Introduction
Have you ever found yourself staring at a recipe, wondering if it can truly deliver on its promise of effortless deliciousness? In a world saturated with complex culinary creations and endless ingredient lists, the allure of simplicity often feels like a distant dream. But what if I told you there’s a dessert that defies the expectation of difficulty, delivering rich, autumnal flavors with a smile-inducing ease that
borders on magical? We’re diving deep into the world of Pumpkin Dump Cake, a recipe that’s about to revolutionize your fall baking game.
Many associate scratch baking with elaborate steps, meticulously measured ingredients, and hours spent hovering over an oven. While those moments certainly have their charm, sometimes life calls for something simpler, something that allows you to spend more time enjoying the season – and less time stressing in the kitchen. This isn’t just another dessert; it’s a celebration of comfort, a hug in a pan, and a testament to the belief that incredible taste doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag of effort. Our Pumpkin Dump Cake is so straightforward, it practically bakes itself. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, last-minute gatherings, or when you simply crave that quintessential taste of autumn without the fuss.
Imagine a warm, spiced pumpkin base, reminiscent of your favorite pumpkin pie, topped with a buttery, crumbly cake layer that caramelizes beautifully as it bakes. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors – creamy, tender, and delightfully crunchy all at once. This recipe effortlessly combines minimal prep with maximum flavor, making it a standout choice for anyone looking to impress without the stress. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a complete novice, this Pumpkin Dump Cake is designed for success. It’s a foolproof dessert that comes together with just a few pantry staples, making it an ideal candidate for those spontaneous baking urges.
And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a dish that delivers on taste while freeing up your time? Beyond its incredible flavor, this dump cake is incredibly versatile. It’s not just for Thanksgiving; it’s perfect for Halloween parties, bonfire nights, or any occasion that calls for a cozy, comforting treat. Think of it as your secret weapon for autumn entertaining, a dessert that looks impressive but requires minimal fuss. Forget the complex Halloween Food Recipes that
demand hours of your time. This delightful dessert offers a simple yet satisfying experience, aligning perfectly with the desire for delicious, easy-to-prepare dishes during the fall season.
This post will guide you through every single layer of this delightful creation, offering insights into why this recipe works so well, how to customize it to your heart’s content, and even the best ways to store and serve it. So, get ready to embrace the warmth, the spice, and the sheer joy of creating something truly delicious with remarkably little effort. Your kitchen is about to become the happiest place on earth, and your taste buds are in for a treat!
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Dump Cake
This Pumpkin Dump Cake isn’t just a recipe; it’s a revelation. If you’ve been searching for that perfect fall dessert that combines warmth, spice, and an almost magical ease of preparation, your quest ends here. Here’s why this particular recipe is about to become your new autumnal obsession:
- Effortless Elegance: The name “dump cake” isn’t an insult; it’s a promise! This recipe truly lives up to its name, requiring minimal effort and maximum reward. You literally dump ingredients into a pan, and the oven does the rest. Forget complex mixing, multiple bowls, or intricate stacking. This dessert is designed for busy individuals who still want to serve something spectacular. It’s the ultimate antidote to complicated Halloween Food Recipes, offering a stress-free dessert option that still wows.
- Irresistible Autumnal Flavors: This cake is a celebration of fall in every bite. The rich, creamy pumpkin layer infused with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves marries perfectly with the buttery cake topping. Each mouthful transport you to a cozy autumn evening, complete with vibrant foliage and crisp air. It’s the quintessential flavor profile that everyone craves when the leaves start to turn, making it ideal for Fall Snacks and festive gatherings.
- Perfectly Balanced Texture: One of the standout features of this Pumpkin Dump Cake is its incredible textural contrast. The bottom layer is moist, tender, and almost custard-like, reminiscent of a classic pumpkin pie. The top crust develops into a golden-brown, buttery crumb that’s both slightly crisp and chewy, creating an addictive interplay of soft and crunchy. This delightful combination makes every bite exciting and satisfying.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: While it screams “Thanksgiving dessert,” this dump cake is incredibly versatile. It’s hearty enough for a formal family gathering, yet simple and fun enough for a casual get-together. Planning a Halloween party? This cake makes for fantastic Halloween Food Ideas For Parties and stands out among other Halloween Dinner Ideas as a sweet finish. It fits right in with Spooky Snacks and other festive treats. It’s also a fantastic, low-stress option for simply enjoying a cozy dessert at home on a cool evening. Its simplicity makes it one of the easiest Easy Halloween Food options available.
