Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe

This Pumpkin Dump Cake is the ultimate fall dessert that combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin pie with the ease of a simple cake. Made with just a handful of pantry staples, this dessert comes together quickly and requires no complicated steps. With a creamy pumpkin base, a buttery cake topping, and crunchy pecans, it’s the perfect treat for Thanksgiving, Halloween, or any cozy autumn gathering. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, and you’ll have a dessert everyone will ask for again and again.

Ingredients

For the Pumpkin Base

• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon cloves
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Topping

• 1 box yellow cake mix (15–16 oz)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup chopped pecans (optional but recommended)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and spices until smooth.
3. Pour pumpkin mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the pumpkin filling (do not stir).
5. Drizzle melted butter evenly over the cake mix.
6. Top with chopped pecans for crunch.
7. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until golden brown on top and the center is set.
8. Cool slightly before serving.

Tips

• Use pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best results.
• For a richer flavor, use spice cake mix instead of yellow cake mix.
• Let the cake rest for at least 15 minutes before serving so the layers set.
• Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or chilled with whipped cream.

Variations & Substitutions

• Nut-free: Skip the pecans or replace with crushed graham crackers.
• Chocolate twist: Sprinkle chocolate chips on top of the cake mix before baking.
• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free cake mix.
• Caramel drizzle: Add caramel sauce before serving for extra indulgence.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Add whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
• Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra festive touch.
• Pair with coffee, hot apple cider, or pumpkin spice latte.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy with minimal prep.
• Delicious layers of pumpkin pie filling and buttery cake.
• Perfect for fall gatherings and holiday dinners.
• Versatile and customizable with toppings and mix-ins.