Best Pumpkin Dump Cake

This Best Pumpkin Dump Cake recipe is the ultimate fall dessert! With warm pumpkin spice, a buttery cake mix crust, and a crunchy nut topping, it’s easy to make and perfect for Thanksgiving or cozy gatherings. It’s so delicious, it’s even better than pumpkin pie!

Whenever fall comes around, I cannot help but look for new pumpkin recipes that I can try and make for my family! I am so glad I found this delicious and truly heavenly pumpkin recipe. It is so tasty that I have made it about 4 times just this month alone. This easy and delicious pumpkin dump cake uses a cake mix for both the crust and topping, with a perfectly spiced layer of pumpkin sandwiched in between. Adding pecans to the buttery topping brings this dessert over the top!

Not only that, I have also served this many times already, and every time I get asked about the recipe and how it comes out so yummy! Hope you try this soon!

Are you looking for the best pumpkin recipes to try this fall? Look no further than our fabulous collection of 20 Delicious Sweet and Savory Pumpkin Recipes!

When the air turns crisp and pumpkin spice takes over our kitchens, there’s no easier treat to whip up than a classic pumpkin dump cake. This recipe is one of the best fall desserts you can bring to gatherings, family dinners, or even a casual weeknight treat. Unlike pumpkin pie, which requires a delicate crust, this pumpkin dump cake recipe delivers all the same cozy flavors with far less effort.

Made with a can of pumpkin, warm cinnamon and spice, cake mix, and a buttery crumb topping, this dessert comes together quickly and bakes up golden brown with a smooth, custardy pumpkin base. Paired with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, it may just become your new go-to Thanksgiving dessert recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Dump Cake

• Easy to make: No special equipment or long prep time—just layers of simple fall ingredients.
• Packed with seasonal flavor: Real pumpkin and pumpkin spice make every bite taste like autumn.
• Perfect texture: Silky pumpkin filling, buttery crumb topping, and crunchy nuts for balance.
• Crowd favorite: Great for fall potlucks, Friendsgiving, or cozy weekend baking.

Ingredients for Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake

Here’s what you’ll need for this easy pumpkin dump cake:

• 1 box spice or yellow cake mix (reserve 1 cup)
• 1 stick butter, melted
• 1 egg
• 1 large (29 oz) can of pumpkin
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup sugar
• 2/3 cup milk
• 3 teaspoons pumpkin spice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup reserved cake mix
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 stick cold butter
• 1 cup walnuts or pecans, finely chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions on how to make Pumpkin Dump Cake

1. Prepare the base: Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch pan. Mix the cake mix (minus the reserved 1 cup), melted butter, and 1 egg until thick and sticky. Press evenly into the pan.
2. Make the pumpkin layer: In a large bowl, beat together pumpkin, 2 eggs, sugar, milk, pumpkin spice, and salt. Pour this creamy mixture over the crust.
3. Add the crumb topping: Combine the reserved cake mix with sugar. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Stir in nuts, then sprinkle evenly over the pumpkin filling.
4. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes until the pumpkin is set and the topping is golden brown.
5. Cool and serve: Let the cake cool completely before slicing. Top with whipped cream or ice cream for the ultimate fall dessert.

Recipe Tips and Variations

• Change the nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts, or leave them out for a nut-free pumpkin dump cake.
• Try different cake mixes: A spice cake mix intensifies the fall flavors, while yellow cake mix keeps it mellow and sweet.
• Make it ahead: This cake can be baked the night before, making it a perfect stress-free Thanksgiving dessert.
• Top it your way: Whipped cream, caramel drizzle, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even cream cheese frosting all pair beautifully.

Pumpkin Dump Cake vs. Pumpkin Pie

This pumpkin dump cake tastes like a cross between pumpkin pie and a buttery cobbler. The bottom layer bakes into a rich custard-style pumpkin filling, while the top gives you that crisp crumble texture. It’s quicker and easier than rolling pie dough, making it a great option when you want fall flavors without the fuss.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm or chilled with:

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Fresh whipped cream with cinnamon.
• A drizzle of caramel sauce.

This dessert travels well, so it’s also perfect for potlucks and fall gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pumpkin Dump Cake

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, but make sure it’s pureed smooth and drained of excess liquid before using. Canned pumpkin is thicker and more consistent, which gives the best texture.

Can I make pumpkin dump cake ahead of time?
Absolutely. Bake it one day ahead and refrigerate. It tastes even better after sitting overnight as the flavors meld together.

How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months.

What’s the best cake mix to use?
Spice cake mix gives the richest flavor, but yellow cake mix works if you prefer a milder taste. Both are delicious.

Can I make this without nuts?
Yes! Simply leave out the nuts or replace them with rolled oats for a nut-free crumble topping.

This pumpkin dump cake recipe is a true fall essential—easy, cozy, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re adding it to your Thanksgiving dessert spread or just craving something pumpkin-spiced on a chilly night, it’s one treat you’ll make again and again.

Last updated on September 18th, 2025 at 04:15 pm