- Kid-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing: Even the pickiest eaters will find something to love in this dump cake. The familiar flavors of pumpkin and sweet cake appeal universally. Plus, its forgiving nature means you can even get little helpers involved in the “dumping” process, making it a fun family activity. It’s a guaranteed hit that will have everyone asking for seconds. You won’t need to resort to just Halloween Candy when you have a delicious, homemade option like this.
- No Fancy Skills Required: Seriously, if you can open a can and stir, you can make this cake. There’s no creaming butter and sugar, no folding egg whites, and no intricate layering. It’s a truly beginner-friendly recipe that delivers professional-tasting results without any culinary expertise required. This is why it’s consistently listed among the best Easy Halloween Food items to make.
- Incredible Aroma: As this Pumpkin Dump Cake bakes, your kitchen will be filled with the most intoxicating aroma of pumpkin spice. It’s the kind of scent that instantly makes a house feel like a home, inviting everyone to gather around and anticipate the deliciousness to come. It’s a sensory experience that starts long before the first bite, perfect for setting a festive mood for any Halloween Themed Food event.
In essence, this Pumpkin Dump Cake is the perfect marriage of convenience and indulgence. It’s a stress-free dessert that doesn’t compromise on flavor or appeal, making it an absolute must-try for anyone who loves the taste of autumn. It’s so good, you might even consider it one of your go-to Spooky Dinner desserts.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Dump Cake
Gathering your ingredients for this Pumpkin Dump Cake is half the battle, and luckily, it’s an incredibly easy one. Most of these items are likely already in your pantry!
- 1 (15-ounce) can pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of ground cloves (optional, for extra spice intensity)
- 1 (15.25-ounce) box yellow cake mix (or spice cake mix for extra flavor)
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for crunch)
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving (optional)
Substitutions:
- Yellow Cake Mix: While yellow cake mix provides a classic buttery flavor, a spice cake mix can intensify the autumnal notes beautifully. You can also experiment with a white cake mix for a slightly milder cake flavor.
- Evaporated Milk: Heavy cream or half-and-half can be used in a pinch, but evaporated milk gives the pumpkin layer its signature creamy texture without adding too much liquid.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: If you don’t have pre-mixed pumpkin pie spice, you can easily create your own by combining 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ginger, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1/8 teaspoon cloves.
- Pecans/Walnuts: If you have nut allergies or prefer a nut-free dessert, simply omit them. The cake will still be delicious!
How to Make Pumpkin Dump Cake
Making this Pumpkin Dump Cake is an absolute breeze. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a warm, delicious dessert ready to impress in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your oven is at the perfect temperature for even baking from the moment your cake goes in. While your oven heats up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. A little non-stick spray or butter will do the trick to prevent sticking and make serving easier.
- Prepare the Pumpkin Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the entire can of pure pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, granulated sugar, large eggs, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and the optional pinch of ground cloves. Whisk all these ingredients together thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This is the heart of your Pumpkin Dump Cake, so make sure everything is evenly incorporated.
- Pour Pumpkin Mixture into Dish: Carefully pour the prepared pumpkin mixture into your greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula to create a uniform layer. This forms the moist, custardy base of your dessert.
- Add the Dry Cake Mix: Open your box of yellow (or spice) cake mix. Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix powder directly over the pumpkin mixture in the baking dish. Do not stir it in! The beauty of a dump cake is that the dry cake mix will absorb moisture from the pumpkin layer as it bakes, creating a wonderful crumble topping. Ensure it’s spread as evenly as possible to avoid any dry spots.
- Distribute Butter and Nuts: If you’re using them, sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts over the dry cake mix layer. These will add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Next, drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix. The butter is crucial; it helps moisten the dry cake mix, allowing it to form that delicious, golden-brown crust. Make sure to get good coverage, as this will determine the texture of your topping.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 50-60 minutes. The baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center of the cake part (not the pumpkin layer) comes out mostly clean. The pumpkin layer will still be moist and set.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the Pumpkin Dump Cake from the oven. Allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This cooling time allows the layers to set properly, preventing it from being too runny. While it’s delightful warm, allowing it to cool slightly enhances its texture. Serve warm, preferably with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy this wonderfully easy and delicious autumnal treat! It’s an ideal choice for Halloween Finger Foods or any festive gathering.
Pro Tips & Variations
Mastering the perfect Pumpkin Dump Cake is easy, but a few pro tips can elevate it from great to unforgettable. Plus, I’ve got some variations to keep things exciting!
