Pumpkin Pie Dump Cake Recipe

Magical Pumpkin Pie Dump Cake Recipe for Fall Sweetness

Fall’s crisp breeze carries the warmth of a classic pumpkin pie dump cake that promises pure comfort.

This delectable dessert blends traditional flavors with a modern twist that surprises every palate.

Layers of rich pumpkin custard mingle with a buttery crumb topping, creating a dessert that feels like a warm hug.

Seasonal spices dance through each bite, awakening memories of cozy autumn gatherings.

Home bakers and dessert enthusiasts will adore how simple ingredients transform into something magical.

The aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg fills the kitchen, signaling a treat that’s both nostalgic and irresistible.

You won’t be able to resist grabbing a second slice of this crowd-pleasing dessert.

Why Pumpkin Pie Dump Cake Is a Fall Favorite

  • Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Guaranteed to wow family and friends at gatherings, potlucks, and holiday celebrations with its irresistible combination of classic pumpkin pie and cake textures.
  • Quick Thanksgiving Showstopper: Solve your dessert dilemma with this super-simple recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal preparation, making it ideal for busy holiday cooking.
  • Versatile Comfort Treat: Enjoy warm or chilled, topped with whipped cream, making it a flexible dessert option for different preferences and occasions.

Everything That Goes Into Pumpkin Dump Cake

Filling Ingredients:
  • Pumpkin Puree: Smooth autumn vegetable that brings rich flavor.
  • Evaporated Milk: Creamy dairy product with concentrated sweetness.
  • Eggs: Fresh binding ingredient for smooth texture.
  • Sugar: Sweet crystals that enhance overall dessert taste.
  • Cinnamon: Warm spice with cozy autumn aroma.
Cake Topping Ingredients:
  • Dry Cake Mix: Quick and convenient base for the dessert.
  • Butter: Rich and golden ingredient for golden crispy topping.
Garnish Ingredients:
  • Whipped Cream: Fluffy cloud-like topping for extra indulgence.

Easy Method for Pumpkin Pie Dump Cake

Step 1: Prepare Baking Setup

Fire up your oven to 350°F.

Take a 9×13 inch baking dish and generously coat it with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Pumpkin Base

In a spacious mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Evaporated milk
  • Eggs
  • Granulated sugar
  • Ground cinnamon

Blend these ingredients until the mixture becomes silky smooth and fully incorporated.

Step 3: Layer the Foundation

Pour the creamy pumpkin mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.

Step 4: Add Cake Mix Blanket

Gently sprinkle the dry cake mix over the pumpkin layer, ensuring complete and uniform coverage.

Step 5: Drizzle Butter Magic

Melt butter and slowly drizzle it across the entire surface of the cake mix, allowing it to create delightful pools of richness.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes.

The top should turn golden brown and slightly crispy.

Step 7: Cool and Chill

Remove from the oven and let the dump cake cool at room temperature for one hour.

Then cover and refrigerate to set.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the chilled dump cake and top with a generous dollop of whipped cream.

Serve to delighted guests and savor each bite!

Tips to Elevate Your Pumpkin Dump Cake

  • Gently sift the dry cake mix over the pumpkin layer to ensure even distribution and avoid large dry patches.
  • Use a spoon or pastry brush to help spread melted butter consistently across the cake mix surface for golden, crispy edges.
  • Insert a toothpick near the center of the cake – if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, the dump cake is perfectly baked.
  • Enhance store-bought whipped cream by folding in a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra flavor complexity.
  • This dessert tastes even better the next day, so prepare it in advance for stress-free entertaining and deeper flavor development.

Keeping Pumpkin Dump Cake Fresh for Later

  • Store leftover pumpkin dump cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or lid to prevent drying out.
  • Wrap individual portions or the entire cake in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Warm individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. For a crispier texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
  • Top reheated cake with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra deliciousness.

Best Things to Pair With Pumpkin Dump Cake

  • Pair Pumpkin Pie Dump Cake with Warm Spiced Chai Latte: Creamy, aromatic chai tea complements the cake's rich pumpkin flavor, enhancing the warm cinnamon notes and creating a cozy autumn experience.
  • Serve with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Smooth, cold vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the warm cake, balancing the dessert's sweetness and adding a luxurious creamy texture.
  • Match with Caramel Bourbon Cocktail: A smooth bourbon-based cocktail with caramel undertones elevates the dessert's richness, adding depth and a sophisticated adult twist to the classic pumpkin treat.
  • Accompany with Spiced Pecans: Toasted pecans with a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon create a delightful crunch, adding complexity to each bite and bringing out the cake's warm seasonal flavors.

