If you’re searching for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dessert that tastes like everything you crave about autumn, look no further than this Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe. Packed with smooth pumpkin, aromatic spices, and topped with a buttery, golden crumb, this clever dessert is as easy as it is delicious. Whether you’re feeding a holiday crowd or just want to bring some festive flavor to your table, Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe delivers rich, creamy, spiced goodness in every bite with practically zero fuss. It’s perfect for bakers of all skill levels and guaranteed to keep everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe only calls for staple pantry ingredients, but each one plays its part to transform simple beginnings into a tender, flavorful masterpiece. Choosing the best of each ensures you get that ultra-moist filling and irresistible crunchy topping!
- Pumpkin Puree: For best results, use pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) for authentic flavor and creamy texture.
- Evaporated Milk: Adds richness and helps create that classic custard-like pumpkin base we all adore.
- Eggs: Bind the filling together, giving the cake its perfectly sliceable structure.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens each layer, balancing out the earthy pumpkin beautifully.
- Ground Cinnamon: The backbone of pumpkin spice, bringing warmth and cozy notes.
- Ground Nutmeg: A pinch rounds out the spice blend with just the right touch of warmth.
- Ground Ginger: Adds a subtle zesty kick and loads of fall flavor.
- Salt: Elevates sweetness and melds all the spices together for a harmonious taste.
- Yellow Cake Mix: The shortcut that delivers a buttery, golden top crust without any mixing fuss.
- Unsalted Butter (melted): Gives you rich, even browning on the cake-top and soaks deliciously into every crumb.
- Chopped Pecans (optional): For a delightful crunch and nutty aroma—totally worth it if you have them on hand!
How to Make Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat
Get your oven ready by preheating it to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures every slice releases with buttery ease—no sticking allowed!
Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until perfectly smooth. You want a silky base here, infused with all those wonderful spices, so don’t rush this step!
Step 3: Layer It All Up
Pour that fragrant pumpkin mixture right into your greased baking dish, spreading it out to the edges. This is your rich, custardy bottom layer that will hold everything together.
Step 4: Add the Cake Mix Topping
Sprinkle the entire box of dry yellow cake mix evenly over your pumpkin base. No mixing, no fuss—just let those tiny grains create the magic crust as it bakes.
Step 5: Butter and Pecans for the Win
Grab your melted butter and drizzle it slowly over the entire cake mix layer, making sure you moisten as much surface as possible (don’t worry if some dry spots remain, the oven takes care of it). If you love a little crunch, sprinkle on those chopped pecans now.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes. You’re aiming for a golden, slightly crisp top and a set center. Once it’s ready, let the cake cool for at least 30 minutes—this helps it firm up and makes for cleaner, prettier slices.
How to Serve Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
The best finishing touch for this luscious Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe is a generous swirl of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which melts deliciously into every warm bite. A dusting of cinnamon or a sprinkle of extra toasted pecans takes it right over the top!
Side Dishes
Since this dessert is so rich and satisfying, I love serving it after a lighter meal—think roasted root veggies, simple grilled chicken, or a fresh autumnal salad. For holiday spreads, it’s a natural fit alongside classics like cranberry sauce or honey-glazed carrots.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive twist, you can bake mini Pumpkin Dump Cakes in ramekins for adorable single servings. Or layer slices into parfait glasses with whipped cream, for a show-stopping trifle effect that highlights those distinct layers of creaminess and crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Simply cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or transfer the cake to an airtight container—the flavors actually meld and get even more delicious over time.
Freezing
If you want to make Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe ahead, you can freeze it after baking and cooling. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, pop slices into the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm the whole dish in a low oven (about 300°F) until heated through. If you love crispy toppings, a quick pass under the broiler revives that signature golden crunch.
FAQs
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
It’s best to stick with pumpkin puree for this Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe, as pumpkin pie filling already contains sugar and spices, which can throw off the balance of flavors and sweetness in the finished dish.
What if I don’t have yellow cake mix?
You can swap in a white or spice cake mix for a slightly different twist, but yellow cake mix creates the ultimate buttery, classic flavor in this recipe.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use your favorite gluten-free yellow cake mix in place of the regular mix, and check that your other ingredients are gluten-free, too. The result is just as delicious!
Is it necessary to use pecans?
Pecans add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor, but the Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe is still amazing without them. Skip or swap with walnuts if you prefer, or leave out nuts altogether for a nut-free treat.
How do I know when the cake is done?
The top should be golden and crisp, while the center should no longer jiggle when you give the pan a little shake. If needed, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are okay), your cake is ready!
Final Thoughts
I just know you’re going to love how effortless and utterly scrumptious this Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe is. It’s the kind of dessert that brings people together and keeps everyone cozy. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a new family tradition—give it a try and enjoy every warm, spiced bite!
