The moment you take a bite of pumpkin dump cake, it’s like a warm hug from an old friend. You know the one—cozy, sweet, and just a little bit nutty. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone wandering in, drawn by its nostalgic scent, ready to devour every last crumb. Picture that velvety pumpkin filling topped with a crunchy, golden crust, all swimming in a sea of spices that’ll make your taste buds dance like nobody’s watching. For more inspiration, check out this Irresistible Garlic Shrimp recipe.
This dish isn’t just food; it’s a memory maker. I recall the first time I baked this for a family gathering; my aunt arrived with her famous pie and left with a slice of my cake. The best part? She swore it was *just* as good! Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving or simply indulging your fall cravings on a rainy day, pumpkin dump cake is the treat you didn’t know you needed but won’t be able to live without.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This pumpkin dump cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any novice baker.
- Its rich flavors combine pumpkin and warm spices that evoke autumn bliss.
- The stunning visual appeal creates an irresistible centerpiece for any gathering.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to enjoy year-round or customize with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients for pumpkin dump cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Canned Pumpkin Puree: Look for 100% pure pumpkin without added sugar or spices for optimal flavor.
- Yellow Cake Mix: Any brand will work; this serves as the foundation for our crunchy topping.
- Ground Cinnamon: This spice adds warmth; feel free to add more if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Brown Sugar: Use light brown sugar for sweetness and that delightful caramel flavor.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter gives our topping that crispy texture and rich taste.
- Chopped Pecans (optional): For those who love a little crunch; they add great texture and flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make pumpkin 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 perfectly—and give it a light spray of nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin Filling
In a large bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, and about half of the chopped pecans if using. Stir until everything is well mixed and creamy.
Step 3: Spread It Out
Pour the pumpkin mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom so every bite gets that luscious flavor.
Step 4: Add the Cake Mix Topping
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the top of the pumpkin layer. Don’t mix it in! Just spread it out like you’re creating a sandy beach on top.
Step 5: Drizzle with Butter
Melt your unsalted butter and drizzle it generously over the cake mix layer. Don’t skimp here; it’s what makes that topping crisp up beautifully!
Step 6: Bake It Up
Pop your creation into the oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes or until golden brown on top. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean—just a few crumbs are okay!
Now, let it cool slightly before serving because patience is a virtue (and it’ll save you from burning your mouth). Transfer generous portions onto plates and consider adding whipped cream or vanilla ice cream as an indulgent finishing touch.
Pumpkin dump cake isn’t just dessert; it’s an experience filled with laughter, joy, and perhaps even some friendly competition among family members vying for that last piece!
You Must Know
- This delightful pumpkin dump cake is a fall favorite, combining the warmth of spices with an easy-to-make cake.
- It’s perfect for gatherings, and the aroma will have everyone flocking to the kitchen.
- Plus, it’s as simple as mixing ingredients and letting the oven work its magic!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve a perfectly baked pumpkin dump cake, start by preheating your oven. While it warms up, mix your dry ingredients and wet ingredients in separate bowls. Then combine them before pouring into your baking dish, ensuring even distribution for that golden top.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to jazz up your pumpkin dump cake with add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts. You can also swap pumpkin puree for sweet potato or add a splash of vanilla extract for extra depth. irresistible Oreo dump cake chocolate cherry dump cake variation Customize it to fit your flavor preferences!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover pumpkin dump cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or until warm.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For optimal flavor, use pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling to control sweetness and spice levels.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for better incorporation.
- Finally, let the cake cool slightly before serving; it enhances texture and taste!
It was during one Thanksgiving that I made this pumpkin dump cake for my family. Everyone raved about it, and I secretly felt like a kitchen superhero—who knew such an easy recipe could bring so much joy?
FAQs:
What is pumpkin dump cake?
Pumpkin dump cake is a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of pumpkin pie with a cake-like texture. You prepare it by layering pumpkin puree, cake mix, and butter in a baking dish. The ingredients meld together while baking, creating a rich and moist treat. It’s simple to make and perfect for fall gatherings or cozy family dinners. For more inspiration, check out this Decadent Chocolate Cake Mix Waffles recipe.
How do you serve pumpkin dump cake?
You can serve pumpkin dump cake warm or at room temperature. For an extra touch, top each slice with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. This enhances the dessert’s flavor and creates a comforting experience. It pairs wonderfully with spiced coffee or hot chocolate during chilly autumn evenings.
Can I make pumpkin dump cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can easily prepare pumpkin dump cake ahead of time. Simply bake the cake, let it cool completely, and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve it, reheat individual portions in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy a warm slice.
What variations can I try with pumpkin dump cake?
You can experiment with various flavors and textures in your pumpkin dump cake. Consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch, or mix in chocolate chips for a sweet twist. pumpkin chocolate chip cookies Spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile too. Feel free to get creative while still enjoying the classic essence of this dessert.
Conclusion for pumpkin dump cake:
In summary, pumpkin dump cake is an easy-to-make dessert that captures the essence of fall flavors beautifully. Its layered texture and rich taste make it a crowd-pleaser at any occasion. Whether you serve it warm with ice cream or enjoy it chilled, this recipe is sure to impress your friends and family. Embrace the comforting vibes of autumn by making this delightful treat today!
Pumpkin Dump Cake
Pumpkin dump cake is the ultimate fall dessert that combines creamy pumpkin filling with a crunchy cake mix topping, creating a deliciously nostalgic treat. Perfectly spiced and easy to prepare, this dish fills your kitchen with warmth and invites everyone to indulge in its autumnal goodness. Whether for Thanksgiving or cozy nights in, serve it warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 (15 oz) can pure pumpkin puree
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, and half of the pecans until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix over the top without mixing it in.
- Drizzle melted butter generously over the cake mix layer.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with whipped cream or ice cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 323
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg




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