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Pumpkin Dump Cake

This Pumpkin Dump Cake is the ultimate easy fall dessert you’ll want on repeat all season long. Made with creamy pumpkin puree, warm spices, and a buttery cake mix topping, it delivers cozy flavor in every bite. The magic happens when the rich custard base bakes beneath a golden, crumbly crust for the perfect texture contrast. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, this no-fuss recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, holiday gatherings, or Thanksgiving dinner. Serve it warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a comforting treat everyone will absolutely love.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Course: Dessert, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients
  • Pumpkin puree 30 oz can: The heart of the dessert. Make sure you grab pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
  • Evaporated milk 16 oz can: Creates a rich, silky custard texture.
  • Granulated sugar 1 cup: Sweetens the pumpkin and balances the warm spices.
  • Eggs 4 large: Help the filling firm up so it slices beautifully.
  • Ground cinnamon 2 tsp: Classic fall spice that enhances the pumpkin flavor.
  • Ground ginger 1 tsp: Adds a subtle zing and brightness.
  • Ground cloves ½ tsp: Brings warmth and that cozy bakery aroma.
  • Yellow cake mix 15.25 oz box: Used dry to form the crumbly top layer. (White or spice cake mix also works.)
  • Chopped pecans 1 cup: Adds crunch and texture. Swap with walnuts, chocolate chips, or toffee bits if preferred.
  • Butter ¾ cup: Thinly sliced to melt over the cake mix and create a golden crust.

Method
 

1. Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
    2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, sugar, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves until smooth.
      3. Pour the pumpkin mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
        4. Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the pumpkin layer—do not stir.
          5. Scatter chopped pecans across the top.
            6. Lay very thin slices of butter over the entire surface so it melts evenly while baking.
              7. Bake for about 60 minutes, until the top turns golden brown.
                8. Allow the cake to cool for 15–20 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with whipped cream or ice cream.

                  Notes

                  Helpful Tips

                  • Don’t mix the layers after adding the cake mix. Keeping it separate creates that signature crumbly topping.
                  • Slice butter thinly and cover the surface well for an evenly crisp finish.
                  • Let the cake rest before cutting so the custard sets properly.

                  Frequently Asked Questions

                  Can I make this ahead of time?
                   Yes! Bake it a day in advance and refrigerate. Warm slightly before serving.
                  Can I freeze pumpkin dump cake?
                   You can freeze it for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly and thaw overnight in the fridge.
                  What cake mix works best?
                   Yellow cake mix is classic, but spice or white cake mix gives delicious variations.
                  Do I have to use pecans?
                   Not at all. Walnuts, shredded coconut, or even crushed graham crackers make great substitutes.

                  Why You’ll Love This Recipe

                  • Super simple prep. Just mix, layer, bake.
                  • Easy to customize. Switch up cake mixes or toppings to suit your taste.
                  • Perfect for fall gatherings. The pumpkin custard and buttery topping scream holiday comfort.

                  Final Thoughts

                  This pumpkin dump cake delivers everything you want in a fall dessert—creamy, spiced pumpkin filling topped with a buttery, golden crumble. It’s effortless enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for Thanksgiving dinner. Whether served plain or dressed up with vanilla ice cream and caramel drizzle, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that you’ll come back to every autumn season. 🍂🎃