Pumpkin Dump Cake (Easy Thanksgiving Dessert)

Warm, cozy, and ridiculously simple — Pumpkin Dump Cake brings the best fall flavors together in one golden, buttery bite. With a creamy pumpkin base and crisp crumble top, it’s the lazy baker’s dream dessert for Thanksgiving or any chilly night. You’ll love how it fills your kitchen with the smell of cinnamon and spice while taking barely 10 minutes to prep.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Dump Cake

Pumpkin Dump Cake is the kind of recipe you make once and never forget. It’s quick to assemble, uses pantry staples, and requires no mixer at all. The pumpkin base turns out creamy and spiced, while the cake mix topping crisps into a sweet, buttery crumble. It’s ideal for potlucks, cozy weekends, or make-ahead holiday desserts since it tastes even better the next day. Plus, cleanup is a breeze, leaving you more time to enjoy the season’s festivities.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll only need simple ingredients to make this comforting Pumpkin Dump Cake. Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to control sweetness and spice. Combine it with eggs, sugar, vanilla, and warming cinnamon and nutmeg for a silky pumpkin base. A box of yellow cake mix creates the crumbly topping that turns golden as it bakes. Melted butter gives that crisp edge everyone fights over, while chopped pecans or walnuts add a nutty crunch. If you like a twist, try a spice cake mix or sprinkle in a few chocolate chips for extra indulgence.

How to Make Pumpkin Dump Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Layer

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Pour the mixture into your baking dish and spread it evenly so it bakes consistently.

Step 2: Add the Topping

Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the pumpkin layer. Don’t stir — that’s the beauty of a dump cake. Next, scatter the chopped nuts across the top for a delightful crunch. Finally, drizzle the melted butter evenly so it soaks into the cake mix and creates a crisp, buttery crust as it bakes.

Step 3: Bake and Serve

Bake for 45–50 minutes until the top turns golden and the edges bubble slightly. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes so the pumpkin layer can set. The texture should be soft and slightly firm — not jiggly. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect fall dessert moment.

Baking Tips for the Perfect Dump Cake

Spread the cake mix evenly across the top so no dry spots remain. Use real butter for a rich, crisp texture that margarine can’t match. Allow the cake to rest before serving — this helps the layers settle into that signature creamy-crunchy contrast. Check for doneness by looking for bubbling edges and a light golden top. If it still jiggles too much, give it another five minutes.

Substitutions and Variations

Want to switch things up? Swap pumpkin for sweet potato or butternut squash for a new flavor. Try spice cake mix for deeper fall notes or skip the nuts if you prefer a smoother top. You can even toss in chocolate chips or a caramel drizzle before baking for a richer dessert. Every version keeps that same easy charm and comforting fall flavor.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors actually deepen overnight. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or eat it chilled straight from the fridge — it’s delicious either way. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to a month and thaw them in the fridge before warming.

Expert Tips for Best Results

Use fresh spices and pure pumpkin puree for authentic fall flavor. Always drizzle butter evenly so every bite gets that golden crunch. Let your cake cool before slicing to keep those beautiful layers intact. For serving, top it with whipped cream or ice cream to create that dreamy contrast of warm and cold — perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Recipes to Try

• pumpkin cupcakes with cinnamon cream cheese frosting
• soft and chewy pumpkin cookies
• pumpkin streusel muffins
• chewy pumpkin chocolate chip cookies
• easy pumpkin pie recipe
• pumpkin cheesecake bars

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin Dump Cake is the kind of dessert that feels like a hug in every bite. It’s sweet, spiced, and effortlessly comforting — the perfect ending to your Thanksgiving feast. Make it once, and it’ll become your go-to fall treat. Don’t forget to share your version or serve it next to other pumpkin favorites for a complete holiday dessert spread. For more cozy recipe inspiration, visit my Pinterest page.

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