Pumpkin Dump Cake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that perfectly captures the flavors of fall. With the convenience of a dump cake method, this recipe combines the rich taste of pumpkin pie with the texture of a cake, topped with a buttery, crunchy pecan layer. Here’s a detailed guide to creating this mouthwatering treat.
Ingredients
- Pumpkin Layer:
- 28 ounces canned pumpkin puree
- 12 ounces evaporated milk
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- ½ cup white sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- Topping:
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- 15-ounce box of spice cake mix
- ¾ cup melted unsalted butter
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter to ensure easy removal of the cake later.
Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, light brown sugar, white sugar, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 4: Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the spice cake mix evenly over the pumpkin mixture. Do not stir or mix it in; simply let it sit on top.
Step 5: Add the Pecans and Butter
Evenly sprinkle the chopped pecans over the cake mix layer. Then, drizzle the melted butter over the entire surface, ensuring that most of the cake mix is moistened by the butter.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be slightly crispy, and the center should be set but still slightly soft.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the layers to set and makes it easier to cut into squares. Serve the pumpkin dump cake warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips for Success
Tip 1: Room Temperature Ingredients
- Ensure that the eggs are at room temperature before mixing them into the pumpkin mixture. This helps them to blend more smoothly and evenly.
Tip 2: Even Butter Distribution
- Pour the melted butter slowly and evenly over the cake mix to ensure that all areas are moistened. This will help achieve a nice, crunchy topping.
Tip 3: Adjusting Spice Levels
- Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. If you prefer a spicier cake, you can increase the amount of ginger or cloves.
Variations
Variation 1: Nut-Free Option
- If you or your guests have a nut allergy, you can omit the chopped pecans. The cake will still have a deliciously crunchy topping thanks to the butter-moistened cake mix.
Variation 2: Different Cake Mix
- While spice cake mix is ideal for this recipe, you can also try using a yellow cake mix or a butter pecan cake mix for a slightly different flavor.
Variation 3: Adding Chocolate
- For a unique twist, sprinkle some chocolate chips over the cake mix before adding the melted butter. The chocolate will melt and add a rich, sweet layer to the cake.
Serving Suggestions
Serving Suggestion 1: Whipped Cream
- A dollop of whipped cream on top of each serving adds a light and airy contrast to the rich and dense cake.
Serving Suggestion 2: Vanilla Ice Cream
- Serve the pumpkin dump cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic and indulgent dessert pairing.
Serving Suggestion 3: Caramel Sauce
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the top for an extra layer of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
Perfect Pumpkin Dump Cake is an ideal dessert for fall gatherings, holiday dinners, or anytime you crave the comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices. Its simplicity makes it a great choice for both novice and experienced bakers, while its rich taste and satisfying texture are sure to impress. By following this detailed recipe, you can create a delicious dessert that embodies the essence of the season with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Enjoy the warm, spicy, and sweet goodness of this perfect pumpkin dump cake with your family and friends.
