Easiest Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe: Just 3 Ingredients!

Fall is officially here, and that means pumpkin spice everything! If you’re looking for a super easy, incredibly delicious pumpkin dessert, look no further than this pumpkin dump cake. It’s unbelievably simple to make, requiring only a few ingredients and minimal effort. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you need a quick and satisfying treat. Get ready to experience the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin pie in cake form without all the fuss!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Dump Cake

* **Simple Ingredients:** You probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry already.
* **Quick & Easy:** This recipe comes together in minutes. Seriously, it’s that fast!
* **Delicious Flavor:** The combination of pumpkin, spice, and buttery cake is simply irresistible.
* **Versatile:** Add your favorite toppings, like whipped cream, ice cream, or nuts.
* **Crowd-Pleasing:** Everyone loves this cake!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This pumpkin dump cake recipe uses just three main ingredients, plus a few optional extras for added flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

* **1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree:** Make sure you’re using pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling, which already has added sugar and spices. Pumpkin puree is simply cooked and pureed pumpkin. I recommend a high quality puree for better flavor and texture. Don’t confuse it with pumpkin pie filling; that will throw off the entire recipe.
* **1 (15.25 ounce) box spice cake mix:** Spice cake mix is the perfect complement to the pumpkin flavor, but you can also use yellow cake mix or even a white cake mix if you prefer. The spice cake mix enhances the overall warm fall flavor. If you opt for yellow or white, you might want to add a teaspoon or two of pumpkin pie spice to the pumpkin mixture for extra flavor.
* **1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted:** The melted butter creates a rich, moist cake with a delightful buttery flavor. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the final product. Some people use a full cup and a half of melted butter, but I find one cup is just perfect.

**Optional Add-Ins:**

* **1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice:** If you want to enhance the pumpkin flavor, add a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the pumpkin puree before mixing.
* **1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts:** These add a nice crunch and nutty flavor.
* **1/2 cup chocolate chips:** For a decadent twist, sprinkle chocolate chips over the top of the cake before baking.
* **1/4 cup brown sugar:** Adding a sprinkle of brown sugar over the cake mix before the butter can add extra sweetness and a slightly caramelized flavor.

Equipment You’ll Need

* **9×13 inch baking dish:** This is the standard size for dump cakes.
* **Large mixing bowl:** For mixing the pumpkin puree and spices.
* **Measuring cups and spoons:** For accurate ingredient measurements.
* **Whisk or spatula:** For mixing the ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s get baking! Here’s how to make this incredibly easy pumpkin dump cake:

**Step 1: Preheat the Oven**

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cake bakes evenly and rises properly. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before you put the cake in; otherwise, the baking time will be off. An oven thermometer is helpful to make sure the oven is at the correct temperature.

**Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Mixture**

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice (if using). Mix well until smooth and evenly combined. This step is crucial for ensuring that the pumpkin flavor is distributed throughout the cake. Make sure there are no lumps in the pumpkin puree. You can use a whisk or a spatula for this step. A hand mixer is not necessary.

**Step 3: Assemble the Cake**

Pour the pumpkin mixture into the bottom of the 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom of the dish. This creates the moist pumpkin layer that will be the base of the cake. Make sure the pumpkin mixture is evenly distributed, or some parts of the cake might be more pumpkin-y than others.

Sprinkle the dry spice cake mix evenly over the pumpkin mixture. Try to cover the entire surface with the cake mix. This will create a crumbly topping as the butter melts and bakes into the cake mix. Don’t stir the cake mix into the pumpkin mixture; just sprinkle it on top. This is what makes it a “dump cake!”

If you’re using any add-ins like chopped nuts or chocolate chips, sprinkle them evenly over the cake mix now. This will ensure that they are distributed throughout the cake. Press them in slightly to ensure they stick during baking.

**Step 4: Pour the Melted Butter**

Slowly pour the melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix. Try to cover as much of the cake mix as possible with the butter. The butter will soak into the cake mix and create a moist, buttery topping. Pour slowly to ensure even distribution. You can use a spoon to help spread the butter if necessary.

**Step 5: Bake the Cake**

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so start checking at 45 minutes. The cake is done when the top is golden brown and the center is set. If the top is browning too quickly, you can tent it with foil to prevent burning.

