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Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe

4.8 from 114 reviews

This Pumpkin Dump Cake is an easy, comforting dessert perfect for fall and holiday gatherings. Made with canned pumpkin, warm spices, and a crunchy cake topping, it requires minimal effort but results in a moist, flavorful treat that pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or ice cream.

Ingredients

Scale

Main 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

Topping Ingredients

  • 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
  • 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
  2. Mix Pumpkin Base: In a large bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, eggs, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
  3. Layer Pumpkin Mixture: Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly at the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a smooth layer as the cake’s base.
  4. Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle the entire box of yellow cake mix evenly over the pumpkin layer. Do not stir; just gently distribute it to cover the pumpkin layer.
  5. Top with Nuts and Butter: Evenly scatter the chopped pecans or walnuts over the cake mix. Then drizzle the melted unsalted butter evenly on top to help create a crisp, golden topping.
  6. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly around the edges.
  7. Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool slightly before serving. This dessert is delicious served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream on the side.

Notes

  • If you prefer, you can substitute walnuts for pecans or omit nuts for a nut-free version.
  • Using canned pumpkin puree is recommended for best texture and flavor.
  • Do not mix the cake topping into the pumpkin layer; it creates the signature crumbly top.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving to bring back warmth.

Keywords: Pumpkin Dump Cake, Fall Dessert, Easy Pumpkin Cake, Holiday Pumpkin Dessert, Yellow Cake Mix Pumpkin Cake