Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe: The Ultimate Fall Dessert

As the crisp autumn air sets in, nothing complements the season better than a warm, flavorful dessert. Pumpkin Dump Cake is the perfect fusion of a traditional pumpkin pie and a buttery cake, offering a rich, spiced flavor with minimal effort. This recipe is ideal for family gatherings, Thanksgiving feasts, or simply indulging in the cozy comforts of fall.

• Effortless Preparation: No complicated steps—just mix, dump, and bake.
• Rich, Autumn Flavors: Perfect blend of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit at any fall event or holiday gathering.

• 1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin puree
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
• 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional for added crunch)

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.

In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until smooth and fully combined. Pour this mixture into the prepared baking dish.

Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the pumpkin layer. Do not mix. This creates the signature layered texture of a dump cake.

Slowly drizzle the melted butter over the entire surface of the cake mix. Ensure that all dry spots are moistened for an even, golden-brown crust.

For added crunch and flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top.

Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are slightly crispy. Insert a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean when done.

Allow the cake to cool for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This dessert is delicious warm or chilled. For an extra treat, top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe

Pumpkin dump cake is a beloved autumn dessert, blending the rich, spiced flavor of pumpkin with a buttery cake topping. However, for those who prefer a less sweet treat, modifying this recipe can create a perfectly balanced dessert. Below, we provide comprehensive tips and methods to make your pumpkin dump cake less sweet without compromising on flavor

One of the most effective ways to reduce sweetness is to adjust the sugar content in the pumpkin layer.

• Reduce Granulated Sugar: Start by cutting the sugar in the pumpkin mixture by half. If the original recipe calls for 1 cup of sugar, use only 1/2 cup.
• Use Natural Sweeteners: Substitute refined sugar with natural sweeteners like pure maple syrup or honey, but use them sparingly. Their mild sweetness adds depth without overwhelming the pumpkin flavor.
• Unsweetened Pumpkin Puree: Ensure you are using 100% pure pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices.

The cake mix used in pumpkin dump cake often contributes significant sweetness.

• Yellow or White Cake Mix: Choose a less sweet variety of yellow or white cake mix instead of butter or spice cake mixes.
• Homemade Cake Mix: Make your own cake mix with all-purpose flour, a small amount of sugar, and a dash of baking powder. This allows full control over the sweetness.

Adding tangy ingredients can offset the cake’s overall sweetness.

• Cream Cheese Swirl: Incorporate a layer of lightly sweetened or unsweetened cream cheese into the pumpkin mixture. The tangy flavor balances the sweetness beautifully.
• Greek Yogurt Topping: Serve the cake with a dollop of unsweetened Greek yogurt instead of whipped cream for a tangy contrast.

Sweet toppings can elevate the sugar content of the cake.

• Cut Back on Caramel or Whipped Cream: Limit or skip sugary toppings like caramel sauce or sweetened whipped cream.
• Nut and Oat Topping: Create a crunchy, savory topping using chopped nuts and rolled oats mixed with a small amount of butter and a pinch of salt. This adds texture without extra sweetness.

Amplifying the spice profile can create a more complex flavor, reducing the need for excess sugar.

• Increase Cinnamon and Nutmeg: Boost the amount of warming spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
• Add Ginger: A touch of ground ginger adds subtle heat that balances sweetness.

Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe

Savory ingredients can balance the sweetness and add unique flavors.

• Salted Butter: Use salted butter in the cake topping instead of unsalted to add a savory touch.
• Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts over the top before baking for added crunch and a nutty, savory note.

Sometimes, the sweetness can be managed by how the cake is served.

• Smaller Slices: Serve smaller portions to prevent the sweetness from becoming overwhelming.
• Pair with Unsweetened Beverages: Enjoy the cake with unsweetened beverages like black coffee or herbal tea to balance the sweetness.

Using alternative flours can subtly change the sweetness and texture.

• Almond Flour or Oat Flour: Substitute part of the cake mix with almond flour or oat flour for a nutty, less sweet base.
• Whole Wheat Flour: Incorporate whole wheat flour for a heartier texture and a less sweet profile.

Making a pumpkin dump cake less sweet is all about balancing flavors and thoughtfully reducing sugar. By adjusting sugar levels, choosing less sweet cake mixes, incorporating tangy and savory ingredients, and enhancing spices, you can create a delicious, well-rounded dessert perfect for any occasion.

Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe

Pumpkin dump cake is a beloved autumn dessert, blending the rich, spiced flavor of pumpkin with a buttery cake topping. However, for those who prefer a less sweet and healthier treat, modifying this recipe can create a perfectly balanced and nutritious dessert. Below, we provide comprehensive tips and methods to make your pumpkin dump cake less sweet and healthier without compromising on flavor.

One of the most effective ways to reduce sweetness is to adjust the sugar content in the pumpkin layer.

• Reduce Granulated Sugar: Start by cutting the sugar in the pumpkin mixture by half. If the original recipe calls for 1 cup of sugar, use only 1/2 cup.
• Use Natural Sweeteners: Substitute refined sugar with natural sweeteners like pure maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar, but use them sparingly. Their mild sweetness adds depth without overwhelming the pumpkin flavor.
• Unsweetened Pumpkin Puree: Ensure you are using 100% pure pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices.

The cake mix used in pumpkin dump cake often contributes significant sweetness and processed ingredients.

• Whole Grain or Gluten-Free Cake Mix: Choose a whole grain or gluten-free cake mix for added fiber and nutrients.
• Homemade Cake Mix: Make your own cake mix with whole wheat flour, almond flour, or oat flour for a more nutritious base.

Adding wholesome ingredients can boost the cake’s nutritional value.

• Chia or Flax Seeds: Mix in chia seeds or ground flaxseeds for added fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Pumpkin Seeds: Sprinkle pepitas (pumpkin seeds) on top for extra crunch and nutrients.

Replacing unhealthy fats with more nutritious options improves the overall healthiness of the cake.

• Coconut Oil or Olive Oil: Use coconut oil or extra virgin olive oil instead of butter for healthier fat content.
• Avocado or Applesauce: Substitute some or all of the butter with mashed avocado or unsweetened applesauce to reduce saturated fat.

Adding tangy ingredients can offset the cake’s overall sweetness and enhance flavor.

• Greek Yogurt Swirl: Incorporate a layer of unsweetened Greek yogurt into the pumpkin mixture for added protein and a tangy contrast.
• Coconut Yogurt: Use unsweetened coconut yogurt as a dairy-free alternative.

Sweet toppings can elevate the sugar content of the cake.

• Skip Sugary Sauces: Limit or skip sugary toppings like caramel sauce or sweetened whipped cream.
• Nut and Oat Topping: Create a crunchy, nutritious topping using chopped nuts, rolled oats, and a drizzle of coconut oil with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe

Amplifying the spice profile can create a more complex flavor, reducing the need for excess sugar.

• Increase Cinnamon and Nutmeg: Boost the amount of warming spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
• Add Ginger and Cardamom: Include ground ginger and a pinch of cardamom for additional warmth and balance.

Portion control and smart pairings can make the dessert healthier.

• Smaller Slices: Serve smaller portions to keep the dessert light.
• Pair with Herbal Tea: Enjoy the cake with unsweetened herbal tea or green tea for a refreshing balance.

Making a pumpkin dump cake less sweet and healthier is all about mindful ingredient choices and flavor balance. By reducing sugar, using wholesome ingredients, incorporating healthy fats, and enhancing spices, you can create a delicious and nourishing dessert that everyone can enjoy.