If you’re craving a warm, tasty dessert this fall, look no further than Pumpkin Pie Dump Cake! This easy recipe combines classic pumpkin pie flavors with the simple joy of a dump cake. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any gathering. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightfully simple treat that’s sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
To make a delicious Pumpkin Pie Dump Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
– 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– Whipped cream, for serving (optional)
Each ingredient plays a key role. The pumpkin puree gives it that rich flavor. Evaporated milk adds creaminess. The eggs help bind everything together. Sugar sweetens the mix, while vanilla enhances the taste. Ground spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger bring warmth and depth. Salt balances the sweetness. The yellow cake mix forms a lovely crust on top. Melted butter adds richness and helps create a golden finish. If you enjoy nuts, pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch. Finally, whipped cream can make each slice even more delightful.
For the full recipe, check out the guide.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps bake the cake evenly.
– Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Use butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
– Mix Pumpkin Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together:
– 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
– 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Whisk until smooth and blended well.
– Layer Pumpkin and Cake Mix
Pour the pumpkin mixture into the baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom.
Next, sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the pumpkin layer. Make sure to cover it all. Do not mix!
– Add Butter and Nuts
Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix. This helps it bake nicely. If you want nuts, sprinkle them on top now. Use 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts if you like.
Baking the Cake
– Baking Time: 50-60 Minutes
Place the baking dish in the oven. Bake for 50-60 minutes. The top should be golden brown.
– Checking for Doneness
To check, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, it’s ready.
– Letting It Cool
Once done, take it out of the oven. Let it cool for 10-15 minutes. This makes it easier to cut and serve.
Tips & Tricks
Making the Perfect Dump Cake
Avoiding Overmixing
When you mix the pumpkin and egg blend, mix just until smooth. Overmixing can make the cake dense. You want a light and fluffy texture.
Ensuring Even Butter Distribution
After sprinkling the dry cake mix, drizzle the melted butter evenly. This step is key for a crispy top and a moist inside. Every bite should feel rich and buttery.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to take your dump cake to the next level? Try adding a pinch of allspice or a splash of maple syrup. Both will boost the flavors and give it a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Garnishing Options
For a nice touch, sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg on top. You can also add pecan halves for a fun crunch. These small details make your dish more appealing.
Pairing with Ice Cream or Whipped Cream
Serve the cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cold creaminess balances the warm spices perfectly.
Best Serving Temperatures
This cake tastes great warm or at room temperature. Warm slices will melt the ice cream, creating a delightful dessert. You can enjoy it however you like!
For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Variations
Different Flavor Profiles
You can easily change the flavor of your pumpkin pie dump cake. One way is to add chocolate or caramel. Just drizzle melted chocolate on top of the cake mix or swirl in caramel. This makes each bite sweeter and richer.
Another option is to incorporate different nuts. Pecans and walnuts work well, adding crunch. You can also use almonds or hazelnuts for a new twist. Just sprinkle them on top before baking.
If you need a gluten-free version, simply swap the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free blend. Make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free too. This way, everyone can enjoy this tasty dessert!
Seasonal Additions
You can make your cake more festive with seasonal spices. Add a pinch of allspice or cloves to the pumpkin mix. This will give it a warm, holiday feel. You may also want to try adding maple syrup instead of some sugar.
Another fun idea is to layer in fruit. Sliced apples or pears can add a fresh touch. Simply place the fruit on top of the pumpkin layer before adding the cake mix. It will create a delightful surprise in every slice.
For the full recipe, check out the details above!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Pumpkin Pie Dump Cake fresh, store it in the fridge. Use an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. This helps keep the moisture in and the cake tasty.
The recommended shelf life is about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. After that, the texture may change, and it may lose some flavor. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
Reheating Tips
To warm up the cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the cake and place it in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 15 to 20 minutes.
You can also microwave a slice for about 30 seconds if you need a quick fix. Just be careful not to overheat it.
For the best serving practices after storage, serve it warm. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. This makes for a delightful treat that feels fresh and new!
FAQs
Common Questions
How do I know when Pumpkin Pie Dump Cake is done?
You will know it’s done when the top is golden brown. A toothpick should come out clean when you poke it in the center. This usually takes about 50 to 60 minutes in the oven. Keep an eye on it as it bakes!
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin! Just make sure to cook and puree it first. Fresh pumpkin has a great flavor, but it may need extra time to bake. Use about 2 cups of fresh puree for this recipe.
Is Pumpkin Pie Dump Cake similar to traditional pumpkin pie?
Not exactly. Pumpkin Pie Dump Cake has a cake-like top. Traditional pumpkin pie has a crust and a smooth filling. This dump cake is easier to make and gives you a fun twist on the classic dessert!
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the pumpkin mix in advance. Just store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour it in the baking dish, add the cake mix and butter, and pop it in the oven. This makes serving easy!
Troubleshooting
Why did my cake turn out soggy?
A soggy cake can happen if you added too much liquid. Make sure to measure the pumpkin and milk correctly. Also, avoid mixing the cake mix with the pumpkin. Layering is key to getting the right texture.
What should I do if I don’t have all the spices?
If you lack some spices, you can still make it taste good. Try using a pumpkin pie spice mix if you have it. This mix usually has cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Adjust the amount based on your taste.
This blog post covered a simple and tasty pumpkin pie dump cake recipe. We looked at key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You learned how to make it perfect every time. We explored various flavors, from chocolate to nut options, and talked about storage too.
With these insights, you can enjoy this dessert whenever you like. Get creative and try new additions. Each bite will remind you of fall and holiday fun. Embrace this easy recipe and share it with friends. Enjoy your baking!
