Introduction
As soon as fall arrives, the craving for warm, comforting desserts kicks in, and nothing screams autumn quite like a Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe. This dessert is incredibly easy to make—it requires no special baking skills, no complicated steps, and just one bowl and a baking dish. Unlike traditional pumpkin pie, this recipe is foolproof, with a deliciously gooey pumpkin base and a buttery, crunchy cake topping.
What makes this cake so irresistible is the combination of flavors and textures. The spiced pumpkin filling is soft and custard-like, while the cake mix forms a golden, slightly crisp crust on top. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s quick to assemble yet crowd-pleasing, this Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe is your perfect go-to!
What Is a Dump Cake?
A Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe is exactly what it sounds like—you dump the ingredients into a baking dish, layer them, and let the oven do all the work! Unlike traditional cakes, there’s no mixing or complicated techniques. The dry cake mix gets sprinkled over the filling and bakes into a crisp, buttery crust without requiring any additional effort.
The Pumpkin Dump Cake is a delicious twist on the classic, combining the rich flavors of pumpkin pie with the simplicity of a dump cake. It’s perfect for holidays, Thanksgiving, potlucks, or even last-minute dessert cravings.
Ingredients for the Best Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe
Pumpkin Layer:
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon salt
Cake Layer:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional for crunch)
Toppings (Optional but Highly Recommended!)
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
- A sprinkle of cinnamon or caramel drizzle
How to Make Pumpkin Dump Cake: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
✅ Pumpkin puree
✅ Evaporated milk
✅ Sugar
✅ Eggs
✅ Pumpkin pie spice
✅ Salt
Once combined, pour this mixture into your greased baking dish.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix
- Take the dry cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the pumpkin mixture.
- Do not mix it in—it should sit on top of the batter.
Step 4: Pour the Melted Butter
- Slowly drizzle melted butter over the cake mix.
- Some dry patches are okay; the butter will soak in while baking, creating a delicious golden crust.
Step 5: Add Crunch (Optional But Delicious!)
- If you love texture, sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the top.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pumpkin layer is set.
- You’ll know it’s ready when the edges pull slightly away from the pan and the center is no longer jiggly.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
- Let the cake cool for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe
✔ Use Pure Pumpkin Puree – Don’t confuse this with pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugar and spices. 100% pumpkin puree is what you need.
✔ Distribute Butter Evenly – Pour the melted butter as evenly as possible to ensure the cake bakes properly.
✔ Add More Spices – If you love extra spice, add cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to intensify the fall flavors.
✔ Toasting the Pecans – If using pecans, toast them for 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) before adding them to the cake for a richer, nuttier flavor.
✔ Storing & Reheating – Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave for a warm, cozy dessert anytime!
Pumpkin Dump Cake Variations
🔥 Nut-Free Version: Skip the pecans for a soft and smooth texture.
🔥 Spiced Cake Twist: Swap yellow cake mix for spice cake mix to enhance the warm fall flavors.
🔥 Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk and vegan butter instead of dairy butter.
🔥 Chocolate Lovers’ Twist: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the cake mix before adding butter for a chocolatey surprise.
🔥 Crunchy Topping: Instead of pecans, try graham cracker crumbs or oats for added texture.
Pumpkin Dump Cake vs. Pumpkin Pie: What’s the Difference?
You might wonder—why make Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe instead of Pumpkin Pie? Here’s why:
✅ Easier & Faster – No pie crust, no rolling, no hassle. Just mix, dump, and bake.
✅ More Texture & Flavor – Unlike pumpkin pie, which is smooth and custardy, dump cake has a rich, layered texture with a crispy, buttery topping.
✅ Perfect for Beginners – Even if you’ve never baked before, this cake is practically fail-proof!
✅ Crowd-Pleasing – Great for potlucks and holidays because it’s easy to transport and serve.
Final Thoughts
The Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe is one of those foolproof desserts that delivers big on taste but requires minimal effort. With a creamy, spiced pumpkin base and a crisp, buttery cake topping, every bite is the perfect balance of warm, cozy fall flavors.
Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner, a fall get-together, or just want a comforting treat, this cake is guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Plus, with its simple ingredients and easy preparation, there’s no reason not to give it a try.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, bake this delicious cake, and let the flavors of fall take over! 🍂🎃🍰
