Welcome to the comforting world of dessert simplicity with our Pumpkin Dump Cake recipe. As the air turns chilly and the leaves begin their descent, pumpkin recipes find their way to our hearts and tables. One such easy, delightful dessert that marries the season's flavors with an effortless preparation is the Pumpkin Dump Cake.
What is a Dump Cake?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s explore what a dump cake is. A dump cake, as the name suggests, is a cake where you ‘dump’ the ingredients in a baking pan and bake it. The beauty of this method lies in its simplicity. No mixing is required, which makes it a perfect dessert for those moments when you crave something sweet but aren’t in the mood for culinary gymnastics.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Dump Cake
The ingredients for this fall dessert are straightforward and readily available, making it an accessible choice for home cooks at all skill levels:
- 1 can (15 oz) of pumpkin puree
- 1 can (12 oz) of evaporated milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 tsp of pumpkin pie spice
- 1 box of yellow or spice cake mix
- 1 cup of melted butter
- 1 cup of chopped pecans (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s walk through the preparation of your Pumpkin Dump Cake:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Layer the Base: In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice. Pour this mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the pumpkin layer.
- Butter the Top: Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, ensuring it covers as much of the top as possible.
- Add Nuts (Optional): Sprinkle the chopped pecans on top for an extra crunch.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for about 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden and set.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool completely before serving. This can take several hours, as the layers will meld together during cooling.
🌟 Note: The cake might appear jiggly when hot, but it will firm up as it cools.
Serving Suggestions
The Pumpkin Dump Cake can be served in various ways to enhance its appeal:
- As is - with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
- With whipped cream or vanilla ice cream - to complement the warmth of the spices.
- Topped with Caramel Sauce: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent touch.
Nutritional Information
While this dessert is certainly not in the health food category, you might be curious about its nutritional content:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 320-350 |
| Fat | 14-18g |
| Carbohydrates | 45-50g |
| Protein | 3-4g |
| Sugar | 30-35g |
This recipe provides a sweet and festive option that's relatively low in effort but high in taste and visual appeal.
Variations
Customizing the Pumpkin Dump Cake is easy and fun:
- Spice Mix: Add more spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to enhance the fall flavors.
- Chocolate Twist: Incorporate some dark chocolate chips for a surprising twist.
- Citrus: A touch of orange zest in the pumpkin mixture can brighten the flavor profile.
To conclude, this Pumpkin Dump Cake embodies the essence of fall with minimal fuss. Whether you're hosting a gathering, contributing to a potluck, or simply indulging in a seasonal treat, this recipe promises a slice of comfort and a dash of nostalgia. Its simplicity makes it approachable, while the layers of flavor make it a favorite for all ages. Now, grab your ingredients, embrace the season, and enjoy the delightful simplicity of this autumnal dessert.
Can I prepare Pumpkin Dump Cake in advance?
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Yes, you can prepare it the day before. After baking, let it cool, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bring to room temperature or warm slightly before serving for best texture and taste.
What kind of cake mix can I use?
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Yellow or spice cake mix is traditionally used. However, for a variation, you can experiment with white or even a caramel-flavored cake mix.
Can I substitute ingredients for dietary restrictions?
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Yes, for a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or almond milk in place of evaporated milk. For gluten-free, ensure the cake mix is gluten-free.
How can I tell when the Pumpkin Dump Cake is done?
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The top layer should be golden, the edges will be set, and the middle might still be slightly jiggly but will firm up as it cools.
Is Pumpkin Dump Cake a pie or a cake?
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It’s uniquely both! The bottom layer has the consistency of a pumpkin pie filling, while the top is cake-like from the dry cake mix and melted butter.
