Pumpkin Pie Dump Cake

Published on: December 18, 2025

Delicious pumpkin pie dump cake served on a plate with whipped cream

Pumpkin Pie Dump Cake is the ultimate fall dessert that captures the essence of the season in every bite. With its velvety pumpkin filling and a golden, buttery topping, this dish is as comforting as it is delicious. The warm, spiced aroma wafting from the oven will transport you to cozy autumn evenings spent with family and friends. Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or a simple weeknight treat, this easy-to-make dump cake brings seasonal comfort without the fuss.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pumpkin Pie Dump Cake is ideal for any occasion, from holiday feasts to simple home gatherings when you need a sweet escape. Its effortless preparation is a game changer; just mix, dump, and bake. The combination of warm pumpkin spice flavors and a crunchy cake topping is truly irresistible, making it a comforting dessert that pleases even the pickiest of eaters. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served warm or cold, with or without toppings—a dessert that guarantees satisfaction every time!

Seasonal Ingredients Spotlight

The star of Pumpkin Pie Dump Cake is undoubtedly the pumpkin purée. Bright orange and rich in nutrients, it offers a smooth texture and a sweet, earthy flavor that invokes the heart of autumn. Complemented by warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, the aroma is simply intoxicating as it bakes. The golden crust, which develops from the dry cake mix topping, adds a beautiful contrast in texture. Using fresh, local ingredients not only elevates the flavor but also supports sustainable practices, making this dessert as good for the planet as it is for your palate.

What You’ll Need

30 ounces pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
12 ounces evaporated milk (or half-and-half for a lighter flavor)
4 large eggs (use 3 for a denser texture)
1 ½ cups granulated sugar (or light brown sugar for deeper flavor)
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (or chai spice for a twist)
15.25 ounces yellow cake mix (dry; spice cake mix also works)
1 cup salted butter (melted for soft topping, cold and sliced for crunchy topping)
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

These ingredients come together to create a blend of rich flavors and captivating textures that will leave you and your guests wanting more. Feel free to substitute spices or nuts based on your taste preferences!

How to Make This Recipe

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and grease or spray a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures a non-stick surface, making it easy to serve.
Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together pumpkin purée, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth. The mixture should be creamy and aromatic, filling your kitchen with warmth.
Pour into Dish: Pour the pumpkin mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. This forms the base that will soak up the cake layer above.
Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the pumpkin layer without mixing it in. You’ll notice a lovely contrast between the colorful pumpkin and the light cake mix.
Add Butter: Drizzle melted butter evenly over the cake mix, or place thin pats of cold butter on top for a crunchier texture. The butter will meld into the cake mix and create a delightful topping.
Optional Nuts: Scatter chopped walnuts or pecans evenly over the butter layer for added crunch and flavor. This step is optional but enhances the dish’s texture beautifully.
Bake: Bake for about 60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pumpkin layer is set. Aromas of cinnamon and sugar will fill the air, making it irresistible.
Serve: Serve warm with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a sprinkle of extra pumpkin pie spice for an extra touch of goodness.

Step Examples

Prepare the Base: Begin by preheating the oven, and greasing the dish ensures a flawless finish. The smell of the butter adds to the anticipation.

Mix the Ingredients: The pumpkin mixture should be silky and vibrant, showcasing its rich hue. The addition of spices creates an aromatic blend that is irresistible.

Shape or Cook: Pouring the mixture into the baking dish makes it look inviting, and layering the cake mix on top creates a wonderful visual.

Finish or Garnish: Adding the butter—melted or in pats—prior to baking reveals a delightful transformation into a crispy topping.

Serve and Enjoy: It’s best served warm, with a dollop of whipped cream. Tasting the creamy filling coupled with the crunchy topping is sheer bliss.

Essential Tools

Mixing bowls: For whisking and mixing your ingredients.
Whisk: To ensure a smooth and even mixture.
9×13-inch baking dish: Perfect for even baking and serving.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients.
Spatula: For pouring and spreading your filling evenly.

These tools will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

Make your baking experience easier by preparing the pumpkin mixture ahead of time; just store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembly. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving!

Perfect Pairings

Pumpkin Pie Dump Cake pairs beautifully with spiced chai, hot apple cider, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream that melts into the warm cake. Adding a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon not only enhances the visual appeal but also complements the warm flavors of the dessert.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: ~180 kcal
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Protein: 3 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 14 g

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

Too Much Liquid: If the mixture seems too runny, check the pumpkin purée packaging; make sure you are using pure pumpkin.
Burnt Topping: If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning as it cooks through.
Underbaked Center: Ensure the cake is set in the middle; a toothpick test can help determine doneness.

Pro Tips for Best Results

Use Fresh Pumpkin: For the best flavor, consider making your own pumpkin purée from fresh pumpkins.
Experiment with Spices: Adjust the cinnamon and spice levels to your preference for a personalized touch.
Don’t Skip the Nuts: Adding nuts can elevate the dish significantly—try toasting them first for extra flavor.

Recipe Variations to Explore

Add a Twist: Swap in sweet potato purée for a slightly different flavor profile.
Tropical Surprise: Mix in coconut flakes for a deliciously chewy texture.
Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips to the pumpkin mixture for a decadent version.

Dietary Adaptations & Safety Info

For a vegan version, replace the eggs with flax eggs and use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk. Gluten-free cake mix can be used for a gluten-free adaptation. Always check the labels for allergens and consider cross-contamination if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this pumpkin dump cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pumpkin mixture a couple of days in advance and store it in the fridge.

2. Can I substitute the eggs?
Yes, you can use flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg replacement.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

4. Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! It freezes well for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap.

5. What can I serve it with?
It pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or spiced whipped cream.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

Now that you have all the insights to create a perfect Pumpkin Pie Dump Cake, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking! We’d love to hear your thoughts—don’t forget to share your creations and tag us, or check out more seasonal recipes here. Happy baking!