Name: Pumpkin Dump Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (15 oz) can pure pumpkin puree; 3 large eggs; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix; 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

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The aroma of warm, spiced pumpkin wafts through your kitchen as you prepare to make a delicious Pumpkin Dump Cake. This dessert is like a warm hug on a chilly fall day, with its fluffy texture and rich flavor creating the ultimate comfort food experience. Imagine sinking your fork into layers of creamy pumpkin goodness, mingled with a crunchy topping that sings in harmony with every bite.

Every time I whip up this delightful Pumpkin Dump Cake, it reminds me of cozy family gatherings filled with laughter and stories. It’s the kind of dessert that brings everyone together, making it perfect for Thanksgiving or a casual get-together with friends. You can almost feel the anticipation building as you pull it from the oven, golden-brown and bubbling, ready to be devoured.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Pumpkin Dump Cake is incredibly simple to prepare, allowing anyone to impress their guests without breaking a sweat
The flavor profile is wonderfully balanced between sweet and spiced, evoking autumn in every bite
Visually, the cake is stunning with its inviting colors and textures
It’s versatile enough to serve at any occasion, from family feasts to potlucks

The first time I made this dessert, my friends had seconds before they even finished their first slice—proof that this Pumpkin Dump Cake has magical properties.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Canned Pumpkin: Opt for pure pumpkin puree rather than pie filling for better control over sweetness.
Yellow Cake Mix: A classic choice that provides the perfect base; feel free to try spice cake mix for extra flavor.
Pecans or Walnuts: Choose your favorite nuts for added crunch; they elevate the texture and flavor beautifully.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for more control over seasoning; melted butter is key for achieving that crispy topping.
Eggs: Fresh eggs help bind the ingredients together while adding moisture to the cake.
Spices (Cinnamon & Nutmeg): These spices are essential for capturing that warm fall flavor profile; freshly ground spices offer better taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it lightly with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Mix the pumpkin filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine canned pumpkin, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth; let those delicious autumn aromas fill your kitchen.

Spread it out: Pour the pumpkin mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth it out—this will be the base layer of yumminess.

Add the cake mix: Sprinkle yellow cake mix evenly over the top of the pumpkin layer without stirring—trust me on this part! Those dry mix lumps will create a heavenly crust as it bakes.

Top it off: Scatter chopped pecans or walnuts over the cake mix layer for added crunch and texture. Drizzle melted butter all over everything like you’re showering love on your creation.

Bake away: Place your masterpiece in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes until golden brown and bubbly around the edges. The house will smell divine!

Serve it up: Allow your Pumpkin Dump Cake to cool slightly before serving. Pair each slice with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling extra indulgent!

Enjoy every bite: Savor those cozy flavors while reminiscing about fall memories with friends or family gathered around you—every bite just gets better!

You Must Know

This delightful Pumpkin Dump Cake combines rich flavors and a simple preparation method, making it perfect for fall gatherings
The warm spices and creamy texture create an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen, bringing everyone together to enjoy delicious moments

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the pumpkin mixture first, then layer the cake mix over it before adding butter on top for the best flavor and texture.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out pumpkin puree for sweet potato or butternut squash. You can also add nuts or chocolate chips for added crunch and richness, creating a unique twist on this classic recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Pumpkin Dump Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave for a warm treat or enjoy it cold with whipped cream.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To elevate your Pumpkin Dump Cake, use high-quality pumpkin puree; it’ll make a noticeable difference in flavor
Ensure you distribute the cake mix evenly to achieve that perfectly crunchy topping
Lastly, don’t skip the butter; it creates that dreamy texture we all love!

The first time I made this Pumpkin Dump Cake was during a family gathering, and it disappeared faster than my cousin’s attempts at telling jokes—trust me, that says a lot!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, but ensure you cook and puree it properly for the right consistency.

How do I know when my cake is done?

A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with few moist crumbs.

Is there a gluten-free version of Pumpkin Dump Cake?

Absolutely! Substitute regular cake mix with gluten-free cake mix to make it gluten-free.