**Step 6: Cool and Serve**

Let the cake cool completely before serving. This will allow the cake to set and make it easier to cut. You can serve the cake warm or cold, plain or with your favorite toppings. This cake is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Dump Cake

* **Use high-quality ingredients:** This will make a big difference in the flavor and texture of your cake. High-quality pumpkin puree, butter, and cake mix will result in a more delicious cake.
* **Don’t overbake the cake:** Overbaking will result in a dry, crumbly cake. Start checking for doneness at 45 minutes.
* **Let the cake cool completely before serving:** This will allow the cake to set and make it easier to cut. It also enhances the flavor.
* **Add your favorite toppings:** Get creative with your toppings! Whipped cream, ice cream, caramel sauce, chocolate sauce, chopped nuts, and sprinkles are all great options.
* **Experiment with different cake mixes:** Try using yellow cake mix, white cake mix, or even chocolate cake mix for a different flavor profile.
* **Add a cream cheese swirl:** Mix 4 ounces of softened cream cheese with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 egg. Swirl this mixture into the pumpkin layer before adding the cake mix.
* **Make it a trifle:** Layer the cake with whipped cream and chopped gingersnaps for a festive trifle.
* **Adjust sweetness:** If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of butter or use a sugar-free cake mix.

Variations to Try

This pumpkin dump cake recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity. Here are a few variations to try:

* **Chocolate Pumpkin Dump Cake:** Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the cake mix or use chocolate cake mix instead of spice cake mix.
* **Caramel Pumpkin Dump Cake:** Drizzle caramel sauce over the cake after baking.
* **Nutty Pumpkin Dump Cake:** Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the cake mix.
* **Gingerbread Pumpkin Dump Cake:** Add 1 teaspoon of ground ginger to the pumpkin mixture and use gingerbread cake mix instead of spice cake mix.
* **Apple Pumpkin Dump Cake:** Add 1 cup of diced apples to the pumpkin mixture.
* **Spiced Rum Pumpkin Dump Cake:** Mix 2 tablespoons of spiced rum into the melted butter before pouring it over the cake mix.

Serving Suggestions

This pumpkin dump cake is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with these serving suggestions:

* **Whipped Cream:** A classic topping that complements the pumpkin flavor perfectly.
* **Vanilla Ice Cream:** A cool and creamy addition that makes this cake even more decadent.
* **Caramel Sauce:** Adds a touch of sweetness and richness.
* **Chocolate Sauce:** A decadent twist that’s perfect for chocolate lovers.
* **Chopped Nuts:** Adds a nice crunch and nutty flavor.
* **Powdered Sugar:** A simple and elegant topping that adds a touch of sweetness.
* **Cream Cheese Frosting:** Adds a tangy and creamy element that pairs well with pumpkin.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover pumpkin dump cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cake for up to 2 months. To freeze, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe

Here’s the full recipe for this easy and delicious pumpkin dump cake:

**Yields:** 12 servings
**Prep time:** 5 minutes
**Cook time:** 45-55 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
* 1 (15.25 ounce) box spice cake mix
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
* 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (optional)
* 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
* 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice (if using). Mix well.
3. Pour the pumpkin mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly.
4. Sprinkle the dry spice cake mix evenly over the pumpkin mixture.
5. If using, sprinkle chopped nuts or chocolate chips over the cake mix.
6. Slowly pour the melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix.
7. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the cake cool completely before serving.
9. Serve plain or with your favorite toppings, such as whipped cream, ice cream, or caramel sauce.

Enjoy this easy and delicious pumpkin dump cake! It’s the perfect fall dessert for any occasion.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.*

* Calories: 350-450 per serving
* Fat: 15-25g
* Saturated Fat: 8-12g
* Cholesterol: 50-70mg
* Sodium: 200-300mg
* Carbohydrates: 40-60g
* Sugar: 25-35g
* Protein: 3-5g

This recipe is a delightful and simple way to enjoy the flavors of fall. The minimal ingredients and easy preparation make it a go-to dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, you’ll find success with this foolproof pumpkin dump cake. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a warm and comforting slice of pumpkin goodness! Don’t forget to share your creations and variations in the comments below. Happy baking!