Description
This Pumpkin Dump Cake is a simple, comforting dessert perfect for fall and holiday gatherings. Combining smooth pumpkin filling with a sweet, spiced cake topping and buttery slices baked to golden perfection, it requires minimal prep and delivers rich, cozy flavors. Serve warm with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or caramel sauce for a delightful treat everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Pumpkin Mixture
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cake Topping
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and sliced thin
Optional Toppings
- Whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
- Caramel sauce
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Make Pumpkin Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Whisk or stir the ingredients together until you achieve a completely smooth mixture.
- Fill Baking Dish: Pour the pumpkin mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out to cover the entire bottom layer uniformly.
- Add Cake Layer: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the pumpkin filling, ensuring the entire surface is covered to form the cake topping.
- Distribute Butter: Arrange the thin slices of cold unsalted butter evenly on top of the cake mix. This will help create a rich, golden crust once baked.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the center is mostly set but may have a slight jiggle.
- Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for 15 to 20 minutes. Cooling helps the layers to set properly, making it easier to serve.
- Serve: Serve the pumpkin dump cake warm. Optionally, add a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or drizzle with caramel sauce to enhance the flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For best results, use cold butter sliced thin so it melts evenly and creates a crisp topping.
- If you prefer a spicier cake, increase the cinnamon or add a pinch of cloves or allspice.
- The slight jiggle in the center after baking is normal; the cake will set as it cools.
- This cake is best served the same day but can be refrigerated and gently reheated.
- Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for the most authentic flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 to 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: pumpkin dump cake, easy pumpkin dessert, fall dessert, autumn cake, holiday dessert, pumpkin cake, simple dessert
