On a chilly autumn afternoon, I found myself craving a dessert that felt like home without spending hours in the kitchen. That’s when I discovered the magic of a pumpkin pecan dump cake. This easy dump cake recipe combines sweet pumpkin, crunchy pecans, and buttery cake in one simple dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings, it’s a family-friendly, one-pan dessert that’s quick, comforting, and endlessly customizable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pumpkin pecan dump cake is the ultimate easy dump cake recipe for busy bakers and dessert lovers alike. It’s quick to assemble, requires just one pan, and delivers warm, comforting flavors that make it perfect for winter dessert recipes and holiday gatherings. With sweet pumpkin, crunchy pecans, and buttery cake mix layered together, this family-friendly dessert is customizable, festive, and ideal for easy Christmas desserts or any special occasion where a simple, delicious treat is needed.
Ingredients for This Recipe
The key to a delicious pumpkin pecan dump cake is using simple, high-quality ingredients that layer together to create rich flavor and a moist, tender texture. Pumpkin purée provides the warm, seasonal base, while evaporated milk and eggs make the cake custardy and soft. Sugar balances the natural earthiness of pumpkin, and pumpkin pie spice adds that classic holiday warmth. Yellow or spice cake mix forms the sweet, golden topping, melted butter keeps everything moist, and chopped pecans give each bite a satisfying crunch. This combination makes the pumpkin pecan dump cake a perfect winter dessert recipe, holiday dump cake, or easy Christmas dessert that’s family-friendly and quick to prepare.

🛒 Ingredients:
1 can (15 oz) pumpkin purée
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
3 large eggs
1 cup sugar (or brown sugar for richer flavor)
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
1 box yellow or spice cake mix (15 oz)
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1 cup chopped pecans (plus extra for topping)
How to Make This Recipe
Making pumpkin pecan dump cake is surprisingly easy, which is why it’s such a popular easy dump cake recipe for busy weeknights and holiday gatherings. The process is all about layering the ingredients to build flavor and texture. Pumpkin purée, evaporated milk, and eggs create a rich, custardy base, while sugar and pumpkin pie spice add warmth and sweetness. The cake mix and melted butter form a golden, crisp topping, and chopped pecans bring crunch and nutty flavor. By following this step-by-step method, you’ll have a moist, flavorful pumpkin pecan dump cake that’s perfect as a winter dessert recipe or holiday dump cake.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin purée, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the pumpkin layer.
- Drizzle melted butter evenly over the cake mix.
- Top with 1 cup chopped pecans, saving some for garnish.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Let cool slightly, then serve warm with optional whipped cream or ice cream.
This method ensures your pumpkin pecan dump cake is a quick, family-friendly, and flavorful one-pan dessert perfect for any occasion.

Expert Cooking Tips
To make the perfect pumpkin pecan dump cake, understanding how each ingredient works together is key. Pumpkin purée and eggs create a creamy, custardy base, while sugar and pumpkin pie spice enhance the rich, seasonal flavors. The cake mix adds a golden, sweet topping, and melted butter ensures it bakes moist and tender. Chopped pecans provide crunch and texture. Following these expert tips will elevate your pumpkin pecan dump cake, making it a standout winter dessert recipe or holiday dump cake that’s both easy and impressive.
💡 Expert Tips:
- Use a high-quality pumpkin purée for the best flavor and texture in your dump cake.
- Ensure the evaporated milk and eggs are well mixed into the pumpkin layer to create a smooth, custardy base.
- Sprinkle the cake mix evenly over the pumpkin mixture to guarantee even baking and a golden top.
- Drizzle melted butter slowly over the cake mix to help it bake moist and crisp at the same time.
- Toast the pecans lightly before adding them to intensify their nutty flavor.
- Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream to enhance the dessert experience.
These tips make your pumpkin pecan dump cake a quick, family-friendly, and easy Christmas dessert that everyone will love.

FAQs
What makes pumpkin pecan dump cake different from regular cakes?
Pumpkin pecan dump cake is an easy dump cake recipe that requires no mixing. Ingredients are layered in one pan and baked to create a moist, flavorful dessert, making it a perfect winter dessert recipe or holiday dump cake.
Can I make this pumpkin pecan dump cake ahead of time?
Yes, this dump cake can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving for a warm, family-friendly dessert.
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Absolutely. Layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2.5–3 hours. This method makes an easy, one-pan pumpkin pecan dump cake ideal for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings.
What toppings go best with pumpkin pecan dump cake?
Top with whipped cream, ice cream, caramel drizzle, or extra pecans. These additions make your easy Christmas dessert or holiday dump cake even more indulgent.
Want more sweet and savory recipes like this? Follow us on Facebook for daily dinner ideas, cooking tips, and behind-the-scenes moments from Eminent Recipes.
See how others are plating this dish on Instagram! Tag your version with #Eminentrecipes and get featured.
Love collecting recipes? Don’t miss our latest pins on Pinterest—perfect for saving your favorite meals in one spot.
Berry Cheesecake Dump Cake – Simple, Creamy, and Crowd-Pleasing
Easy Classic Pumpkin Dump Cake – Perfect for Holidays
Pumpkin Cheesecake Dump Cake – The Best Holiday Dessert Recipe
The Best Pumpkin Spice Latte Dump Cake for Winter Desserts
Mini Pumpkin Dump Cakes – Cozy One-Pan Dessert Recipe
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe – Quick & Delicious
Pumpkin pecan dump cake is the ultimate easy dump cake recipe for anyone looking for a quick, delicious, and family-friendly dessert. With layers of pumpkin, pecans, and cake mix, this one-pan winter dessert recipe is perfect for holiday dump cake occasions, easy Christmas desserts, or cozy weeknight treats. Its customizable nature allows you to add toppings like whipped cream, ice cream, or caramel drizzle, making it a standout dessert that’s both simple to prepare and full of seasonal flavor.
Print
Pumpkin Pecan Dump Cake
- Total Time: 40–45 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This cozy dessert combines spiced pumpkin filling with a buttery cake topping and crunchy pecans. The result is a warm, sweet, and nutty treat — perfect for Thanksgiving, autumn gatherings, or any time you want a fall-inspired dessert.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients:
1 can (15 oz) pumpkin purée
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
3 large eggs
1 cup sugar (or brown sugar for richer flavor)
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
1 box yellow or spice cake mix (15 oz)
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1 cup chopped pecans (plus extra for topping)
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Pumpkin Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together pumpkin purée, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth. Pour into the prepared dish.
Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the pumpkin mixture. Do not stir.
Top with Butter & Pecans: Drizzle melted butter evenly over the cake mix. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top.
Bake: Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, until the top is golden and the pumpkin mixture is set.
Cool & Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- For extra nutty flavor, toast the pecans lightly before sprinkling on top.
- You can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for added aroma.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3–4 days; reheat before serving.
- Optional: drizzle caramel sauce over each serving for extra indulgence.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American / Fall