Pumpkin Dump Cake : The Ultimate Easy Fall Dessert

When fall rolls around and you’re craving something sweet, warm, and comforting, nothing beats a classic pumpkin dump cake. This crowd-pleasing dessert is everything you love about pumpkin pie — creamy filling, warm spices, rich pumpkin flavor — but so much easier to make. Just “dump” the ingredients into a pan, bake, and enjoy.

Whether you’re baking for a dessert party, looking for a pumpkin pecan dump cake Shes Not Cookin–style recipe, or trying a lighter keto pumpkin dump cake recipe, this guide will help you make the perfect dessert with ease.

Here’s how to create this fall favorite step by step, plus plenty of tips, healthy swaps, and serving ideas.

Save

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Dump Cake

This dessert is as easy as it gets, but still delivers incredible flavor.
Quick to assemble: Just a few pantry staples and about 10 minutes of prep.
Perfect texture: Creamy pumpkin custard base with a buttery, crumbly topping.
Crowd-pleasing: Everyone loves it, making it ideal for holidays and parties.
Versatile: Can be made low-carb, keto-friendly, or even dairy-free with simple swaps.

If you already enjoy dessert alternatives like apple crisp or bread pudding, this pumpkin dump cake will quickly become another favorite.

Dessert Party Favorite: Why Pumpkin Dump Cake is Always a Hit

Dump cakes are perfect for entertaining because they’re low-effort yet impressive. You can bake it in advance and serve warm or at room temperature. Top it with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a show-stopping dessert.

For Thanksgiving, Halloween, or just a cozy autumn gathering, this dessert fits the bill.

Ingredients for Classic Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe

• 1 (15 oz/425g) can pumpkin puree
• 1 (12 oz/340ml) can evaporated milk
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup (200g) sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 box spice cake mix (or yellow cake mix if preferred)
• 1 cup (2 sticks/226g) butter, melted
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need for Dump Cake Pumpkin Desserts

9×13-inch baking dish
Mixing bowl
Whisk or spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step: How to Make Pumpkin Dump Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Layer

In a mixing bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth. Pour into the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Add the Cake Mix

Evenly sprinkle the dry spice cake mix over the pumpkin mixture. Do not stir.

Step 4: Add Butter and Pecans

Drizzle melted butter evenly over the cake mix layer. Sprinkle with chopped pecans if using.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 50–60 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Save

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Dump Cake Every Time

Do not mix the layers — keeping them separate ensures the custard stays creamy and the top stays crumbly.
Use real pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which already has sugar and spices added.
For a crispier top, use cold butter cut into thin slices instead of melted butter.
Let the cake cool for at least 15 minutes so it sets properly before serving.

Keto Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and Low Carb Variations

To make a keto pumpkin dump cake recipe, try these adjustments:
Use unsweetened pumpkin puree and a low-carb sweetener like erythritol in place of sugar.
Replace the cake mix with a homemade almond flour–based topping.
Use unsalted butter and skip the evaporated milk in favor of heavy cream.

For a low carb pumpkin dump cake, follow the same swaps but you can use a low-sugar cake mix if available.

Healthy Pumpkin Dump Cake: Lightened-Up Options

For a lighter, healthy pumpkin dump cake, try these tips:
Use reduced-fat evaporated milk or almond milk instead of full-fat.
Cut the sugar in the pumpkin layer by half or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup.
Use less butter or swap part of it for coconut oil.
Skip the pecans or use fewer for a lower-calorie topping.

Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe With Spice Cake and Other Flavor Twists

Spice cake mix is a classic choice because it complements the pumpkin perfectly. But you can try other variations too:
Yellow cake mix for a sweeter, milder flavor.
Chocolate cake mix for a rich and decadent twist.
Carrot cake mix for extra warm spice and texture.

Feel free to add a handful of chocolate chips, cranberries, or shredded coconut for more fun flavors.

Pumpkin Pecan Dump Cake and Other Topping Ideas

Pecans add a crunchy, nutty element that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
Other topping ideas include:
Crushed graham crackers mixed with butter and cinnamon.
Granola for extra crunch.
A drizzle of caramel sauce after baking.

Dessert Alternatives: More Ideas for Pumpkin Lovers

If you love pumpkin but want to try something different, here are a few alternatives:
Pumpkin bread with cream cheese filling
Pumpkin pancakes
Pumpkin spice sugar cookies
These all make delicious additions to your fall dessert table.

How to Store and Serve Pumpkin Dump Cake

Pumpkin dump cake can be served warm, at room temperature, or even chilled. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions for about 30–45 seconds.

This dessert also freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm before serving if desired.

Save

Pumpkin Dump Cake FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes — bake a day ahead and store in the fridge. Reheat before serving.

Do I need to refrigerate leftovers?
Yes, because of the custard base, it should be kept refrigerated.

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?
Absolutely — just make sure it’s smooth and well-drained.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action: Bake This Crowd-Pleaser Today

This pumpkin dump cake is the ultimate fall dessert — easy, cozy, and so delicious. Whether you stick with the classic spice cake and pecan topping or try a lighter keto-friendly version, it’s a guaranteed hit at your next gathering.

If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with friends and family and subscribe to our blog for more seasonal dessert ideas, dessert party recipes, and creative dessert alternatives!

Print