pumpkin Dump Cake Delight is the ultimate easy and cozy fall dessert recipe that marries warm spices with just the right touch of sweetness. This beloved autumn treat transforms simple pantry staples into a moist, fluffy cake that’s bursting with the comforting flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Its effortless preparation makes it a favorite for busy home cooks eager to wow guests or satisfy seasonal cravings without fuss.

Prep and Cook Time

Preparation: 10 minutes
Cooking: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Yield

Serves 8 generous portions

difficulty Level

Easy – Perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin puree
• 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to ensure an easy release.
2. In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract untill smooth and creamy.
3. Add the cinnamon,nutmeg,ginger,cloves,and salt to the pumpkin mixture. Whisk well to infuse the batter with cozy spice notes.
4. Pour the pumpkin-spice mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading to cover the bottom completely.
5. Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the pumpkin layer – do not stir. This dry cake mix topping creates the signature “dump cake” texture.
6. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix, making sure to cover as much surface as possible. This fat ensures a crisp, golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender pumpkin layer below.
7. Optional: Scatter the chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and a nutty depth of flavor.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pumpkin layer is set but still moist.
9. Cool the cake for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and the texture to become perfectly fluffy.

tips for Success with Pumpkin Dump Cake Delight

• Moisture balance: Use pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) to control sweetness and spices precisely.
• Butter distribution: Drizzle melted butter slowly and evenly over the cake mix to avoid dry spots and ensure a fully crisp topping.
• Mix-ins: Feel free to add mini chocolate chips or dried cranberries beneath the cake mix for a playful twist.
• Make ahead: Assemble the dump cake the night before, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. Bake fresh the next day, adding extra 5-10 minutes to the bake time.
• Substitution: For nut allergies, omit nuts or substitute seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch.

Creative Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Cozy Fall Dessert Experience

Elevate your serving of this delightful pumpkin dump cake by adding a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream gently spiced with a pinch of cinnamon. For a festive flair, drizzle with warm caramel sauce or maple syrup. Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted pecans and a few delicate cinnamon sticks placed alongside. Serve on rustic stoneware or wooden plates to amplify that cozy, fall-inspired vibe. Pair your dessert with a steaming mug of chai tea or mulled apple cider for a truly heartwarming experience.

Looking for more cozy fall recipes? Check out our Warm Spiced Apple Crisp to keep the season’s sweetest traditions alive. For a deeper dive into pumpkin’s nutritional benefits, explore this Harvard Nutrition Source article.

Q&A

Q&A: Pumpkin Dump Cake Delight – Your Easy, Cozy Fall Dessert Recipe

Q1: What exactly is a pumpkin dump cake?
A1: Imagine the cozy warmth of pumpkin pie and the effortless charm of a dump cake rolled into one! A pumpkin dump cake is a simple dessert where you literally “dump” canned pumpkin, spices, and a cake mix into a baking dish, then top it with butter and nuts before baking. The result? A moist, tender pumpkin cake with a crispy, buttery crust-perfect for fall gatherings or a weeknight treat.

Q2: Why is it called a “dump” cake?
A2: The name comes from the ease of preparation-you simply dump the ingredients into a pan without mixing everything thoroughly. This no-fuss approach makes it ideal for anyone short on time but craving big fall flavors.

Q3: What ingredients do I need for this Pumpkin Dump Cake Delight?
A3: You’ll need canned pumpkin puree, your favorite pumpkin pie spices (think cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves), sugar, a box of yellow or spice cake mix, melted butter, and optional add-ins like chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch.

Q4: Can I customize the recipe to suit dietary preferences?
A4: absolutely! Use gluten-free cake mix to make it gluten-friendly, swap regular sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a natural sweetness, or try dairy-free butter alternatives. You can even add a handful of raisins or chocolate chips for a fun twist.

Q5: How can I make this dessert extra cozy and special?
A5: serve your Pumpkin Dump Cake Delight warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce elevates the fall vibe. Pair it with a hot cup of spiced tea or pumpkin latte for the ultimate seasonal indulgence.

Q6: How long does it take to prepare and bake this cake?
A6: One of the best parts is speed! It takes about 10 minutes to assemble and roughly 45-50 minutes to bake. While it’s in the oven, your home will fill with the irresistible aroma of autumn spices-half the joy of dessert is the anticipation!

Q7: Can I make this pumpkin dump cake ahead of time?
A7: yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Before serving, warm it gently in the oven to refresh that crispy topping and cozy pumpkin filling.

Q8: Why is pumpkin dump cake such a hit during the fall season?
A8: Pumpkin dump cake embodies everything we love about fall: simple preparation,rich spice flavors,and comforting textures. It’s a nostalgic,heartwarming dessert that brings people together around the table without fuss or fancy technique-just pure,seasonal delight.

Ready to embrace fall’s sweetest secret? Grab your ingredients and dump your way to pumpkin dessert bliss!

In Retrospect

As the crisp autumn air settles in and leaves paint the world in shades of gold and amber, there’s nothing quite like the warm comfort of a Pumpkin dump Cake Delight fresh from the oven.This easy, cozy fall dessert recipe not only captures the essence of the season in every bite but also transforms simple ingredients into a show-stopping treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or a quiet night by the fire, this pumpkin dump cake is your go-to for effortless indulgence.So go ahead-embrace the flavors of fall, and let this delightful dessert become a new seasonal tradition in your kitchen.