Dessert

Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe

ByMarina Montclair December 3, 2025December 3, 2025

Introduction

Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake is a simple and comforting dessert perfect for autumn or any time you crave warm, spiced flavors. With minimal prep and a delightful texture, this cake combines pumpkin purée and a yellow cake mix for a quick, crowd-pleasing treat.

A close-up view of a single square piece of pumpkin crumb cake on a white plate with a gold fork beside it. The cake has three layers: a dense orange pumpkin base at the bottom, a light creamy layer in the middle, and a thick crumbly brown topping with pecans. On top, there is a swirl of white whipped cream sprinkled with a little cinnamon. The background is a white marbled texture with a blurred white baking dish and scattered pecans in the back. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 (15 oz) can pumpkin purée
1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
3 large eggs
1 cup sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
½ tsp nutmeg
½ tsp ginger
½ tsp salt
1 box yellow cake mix
1 cup (2 sticks) melted butter
½ cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin purée, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 4: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the pumpkin layer, covering the surface.
Step 5: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top, trying to cover as much of the cake mix as possible.
Step 6: If using, sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top for added texture and flavor.
Step 7: Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and set in the center.
Step 8: Let the cake cool slightly before serving. It pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier twist, use a spice cake mix instead of yellow cake mix.
Swap pecans for walnuts or crushed gingersnaps for different flavors and crunch.
Add a swirl of caramel sauce before baking to introduce a gooey sweetness.

Storage

Store leftover pumpkin dump cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions gently in the microwave to restore warmth and softness. This cake can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows a single square piece of pumpkin cake with three clear layers on a white plate. The bottom layer is a thick, moist pumpkin base with a deep orange color. Above it is a creamy white layer, smooth and slightly glossy. The top layer is a crumbly, golden-brown streusel with visible pecan pieces scattered throughout. On top of the streusel is a generous swirl of white whipped cream lightly dusted with cinnamon powder. Some pecans are placed around the cake on the plate. A golden fork rests beside the cake on the plate. The surface beneath the plate has a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned purée?

Yes, but make sure to cook and puree the fresh pumpkin thoroughly before using it in the recipe. About 2 cups of fresh pumpkin purée should replace one 15 oz can.