Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake

Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake is a delightful fall dessert that combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin purée and warm spices with a buttery yellow cake mix. Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, this recipe is incredibly simple, making it an excellent choice for both seasoned bakers and kitchen novices. The unique layering of ingredients creates a deliciously moist cake that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just a few main ingredients, this Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake can be whipped up in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, brown sugar, and spices delivers a warm, cozy taste that captures the essence of fall.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with whipped cream or cold as a refreshing dessert—either way, it’s a hit!
• Large Batch: This recipe yields 20 servings, making it perfect for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
• Minimal Cleanup: With one bowl and one pan needed, you’ll spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your dessert.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather your tools ahead of time. Having the right equipment will help you create the perfect Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake without any hassle.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch glass baking pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 inch glass baking pan: Ideal for even baking and easy serving; it allows you to see how the cake is cooking.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl provides ample space for combining all ingredients smoothly.
• Whisk: Essential for achieving a lump-free mixture when blending wet ingredients.

Ingredients

Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake is a cozy, buttery fall dessert made with pumpkin purée, warm spices, yellow cake mix, and pecans. Quick to prepare and perfect for gatherings.

For the Cake Mixture

• 15 oz canned pumpkin puree
• 12 oz evaporated milk
• 1 cup (213g) packed brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice

For the Topping

• 15.25 oz yellow cake mix
• 1 cup (114g) chopped pecans
• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, melted

How to Make Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure that it’s at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease a 9×13 inch glass baking pan with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking during baking.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, brown sugar, eggs, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Pour the mixture into the greased baking pan and spread evenly.
2. Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the pumpkin filling.
3. Top with chopped pecans.
4. Drizzle melted butter evenly over the entire surface.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let cool for 15–20 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake!

How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake

Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, there are plenty of serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Serve Warm with Whipped Topping

• A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the warm pumpkin cake.

Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream

• The cold creaminess of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast to the warm, spiced cake, making each bite heavenly.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• For an extra layer of sweetness, drizzle caramel sauce over the top. This adds richness and a hint of indulgence.

Enjoy with Coffee or Tea

• Pairing your slice with a warm cup of coffee or tea makes for a cozy afternoon treat, perfect for fall days.

Add Fresh Fruit

• Sliced apples or pears on the side provide a fresh and crisp balance to the rich flavors of the cake.

Serve in Individual Portions

• For gatherings, consider serving the cake in individual cups or ramekins for an elegant presentation that’s easy to grab and enjoy.

How to Perfect Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake

To achieve the best result with your Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Always opt for fresh eggs and canned pumpkin puree for optimal flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overmix – Gently combine ingredients to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense texture.
• Check Oven Temperature – Ensure your oven is properly calibrated; this ensures even baking and prevents undercooked centers.
• Cool Before Serving – Allow the cake to cool for at least 15–20 minutes before slicing. This helps it set up nicely.
• Experiment with Spices – Feel free to adjust the pumpkin pie spice according to your taste preferences. Adding nutmeg or cinnamon can create new flavor profiles.
• Store Properly – If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving if desired.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Chilled Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cake.
2. Creamy Potato Salad – This hearty side offers a savory balance that complements the sweet pumpkin dessert well.
3. Garlic Breadsticks – The buttery garlic flavor from breadsticks pairs surprisingly well with sweet desserts like this one.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Their earthy flavor and slightly charred exterior create an enjoyable juxtaposition against the sweetness of the cake.
5. Sweet Potato Fries – These offer a similar flavor profile while adding crunchiness that contrasts nicely with the soft cake.
6. Cheesy Broccoli Casserole – The creamy cheese and tender broccoli provide comfort alongside your pumpkin treat.
7. Cranberry Sauce – A tangy cranberry sauce enhances the fall flavors and adds brightness to every bite.
8. Savory Stuffing – A herbed stuffing brings savory depth that balances out all the sweetness from your Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake is simple, but avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly.

• Bold ingredient measurements: Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to an unbalanced cake. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Bold skipping the greasing step: Forgetting to grease your baking pan may cause the cake to stick. Make sure to use non-stick spray or butter to coat the pan evenly.
• Bold overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the cake dense and chewy. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a light texture.
• Bold ignoring baking time: Not keeping an eye on the time might result in an undercooked or overcooked cake. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
• Bold forgetting to cool before serving: Cutting into the cake immediately after baking can lead to messy slices. Let it cool for 15–20 minutes for cleaner cuts and better flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep slices separated with parchment paper if stacking.

Freezing Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Label with date for easy reference when thawing.

Reheating Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C); cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 30-45 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat; cover and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake?

Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake is a delightful fall dessert made with pumpkin purée, spices, and yellow cake mix. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for gatherings.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just ensure it’s cooked down and blended until smooth before adding it to your recipe.

How do I make my Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, substitute regular yellow cake mix with a gluten-free blend. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How long does Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I add other toppings?

Absolutely! Try adding whipped cream, chocolate chips, or even caramel sauce on top of your Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake is not only a cozy fall treat but also incredibly versatile! You can customize it with various toppings or spices based on your preferences. Give this simple recipe a try at your next gathering; it’s sure to impress!