Who doesn’t love a dessert that’s easy to make yet feels like a warm hug on a crisp autumn day? This pumpkin dump cake combines the cozy flavors of pumpkin spice with the simplicity of a no-fuss recipe, making it the perfect treat for fall gatherings or a quiet evening at home. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a quick dessert to impress, this cake’s irresistible layers of pumpkin, buttery cake mix, and optional crunchy toppings will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to bring a little sweetness to your season? Let’s dive in!
Key Benefits of Pumpkin Dump Cake
Pumpkin dump cake isn’t just another dessert; it’s the ultimate fall treat that combines simplicity with irresistible flavor. Here’s why you’ll love making (and eating) this cozy, crowd-pleasing dessert:
Table of Contents
- Effortless to Prepare: With just a handful of pantry staples and no mixing bowls required, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Rich Autumn Flavors: The warm, spiced pumpkin filling paired with a buttery cake topping captures the essence of fall in every bite.
- Customizable and Versatile: Whether you want to add a handful of chopped pecans, a drizzle of caramel, or a dollop of whipped cream, this recipe is easy to adapt to your tastes.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: From Thanksgiving dinners to casual get-togethers, this dessert is sure to impress without any stress.
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as easy as it is delicious, pumpkin dump cake checks all the boxes.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Dump Cake
The beauty of pumpkin dump cake lies in its simplicity. You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to create something that feels like a homemade masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy, delicious dessert:
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree – Make sure to grab pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best flavor and texture.
- 1 box yellow cake mix – This is your shortcut to a golden, crumbly topping. You can also use spice cake mix for an extra boost of fall flavor!
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter – Cut into thin slices. This will melt perfectly into the cake mix, giving it that irresistible buttery texture.
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice – If you want to enhance that classic pumpkin flavor, this will do the trick. You can also use cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice if that’s what you have on hand.
- Optional toppings:
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream – These creamy additions complement the warm, spiced cake beautifully.
- Chopped pecans or walnuts – For added crunch and richness, sprinkle some nuts on top before baking or after the cake comes out of the oven.
- Caramel sauce – A drizzle of caramel takes this dessert to the next level if you’re craving an extra indulgent treat.
These simple ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of sweet, spiced, and buttery flavors. Ready to start? Let’s move on to making your pumpkin dump cake!
How to Make Pumpkin Dump Cake
Making pumpkin dump cake is a breeze, and you don’t need to be a baking pro to get it just right. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying the warm, spiced goodness in no time!
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly and creates that golden, crispy topping we all love.
- Prepare your baking dish. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will help the cake bake evenly and prevent sticking.
- Layer the pumpkin mixture.
- Open your can of pumpkin puree and spread it evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice over the pumpkin. This gives it that unmistakable fall flavor.
- Top with dry cake mix.
- Gently sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix (no need to mix it with anything!) over the pumpkin layer. Make sure it’s spread evenly, but don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth – it’ll melt together as it bakes.
- Add the butter slices.
- Evenly place the slices of butter on top of the cake mix. The butter will melt while baking, creating that delightful, golden-brown topping.
- Bake.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. The edges should be slightly crispy, and the center will be soft but set.
- Cool and serve.
- Allow the pumpkin dump cake to cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to slice.
And that’s it! You’ve just created a comforting, delicious pumpkin dump cake with minimal effort. Whether you serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or as-is, you’ll love how simple and satisfying this dessert is.
Pro Tips and Variations
Pumpkin dump cake is already a winner in terms of flavor and ease, but if you’re looking to switch things up or take it to the next level, here are some pro tips and variations to make it even more irresistible!
- Add a different cake mix.
- For a twist, try substituting the yellow cake mix with a spice cake mix. The extra hint of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg complements the pumpkin beautifully and adds even more fall flavor.
- If you prefer something lighter, you could also experiment with a white cake mix for a less rich, fluffier texture.
- Top with nuts.
- Chopped pecans or walnuts bring a wonderful crunch and earthy flavor to the cake. You can add them on top before baking or stir them into the pumpkin mixture for an added texture throughout.
- Go gluten-free.
- If you need a gluten-free option, simply swap the regular cake mix for a gluten-free cake mix. Be sure to check the ingredients of your cake mix to confirm it’s safe for your dietary needs.
- For an extra indulgence, add a caramel drizzle.
- Drizzling caramel sauce over the warm cake right before serving adds a sweet, gooey finish. It’s the perfect complement to the spiced pumpkin and buttery topping.
- Make it dairy-free.
- If you prefer a dairy-free version, swap the butter for a plant-based option, such as coconut oil or dairy-free butter. For the ice cream, try dairy-free vanilla ice cream for a creamy topping that’s just as delicious.
- Layer with chocolate chips.
- For a fun twist, sprinkle a handful of chocolate chips over the top before baking. The melted chocolate adds a rich, decadent layer that pairs surprisingly well with pumpkin flavors.
These variations can help you personalize your pumpkin dump cake to suit your taste or dietary needs while making it even more irresistible. Don’t be afraid to get creative – this recipe is all about easy, comforting customization!
Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Dump Cake
Once your pumpkin dump cake is out of the oven and perfectly golden, it’s time to think about how to serve it for maximum indulgence. Here are some simple and delicious serving ideas that will elevate your dessert experience:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm, spiced pumpkin cake. As it melts into the cake, you get the best of both worlds—cold and hot, sweet and spiced.
- For a twist, try cinnamon ice cream or caramel ice cream to complement the flavors of fall.
- Whipped cream topping.
