Pumpkin Dump Cake
Embrace the essence of fall with a delightful Pumpkin Dump Cake that captures the taste of nostalgia and warmth. This dessert is not just a feast for your taste buds; it’s an experience that wraps you in a cozy blanket of spices and sweetness. Imagine the comforting aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin wafting through your kitchen, inviting friends and family to gather around the table. With minimal fuss and maximum flavor, this recipe is worth making for any occasion. Busy weeknight dessert? Check. Holiday celebration? Absolutely. Kid-friendly? Without a doubt. In under an hour, you’ll create a decadent, crave-worthy treat that leaves everyone reaching for more.
Isn’t It Time for Something Sweet?
Have you ever found yourself wanting a dessert that feels like a warm hug? Something that transports you back to your childhood, yet satisfies your adult sweet tooth? What if I told you there’s a dish that combines the flavors of pumpkin spice and a buttery cake mix, requiring little more than a few minutes of prep time? Get ready to rediscover your love of dessert with this Pumpkin Dump Cake. Nobody can resist the rich, gooey deliciousness that awaits you in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Pumpkin Dump Cake isn’t just simple; it’s a revelation in dessert-making. Here are some reasons why you’ll love it:
Easy Prep: With a handful of ingredients and no complicated techniques, this recipe makes dessert a breeze. Just dump, mix, and bake!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a family gathering or a potluck, this cake will charm everyone, from kids to grandparents.
Minimal Ingredients: Using just a few pantry staples, you’ll create an indulgent dessert without breaking the bank.
Family Bonding: Get the kids in on the action—mixing ingredients and sprinkling toppings is perfect for little hands to help with.
Perfectly Cozy: With flavors that scream fall, this cake is perfect for chilly evenings and holiday feasts alike.
Ingredients
Let’s gather the ingredients to create this indulgent Pumpkin Dump Cake. The magic begins with:
- 1 (29 ounce) can pumpkin puree: Rich and creamy, the star of this sweet symphony will make your taste buds sing.
- 1 (12 fluid ounce) can evaporated milk: For that luscious, velvety texture that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
- 3 large eggs: Binding everything together and contributing to the cake’s height.
- ½ cup packed brown sugar: Deeply caramelized sweetness that brings a rich layer of flavor to every bite.
- ½ cup white sugar: Balances the flavors and adds sweetness to the mix.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Warmth and spice that evoke feelings of fall.
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger: A zesty kick that makes each bite unforgettable.
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves: Just the hint of spice to keep things interesting.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and creates balance.
- 1 (15.25 ounce) package spice cake mix: The easy shortcut that makes this dessert a breeze to prepare.
- ½ cup coarsely chopped pecans: Provides delightful crunchiness and nutty flavor.
- ½ cup melted butter: Because butter makes everything better—it saturates the top layer for that gorgeous golden crust.
Timing
In the world of desserts, time is often of the essence. This Pumpkin Dump Cake offers the best of both worlds.
Fast and Indulgent: You can whip up this heavenly masterpiece in about 15 minutes and have it ready to indulge in 50 minutes later.
Slow and Luxurious: Although it’s quick to prepare, every bite is like an exquisite slow dance of flavors on your palate, inviting you to savor the experience.
Step-by-Step
Let’s dive into the delectable process of creating your Pumpkin Dump Cake. Get ready to bring the warmth of autumn into your home!
Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This first step sets the stage for your cake’s deliciousness—think of it as preparing the canvas for an artist!
In a bowl, whisk pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugars, and spices. Feel the richness of the pumpkin, the creaminess of the milk, and the sweetness of the sugars come together in a perfect blend.
Pour the pumpkin mixture into the baking dish. Watch as the vibrant orange hue spreads, promising joy in every slice.
Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the filling. The cake mix creates a decadent layer that cooks up beautifully, topped with a lovely golden crust.
