Easy Classic Pumpkin Dump Cake – Perfect for Holidays

I started Eminent Recipes to share meals that make people smile, and this Classic Pumpkin Dump Cake does just that. Inspired by my family’s love for easy, home-baked desserts, this vegan-friendly dump cake combines convenience with rich autumn flavor. Quick to prepare, customizable, and perfect for any occasion, it’s proof that comforting, delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something magical about the cozy aroma of pumpkin and spice filling the kitchen, and this Classic Pumpkin Dump Cake makes it effortless. You’ll love this recipe because it combines all the comforting flavors of fall into one simple, delicious dessert. With just a few ingredients, this pumpkin dump cake delivers rich, velvety layers of pumpkin filling beneath a buttery, golden cake topping. It’s the perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and ease.

This vegan pumpkin dump cake variation keeps all the flavor while offering a lighter, plant-based option for those who prefer dairy-free or egg-free desserts. Whether you make the traditional or vegan version, it’s quick, family-friendly, and ideal for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Each bite tastes like autumn in a spoonful—warm, comforting, and full of love. You’ll adore how easily this Classic Pumpkin Dump Cake fits into your holiday routine while satisfying everyone at the table.

Ingredients for This Recipe

Every great dessert starts with simple, wholesome ingredients, and this Classic Pumpkin Dump Cake is no exception. Each component brings its own touch of warmth and flavor, creating a dessert that’s as effortless as it is satisfying. The pumpkin purée forms the heart of the recipe, giving it that rich, velvety texture and unmistakable autumn flavor. The evaporated milk and eggs blend together to make the filling smooth and creamy, while sugar and pumpkin pie spice infuse it with the perfect balance of sweetness and spice.

The cake mix—whether you choose yellow or spice—creates a buttery, golden crust that perfectly contrasts the soft pumpkin layer underneath. Melted butter binds everything together, giving the cake its signature crumbly, delicious topping. For an extra touch of texture and nuttiness, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top. Together, these simple ingredients transform into a comforting, crowd-pleasing dessert that captures the true spirit of fall baking.

🛒 Ingredients:
1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin purée
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
3 large eggs
1 cup sugar (or brown sugar for deeper flavor)
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice (or 2 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp nutmeg, ¼ tsp ginger, ¼ tsp cloves)
1 box yellow or spice cake mix (15 oz)
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for topping

How to Make This Recipe

Making this Classic Pumpkin Dump Cake couldn’t be easier — it’s the perfect dessert when you want the rich, cozy flavor of pumpkin pie without the fuss. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity: just layer, bake, and enjoy. The creamy pumpkin base blends perfectly with the buttery cake topping, creating that signature texture and flavor that makes this dessert a fall favorite. Whether you’re making the traditional or vegan pumpkin dump cake version, each step brings out the best of autumn baking — warm, fragrant, and effortlessly delicious.

This easy Classic Pumpkin Dump Cake is great for beginners and busy home cooks who want a family-friendly dessert that feels homemade. Using simple pantry ingredients, you’ll have a golden, flavorful treat ready in no time. The result? A dessert that’s as comforting as it is irresistible — perfect for gatherings, holidays, or quiet evenings in.

Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin purée, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth.
Step 3: Pour the pumpkin mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the pumpkin layer — do not stir.
Step 5: Drizzle melted butter evenly across the top of the cake mix.
Step 6: Optional — add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch and flavor.
Step 7: Bake for 50–60 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Step 8: Let your Classic Pumpkin Dump Cake cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Expert Cooking Tips

Creating the perfect Classic Pumpkin Dump Cake is all about balance — the creamy pumpkin base, the buttery cake topping, and just the right amount of spice. This dessert is wonderfully forgiving, but a few expert tips can help you take it from delicious to unforgettable. The key is using high-quality ingredients: pure pumpkin purée for authentic flavor, real butter for a golden, crisp top, and a spice cake mix to enhance those cozy fall notes. If you’re preparing a vegan pumpkin dump cake, simply substitute plant-based butter and dairy-free evaporated milk without losing the comforting taste or texture.

Remember, the magic of this Classic Pumpkin Dump Cake comes from layering, not mixing. The pumpkin layer stays soft and custard-like while the cake mix transforms into a golden crust. Serve it warm to highlight the spices and rich aroma — it’s the perfect dessert for family dinners or festive fall gatherings.

💡 Expert Tips:
Use pure pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best flavor.
Try a spice cake mix for a stronger fall spice flavor or yellow cake mix for a milder taste.
Melt butter evenly before drizzling so it bakes into a perfectly crisp topping.
Let the Classic Pumpkin Dump Cake rest 10–15 minutes before serving to set the layers.
Add chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for crunch and a toasty aroma.
For a vegan pumpkin dump cake, swap dairy ingredients for plant-based alternatives — it tastes just as rich and delicious.

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This Classic Pumpkin Dump Cake is the ultimate fall dessert: simple, comforting, and irresistibly delicious. With just a few ingredients, you can create a rich pumpkin filling topped with a golden, buttery cake crust that everyone will love. Whether you make the traditional or vegan pumpkin dump cake version, it’s perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or cozy weeknights. Quick to prepare, customizable, and packed with warm autumn flavors, this Classic Pumpkin Dump Cake is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Classic Pumpkin Dump Cake

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• Author: Savannah
• Total Time: 40–45 minutes
• Yield: 10–12 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This easy fall dessert combines the flavors of pumpkin pie and buttery cake in one irresistible dish. With rich pumpkin filling, warm spices, and a crisp golden topping, it’s the ultimate treat for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or any cozy night in.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

🛒 Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin purée

• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk

• 3 large eggs

• 1 cup sugar (or brown sugar for deeper flavor)

• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice (or 2 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp nutmeg, ¼ tsp ginger, ¼ tsp cloves)

• 1 box yellow or spice cake mix (15 oz)

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

• Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for topping

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Instructions

📝 Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Pumpkin Filling: In a bowl, whisk together pumpkin purée, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth. Pour into the prepared baking dish.

3. Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the pumpkin mixture. Do not stir.

4. Add Butter & Nuts: Drizzle melted butter evenly across the cake mix. Sprinkle with nuts if using.

5. Bake: Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, until the top is golden and the filling is set.

6. Cool & Serve: Cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or chilled with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Notes

• Use a spice cake mix for extra fall flavor.
• For a lighter version, substitute half the butter with applesauce.
• Let it cool fully before slicing for cleaner portions.
• Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; best served warm or cold.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American / Fall