- Don’t Stir! Seriously: The most crucial rule of a dump cake is in its name – you dump, but you don’t stir the cake mix into the pumpkin layer. Drizzling the melted butter over the dry mix is key to creating that wonderful, crumbly, and slightly caramelized topping. Stirring will result in a dense, gluey texture, not the light, buttery crust you’re aiming for.
- Even Butter Distribution: While it might seem tedious, try to distribute the melted butter as evenly as possible over the dry cake mix. This ensures that all the cake mix gets moistened, leading to a consistently delicious crust. Uneven distribution can leave dry, floury patches in your topping.
- Adjust Spices to Taste: The suggested pumpkin pie spice blend is a guideline. Feel free to tweak it! If you love a stronger ginger kick, add a little more. If you prefer more cinnamon, go for it. A tiny pinch of black pepper can also surprisingly enhance the other warm spices, giving a subtle complexity. Don’t be afraid to make it your own!
- Room Temperature Ingredients (Pumpkin Base): While not strictly necessary for such an easy recipe, using room temperature eggs and evaporated milk for the pumpkin base can help them incorporate more smoothly and result in a slightly creamier, more uniform texture. It’s a small detail that can make a difference.
- Check for Doneness: Rather than relying solely on the clock, look for visual cues. The top should be a beautiful golden brown, and when you gently jiggle the pan, the center of the pumpkin layer should be mostly set, with just a slight jiggle remaining (like a firm custard). A toothpick inserted into the cake topping should come out clean.
Variations to Explore:
- Spice Cake Extravaganza: Swap the yellow cake mix for a spice cake mix. This will amp up the spice factor even further, creating an even more intensely autumnal flavor profile for your Pumpkin Dump Cake. It’s a small change with a big impact!
- Cream Cheese Swirl: For an extra layer of decadence, prepare a simple cream cheese mixture. Beat together 8 ounces softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Dollop this over the pumpkin layer before sprinkling the dry cake mix. This adds a tangy, rich dimension, taking this dessert to a whole new level of indulgence.
- Chocolate Chip Dream: Scatter a cup of mini chocolate chips over the dry cake mix before drizzling with butter. The chocolate will melt and create pockets of gooey deliciousness, pairing wonderfully with the pumpkin and spice. This is a delightful twist for those who love chocolate with their fall treats, especially when paired with other Halloween Themed Food.
- Nutty Crunch Overload: Instead of just pecans, try a mix of chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, and pecans. You can also toast your nuts lightly before adding them for an even deeper, more intense flavor. Or, if you want something different, crushed gingersnap cookies can be sprinkled on top for a spicy, crunchy crust.
- Gluten-Free Friendly: Simply use a gluten-free yellow or spice cake mix. Ensure all other ingredients (like pumpkin puree) are naturally gluten-free. The “dump” method works just as well with GF mixes, making this a fantastic option for everyone to enjoy.
- Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use a dairy-free cake mix, dairy-free evaporated milk (coconut milk can sometimes work, but ensure it’s the right consistency for evaporated), and plant-based butter. The texture might vary slightly, but the core flavors will remain delicious, expanding your Fall Snacks options.
- Apple Pumpkin Fusion: Add a layer of thinly sliced apples (about 2 cups, peeled and cored) over the pumpkin mixture before the cake mix. Drizzle with a tiny bit more melted butter and cinnamon. This creates a delightful apple-pumpkin hybrid that’s truly irresistible.
With these tips and variations, your Pumpkin Dump Cake will be the star of any autumnal gathering, from Halloween Food Ideas For Parties to a simple cozy night in. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorite combination!
Serving Suggestions
This Pumpkin Dump Cake is a star on its own, but pairing it with the right companions can elevate it to an even more sublime dessert experience. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions to round out your autumnal treat:
- Classic Cream Compliment: The most traditional and widely loved pairing is a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream. The light, airy sweetness of the cream cuts through the richness of the pumpkin and adds a luxurious smooth texture. For an extra touch, dust the whipped cream with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A scoop of high-quality vanilla bean ice cream melting over a warm slice of Pumpkin Dump Cake is pure bliss. The cold, creamy ice cream creates a delightful temperature contrast, enhancing both the warm spices of the cake and the sweet, custardy pumpkin. A drizzle of caramel sauce over the top will take this pairing to gourmet levels.
- Spiced Apple Cider: For a truly immersive fall experience, serve your dump cake alongside a warm mug of spiced apple cider. The apple and pumpkin flavors are a classic autumnal duo, and the warm drink creates an incredibly cozy and comforting ambiance. This is perfect for a cool evening gathered around a fire pit, making it a wonderful Fall Snack idea.
- Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A warm, gooey drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce adds another layer of sweet indulgence to each slice. The buttery notes of the caramel complement the cake’s topping and the earthy pumpkin base beautifully. You can also sprinkle a few flaky sea salt crystals on top of the caramel for a salted caramel pumpkin experience!
- Candied Pecans/Walnuts: If you want to enhance the nutty crunch, extra candied pecans or walnuts can be sprinkled over individual servings. The sweetness and crunch provide a wonderful textural contrast and an extra layer of flavor. This adds a sophisticated touch, making it an excellent choice for Halloween Themed Food desserts.
- A La Mode with a Twist: Instead of plain vanilla, try serving with cinnamon ice cream, praline ice cream, or even a coffee-flavored ice cream for a unique and sophisticated twist. The spiced ice cream will amplify the cake’s flavors, while coffee can offer a delightful bitter contrast.
- Maple Glaze: For an extra touch of sweetness and richness, a simple maple glaze can be drizzled over the cooled cake. Combine powdered sugar with a few tablespoons of pure maple syrup and a splash of milk until you reach a pourable consistency. The maple complements the pumpkin and spices perfectly, making this a great Easy Halloween Food option for a sweet treat.
No matter how you choose to serve it, this Pumpkin Dump Cake is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser and a perfect ending to any fall meal, from Spooky Dinner gatherings to casual family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Your delicious Pumpkin Dump Cake can be enjoyed for days after it’s baked, making it perfect for meal prepping desserts or enjoying leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat it effectively:
Storage:
- Cool Completely: Before storing, ensure the Pumpkin Dump Cake has cooled completely to room temperature. Storing a warm cake can create condensation, which can make the cake soggy and encourage bacterial growth.
- Airtight Container:
- Refrigerator: For short-term storage (up to 3-4 days), cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer individual slices to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator. The custard-like pumpkin layer needs refrigeration to maintain its freshness and safety.
- Freezer: For longer storage (up to 2-3 months), once the cake is thoroughly cooled, you can freeze it. Wrap the entire cake (if still in the baking dish) tightly with plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil. For individual slices, wrap each slice in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This is a fantastic way to extend the life of your Fall Snacks.
Reheating:
- From the Refrigerator:
- Oven (Recommended): For the best texture, especially to revive the slightly crispy topping, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place individual slices or the entire dish (uncovered) in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Microwave: For a quick reheat, individual slices can be microwaved for 30-60 seconds, or until warm. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the cake tough. The topping might not regain its crispness in the microwave, but it will still be delicious.
- From the Freezer:
- Thaw First: If reheating an entire cake, it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Individual slices can be thawed for a few hours at room temperature or quickly in the microwave.
- Oven (Recommended): Once thawed, reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-25 minutes for larger pieces, or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Thawed individual slices can be microwaved for 60-90 seconds, checking periodically until warm.
Tips for Best Results:
- Serve Warm: No matter how you store it, Pumpkin Dump Cake is almost always best served warm, especially with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The warmth brings out all the wonderful spices and makes the texture incredibly comforting.
- Prevent Freezer Burn: When freezing, ensure everything is wrapped very tightly to prevent freezer burn, which can affect flavor and texture. Doubling up on wrapping materials is always a good idea.
- Topping Revival: If your topping loses some crispness after refrigeration, a quick stint in a toaster oven for individual slices can help to refresh it. This helps enhance the experience of your Halloween Food Ideas For Parties dessert.
Enjoy your Pumpkin Dump Cake for days to come with these simple storage and reheating tips!
FAQ about Pumpkin Dump Cake
Here are some frequently asked questions about making and enjoying Pumpkin Dump Cake, designed to clear up any common queries and ensure your dessert is a smashing success!
Q1: Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pure pumpkin puree?
A1: No, it is highly recommended to use pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling already contains sugar and spices, and sometimes other ingredients, which would throw off the flavor balance and sweetness of this recipe. Using pure pumpkin puree allows you to control the exact amount of sugar and spices, ensuring your Pumpkin Dump Cake is perfectly flavored. It’s important to get this right, especially for specific Halloween Food Recipes.
Q2: My cake topping didn’t get as crispy as I hoped. What went wrong?
A2: The most common reasons for a less-than-crispy topping are uneven distribution of butter or not enough butter. Ensure the melted butter is drizzled thoroughly over all the dry cake mix. The butter helps to crisp and brown the cake mix as it bakes. Also, make sure your oven temperature is accurate and that you bake it long enough for the top to turn golden brown. Don’t be afraid to let it bake the full 60 minutes if needed.
Q3: Can I make this Pumpkin Dump Cake ahead of time for a party?
