Description
This easy Pumpkin Dump Cake is a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for fall gatherings. Combining creamy pumpkin puree with warm spices and topped with a buttery cake mix crust and crunchy nuts, it bakes into a deliciously moist and comforting treat that pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or ice cream.
Ingredients
Scale
Pumpkin Mixture
- 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
- 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Pumpkin Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth and uniform.
- Spread Pumpkin Layer: Pour and spread the pumpkin mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, creating an even base layer.
- Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over the pumpkin layer. Important: Do not stir or mix the layers.
- Top with Nuts and Butter: Scatter the chopped pecans or walnuts evenly on top of the cake mix layer, then drizzle the melted unsalted butter over everything to add richness and help create a golden crust.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the mixture is bubbly around the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the dump cake to cool slightly before serving. For an extra special touch, serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- Do not stir after adding the cake mix and butter; this helps create the characteristic crisp top and moist inside.
- You can substitute pecans or walnuts based on preference or omit nuts for a nut-free dessert.
- For a spicier flavor, add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger to the pumpkin mixture.
- This dessert can be made ahead; store covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Pumpkin dump cake, easy pumpkin dessert, fall dessert, pumpkin puree cake, holiday dessert
