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Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake: Best 4-Ingredient Fall Dessert

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This Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake is a warm, spiced, and comforting fall dessert made with just 4 ingredients. It’s ready in under an hour with only 5 minutes of prep, making it perfect for Thanksgiving, Halloween parties, or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
  • 1 box (15.25 oz) spice cake mix
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree and evaporated milk. Whisk until smooth and fully combined. If using vanilla extract, stir it in now.
  3. Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly across the bottom.
  4. Sprinkle the spice cake mix evenly over the pumpkin layer. Do not stir.
  5. Pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. Do not stir. If adding nuts, sprinkle them on top now.
  6. Bake for 45-55 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. The center should be set but slightly jiggly.
  7. Let the dump cake cool for at least 15-20 minutes before serving.
  8. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Notes

For best results, use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. The spice cake mix is key—if using yellow cake mix, add 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp nutmeg, and 1/4 tsp cloves. Let the cake cool for at least 15-20 minutes to set properly. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin dump cake, easy fall dessert, 4-ingredient dessert, pumpkin dessert, spice cake mix, dump cake