Welcome to a delightful journey of flavors and aromas with our Pumpkin Crunch Cake recipe! As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, what better way to celebrate the season than with a decadent dessert that captures the essence of autumn? This Pumpkin Crunch Cake is a perfect blend of creamy pumpkin, warm spices, crunchy pecans, and buttery goodness. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply craving a cozy treat at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to create this irresistible dessert, along with FAQs, cook notes, and keto and low-carb variations.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 cup butter, melted
- Cool Whip (for serving)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
- Prepare the Pumpkin Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Assemble the Cake: Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Add the Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the pumpkin mixture, covering it completely.
- Top with Pecans: Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the cake mix layer, distributing them evenly.
- Drizzle with Butter: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the pecans.
- 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 the center is set.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. Serve slices of Pumpkin Crunch Cake with a dollop of Cool Whip on top.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Cake Mix Variation: Feel free to use a spice cake mix instead of yellow cake mix for added flavor.
- Nut-Free Option: If you have nut allergies, omit the pecans or substitute them with chopped walnuts or pumpkin seeds.
- Serve with Ice Cream: Instead of Cool Whip, serve the Pumpkin Crunch Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Substitute the sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
- Replace the yellow cake mix with a low-carb almond flour cake mix or make your own keto cake base using almond flour and coconut flour.
Low-Carb Version:
- Reduce the amount of sugar or use a sugar-free alternative to lower the carb content.
- Use a low-carb baking mix for the cake layer, or opt for a coconut flour-based cake mix for a gluten-free option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned? A: Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree if you prefer. Simply roast or steam the pumpkin until tender, then puree it until smooth.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving, or reheat individual slices in the microwave if desired.
Q: Can I freeze Pumpkin Crunch Cake? A: Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Q: Can I add other spices to the pumpkin mixture? A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the flavor by adding spices such as nutmeg, ginger, or cloves to the pumpkin mixture according to your taste preferences.
In conclusion, our Pumpkin Crunch Cake is a delightful dessert that embodies the flavors of fall. With its creamy pumpkin filling, crunchy pecan topping, and buttery cake base, it’s a true crowd-pleaser that will impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, hosting a dinner party, or simply craving a taste of autumn, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in the warm and comforting goodness of Pumpkin Crunch Cake!
