There’s something about the aroma of Pumpkin Spice Dump Cake that wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a crisp autumn day. Imagine the sweet scent of pumpkin and spice filling your kitchen, beckoning everyone to gather around as if they are being drawn into an enchanting story. The gooey layers of cake mix, pumpkin puree, and spices blend together in a delightful harmony, promising a flavor experience that dances on your taste buds.
I recall the first time I made this culinary masterpiece; my friends were skeptical at first. After all, “dump cake” doesn’t sound too appetizing, does it? But once they took their first bite, their eyes widened in disbelief. This cake is perfect for holiday gatherings or just a Tuesday night when you want to feel fancy without putting in much effort. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you as they revel in this delectable creation.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Pumpkin Spice Dump Cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for busy bakers
- Its warm, comforting flavor profile captures the essence of fall with every bite
- The visual appeal of the golden crust and rich pumpkin filling will impress guests at any gathering
- This dessert is versatile enough to serve warm with ice cream or chilled with whipped cream
Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Dump Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pumpkin Puree: Use canned pumpkin puree for convenience or roast fresh pumpkins if you’re feeling adventurous; both options provide rich flavor.
Yellow Cake Mix: A classic choice that forms the base; opt for a high-quality brand for the best texture.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: This blend of spices delivers that quintessential fall flavor; feel free to adjust to your taste preferences.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness; melted butter ensures an even distribution throughout the cake.
Chopped Nuts (optional): Walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch; toast them lightly for extra flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Dump Cake
Get Ready to Bake
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). The warmth will set the stage for that heavenly aroma soon to fill your kitchen! While it heats up, grab a trusty 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it lightly—this ensures easy removal later.
Combine Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, stir together one can of pumpkin puree with pumpkin pie spice and any additional ingredients like nuts if desired. The mixture should be smooth and inviting—think silky texture that whispers autumn vibes!
Layer It Up
Pour the pumpkin mixture into your greased baking dish evenly. Now comes the fun part—sprinkle an entire box of yellow cake mix over the top like you’re creating a magical sandy beach (minus the sunburn). Do not mix! Just let those layers sit pretty.
Melt That Butter
Next, melt one cup of unsalted butter until it’s bubbling hot—watch carefully so it doesn’t burn! Drizzle this golden goodness over the cake mix evenly but resist temptation again—no stirring allowed!
Bake Away
Slide your creation into the preheated oven and let it bake for approximately 40-45 minutes. Keep an eye out for bubbling edges and a golden crust forming on top—it’s like watching magic happen right before your eyes!
Cool and Serve
Once baked to perfection, take out your Pumpkin Spice Dump Cake and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Cut into squares and watch as everyone dives into this delightful treat! Pair with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent experience—a scoop never hurt anyone!
Storing Leftovers
If there are any leftovers (which is rare), store them covered in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat gently before enjoying again—you deserve another slice!
Now go forth and bake this Pumpkin Spice Dump Cake! With its ease, vibrant flavors, and delightful aroma wafting through your home, every bite will have you reminiscing about cozy fall days spent with loved ones.
You Must Know
- This delightful pumpkin spice dump cake is not only a quick dessert but also a crowd-pleaser
- With minimal effort, you can whip up this fall favorite that will leave everyone asking for seconds
- Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors that embody the season!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it warms up, gather your ingredients and mix them in a large bowl. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the pumpkin puree for applesauce or mashed bananas for a fruity twist. You can also add chocolate chips or nuts to enhance texture and flavor. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for better flavor control
- Layering flavors with spices enhances depth; don’t skip this step!
- Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat
It was a chilly autumn evening when I first made this pumpkin spice dump cake. My friends devoured it, proclaiming it their new favorite dessert. The laughter and warmth around my kitchen made every sprinkle of spice worthwhile!
FAQs:
What is a Pumpkin Spice Dump Cake?
A Pumpkin Spice Dump Cake is an easy, one-pan dessert that combines the flavors of pumpkin and traditional spice. It features pumpkin puree, cake mix, and spices, creating a delightful treat without the need for extensive baking skills. Simply layer the ingredients in a baking dish and let the oven do the work. This cake is perfect for fall gatherings or any time you crave something sweet and comforting.
How do I store leftover Pumpkin Spice Dump Cake?
To keep your Pumpkin Spice Dump Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, refrigerate it for about a week. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions in freezer-safe containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
Can I make Pumpkin Spice Dump Cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare your Pumpkin Spice Dump Cake ahead of time! Assemble all the ingredients in your baking dish but do not bake it until you’re ready to serve. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the cover and follow the baking instructions as usual.
What can I serve with Pumpkin Spice Dump Cake?
Pumpkin Spice Dump Cake pairs wonderfully with various toppings. Consider serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added sweetness. You could also drizzle caramel sauce over the top or sprinkle chopped nuts for extra crunch. These additions elevate the dessert while complementing its rich flavors.
Conclusion for Pumpkin Spice Dump Cake:
In summary, a Pumpkin Spice Dump Cake is an irresistible dessert that celebrates fall flavors with minimal effort. It requires just a few simple ingredients and can be prepared ahead of time for convenience. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this cake is sure to become a favorite among family and friends. Embrace the season by treating yourself to this delightful dessert that captures the essence of autumn in every bite.
Pumpkin Spice Dump Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Description
Pumpkin Spice Dump Cake is the ultimate fall dessert that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and warm spices in a simple, one-pan recipe. With gooey layers of pumpkin puree and buttery cake mix, this dish is perfect for cozy gatherings or as a sweet treat on a chilly evening. Enjoy it warm with ice cream or chilled with whipped cream, making it a versatile favorite that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice until smooth.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture into the greased dish, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle cake mix over the top without mixing.
- Drizzle melted butter evenly over the cake mix.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving with whipped cream or ice cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