- Light, fluffy, and just the right amount of sweet, a dollop of whipped cream is a classic topping. It’s simple but makes a huge difference, adding a smooth texture that balances the rich cake.
- If you like a bit of extra flair, try making your own whipped cream by beating heavy cream with a little sugar and vanilla extract.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce.
- A caramel drizzle is the ultimate indulgence, bringing a rich, buttery sweetness that enhances the spiced pumpkin flavors. Add this right before serving for a luxurious touch.
- Serve with chopped nuts.
- For added texture and flavor, top each slice with a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts. The nuts provide a delightful crunch and complement the soft, gooey cake.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon.
- After plating, sprinkle a little ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice on top for that extra fall vibe. It adds a touch of spice without overpowering the dessert.
- Pair with a hot drink.
- This pumpkin dump cake pairs wonderfully with a warm beverage like spiced chai, apple cider, or a pumpkin spice latte. The combination is perfect for cozy autumn evenings.
These simple additions will make your pumpkin dump cake even more special, whether you’re serving it at a festive gathering or enjoying it as a comforting treat at home. Feel free to get creative with the toppings and make it your own!
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Pumpkin Dump Cake
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s simple, delicious, and captures the cozy flavors of fall, this pumpkin dump cake is a must-try. With its warm pumpkin spice filling, buttery cake topping, and endless topping possibilities, it’s a dessert that’s both comforting and versatile. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or treating yourself after a busy day, this cake brings the perfect balance of sweetness and spice to any moment.
Plus, it’s so easy to make! You don’t need fancy baking skills to create a showstopper. Simply layer your ingredients, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. What’s not to love about a dessert that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but really took just minutes to prepare?
So go ahead, make this pumpkin dump cake, and get ready to fall in love with a dessert that will quickly become a staple in your fall recipe rotation. Enjoy it with your favorite toppings, share it with loved ones, and savor every bite!
Ready to dive into this delicious treat? Let’s get baking!
Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe You’ll Fall in Love With
Ingredients
Ingredients for Pumpkin Dump Cake
- The beauty of pumpkin dump cake lies in its simplicity. You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to create something that feels like a homemade masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy delicious dessert:
- 1 can 15 oz pumpkin puree – Make sure to grab pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best flavor and texture.
- 1 box yellow cake mix – This is your shortcut to a golden crumbly topping. You can also use spice cake mix for an extra boost of fall flavor!
- ½ cup 1 stick unsalted butter – Cut into thin slices. This will melt perfectly into the cake mix, giving it that irresistible buttery texture.
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice – If you want to enhance that classic pumpkin flavor this will do the trick. You can also use cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice if that’s what you have on hand.
Optional toppings:
- o Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream – These creamy additions complement the warm spiced cake beautifully.
- o Chopped pecans or walnuts – For added crunch and richness sprinkle some nuts on top before baking or after the cake comes out of the oven.
- o Caramel sauce – A drizzle of caramel takes this dessert to the next level if you’re craving an extra indulgent treat.
Instructions
How to Make Pumpkin Dump Cake
- Making pumpkin dump cake is a breeze, and you don’t need to be a baking pro to get it just right. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying the warm, spiced goodness in no time!
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly and creates that golden, crispy topping we all love.
Prepare your baking dish. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will help the cake bake evenly and prevent sticking.
- Layer the pumpkin mixture.
- o Open your can of pumpkin puree and spread it evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- o Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice over the pumpkin. This gives it that unmistakable fall flavor.
Top with dry cake mix.
- o Gently sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix (no need to mix it with anything!) over the pumpkin layer. Make sure it’s spread evenly, but don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth – it’ll melt together as it bakes.
Add the butter slices.
- o Evenly place the slices of butter on top of the cake mix. The butter will melt while baking, creating that delightful, golden-brown topping.
Bake.
- o Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. The edges should be slightly crispy, and the center will be soft but set.
Cool and serve.
- o Allow the pumpkin dump cake to cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to slice.
Notes
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 19g
- Protein: 2g
FAQs About Pumpkin Dump Cake
Here are some frequently asked questions to help guide you through making the perfect pumpkin dump cake:
1. Can I make pumpkin dump cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Pumpkin dump cake is actually great for make-ahead preparation. You can assemble it the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it into the oven. Just remember, you may need to add a few extra minutes of baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
2. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree if you prefer. Just make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin to get the right consistency. For a smoother texture, you may need to drain excess moisture from homemade pumpkin puree. Canned pumpkin is more convenient, but fresh pumpkin can definitely give your cake an extra homemade touch!
3. Can I substitute the cake mix for a gluten-free option?
Definitely! Simply swap the regular yellow cake mix for a gluten-free cake mix. The recipe will still turn out delicious, with the same comforting flavors. Just check that your other ingredients, like the butter and whipped cream, are also gluten-free if needed.
4. How can I store leftover pumpkin dump cake?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just be sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To reheat, bake it in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual servings.
5. Can I add more toppings?
Absolutely! Pumpkin dump cake is incredibly versatile. You can add a wide range of toppings like chopped pecans, chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of toasted coconut. For a festive touch, drizzle with caramel or add a handful of mini marshmallows. The possibilities are endless!
6. What’s the best way to serve pumpkin dump cake?
Pumpkin dump cake is delicious served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with your favorite hot drink like apple cider or pumpkin spice latte for the perfect fall treat.
We hope these answers make your pumpkin dump cake baking experience even smoother. If you have any other questions or tips to share, don’t hesitate to ask! Happy baking!