The aroma of warm pumpkin spice wafting through the air is like a cozy hug in dessert form. Imagine sinking your spoon into a luscious, gooey layer of Pumpkin Caramel Dump Cake, with its rich caramel drizzled lovingly over a fluffy pumpkin base, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds sing. moist pumpkin crumb cake It’s perfect for those crisp autumn days when you want something sweet to remind you that summer has officially packed its bags and left town.
This delightful treat isn’t just a dessert; it’s a memory maker. I remember the first time I made this cake for a family gathering. My cousin, who usually avoids anything pumpkin-flavored like it’s the plague, took one bite and declared it “life-changing.” We all laughed so hard we almost dropped our forks! This dump cake is not only easy to whip up but also versatile enough to become the star of any festive occasion or simply to enjoy on a quiet Sunday afternoon with your favorite mug of coffee.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Pumpkin Caramel Dump Cake is an absolute crowd-pleaser that takes minimal effort.
- Its rich flavors and warm spices create an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen.
- The beautiful layers of cake and caramel make it visually appealing on any dessert table.
- Perfect for fall gatherings or as an indulgent weeknight treat.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Caramel Dump Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Canned Pumpkin Puree: Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to control sweetness and spices.
- Yellow Cake Mix: A classic choice for dump cakes; it provides a light texture that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
- Caramel Sauce: Store-bought or homemade, this sauce adds rich sweetness and gooey texture that’s simply irresistible.
- Ground Cinnamon: A must-have spice that enhances the warmth and flavor profile of the dish.
- Butter: Melted butter ensures moisture and richness in this decadent cake.
- Chopped Pecans (optional): A delightful crunch factor; they add texture and nuttiness if you choose to include them.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Pasta Recipe recipe.

How to Make Pumpkin Caramel Dump Cake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a trusty baking dish (9×13 inches works wonders) and give it a quick spritz with nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks like last week’s leftovers.
Step 2: Mix Pumpkin Goodness
In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree with ground cinnamon and half of the caramel sauce. Stir until everything looks smooth and inviting—this is the base that will keep you coming back for more.
Step 3: Layer It Up
Pour the pumpkin mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Next, sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the top like you’re dusting powdered sugar on holiday cookies—no need to mix! Just let it sit there looking pretty.
Step 4: Add Butter Bliss
Melt about one cup of butter (yes, one whole cup—don’t judge) and drizzle it generously over the cake mix layer. If you’re feeling fancy, toss some chopped pecans on top for extra love and crunch.
Step 5: Bake Away
Place your creation in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling with joy. Your kitchen will smell like autumn wrapped in sweetness!
Step 6: Serve with Style
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving—a few minutes should do. Scoop out servings into bowls and drizzle with remaining caramel sauce because more is definitely merrier.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite while trying not to reminisce about how quickly summer flew by—this cake will surely distract you from those thoughts!
You Must Know
- This delightful Pumpkin Caramel Dump Cake combines the warm flavors of fall with the convenience of a simple dessert.
- It’s perfect for gatherings, bringing comfort and joy to your table without hours of fuss.
- You can serve it warm or cold, topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it’s heating, mix your pumpkin puree, caramel sauce, and spices in a bowl. Spread this mixture evenly in a greased baking dish. Then sprinkle the cake mix on top, followed by dollops of butter and nuts for added crunch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the pumpkin puree for sweet potato or butternut squash for a twist. Adding chocolate chips or pecans can bring extra richness. You could also sprinkle some cinnamon on top for an aromatic touch that will make your kitchen smell heavenly.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Pumpkin Caramel Dump Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warmed through. Serve it with a drizzle of fresh caramel sauce for an extra treat.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a perfectly moist dump cake, ensure not to overbake it; check around 25 minutes.
- Using room temperature ingredients helps everything blend better and improves texture.
- Don’t skip the caramel sauce; it adds essential flavor that makes this dessert unforgettable!
Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of my first attempt when I served it at a family gathering. Everyone raved about it, and I even had to fend off my cousin who tried to claim the leftovers as his personal trophy!
FAQs:
What is Pumpkin Caramel Dump Cake?
Pumpkin Caramel Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of pumpkin spice with a rich caramel topping. This easy-to-make cake uses a simple layering method where pumpkin puree, cake mix, and caramel sauce come together to create a deliciously gooey treat. Perfect for fall gatherings or holiday celebrations, this dish brings warmth and comfort to any table. For more inspiration, check out this Easter Shortbread Cookies recipe.
How do I store leftover Pumpkin Caramel Dump Cake?
To store leftover Pumpkin Caramel Dump Cake, first allow it to cool completely. Then, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also transfer individual portions into airtight containers. Store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to three months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I make Pumpkin Caramel Dump Cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Pumpkin Caramel Dump Cake ahead of time. It’s an excellent dessert option for parties or holidays since it can be prepared a day in advance. After baking and cooling, simply cover it and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, enhancing its taste and making it even more enjoyable.
What can I serve with Pumpkin Caramel Dump Cake?
Pumpkin Caramel Dump Cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of additional caramel sauce on top. For a festive touch, sprinkle some chopped nuts or a dash of cinnamon before serving. These toppings enhance the flavor and add texture, making your dessert even more delightful.
Conclusion for Pumpkin Caramel Dump Cake:
In summary, Pumpkin Caramel Dump Cake is an easy yet indulgent dessert that captures the essence of fall flavors. With its layers of pumpkin goodness and sweet caramel drizzle, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. delicious salted caramel apple dump cake Whether you serve it warm with ice cream or chilled as leftovers, this recipe offers versatility and satisfaction. Try making this comforting treat today to enjoy all its deliciousness!
Pumpkin Caramel Dump Cake
Pumpkin Caramel Dump Cake is a delightful autumn dessert that brings together the cozy flavors of pumpkin spice and rich caramel in an effortless layered cake. This easy-to-make treat features a gooey pumpkin base topped with yellow cake mix and melted butter, creating a warm, comforting dish perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy night in. Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of additional caramel sauce for an unforgettable indulgence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
- 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, ground cinnamon, and half of the caramel sauce until smooth. Pour this mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the pumpkin layer without mixing it in.
- Drizzle the melted butter generously over the cake mix layer and top with chopped pecans if using.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving with the remaining caramel sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg




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