The Ultimate Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake: Your Go-To Fall Dessert Recipe
Embrace the cozy essence of autumn with the easiest, most delightful pumpkin dessert you’ll ever bake: Pumpkin Dump Cake. This beloved pumpkin spice dump cake recipe is a true celebration of fall flavors, beautifully baked in a simple 9×13-inch dish. The charmingly named “dump cake” perfectly describes its effortless preparation – just dump the ingredients, bake, and enjoy! It’s an ideal sweet treat for any autumn occasion, from relaxed weeknight dinners to festive holiday gatherings, offering maximum flavor with minimal fuss.
I’ve cherished and perfected this simple pumpkin dump cake recipe over many years. Its quick assembly makes it a favorite in my kitchen, especially since it features a spice cake mix – a personal favorite of mine that infuses the dessert with an extra layer of warmth and complexity. You’ll instantly fall in love with the comforting taste of this cake, particularly when served warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream.
If you’re as passionate about pumpkin as I am, you’re in for a treat! Beyond this amazing dump cake, I highly recommend exploring these other must-try pumpkin creations: a decadent Cinderella Cake, which is a glorious pumpkin bundt cake adorned with luscious cream cheese frosting and crunchy pecans, and classic Pumpkin Pie Bars, offering all the beloved flavors of pumpkin pie nestled in a buttery shortbread crust. These delicious dessert recipes are sure to become new staples in your fall baking repertoire!
Why This Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe Is a Must-Try
Crafted using a convenient cake mix, this pumpkin pie cake recipe truly defines “effortless.” It comes together in minutes, making it the perfect solution for satisfying those pumpkin spice cravings any day of the week. But its charm extends far beyond casual enjoyment; it’s also a phenomenal Thanksgiving dessert, embodying all the rich, comforting flavors of traditional pumpkin pie in an exciting new format. Imagine the best parts of a creamy pumpkin pie meeting the comforting spices of a classic spice cake – that’s the heavenly experience of this pumpkin dump cake dessert.
What Exactly is a Dump Cake? The Art of Effortless Dessert Making
A dump cake is a glorious category of dessert known for its incredible simplicity and irresistible results. It’s often compared to a cobbler, but with a unique twist. Instead of a soft, spongy cake layer on top, the dry cake mix sprinkled over the ingredients transforms during baking into a delightfully crunchy, buttery crust. The “dump” in its name literally refers to the method: you simply “dump” all the ingredients into a baking dish. While many traditional dump cakes feature canned fruit fillings, a pumpkin dump cake requires a quick mixing of the pumpkin base before it’s poured into the pan, creating a creamy, spiced foundation for that wonderful cake mix topping.
This baking technique minimizes dishes and maximizes flavor, making it a favorite for busy home cooks who still want to impress with a homemade treat. It’s the perfect balance of convenience and deliciousness, delivering a dessert that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Pumpkin Dump Cake
Creating this irresistible pumpkin dump cake requires just a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in its amazing texture and flavor. You’ll find the full, precise measurements and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card at the very bottom of this post.
- Pumpkin Puree: This is the heart of your pumpkin cake. Ensure you pick up 100% pure pumpkin puree, NOT pumpkin pie filling, which contains added spices and sugar that would alter the recipe’s balance.
- Evaporated Milk: Adds a creamy richness and helps achieve the perfect custardy texture in the pumpkin layer. For a substitute, you can use whole milk, half-and-half, or even heavy cream for an extra decadent touch.
- Eggs: Essential for binding the pumpkin mixture and contributing to its smooth, custard-like consistency. Slightly beaten eggs integrate best.
- Granulated Sugar: Provides the perfect level of sweetness, complementing the natural flavors of pumpkin and spice. I prefer extra-fine granulated white sugar for easy dissolving.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: This magical blend is what gives the cake its signature fall aroma and taste. You can easily make your own homemade pumpkin pie spice with a few common spices. Find my simple recipe here: Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice.
- Spice Cake Mix: The secret to the crunchy, cake-like topping. A spice cake mix enhances the autumnal flavor profile. If you prefer, a vanilla, white, or yellow cake mix can be used; just remember to add an extra tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice to the dry mix for flavor.
- Melted Butter: Drizzled over the dry cake mix, melted butter is key to creating that wonderfully golden, crispy crust. While margarine can be used in a pinch, real butter offers unparalleled richness and a truly decadent flavor.
- Pecans (Optional): Chopped pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, perfectly complementing the soft pumpkin and crisp topping. Feel free to omit them if you have nut allergies, or substitute with walnuts if preferred.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make a Simple Pumpkin Dump Cake
Creating this pumpkin dump cake is as straightforward as it gets. Follow these simple steps for a truly delicious result.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, gently beat the three large eggs.
- Add the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and pumpkin pie spice to the bowl with the eggs. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Pour and spread the pumpkin mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish, creating a smooth, luscious base.
- Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the entire pumpkin layer. This forms the delightful crumbly topping once baked.
- Carefully drizzle the melted butter over the dry cake mix, ensuring good coverage.
- If desired, scatter the chopped pecans over the buttery cake mix layer for added texture and flavor.
