Autumn is the season for all things pumpkin, and this Authentic, Healthy Pumpkin Dump Cake is the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of fall. With a rich, creamy pumpkin base and a lightly spiced crumb topping, this cozy dessert is sure to become a new family favorite.
What sets this pumpkin dump cake apart is the use of wholesome ingredients and a perfectly balanced blend of warm spices. Instead of relying on processed mixes or unhealthy fats, we’ve crafted a from-scratch recipe that’s not only delicious but also nutritious. Get ready to experience the ultimate autumn indulgence that will have your taste buds dancing with joy!
So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into the deliciousness of this Authentic, Healthy Pumpkin Dump Cake recipe.
😋 Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe ?
This pumpkin dump cake recipe is a true showstopper for several reasons. First and foremost, the flavor is simply out of this world. The combination of pumpkin puree, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and a touch of maple syrup creates a depth of flavor that will have you craving bite after bite.
But it’s not just the taste that makes this recipe exceptional – the texture is equally impressive. The pumpkin base is rich, creamy, and perfectly smooth, while the crumb topping adds a delightful crunchy contrast. Plus, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
The pumpkin puree and sweetened condensed milk are the stars of this recipe, providing a rich, velvety base for the pumpkin dump cake. The spices – cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves – add a warm, comforting aroma and flavor that perfectly complements the pumpkin. Choosing a high-quality yellow cake mix ensures a tender, flavorful crumb topping that perfectly balances the decadent pumpkin filling.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or butter.
- Make the Pumpkin Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt. Whisk the ingredients together until well incorporated and smooth.
- Assemble the Dump Cake: Pour the pumpkin filling into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the top of the pumpkin filling. Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, and then sprinkle the chopped pecans (if using) on top.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the pumpkin dump cake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake during the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent overbrowning.
- Allow to Cool: Remove the pumpkin dump cake from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and the flavors to meld together.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cook time: 45-55 minutes
• Chill time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 85-95 minutes
🍽️ Nutritional Information
Nutritional information is an estimate per serving, based on 12 servings.
• Protein: 5 g
• Sodium: 347 mg
• Carbohydrates: 49 g
• Fat: 16 g
• Fiber: 2 g
🍴 Fun Alternatives to Try
• To Make it Vegan: Replace the eggs with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce, and use a dairy-free sweetened condensed milk alternative. For the topping, use vegan butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter.
• To Add a Spicy Kick: Stir in 1/4 to 1/2 tsp of cayenne pepper or ground chipotle powder to the pumpkin filling for a delightful touch of heat. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream spiked with cinnamon or nutmeg on top.
🍽️ How to Serve This Dish Like a Pro?
• Garnish Suggestions: Top the pumpkin dump cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream, a sprinkle of toasted pecans or crushed graham crackers, and a drizzle of caramel or maple syrup.
• Beverage Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of apple cider, a spiced latte, or a glass of rich, full-bodied red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon.
🤩 Pro Tips for a Perfect Outcome Every Time
• Mistake 2 – Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure all of your ingredients, especially the eggs and melted butter, are at room temperature before assembling the dump cake. This will help ensure a smooth, creamy texture in the pumpkin filling and an evenly baked crumb topping.
• Mistake 3 – Not Greasing the Pan: Be sure to thoroughly grease the baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or butter to prevent the pumpkin dump cake from sticking to the sides. This will make it much easier to serve and enjoy the final product.
💾 Preserve Your Creation: Storage Tips
• Freezing: To freeze, allow the pumpkin dump cake to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Reheating: When ready to serve, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or place the entire dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This will help restore the crisp topping and gooey pumpkin filling.
❓ FAQs
Can I use a different type of cake mix instead of yellow?
Absolutely! While the yellow cake mix provides a delicious and classic flavor, you can experiment with other varieties like spice cake, white cake, or even a gluten-free cake mix to suit your preferences. Keep in mind that the texture and baking time may vary slightly depending on the type of cake mix you use.
Can I make this pumpkin dump cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make this pumpkin dump cake in advance. Prepare the recipe as directed, then cover and refrigerate the unbaked cake. When ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and pop it in for the recommended baking time. This makes it a great option for busy holidays or when you need a quick and easy dessert.
How do I know when the pumpkin dump cake is done baking?
The pumpkin dump cake is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep a close eye on it during the last 10-15 minutes of baking to prevent overbrowning. The center should be set and the edges should be lightly bubbling when it’s ready to come out of the oven.
Can I use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you have access to fresh pumpkin, you can absolutely use that in this recipe. Just be sure to roast and puree the pumpkin until it’s smooth and creamy, similar to the canned variety. You may need to adjust the amount of sweetener and spices to taste, as the sweetness and flavor of fresh pumpkin can vary.
How can I make this pumpkin dump cake more decadent?
To take this pumpkin dump cake to the next level, consider adding a layer of cream cheese frosting or a drizzle of caramel sauce over the top. You could also fold in chopped pecans or walnuts directly into the pumpkin filling for an extra boost of flavor and texture. For a truly indulgent treat, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream.
🍁 Final Thoughts on This Amazing Recipe
This Authentic, Healthy Pumpkin Dump Cake is a true autumn masterpiece that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. The rich, creamy pumpkin filling, the warm spices, and the irresistible crumb topping come together in perfect harmony to create a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Whether you’re serving it as the grand finale to a cozy family gathering or enjoying it on a quiet evening with a hot cup of tea, this pumpkin dump cake is sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection.
So go ahead, dive in, and savor the flavors of fall in every bite. Your taste buds will thank you!
Authentic, Healthy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe
⏱️ Timing Overview
🥘 Ingredients
📝 Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt. Whisk the ingredients together until well incorporated and smooth.
- Pour the pumpkin filling into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the top of the pumpkin filling. Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, and then sprinkle the chopped pecans (if using) on top.
- Bake the pumpkin dump cake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake during the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent overbrowning.
- Remove the pumpkin dump cake from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and the flavors to meld together.
