Every autumn, as soon as the air turns crisp and the first pumpkins appear at the market, I feel that familiar pull toward cozy baking days. Those afternoons usually start with the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg drifting through the kitchen—a sure sign that something special is about to come out of the oven. This Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe From Scratch was born out of that seasonal ritual, a combination of comfort, simplicity, and a touch of spontaneity that quickly became a family favorite.
I first made it years ago, on a blustery October weekend when I wanted to bake something festive but didn’t have the time or energy for a traditional pie. The concept of a “dump cake” sounded so unglamorous, yet once I pulled that bubbling dessert from the oven—golden on top, custardy beneath—I knew it was something worth keeping. It had all the spiced pumpkin richness of pie filling but with a buttery, crumbly cake layer that made every bite irresistible.
Since that first try, the Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe From Scratch has earned its place as one of our go-to fall desserts. It’s the recipe I turn to when we’re hosting impromptu get-togethers or when I just want the house to smell like fall without spending hours fussing in the kitchen. There’s something wonderfully grounding about mixing pumpkin puree, sugar, and spices in one bowl, pouring it into a single pan, and letting the oven do the work.
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Easy One-Pan Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe From Scratch
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
A simple one-pan dessert combining creamy spiced pumpkin filling with a buttery cake topping that bakes to golden perfection. Ready in about an hour and perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl whisk together pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
4. Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the pumpkin layer without stirring.
5. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix layer, tilting the pan to coat the surface.
6. Bake for 50 minutes or until the top is golden and edges are bubbling and the center is set but slightly jiggly.
7. Allow the cake to cool for 20–30 minutes before serving to let the layers settle and to achieve clean slices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30
- Sodium: 300
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0.5
- Carbohydrates: 50
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 4
- Cholesterol: 80
Keywords: pumpkin dump cake recipe from scratch, one pan pumpkin dessert, easy pumpkin dump cake, fall dessert recipe, pumpkin spice cake, dump cake recipe, homemade pumpkin dessert
The best part is how effortlessly it fits into those nostalgic fall moments—watching leaves drift outside the window, cozying up under a throw blanket, or sipping cider while the cake finishes baking. It’s easy, warm, and deeply comforting. When you make this Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe From Scratch, you’re not just baking a dessert—you’re creating that same atmosphere of seasonal magic that fills every spoonful with memory.
Why You’ll Love Making a Pumpkin Dump Cake From Scratch
What makes this dessert so special isn’t just its flavor—it’s how simple it is. Busy weeknights, family gatherings, or last-minute potlucks all call for recipes that deliver big results with minimal mess. That’s the charm of a Pumpkin Dump Cake From Scratch. You literally mix, layer, and bake, all in one pan, saving time on cleanup and still getting that comforting, from-scratch taste that always feels more heartfelt than anything store-bought.
Unlike more demanding desserts, this cake doesn’t require expert skills or fancy equipment. You don’t have to roll out dough, chill any crusts, or monitor filling temperatures. Instead, the pumpkin mixture—smooth, lightly spiced, and perfectly sweet—forms the foundation for a topping that bakes into a golden, crisp layer. The result is a cross between a crumble, a cake, and a custard, all rolled into one dish that somehow pleases every palate at the table.
Another reason to love making a Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe From Scratch is its versatility. It fits perfectly alongside the other fall staples—apple crisps, pecan pies, and caramel tarts—but stands out because of its casual charm. It’s ideal for Thanksgiving when you’ve already got the oven full and the counters crowded. Or you can bake it on a cozy Sunday afternoon, just because the gentle sweetness and pumpkin aroma make everything feel a little warmer.
And while “dump cake” may sound too simple to impress, the homemade version delivers so much more depth of flavor. Crafting the base from real pumpkin puree and warm spices gives it that true autumn authenticity that can’t be replicated by canned shortcuts alone. You taste the difference instantly—the buttery topping melting into the spiced base, creating that irresistible balance between soft and crisp.
So whether you’re an experienced baker or just dipping your whisk into fall recipes, this Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe From Scratch might become your new seasonal staple. It’s proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated to feel—and taste—homemade. A few humble ingredients, a single pan, and a bit of oven magic are all it takes to fill your home with warmth, spice, and the unmistakable spirit of fall.
Simple Ingredients for the Best Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe
One of the most appealing parts of this Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe From Scratch is how unfussy the ingredient list is. You don’t need anything exotic—just pantry staples that come together in perfect harmony. Each component plays its role in creating that dreamy balance of creamy pumpkin filling and buttery cake topping.
- 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree – Use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling. Roast and puree fresh pumpkin for a deep, earthy sweetness.
- 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk – Substitute coconut milk or oat milk for dairy-free versions.
- 3 large eggs – Bind the filling; flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water each) work as vegan alternatives.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Half white and half brown sugar adds caramel depth.
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice – Or mix cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves to taste.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances warmth and spice.
- 1 box (about 15 ounces) yellow cake mix – For true from-scratch flavor, use homemade mix (flour, sugar, baking powder, salt).
