The pumpkin dump cake is a must-try dessert during the fall season. With its combination of pumpkin spice flavors and a buttery cake topping, this treat is perfect for everything from casual dinners to holiday celebrations. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor.
If you love exploring unique and seasonal recipes, consider checking out these related fall dishes, like Pumpkin Pancakes Curacao: Arepa di Pampuna. They offer another way to enjoy the warm flavors of autumn in your meals.
What Is a Pumpkin Dump Cake?
A pumpkin dump cake is a delightful mix of a pie and a cake. The recipe involves “dumping” all the ingredients into a dish—hence the name—resulting in layers of creamy pumpkin filling topped with a crisp, buttery cake crust.
For those new to dump cakes, you can explore the concept further through recipes like the Easy Chicken Pot Pie, which shares the simplicity and comfort of layered dishes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this dessert:
- Canned Pumpkin Puree: The base for the creamy filling.
- Evaporated Milk: Adds richness and a smooth texture.
- Eggs: Helps set the filling to a custard-like consistency.
- Yellow or Spice Cake Mix: For a buttery, crumbly topping.
- Melted Butter: Essential for creating the golden crust.
- Optional Add-Ins: Pecans, walnuts, or chocolate chips for extra texture.
For a variation of this recipe, consider swapping the yellow cake mix for spice cake or experimenting with nuts like those featured in Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joe Recipes.
How to Make Pumpkin Dump Cake
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Mix the Pumpkin Filling
- Combine the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin pie spice in a mixing bowl.
Assemble the Cake
- Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared dish.
- Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the top.
- Drizzle melted butter across the cake mix without stirring.
- Add optional toppings like pecans for a crunchy finish.
Bake
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Serving Ideas for Pumpkin Dump Cake
Enhance the experience of your pumpkin dump cake with these serving suggestions:
- Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Pair it with a warm beverage like apple cider or hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
For more dessert inspiration, explore ideas like Bananas Foster Pancakes, which complement fall flavors perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biggest mistake to avoid when making a dump cake?
The most common mistake is not evenly spreading the cake mix. This can cause certain areas to remain dry or powdery instead of forming a cohesive crust. Make sure to drizzle butter thoroughly and evenly across the top for a uniform texture.
Can you use pumpkin instead of oil in cake mix?
Yes! Pumpkin puree can be used as a substitute for oil in cake mixes. This not only adds moisture but also enhances the flavor with a hint of pumpkin.
Does dump cake have to be refrigerated after baking?
Yes, it’s best to refrigerate dump cake once it has cooled, especially if it contains dairy like evaporated milk or butter. This ensures freshness and prevents spoilage.
What does pumpkin cake taste like?
Pumpkin cake has a rich, spiced flavor with notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. It’s often moist and has a custard-like texture when paired with pumpkin puree.
Why Pumpkin Dump Cake Is a Fall Favorite
With its simplicity, warm flavors, and versatility, the pumpkin dump cake is a staple dessert for the fall season. It’s perfect for holiday celebrations or a cozy night at home. If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out recipes like The Perfect Birthday Cake to expand your dessert repertoire.
Enjoy this easy and delicious treat, and make your fall gatherings even more memorable! 🍂
PrintPumpkin Dump Cake
This Pumpkin Dump Cake is a comforting and warm dessert perfect for fall, with its spiced pumpkin flavor and golden, buttery top. The combination of the soft, creamy pumpkin layer and the lightly crispy, cake-like top creates a satisfying contrast in every bite.
For a festive touch, top it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cake’s rustic appearance and inviting aroma will fill your home with the essence of autumn. Whether served at a cozy family dinner or a holiday gathering, this Pumpkin Dump Cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Dessert, Fall Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Spread this pumpkin mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix over the pumpkin layer, spreading it evenly.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, covering it as evenly as possible. Optionally, sprinkle chopped pecans and shredded coconut on top for added texture and flavor.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
Layering the pumpkin mixture and cake mix for a perfectly baked dump cake.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300 kcal per serving
- Sugar: 22g per serving
- Sodium: 250mg per serving
Keywords: Pumpkin Dump Cake
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