Different Takes on Pumpkin Pie Dump Cake

  • Gluten-Free Pumpkin Pie Dump Cake: Replace traditional cake mix with gluten-free yellow cake mix or almond flour-based mix to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
  • Vegan Pumpkin Dessert Bake: Swap eggs with flax eggs, use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk, and select dairy-free butter alternative to create a plant-based version.
  • Low-Sugar Pumpkin Casserole: Substitute sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, and use sugar-free cake mix to reduce overall sugar content for diabetic-friendly option.
  • Dairy-Free Autumn Treat: Replace evaporated milk with almond milk or oat milk, and use coconut oil instead of butter for lactose-intolerant individuals seeking a creamy pumpkin dessert.

FAQs

  • What's a dump cake?

A dump cake is a super easy dessert where you literally “dump” ingredients into a baking dish without complicated mixing or layers, creating a delicious, no-fuss treat.

  • Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just make sure it’s well-strained and has a similar consistency to canned pumpkin to maintain the recipe’s texture.

  • Do I need to mix the cake mix before adding it?

No, simply sprinkle the dry cake mix directly over the pumpkin mixture without mixing. The butter and baking process will help it combine and create a crumbly topping.

  • Is this recipe good for holiday gatherings?

Absolutely! This pumpkin pie dump cake is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any fall gathering because it’s easy to make, serves a crowd, and tastes like a delicious blend of pumpkin pie and cake.

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Pumpkin Pie Dump Cake Recipe

Pumpkin Pie Dump Cake Recipe


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4.8 from 11 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Seasonal comfort meets sweet simplicity in this pumpkin pie dump cake, blending classic holiday flavors with effortless preparation. Creamy pumpkin layers and buttery cake crumbles create a rustic dessert you’ll crave from first delightful bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Primary Ingredients:

  • 1 (15 ounces / 425 grams) can pumpkin puree
  • 1 (12 ounces / 340 grams) can evaporated milk
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 box spice cake mix

Sweeteners and Spices:

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Finishing Ingredients:

  • 2 sticks (1 cup / 226 grams) butter, melted
  • whipped cream for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven by heating to 350°F and thoroughly coating a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
  2. Create a silky pumpkin base by whisking together pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, and cinnamon until the mixture is completely smooth and uniform in color.
  3. Gently pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared baking dish, ensuring an even distribution across the entire surface.
  4. Shower the dry cake mix over the pumpkin layer, making sure to cover the entire surface with an uniform layer of crumbly mix.
  5. Carefully drizzle melted butter across the cake mix, allowing it to seep into the dry ingredients and create pockets of moisture.
  6. Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the top turns a golden brown and the edges appear slightly crisp.
  7. Remove from the oven and allow the dessert to cool completely at room temperature for approximately one hour.
  8. Once cooled, cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for enhanced flavor melding and firmer texture.
  9. When ready to serve, slice into generous portions and top with a luxurious dollop of freshly whipped cream for a decadent finish.

Notes

  • Ensure the pumpkin mixture is completely smooth by whisking thoroughly to prevent lumpy texture and create a silky consistency.
  • Use room temperature eggs for better blending and more even mixing with the pumpkin puree.
  • For a gluten-free version, swap traditional cake mix with a gluten-free yellow cake mix alternative.
  • Enhance flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger to the pumpkin mixture for extra warmth and depth.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55-60 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 370
  • Sugar: 21g
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Fat: 23g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 41g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
James Hambly

James Hambly

Founder & Recipe Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Education, Farm-to-Table Cooking, Southern Cuisine

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Hands-on training in professional cooking techniques, emphasizing farm-to-table practices and Southern cuisine.

The Chef’s Academy
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
Focus: Comprehensive culinary education covering global cuisines, kitchen management, and food safety.​


James grew up surrounded by the smells of cast-iron skillets and slow-cooked Southern meals in Asheville, North Carolina.
He sharpened his skills with a Certificate in Culinary Arts from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, and later leveled up with an Associate Degree from The Chef’s Academy.
James’s philosophy is simple: the best meals don’t need fancy tricks, just fresh ingredients, a hot pan, and a little bit of heart. His favorite days are spent testing one-pan wonders, chasing bold flavors, and creating recipes that feel easy, even on a busy night.

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