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Creates the golden crumbly top; coconut oil suits dairy-free diets.
- Optional add-ins: ½ cup chopped pecans or toffee bits for texture and richness.
Quality ingredients make this Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe From Scratch stand out. Real pumpkin puree provides natural flavor balance, while making your own mix ensures freshness. Customize for gluten-free or vegan diets with easy substitutions that maintain the dessert’s cozy sweetness and moist texture. It’s proof that comfort and flexibility can go hand in hand.
Kitchen Tools That Make One-Pan Baking Easy
- 9×13-inch baking dish – Preferably glass or ceramic for even heat.
- Two mixing bowls – One for the pumpkin base, another for your butter or cake mix.
- Whisk and spatula – Smooth mixing and batter scraping made easy.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Essential for spice balance and baking accuracy.
- Butter knife or offset spatula – Evens out butter over the topping.
Prep tips: Preheat the oven, grease your pan, and use room-temperature ingredients for smoother blending. Parchement lining can ease removal for presentation. Everything happens in one dish, keeping things tidy and approachable for busy bakers. Before long, the smell of butter and cinnamon will wrap your kitchen in unmistakable autumn coziness, signaling dessert perfection is near.
How to Prepare and Assemble the Pumpkin Dump Cake From Scratch
- Preheat and prep. Set oven to 350°F (175°C), grease your 9×13 dish, and prepare parchment if desired.
- Whisk the pumpkin base. Combine pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, sugar, eggs, pie spice, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour and layer. Pour into the dish, spread evenly, then sprinkle dry yellow cake mix over the top—no stirring!
- Add butter. Drizzle melted butter evenly to create the golden crust. Cover corners well.
- Optional toppings. Add chopped nuts or cinnamon sugar before baking.
- Bake. Bake 50–60 minutes until golden-brown and bubbling around edges. The center should be just set.
- Cool and serve. Cool 20–30 minutes. Serve warm, chilled, or room temperature with whipped cream or powdered sugar.
This Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe From Scratch delivers pie-level flavor in an hour, yet uses a single pan and no fancy tools. The custardy pumpkin base contrasts beautifully against the crumbly cake layer—it’s rustic simplicity with real charm.
Tips for the Perfect Texture and Flavor Balance
- Avoid soggy layers. Use just enough butter and never stir layers together—separation creates texture contrast.
- Check doneness early. Golden top and gently set center mean it’s perfect. Add 5–10 minutes if needed.
- Add creative twists. Swirl in cream cheese, top with caramel drizzle, or add crushed ginger snaps for crunch.
- Store leftovers smartly. Cover and refrigerate up to four days; reheating in a low oven revives buttery crispness.
- Serve with style. Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or hot cider transform it into a cozy seasonal showstopper.
- Make ahead. Assemble and chill unbaked up to 12 hours before baking, or bake in advance—flavors deepen beautifully.
The forgiving nature of this Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe From Scratch makes it a confidence booster for any home baker. It’s indulgent yet simple—each spoonful a reminder that homemade comfort doesn’t require complicated effort, just good ingredients and a warm, joyful spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a pumpkin dump cake and pumpkin pie? A pumpkin dump cake resembles pumpkin pie in flavor—spiced and creamy—but skips the crust work. The custard-like base meets a buttery crumble top, giving you two textures in one delightful dessert.
Can you make a pumpkin dump cake ahead of time? Yes, this dessert is perfect for planning. Assemble it early, refrigerate up to 12 hours, then bake fresh. Or bake the day before and reheat when ready to serve—the flavors intensify overnight.
How do you store leftovers? Cool completely, cover the dish, and refrigerate for up to four days. Warm slices briefly in the microwave or oven before serving, or enjoy cooled for a pie-like experience.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free or dairy-free? Absolutely. Replace the yellow cake mix with a certified gluten-free version and switch out dairy for coconut or oat milk with vegan butter or coconut oil. The flavor stays rich and comforting.
What toppings go well with pumpkin dump cake? Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel drizzle are classic. Add pecans, candied nuts, crushed cookies, or a dusting of powdered sugar for festive flair.
Conclusion – Why This One-Pan Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe From Scratch Deserves a Spot in Your Recipe Box
This One-Pan Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe From Scratch captures everything people love about fall baking—warmth, ease, and nostalgia. From its irresistible pumpkin aroma to the first golden bite, it feels like a hug from the season itself. It’s homey, quick, and perfect for gatherings large or small.
By relying on simple pantry items yet delivering layered texture and full-bodied flavor, it proves that “easy” doesn’t mean average. The one-pan design keeps preparation light and cleanup even lighter, making this dessert accessible even on busy days. It’s a sweet reward for those who cherish the beauty of cooking from scratch without complication.
Serve it proudly at Thanksgiving, bring it to potlucks, or bake it just because an evening feels chilly. Each slice carries the essence of cozy tradition—spiced pumpkin, buttery crumble, and the memories that come with sharing it. So go ahead, add this Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe From Scratch to your kitchen rotation and let it bring that familiar autumn comfort to your table all season long.
