Looking for a quick, satisfying dessert that bursts with autumn flavors? This easy Pumpkin Dump Cake recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining simple ingredients with plant-based delights and natural flavors, this dessert offers a deliciously moist texture and a perfectly spiced pumpkin taste that everyone will love. Whether you’re a beginner baker or craving something cozy, this Pumpkin Dump Cake is ready to become a regular crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: Combine all ingredients in one dish without fuss or long prep times.
Rich Autumn Flavor: Warm spices and pumpkin give this dessert a comforting, seasonal taste.
Plant-Based Goodness: Uses plant-based dairy and natural flavorings for a wholesome treat.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for casual family gatherings or festive celebrations.
Great Texture: Crisp topping with a moist, tender pumpkin base keeps every bite exciting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pumpkin Dump Cake calls for a handful of accessible ingredients that each bring their magic to the recipe. From smooth pumpkin puree to the warm mix of spices and the naturally sweet cake mix topping, every component plays a crucial role in flavor and texture.

Pumpkin puree: The foundation of this dessert, providing natural moisture and vibrant color.
Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps balance the pumpkin’s earthiness.
Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger): Blend together to bring cozy warmth and complexity.
Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce: Enhances depth with a subtle umami undertone.
Apple cider vinegar: Brightens flavors and reacts to create a tender crumb.
Plant-based dairy (milk or cream alternative): Keeps this dessert creamy and moist without dairy.
Yellow cake mix (dry): Provides a quick, buttery topping with natural sweetness.
Plant-based butter (melted): Ensures a crisp, golden crust that perfectly complements the soft pumpkin layer.

Variations for Pumpkin Dump Cake

Feel free to customize this Pumpkin Dump Cake to match your taste buds or dietary needs. It’s surprisingly easy to switch things up without sacrificing any deliciousness!

Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor.
Spiced Latte Twist: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the pumpkin mixture for a coffee-infused touch.
Chocolate Pumpkin: Mix in dairy-free chocolate chips into the cake mix topping to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Maple Infusion: Substitute sugar with natural maple syrup to enhance the autumn vibe.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix to accommodate gluten sensitivities.

Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe To Try Today

How to Make Pumpkin Dump Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure your Pumpkin Dump Cake slides out easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin Base

In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, spices, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and plant-based dairy. Whisk everything together until smooth and fragrant.

Step 3: Spread Pumpkin Mixture in Pan

Pour the well-mixed pumpkin batter evenly into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out so every corner is covered for even baking.

Step 4: Add the Dry Cake Mix

Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over the pumpkin layer. This dry topping helps create that signature dump cake texture, giving you crunchy bits amidst the softness.

Step 5: Drizzle Melted Plant-Based Butter

Pour melted plant-based butter over the cake mix layer in small amounts, allowing it to soak through and create a beautiful golden crust once baked.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pumpkin mixture is set but still moist.

Step 7: Let It Cool Slightly Before Serving

Allow your Pumpkin Dump Cake to cool for about 15 minutes so it firms up just enough while keeping that warm, indulgent feel.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Dump Cake

Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg elevate the pumpkin’s natural flavor immensely.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste your pumpkin mixture before baking and adjust sugar levels for personal preference.
Don’t Overmix Cake Topping: Keeping the cake mix dry on top helps maintain the signature crunchy texture.
Check Oven Temperature: Oven temperatures vary, so keep an eye during the last 10 minutes of baking to avoid over-browning.
Rest Before Serving: Patience pays off; letting the cake cool slightly helps the layers settle beautifully.

How to Serve Pumpkin Dump Cake

Garnishes

Top your Pumpkin Dump Cake with a light dusting of powdered sugar (natural) or a dollop of plant-based whipped cream for added sweetness and creaminess.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla (plant-based) ice cream or drizzle with warm caramel sauce (natural) for a decadent pairing that guests will rave about.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve warm in individual ramekins or layer it with plant-based yogurt and roasted pumpkin seeds for a creative trifle variation that dazzles both eyes and palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Pumpkin Dump Cake covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and moistness.

Freezing

This dessert freezes beautifully; simply cover it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds or place the whole dish in a low oven for 15 minutes to restore that freshly baked coziness.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly in this Pumpkin Dump Cake and adds wonderfully consistent moisture and flavor.

Is it possible to make this recipe nut-free?

Yes. Simply skip any nut toppings or variations, and ensure your cake mix and other ingredients are free from nuts.

Can I substitute the yellow cake mix?

Sure! You can experiment with spice cake mix for deeper flavor or a gluten-free cake mix for dietary sensitivity without losing the signature texture.

How do I avoid a soggy bottom in this dump cake?

Make sure you spread the butter evenly and avoid overpouring the pumpkin mixture in one area; an even spread promotes balanced cooking.

Can I prepare this in advance for parties?

This is a fantastic make-ahead dessert. Prepare it up to a day before, refrigerate, and bake just before serving for best freshness.

Final Thoughts

If there’s one dessert to trust on busy days or as a crowd-pleaser, this Pumpkin Dump Cake recipe is it. Its simplicity and bold autumn flavors make it a joyful treat to share with loved ones. Give it a try today and watch it become a favorite fall classic in your home!

Pumpkin Dump Cake

Author: Marcus
Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

This easy Pumpkin Dump Cake recipe is a quick and satisfying autumn dessert that combines warm spices, smooth pumpkin puree, and a crisp buttery (plant-based) topping. Perfect for beginners and festive gatherings, it offers a moist, tender pumpkin base with a golden crust made from plant-based ingredients and natural flavorings.

Instructions

Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure your Pumpkin Dump Cake slides out easily after baking.
Mix the Pumpkin Base: In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and plant-based milk or cream alternative. Whisk everything together until smooth and fragrant.
Spread Pumpkin Mixture in Pan: Pour the well-mixed pumpkin batter evenly into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out so every corner is covered for even baking.
Add the Dry Cake Mix: Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over the pumpkin layer. This dry topping helps create the signature dump cake texture, giving you crunchy bits amidst the softness.
Drizzle Melted Plant-Based Butter: Pour melted plant-based butter over the cake mix layer in small amounts, allowing it to soak through and create a beautiful golden crust once baked.
Bake Until Golden and Bubbling: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pumpkin mixture is set but still moist.
Let It Cool Slightly Before Serving: Allow your Pumpkin Dump Cake to cool for about 15 minutes so it firms up just enough while keeping that warm, indulgent feel.

Notes

Use freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg to enhance natural pumpkin flavor.
Taste the pumpkin mixture before baking and adjust sugar levels to preference.
Do not overmix the cake topping to maintain a crunchy texture.
Keep an eye on the cake during the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
Allow the cake to rest for 15 minutes before serving to let layers settle nicely.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
Calories: 280
Sugar: 24g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: pumpkin dump cake, autumn dessert, plant-based dessert, gluten-free pumpkin cake, easy pumpkin recipe