Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe
Introduction
Pumpkin Dump Cake is a simple, comforting dessert that combines the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices with a crisp, sweet cake topping. It’s an effortless and crowd-pleasing treat perfect for fall gatherings or any time you crave a cozy dessert.

Ingredients
- 1 (15 oz) can pure pumpkin puree
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, mix pumpkin puree, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla until smooth.
- Step 3: Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly in the prepared dish.
- Step 4: Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over the pumpkin layer—do not stir.
- Step 5: Scatter chopped nuts on top and drizzle with melted butter.
- Step 6: Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Step 7: Allow cooling slightly before serving; pair with whipped cream or ice cream if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For a nuttier flavor, toast the pecans or walnuts lightly before adding them on top.
- Use a mix of spices like ginger or cloves to deepen the fall flavors.
- Swap yellow cake mix with spice cake mix for extra warmth and complexity.
- Add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries in the pumpkin layer for added texture and sweetness.
Storage
Store leftover pumpkin dump cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to enjoy warm, or serve cold topped with cream or ice cream.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin if you cook and puree it until smooth. Substitute the same quantity, but make sure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
Is it necessary to grease the baking dish?
Greasing the dish prevents sticking and makes serving easier, so it’s recommended to lightly grease your pan before adding the ingredients.
Print
Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Pumpkin Dump Cake is a simple and delicious autumn dessert featuring a spiced pumpkin base topped with a golden yellow cake mix crust and crunchy nuts. Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for fall gatherings and pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or ice cream.
Ingredients
Pumpkin Mixture
- 1 (15 oz) can pure pumpkin puree
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix pumpkin batter: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
- Layer pumpkin mixture: Pour and spread the pumpkin mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, creating a uniform base layer.
- Add cake mix topping: Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over the pumpkin layer, taking care not to stir so it forms a dry topping crust.
- Add nuts and butter: Scatter the chopped pecans or walnuts over the cake mix, then drizzle the melted unsalted butter evenly on top to help it brown and crisp while baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pumpkin layer is bubbly along the edges.
- Cool and serve: Let the cake cool slightly before serving. For extra indulgence, pair with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream if desired.
Notes
- Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for best flavor and texture.
- You can substitute chopped pecans with walnuts or omit nuts for a nut-free version.
- Ensure the melted butter is poured evenly to achieve a crispy topping.
- This dessert keeps well refrigerated and can be reheated gently before serving.
- Optional garnishes include whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: pumpkin dump cake, easy pumpkin dessert, fall dessert, autumn cake, pumpkin recipe, quick pumpkin cake

