution if pecans aren’t readily available or preferred. Feel free to adjust the amount or omit them entirely if nuts aren’t your thing.
• Butter: Butter is crucial for creating that golden, crispy, and delicious topping. I find that a combination of melted butter and thinly sliced, cubed butter works best to ensure even distribution and a perfect crisp. This method helps all the dry cake mix become beautifully moistened and develop that delightful crust.

Crafting Your Delicious Pumpkin Dump Cake: A Simple Guide

Making this pumpkin dump cake is as straightforward as it gets, proving that incredible desserts don’t have to be complicated. Just follow these easy steps:

• Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Base. In a large mixing bowl, combine your pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, both granulated and brown sugars, the eggs, and a generous mix of cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. This forms the luscious, spiced foundation of your cake.
• Step 2: Layer the Pumpkin Mixture. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour the smooth pumpkin mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, spreading it out with a spatula to create an even layer.

• Step 3: Add the Cake Mix. Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the entire surface of the pumpkin mixture. Do not stir! The dry mix will absorb moisture from the pumpkin layer as it bakes, creating a wonderful, crumbly topping.
• Step 4: Distribute the Pecans. Scatter the chopped pecans over the dry cake mix layer. These will toast beautifully in the oven, adding a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that perfectly complements the soft cake.

• Step 5: Drizzle with Melted Butter. Melt half of your butter and pour it carefully and evenly over the cake mix and pecans. This initial layer of melted butter helps to start the browning process and ensures a rich, flavorful crust.
• Step 6: Top with Sliced Butter. Cut the remaining butter into thin, small pieces. Arrange these butter slices evenly over the top of the cake. This strategic placement helps moisten any dry spots of cake mix and ensures a uniformly golden and crispy topping as it bakes.

• Step 7: Bake to Perfection. Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake until the top is beautifully golden brown. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges of the cake are bubbling invitingly. This typically takes about 45-50 minutes, but ovens can vary, so keep an eye on it!
• Step 8: Cool and Serve. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven. Allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This brief cooling period helps the cake to set, making for cleaner slices and an even more enjoyable texture.

Visual Guide: Watch How to Make Pumpkin Dump Cake

For those who prefer to see the process in action, the video above provides a comprehensive visual guide. Watching each step can be incredibly helpful in understanding the technique and ensuring your pumpkin dump cake turns out perfectly every time. It’s a quick and easy way to master this simple dessert!

Expert Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Dump Cake

While this pumpkin dump cake is incredibly forgiving, a few simple tips can elevate your baking experience and ensure a consistently delicious result every time:

• Butter Distribution is Key: My preferred method of using a mixture of both melted butter and thinly sliced butter is crucial for success. The melted butter provides initial moisture, while the slices melt slowly, ensuring every bit of the dry cake mix is adequately moistened. This prevents any powdery spots and results in that irresistibly golden and crunchy top layer. While you could use all melted or all sliced butter, my extensive testing has shown that the combination yields the absolute best texture.
• Serving Temperature: We firmly believe that this pumpkin dump cake is at its absolute best when served warm. The warmth enhances the comforting spices and melts slightly in your mouth. If you have leftovers, they are perfectly fine to eat cold, but a quick reheat in the microwave for a few seconds will bring back that comforting, fresh-from-the-oven appeal.
• Nut Preferences: While we adore the textural complexity that chopped pecans bring to this cake, adding a satisfying crunch, you are absolutely free to customize! If nuts aren’t your favorite, or if you have allergies, simply leave them off. The cake will still be wonderfully delicious with its sweet pumpkin and buttery topping. You could also experiment with other additions like chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
• Top it Off: The ultimate way to serve this decadent dessert is with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream. The cool, airy cream provides a beautiful contrast to the warm, spiced cake. A scoop of premium vanilla ice cream is another fantastic option, slowly melting into the warm cake for an extra layer of indulgence.
• Don’t Overmix: When preparing the pumpkin layer, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tougher, less tender texture in the finished cake.
• Oven Variations: Every oven is a little different. Keep an eye on your cake during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while the center finishes cooking.
• Cake Mix Flexibility: While a 13.25 oz yellow cake mix is ideal, variations in cake mix sizes are common. Don’t worry if your box is 15.25 oz; any standard boxed yellow or spice cake mix within this range will work perfectly. Just remember to adjust your added spices if using a spice cake mix.

Explore More Fall Flavors: Delicious Pumpkin Recipes

The versatility of pumpkin in baking is truly endless, offering warmth and flavor to countless desserts. If you’ve enjoyed this pumpkin dump cake, you’ll love exploring these other fantastic pumpkin-inspired recipes:

• Pumpkin Snickerdoodles: A classic cookie with a fall twist!
• Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars: Creamy, spiced, and utterly irresistible.
• Mini Crescent Pumpkin Pies: Perfect individual portions for any gathering.
• Pumpkin Cream Cheese Pie: A delightful combination of two dessert favorites.
• Pumpkin Roll: An elegant and delicious fall showstopper.
• Pumpkin Cheesecake Cupcakes: Mini treats packed with flavor.

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Pumpkin Dump Cake

Rating: 4.75 out of 5 stars from 4 votes

Author:
Deborah Harroun

Prep Time:
15 minutes

Cook Time:
50 minutes

Total Time:
1 hour 5 minutes

Servings:
15 servings

Course:
Dessert

Cuisine:
American

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An easy fall dessert, this Pumpkin Dump Cake only takes a few minutes to prep. It’s easy and delicious, and tastes just like fall!

Ingredients

• 30 oz pumpkin puree
• 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 4 eggs
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 (13.25 oz) yellow cake mix*
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup butter

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon.
3. Pour the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
4. Sprinkle the cake mix evenly over the top, then sprinkle the pecans over.
5. Melt 1/2 cup of the butter and pour evenly over the top of the cake mix.
6. Take the remaining 1/2 cup of butter and thinly slice it. Place the butter slices evenly over the top of the cake.
7. Bake the cake in the preheated oven until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling, about 45-50 minutes.
8. Let the cake sit for 10 minutes before slicing.
9. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.

Video

Recipe Notes:

*Cake mixes can range from 15.25 oz to 13.25 oz – anything in this size range will work.

Nutrition information provided as an estimate only. Various brands and products can change the counts. Any nutritional information should be used as a general guide.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1 slice, Calories: 349kcal (17%), Carbohydrates: 34g (11%), Protein: 6g (12%), Fat: 21g (32%), Saturated Fat: 9g (56%), Polyunsaturated Fat: 0g, Trans Fat: 0g, Cholesterol: 86mg (29%), Sodium: 102mg (4%), Fiber: 5g (21%), Sugar: 18g (20%)

Keywords:
dump cake, fall dessert, pumpkin dessert, pumpkin dump cake