Picture this:
You’re curled up on the couch, wrapped in your coziest blanket, and the aroma of autumn spices wafts through your home. What could make this moment even sweeter? Enter the Pumpkin Dump Cake – the unsung hero of fall desserts.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. Dump cake? That doesn’t sound particularly appetizing.” But trust me, dear readers, this humble treat is about to rock your world. It’s the laid-back cousin of the pumpkin pie, with all the flavor and none of the fuss.
Imagine layers of velvety pumpkin custard, kissed with cinnamon and nutmeg, nestled beneath a blanket of buttery, golden crumbs. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you close your eyes and sigh contentedly with each bite.
The best part? This little slice of heaven practically makes itself. No fancy techniques or obscure ingredients here – just a few pantry staples and a “plop and forget” approach that’ll have you wondering why you ever stressed over holiday baking.
So, grab your favorite oversized sweater, queue up that autumn playlist, and let’s dive into the world of Pumpkin Dump Cake. Your taste buds (and your stress levels) will thank you.

My Pumpkin Dump Cake Experience
The first time I encountered Pumpkin Dump Cake, I was a frazzled host attempting to juggle a full-time job with planning my first Friendsgiving. As the big day approached, I realized I had overlooked dessert – a cardinal sin in my circle of sweet-toothed friends. Panic set in until my neighbor, a seasoned baker, shared her secret weapon: the Pumpkin Dump Cake.
Skeptical at first (I mean, “dump cake” doesn’t exactly scream gourmet), I gave it a shot. The process was so simple, I was sure I’d messed it up. But as the cake baked, my apartment filled with the most heavenly aroma. When I finally served it, still warm from the oven, it was met with a chorus of “Mmms” and demands for the recipe.
Since that day, Pumpkin Dump Cake has been my go-to for everything from potlucks to cozy nights in. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life are the simplest. And let’s be honest, any dessert that can make you look like a baking wizard with minimal effort is a keeper in my book!
How to Make a Pumpkin Dump Cake?
Storage
•Room Temperature: Best enjoyed freshly baked.
Cover and store for up to 1 day.
•Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to
3-4 days.
•Freezing: Wrap portions in plastic wrap, place in a
freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
•Reheating: Microwave for 20-30 seconds or oven at
350°F for 10-15 minutes.
•For the best experience, serve freshly baked and warm.

Recipe Tips
Achieving dump cake perfection is all about the layers. Ensure your pumpkin base is evenly spread and your cake mix is distributed without clumps. If you notice dry patches of cake mix after baking, don’t fret! Simply cover the cake with foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to help those spots absorb moisture. For a more decadent version, try adding a layer of cream cheese between the pumpkin and cake mix. And remember, while it’s tempting to dig in right away, letting the cake cool allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set properly.
Serving Suggestions
While delicious on its own, Pumpkin Dump Cake reaches new heights with the right accompaniments. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic pairing. For a morning treat, enjoy it with a steaming cup of pumpkin spice latte.
Feeling fancy?
Drizzle each serving with caramel sauce and a sprinkle of sea salt. For a beautiful presentation, dust the top with powdered sugar just before serving, or garnish with a few candied pecans.
I’d love to hear about your Pumpkin Dump Cake adventures! Did you try any exciting variations? How did it go over with your family and friends?
Drop a comment below and don’t forget to rate the recipe. Your experiences and tips could help fellow bakers, so don’t be shy – share your dump cake wisdom!
PUMPKIN DUMP CAKE RECIPE
Course: Dump Cakes12
servings10
minutes45
minutes411
kcalIngredients
Pumpkin Puree (15 oz)
Evaporated Milk (12 oz)
Large Eggs (3)
Granulated Sugar (1 cup)
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp)
Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp)
Ground Nutmeg (½ tsp)
Ground Ginger (½ tsp)
Yellow Cake Mix (15.25 oz)
Unsalted Butter (1 cup)
Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (1 cup, optional)
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the
pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar,
vanilla extract, and spices until smooth. - Pour the pumpkin mixture into a greased 9×13
inch baking dish. - Evenly sprinkle the yellow cake mix over the
pumpkin mixture. Do not stir; just layer it on top. - Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix,
ensuring even coverage. - If using, sprinkle the chopped nuts on top for
added crunch. - Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or
until the edges are set and the center is slightly
jiggly. - Let cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
- For extra indulgence, serve with whipped cream
or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

