Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake is a fuss-free dessert that brings together the cozy flavors of pumpkin, warm spices, and crunchy pecans. This simple recipe requires minimal effort, making it a perfect treat for fall gatherings, holiday dinners, or any time you crave a pumpkin-flavored indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Just dump the ingredients, layer them, and bake—no mixing required!
- Cozy Fall Flavors: Pumpkin pie spice and pumpkin puree make this the ultimate fall dessert.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Serves 12–16, making it ideal for sharing with friends and family.
- Versatile Toppings: Pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- Crunchy and Creamy: A delightful contrast of a crunchy pecan topping and a creamy pumpkin base.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 15-ounce can pumpkin puree
- 1 12-fluid ounce can evaporated milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1½ cups white sugar
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 18.25-ounce package yellow cake mix
- 1 cup chopped pecans or pecan halves
- 1 cup butter, melted
Directions
Prepare the Base
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Mix until smooth and well-blended.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Assemble the Layers
- Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the pumpkin mixture. Do not stir or mix!
- Distribute the chopped pecans over the cake mix.
- Drizzle melted butter evenly over the top. Alternatively, place pats of butter across the surface for even coverage.
Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60–80 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cake is set. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Serve
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12–16 slices
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60–80 minutes
- Total Time: 75–95 minutes
Variations
- Nut-Free: Omit the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
- Spiced Cake Mix: Use spiced cake mix instead of yellow for an extra layer of flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the cake mix with a gluten-free yellow cake mix.
- Chocolate Twist: Add a sprinkle of chocolate chips over the cake mix for a hint of chocolate.
- Extra Crunch: Add shredded coconut or oatmeal to the topping.
Storage and Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 30 seconds or in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, it can be made a day ahead and reheated before serving.
2. What can I substitute for pumpkin pie spice?
Mix 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon ginger, and a pinch of cloves as a substitute.
3. Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes, spiced or butter pecan cake mix work wonderfully for this recipe.
4. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, substitute canned pumpkin with an equal amount of homemade pumpkin puree.
5. What other nuts can I use?
Walnuts or almonds are great alternatives to pecans.
6. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is recommended for the best flavor, but margarine can work in a pinch.
7. How do I know the cake is done?
The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
8. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Use a non-dairy evaporated milk substitute and plant-based butter.
9. Can I add toppings before baking?
Yes, sprinkle shredded coconut or a cinnamon-sugar mix on top before baking.
10. What’s the best way to serve this cake?
Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert.
Conclusion
Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake is the perfect blend of simplicity and deliciousness. Its creamy pumpkin layer and crunchy, buttery topping make it a crowd-pleaser at any fall gathering or holiday celebration. Whether served with ice cream or enjoyed as-is, this dessert is sure to impress!
PrintEasy Pumpkin Dump Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60-80 minutes
- Total Time: 75-95 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake is the ultimate fall dessert! Made with pumpkin puree, warm spices, and a buttery cake mix topping, it’s simple to prepare and absolutely delicious. Top with whipped cream or ice cream for the perfect holiday treat!
Ingredients
- 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree
- 1 (12-fluid ounce) can evaporated milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 (18.25-ounce) package yellow cake mix
- 1 cup chopped pecans or pecan halves
- 1 cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Prepare Pumpkin Mixture: In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Mix until smooth and spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the pumpkin mixture. Pat it down gently without mixing.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle chopped pecans over the cake mix, then drizzle with melted butter or place pats of butter evenly across the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 60-80 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are set.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool slightly before serving. Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Notes
- Pecan-Free Option: If desired, omit pecans for a nut-free version.
- Spice Variation: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra fall flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Make-Ahead: This dessert can be made a day ahead and tastes even better after the flavors meld together.
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