- Bake for approximately 1 hour, or until a knife inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean, indicating it’s perfectly cooked through. The top should be golden brown and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions & Storage Tips
For the ultimate treat, serve your pumpkin dump cake warm, fresh from the oven, with a dollop of whipped cream or a generous scoop of classic vanilla ice cream. For an extra special touch, consider pairing it with my homemade cinnamon vanilla ice cream – the warm spices are a match made in heaven!
How to Store Leftover Pumpkin Dump Cake
After your delicious pumpkin dump cake has completely cooled, cover the baking pan tightly with a lid or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, maintaining its freshness and flavor. To serve leftovers, simply bring the cake to room temperature or warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds. This pumpkin dump cake dessert is wonderfully versatile and tastes just as delightful the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping your desserts!
Love It? Pin It for Later!
If you adore this incredibly easy and delicious pumpkin dump cake recipe as much as I do, make sure to pin it to your favorite Pinterest board! It’s the perfect way to save this fall favorite for future baking adventures and share it with friends and family.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Dump Cakes
Let’s address some common queries about this simple yet sensational dessert.
- Should dump cake be refrigerated? Yes, for optimal freshness and safety, after baking and allowing it to cool completely, store your covered pumpkin dump cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Can I make pumpkin dump cake ahead of time? Absolutely! This recipe is fantastic for making in advance. Prepare it a day ahead of your event, refrigerate it, and then bring it to room temperature or warm it slightly before serving to guests.
- What are some other popular versions of dump cake? Classic dump cakes typically involve layering canned fruit fillings, a dry cake mix, and melted butter into a pan and baking. Popular variations include cherry, apple, peach, or berry dump cakes. The “dump” method is consistently easy across all versions!
- Can I freeze pumpkin dump cake? Yes, you can! Once completely cooled, wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently before serving.
- What kind of cake mix works best? While spice cake mix is my favorite for enhancing fall flavors, yellow, white, or vanilla cake mixes also work wonderfully. Just remember to add an extra tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice to the dry mix if you opt for a less spiced variety.
Expert Tips and Tricks for the Best Pumpkin Dump Cake
Master this easy pumpkin dessert with these helpful hints:
- Slow Cooker Method: For a convenient alternative, you can prepare this dump cake in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, ensuring the edges are set and the center is mostly firm.
- Even Distribution: After adding all ingredients, gently shake the pan to help the pumpkin mixture settle evenly. This prevents dry spots in the cake.
- Consistent Crumble: For a more uniform and buttery crumble topping, try mixing the dry cake mix with half of the melted butter before sprinkling it over the pumpkin layer. Then, drizzle the remaining melted butter on top.
- Don’t Overmix the Pumpkin Base: Mix the pumpkin filling until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tougher texture.
- Check for Doneness: Use the knife test! Insert a thin knife into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, your dump cake is ready.
- Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This helps the pumpkin layer set and makes for cleaner slices.
- Enhance Flavor: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg sprinkled over the melted butter layer before baking can add an extra aromatic boost.
More Fabulous Fall Pumpkin Dessert Recipes You’ll Adore
It’s officially pumpkin season, and I am absolutely thrilled about it! If you can’t get enough of pumpkin, here are more incredible ways to enjoy this versatile squash:
- The BEST Pumpkin Bread
- Pumpkin Spice Banana Muffins
- Pumpkin Pie Bars
- Cinderella Cake (pictured above)
- Pumpkin Pie Turnovers
- Pumpkin Applesauce
Don’t wait to indulge your pumpkin spice cravings! This incredibly easy pumpkin dump cake recipe is your perfect solution. It’s designed for true pumpkin lovers – simple to assemble, perfectly spiced with rich pumpkin flavor, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any fall occasion. Whether you’re planning a casual family meal or seeking the ideal Thanksgiving dessert to share with loved ones, this recipe delivers comfort and deliciousness in every bite.
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Print Recipe
Pumpkin Dump Cake
Equipment
- Rubber Spatulas
- Whisks for Cooking, 3 Pack Stainless Steel Whisk
- Glass Batter Bowl
- 9×13 Pyrex Baking Dish with a Lid
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs slightly beaten
- 1 15 ounce can pumpkin puree (NOT pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 Tablespoons Pumpkin Pie Spice
- 1 12 ounce can evaporated milk
- 1 15.25 ounce Spice Cake Mix
- 3/4 cup butter melted (1 1/2 sticks)
- 1 cup pecans chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9×13″ baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a mixing bowl, beat your eggs.
- Add in pumpkin, milk, sugar and pumpkin pie spice. Stir to combine.
- Spread pumpkin mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle cake mix evenly over the top of the pumpkin.
- Drizzle melted butter over the top of the cake mix.
- Top with nuts, if desired.
- Bake for one hour, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Serve warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes
Nutrition
This recipe was originally posted on September 9, 2022, as part of a collective of bloggers sharing #FallFlavors recipes. It has been updated to enhance user experience and reshared on October 28, 2025.
Discover more delightful recipes from the original event:
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- Pumpkin Spice White Russian from Our Crafty Cocktails
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- Sweet Potato Cinnamon Roll Cake from Jen Around the World