The aroma of warm spices and sweet pumpkin wafts through the air, wrapping you in a cozy embrace as you think about diving into a slice of pumpkin dump cake. Imagine layers of luscious pumpkin filling mingling with a golden, buttery topping—it’s like autumn on a plate! This delightful dessert is perfect for chilly evenings when all you want is to curl up with something comforting and delicious.
Every bite of this pumpkin dump cake brings back memories of family gatherings and laughter around the table. Picture it: leaves turning golden outside, while inside, friends and family gather for a potluck feast. Everyone’s talking, sharing stories, and someone inevitably asks for seconds—and thirds—of that heavenly pumpkin dessert. With its irresistible flavor and simple preparation, it’s no wonder this cake has become a staple at seasonal celebrations.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This pumpkin dump cake is incredibly easy to make, taking the stress out of baking.
- Its rich flavors will remind you of your favorite fall treats while being visually appealing on any dessert table.
- With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this comforting dish in no time.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served warm with ice cream or chilled with whipped cream!
Ingredients for pumpkin dump cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Canned Pumpkin Puree: Look for 100% pure pumpkin without added sugars or spices for the best flavor.
- Yellow Cake Mix: Any brand works well; it adds sweetness and structure without extra effort.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness and enhance the richness of the cake.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This adds creaminess and sweetness that balances perfectly with the pumpkin.
- Spices (Cinnamon & Nutmeg): Freshly ground spices elevate the flavor profile—trust me; it’s worth it!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make pumpkin dump cake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a trusty baking dish—9×13 inches works great—and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray to ensure your cake doesn’t stick.
Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine one can of pumpkin puree with sweetened condensed milk. Add in a teaspoon of cinnamon and half a teaspoon of nutmeg for that cozy autumn flavor. Stir until well blended and smooth.
Step 3: Spread It Out
Pour the pumpkin mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. You want this layer to be rich and inviting because there’s nothing quite like that first slice!
Step 4: Sprinkle Cake Mix
Now comes the fun part—taking your yellow cake mix straight from its box! Sprinkle it generously over the top of your pumpkin layer. Don’t worry about spreading it too evenly; those little clumps add character.
Step 5: Melt Butter Bliss
Melt one cup (two sticks) of butter and gently drizzle it all over the top layer of cake mix. Let it rain butter! This step is crucial because it helps create that golden crust we all love.
Step 6: Bake Away
Pop your masterpiece into the oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and bubbly. The wonderful smell will have everyone wondering what’s cooking!
Once baked to perfection, allow your pumpkin dump cake to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent treat that’ll have everyone coming back for more!
With its rich flavors, delightful textures, and simplicity, this pumpkin dump cake will surely become your go-to dessert whenever you want something sweet that feels like home!
You Must Know
- This delightful pumpkin dump cake is not just a dessert; it’s a fall celebration in your mouth.
- It’s simple to prepare, giving you more time to enjoy cozy moments with loved ones.
- Perfect for gatherings, this cake is sure to be the star of the dessert table.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven and greasing your baking dish. Mix the pumpkin puree and spices, then layer it with cake mix. Pour melted butter over everything and bake until golden brown. This sequence ensures a perfect texture and rich flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the pumpkin puree for sweet potato or even butternut squash for a twist. Add nuts or chocolate chips for extra crunch or sweetness. A sprinkle of vanilla or maple syrup can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover pumpkin dump cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it. To reheat, pop it in the microwave for about 20 seconds or warm it in the oven at low heat.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve that perfect texture, use room-temperature ingredients; it makes blending easier and results in a fluffier cake.
- Don’t skip greasing your pan!
- It prevents sticky disasters during serving.
- Lastly, let it cool slightly before slicing to maintain its shape.
I once made this pumpkin dump cake for an autumn gathering and watched as my friends devoured it like they hadn’t eaten in days. The laughter and compliments filled my kitchen, making me realize this cake isn’t just food; it’s pure joy on a plate!
FAQs:
What is a pumpkin dump cake?
A pumpkin dump cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin pie with the easy preparation of a cake. You layer canned pumpkin, spices, and cake mix in a baking dish without the need for mixing. As it bakes, the ingredients blend together to create a moist and delicious dessert topped with a crispy layer. This dish is perfect for fall gatherings or holiday celebrations.
How do I store leftover pumpkin dump cake?
To store leftover pumpkin dump cake, allow it to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also transfer it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing individual portions. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Properly stored, it can last up to three months in the freezer.
Can I make pumpkin dump cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make a gluten-free version of pumpkin dump cake. Simply substitute regular cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix available at most grocery stores. Ensure that all other ingredients, including canned pumpkin and spices, are gluten-free as well. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious dessert without worrying about gluten sensitivity.
What toppings go well with pumpkin dump cake?
When serving pumpkin dump cake, you have plenty of topping options to enhance its flavors. A dollop of whipped cream adds creaminess and sweetness, while vanilla ice cream brings warmth and comfort. You might also sprinkle some chopped nuts or chocolate chips on top for added texture. For an extra touch, consider drizzling caramel sauce over each slice for an indulgent treat.
Conclusion for pumpkin dump cake:
In summary, the pumpkin dump cake is a simple yet delicious dessert that combines the beloved flavors of fall in an easy-to-make recipe. Its layered structure allows for a delightful blend of textures and tastes while keeping preparation minimal. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home, this dessert is sure to impress your guests and family alike. Enjoying it warm with whipped cream or ice cream makes every bite even more special!
Pumpkin Dump Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in this easy pumpkin dump cake, featuring layers of creamy pumpkin filling topped with a buttery crunch—a perfect autumn dessert!
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) canned pumpkin puree
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Prepare the Pumpkin Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until smooth and well blended.
- Spread the Pumpkin Layer: Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly across the bottom.
- Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle the yellow cake mix generously over the pumpkin layer without mixing it in too much—lumps are okay!
- Drizzle with Butter: Melt the butter and drizzle it evenly over the cake mix layer to create a golden crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving warm, topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: For added texture and flavor, consider mixing in chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the cake mix. You can substitute pumpkin puree with sweet potato or butternut squash for a different twist.
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