Add chopped pecans on top. Sprinkle these crunchy gems liberally, adding a delightful texture that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess beneath.
Drizzle melted butter across the entire surface. This is where the magic happens as the butter seeps into the cake mix and creates a crispy yet gooey top.
Bake for 50 to 60 minutes until edges are golden brown. Your kitchen will fill with the most intoxicating smells, drawing everyone closer.
Cool slightly, then serve warm or chilled. Each slice offers gooey, warm goodness, perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring solo.
Nutritional Information
Enjoying a decadent dessert does come with its indulgences. One serving of this Pumpkin Dump Cake contains approximately:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 4g
While it’s perfectly acceptable to indulge once in a while, balance is key. This cake is a treat that’s well worth every calorie—perfect for when you need a touch of sweetness in your life.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking to reduce sugar or change the nutritional profile, consider these healthier alternatives for your Pumpkin Dump Cake:
- Low-Sugar Options: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit in place of the sugars for fewer calories.
- Dairy-Free Swaps: Substitute the evaporated milk with almond milk or coconut cream for a lighter version.
- Gluten-Free Version: Swap regular cake mix for a gluten-free variety to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Pumpkin Dump Cake is versatile and perfect for various occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience:
- With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream melting atop warm cake is pure perfection.
- On Holidays: Serve it proudly at Thanksgiving or Halloween gatherings—your guests will rave about it!
- Garnish with Whipped Cream: A generous dollop adds an extra creamy layer that complements the spices beautifully.
Common Mistakes
Sometimes, even the simplest recipes have their pitfalls. Here are common mistakes to avoid:
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cake—the edges should be golden, but the center should remain moist.
- Texture Issues: Mixing too vigorously can lead to a dense cake; gently fold your ingredients for the best texture.
- Messes: Layering can be tricky—pour carefully to avoid spills, ensuring a clean baking experience.
Storing Tips
If you’ve got leftovers (though we doubt it!), here’s how to store your Pumpkin Dump Cake:
- Freezing Portions: Cut into squares and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months for emergency dessert cravings!
- Reheating Instructions: Simply microwave a slice for about 30 seconds or warm it in the oven for a few minutes to bring back that glorious, gooey texture.
Tempted to Bake it ASAP?
With its easy prep, indulgent flavor, and nostalgic ties to cozy fall evenings, this Pumpkin Dump Cake is asking to be made. Don’t let another chilly day pass without experiencing this deliciousness. Each forkful is a reunion with the comfort of home, urging you to bake it today and share the love with those around you.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make Pumpkin Dump Cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture in advance and bake it just before serving for the freshest taste.
Q2: Can I substitute the pumpkin puree with something else?
You can use butternut squash puree as an alternative, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Q3: Is this cake gluten-free?
Using a gluten-free cake mix allows you to enjoy this dessert without gluten.
Q4: How long does this cake last at room temperature?
The cake can sit out for about two days at room temperature if covered, but it’s best kept in the fridge for freshness.
Q5: Can I make this cake without nuts?
Definitely! Simply omit the pecans if allergies or preferences don’t allow for them.
Now that you’re equipped with all the knowledge to create this scrumptious dessert, it’s time to gather your ingredients and experience the warmth of Pumpkin Dump Cake!
Print
Pumpkin Dump Cake
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful Pumpkin Dump Cake that captures the taste of nostalgia and warmth, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 (29 ounce) can pumpkin puree
- 1 (12 fluid ounce) can evaporated milk
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 (15.25 ounce) package spice cake mix
- ½ cup coarsely chopped pecans
- ½ cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugars, and spices.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture into the baking dish.
- Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the filling.
- Add chopped pecans on top.
- Drizzle melted butter across the entire surface.
- Bake for 50 to 60 minutes until edges are golden brown.
- Cool slightly, then serve warm or chilled.
Notes
For healthier alternatives, consider low-sugar options, dairy-free swaps, or gluten-free cake mix.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