A3: Absolutely! This dump cake is a fantastic make-ahead dessert, which makes it perfect for Halloween Food Ideas For Parties or any gathering. You can bake it a day or two in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, you can reheat it gently in the oven (see storage & reheating section above) or serve it chilled. Some people even prefer it cold, as the flavors meld beautifully.
Q4: Can I add other mix-ins to the pumpkin layer?
A4: While the base recipe is perfect as is, you can certainly customize! For an extra layer of flavor and texture, consider stirring in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or even a handful of dried cranberries into the pumpkin mixture before adding the dry cake mix. These additions can add a delightful surprise to your Pumpkin Dump Cake. This is a great tip for making your Spooky Snacks unique.
Q5: What’s the best way to tell if the pumpkin layer is set?
A5: You can tell the pumpkin layer is set when the edges of the cake are firm and the center has only a slight jiggle, similar to a set custard or cheesecake. When you insert a toothpick into the cake topping (not deep into the pumpkin layer), it should come out clean. The pumpkin layer will remain moist, but it should not be liquid. This ensures your Pumpkin Dump Cake has the perfect, rich consistency. It’s key to perfect Fall Snacks.
Final Thoughts on Pumpkin Dump Cake
And there you have it – the ultimate guide to creating a truly spectacular Pumpkin Dump Cake with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to embrace the rich, comforting flavors of autumn without the stress that often accompanies holiday baking. From its humble origins as a “dump” dessert to its elevated status as a crowd-pleasing showstopper, this cake truly delivers on all fronts.
We’ve delved into why this specific dump cake is so beloved: its effortless preparation, the irresistible combination of creamy pumpkin and buttery, crumbly topping, and its incredible versatility for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a grand Thanksgiving feast, whipping up some Halloween Themed Food for a spooky gathering, or simply craving a cozy weeknight treat, this Pumpkin Dump Cake fits the bill perfectly. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you look like a culinary genius, even when you’ve barely lifted a finger!
Think about those moments when you need a delicious dessert but your schedule is packed. This Pumpkin Dump Cake is your secret weapon, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of loved ones, carving pumpkins, or simply relaxing with a good book. It’s far more delightful than just Halloween Candy, offering a homemade touch to Easy Halloween Food.
Remember, the beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Don’t overthink it, and definitely remember the cardinal rule: don’t stir the cake mix into the pumpkin layer! The magic happens as the ingredients bake and meld together, creating those distinct, delightful layers that make this dessert so unique. And with the pro tips and variations we’ve explored, you can easily customize it to suit your personal tastes, from adding chocolate chips to incorporating a decadent cream cheese swirl, or even making it gluten-free. This enhances its appeal for Halloween Dinner Ideas and other special occasions.
The aroma filling your home as this cake bakes will be a treat in itself, setting a warm, inviting atmosphere that embodies the spirit of the season. And when you finally pull that golden-brown, bubbling pan from the oven, you’ll be met with a dessert that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
We sincerely hope this comprehensive guide has empowered you to create your own unforgettable Pumpkin Dump Cake. We encourage you to give it a try and discover just how easy and rewarding baking can be. If you’re looking for more amazing autumn or Spooky Dinner recipes, check out our Halloween Food Recipes for incredible ideas. For more creative Spooky Snacks and Halloween Themed Food ideas, you’ll find plenty to inspire you. Don’t forget, we have a wealth of wonderful Fall Snacks and Halloween Food Ideas For Parties for your next gathering!
We’d love to hear about your Pumpkin Dump Cake experience! Did you try a variation? What were your favorite serving suggestions? Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below – your insights help our community grow and inspire others.
Don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest for future baking adventures, and consider subscribing to our newsletter so you never miss another delicious, easy-to-follow recipe! Happy baking, and enjoy every comforting bite of this delightful autumnal treat.
Pumpkin Dump Cake
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish,
- Mixing bowl
- – Whisk
- – Spatula
Ingredients
Pumpkin Base
- 1 15-ounce can pure pumpkin puree not pumpkin pie filling
- 1 12-ounce can evaporated milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- pinch ground cloves optional, for extra spice intensity
Topping
- 1 15.25-ounce box yellow cake mix or spice cake mix for extra flavor
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts optional, for crunch
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted
Serving Suggestions
- whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving, optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and optional cloves. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the pumpkin layer without stirring.
- If using nuts, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts evenly over the cake mix layer. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until the topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cake layer comes out mostly clean. The pumpkin layer should be moist but set.
- Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack for 15-20 minutes before serving. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
