Looking for an easy, delicious fall dessert? This Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe combines the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin with the buttery goodness of cake in the simplest way possible. Just layer, bake, and enjoy a dessert that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe

Fall desserts are all about comfort, flavor, and simplicity. Here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Effortless to Make: No mixing bowls required—just layer ingredients in a dish!
- Perfect Texture: The creamy pumpkin base contrasts beautifully with the crispy cake topping.
- Customizable: Add nuts, spices, or whipped cream to make it your own.
- Holiday-Ready: It’s a dessert that screams autumn and fits perfectly on any Thanksgiving table.
Looking for more dessert inspiration? Try the festive Watermelon Cake, the indulgent Red Velvet Pound Cake, or the decadent Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe
Before diving in, gather these ingredients:
Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Pumpkin puree | 1 can (15 oz) | Forms the rich base |
Sweetened condensed milk | 1 can (14 oz) | Adds sweetness and creaminess |
Pumpkin pie spice | 2 tsp | Infuses warm, autumnal flavor |
Yellow cake mix | 1 box (15.25 oz) | Creates the crumbly topping |
Unsalted butter | 1 cup (melted) | Makes the topping crispy and golden |
Chopped pecans (optional) | ½ cup | Adds crunch and nuttiness |
Want more unique flavors? Don’t miss the buttery goodness of a Butter Pecan Pound Cake or the luscious layers of a Dulce De Leche Cake.
How to Make the Best Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Layer
In your baking dish, combine the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Mix gently until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over the pumpkin layer. Do not mix—just let it sit on top.
Step 4: Drizzle with Butter
Pour melted butter evenly over the cake mix. Make sure all dry spots are covered to create a crispy topping.
Step 5: Add Optional Toppings
Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top for extra crunch and flavor.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp. Let it cool slightly before serving.
For more ideas, check out our fun and vibrant Cotton Candy Cake or the nostalgic Strawberry Crunch Cake.
Tips for Success
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
- Customize Flavors: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to intensify the spice profile.
- Serve Warm: Pair it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a decadent treat.
FAQs
What is a dump cake?
A dump cake is a dessert where you “dump” ingredients into a baking dish without mixing. This Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe is a perfect example, offering ease and delicious results.
Can I use gluten-free cake mix?
Yes! Swap the regular yellow cake mix with a gluten-free version to accommodate dietary needs while keeping the integrity of this Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any remaining cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Simply reheat and enjoy this Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe all week.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Dump Cake?
Absolutely! After cooling, wrap the cake tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I make this dessert vegan?
To make it vegan, use coconut condensed milk, a vegan cake mix, and dairy-free butter. The result will still taste amazing!
Key Takeaways
- Effortless Dessert: Minimal prep, maximum flavor.
- Autumn Flavors: Perfectly spiced and holiday-ready.
- Versatile Recipe: Easy to adapt to dietary needs.
Conclusion
This Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe is the ultimate dessert to celebrate fall. With its rich pumpkin base and buttery, crispy topping, it’s destined to become a family favorite. Serve it warm with ice cream, and don’t be surprised if it steals the spotlight at your holiday table!
Have you tried this recipe? Share your thoughts or variations in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you.
For more delicious ideas, check out these unique cake flavors!
For more baking tips and pumpkin recipes, check out Our 16 best pumpkin recipes for fall baking | King Arthur Baking

Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 can 15 oz pumpkin puree
- 1 can 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 box 15.25 oz yellow cake mix
- 1 cup unsalted butter melted
- ½ cup chopped pecans optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Combine pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt in the baking dish. Mix evenly.
- Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over the pumpkin mixture without stirring.
- Drizzle melted butter over the cake mix, ensuring all dry spots are covered.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans on top (optional).
- Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp. Let cool slightly before serving.
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