Pumpkin Dump Cake with Cream Cheese

Picture this: the rich aroma of pumpkin spice filling your kitchen while you relax on the couch. That’s the magic of pumpkin dump cake with cream cheese! This incredibly easy dessert combines the warm flavors of fall with creamy, dreamy texture that melts in your mouth.

Unlike our popular apple crisp recipe that requires mixing and layering, this dump cake literally gets “dumped” together in minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, potluck gatherings, or when you’re craving something sweet without the fuss. Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to autumn dessert!

What is Pumpkin Dump Cake with Cream Cheese?

Ever wondered why it’s called a “dump” cake? Simple – you literally dump all the ingredients into a pan! No mixing bowls, no complicated techniques, just pure dumping magic. This delightful dessert gets its name from the carefree cooking method that even the most kitchen-challenged person can master.

As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this cake definitely paves that path with minimal effort. Ready to become a dump cake convert?

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Dump Cake with Cream Cheese

Rich, Creamy Perfection in Every Bite

This dessert delivers layers of incredible flavor and texture. The bottom features silky pumpkin filling infused with warm spices, while cream cheese creates pockets of tangy richness throughout. The top develops a golden, slightly crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender cake beneath.

Budget-Friendly Fall Baking

Making this at home costs a fraction of bakery prices. With simple pantry staples and canned pumpkin, you’ll create a dessert that feeds a crowd without breaking the bank. Compare that to buying individual slices at a café – you’ll save money and impress everyone with your “baking skills.”

Foolproof Success Every Time

Unlike our challenging chocolate soufflé recipe that requires precise timing, this dump cake forgives mistakes and delivers consistent results. The beauty lies in its simplicity – no creaming butter, no folding techniques, just dump and bake. Even kitchen novices will achieve bakery-worthy results.

Ready to experience the easiest fall dessert ever? Let’s dive into this game-changing recipe!

How to Make Pumpkin Dump Cake with Cream Cheese

Quick Overview

This show-stopping dessert requires just 15 minutes of prep time and delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The secret lies in layering ingredients that bake together into pure autumn bliss.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Serves: 12

Key Ingredients for Pumpkin Dump Cake with Cream Cheese

For the Base:

1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
3 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Topping:

1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
8 oz cream cheese, cubed
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This prevents sticking and ensures easy serving.

Step 2: Create the Pumpkin Base In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until smooth. The mixture should be well-combined with no lumps.

Step 3: Pour and Spread Pour the pumpkin mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread evenly across the bottom, reaching all corners.

Step 4: Add Cream Cheese Distribute cubed cream cheese evenly over the pumpkin layer. These will create delicious pockets of creamy goodness throughout the cake.

Step 5: Dump the Cake Mix Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cream cheese and pumpkin layer. Don’t mix – just let it sit on top like a blanket.

Step 6: Drizzle with Butter Pour melted butter evenly over the cake mix layer. The butter will help create that signature golden crust. Sprinkle pecans on top if using.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection Bake for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool and Serve Let cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. The cake will continue to set as it cools.

What to Serve Pumpkin Dump Cake with Cream Cheese With

This versatile dessert pairs beautifully with various accompaniments:

Creamy Additions:

Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
Caramel or maple syrup drizzle
Cream cheese frosting dollop

Warm Beverages:

Spiced apple cider
Pumpkin spice latte
Hot chai tea
Coffee with cinnamon

Complementary Textures:

Toasted pumpkin seeds
Candied pecans
Graham cracker crumbs

Top Tips for Perfecting Pumpkin Dump Cake with Cream Cheese

Use Room Temperature Ingredients

Let eggs and cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before using. This ensures smoother mixing and even distribution.

Don’t Overmix the Base

Whisk the pumpkin mixture just until combined. Overmixing can create a dense texture instead of the desired creamy consistency.

Cube Cream Cheese Properly

Cut cream cheese into 1/2-inch cubes for even melting and distribution. Smaller pieces may disappear, while larger chunks might not incorporate well.

Check for Doneness

The top should be golden brown and spring back lightly when touched. A toothpick test should show moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Substitution Options

Replace yellow cake mix with spice cake mix for extra warmth
Use Greek yogurt cream cheese for a tangier flavor
Substitute coconut milk for evaporated milk for dairy-free option

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigerator Storage

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors actually improve after the first day as they meld together.

Freezing Instructions

Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Methods

Microwave: Heat individual portions for 20-30 seconds
Oven: Warm at 300°F for 10-15 minutes
Best served: Slightly warm or at room temperature

Make-Ahead Tips

Prepare the entire cake up to 2 days in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate. The texture remains perfect, making it ideal for entertaining.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	385
Total Fat	16g
Saturated Fat	9g
Cholesterol	78mg
Sodium	420mg
Total Carbs	58g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Sugars	45g
Protein	6g
Vitamin A	184% DV

Nutritional values are approximate and based on 12 servings

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! Use 1¾ cups of fresh pumpkin puree. Roast and puree your own pumpkin, but ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

What if I don’t have evaporated milk?

Substitute with heavy cream, half-and-half, or make your own by simmering 1½ cups regular milk until reduced to ¾ cup.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Why is my dump cake soggy?

This usually happens from too much liquid or underbaking. Ensure your oven temperature is accurate and bake until the top is golden brown.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Definitely! Try mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, or dried cranberries for extra flavor and texture.

How do I know when it’s done?

The top should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched. The edges will pull slightly from the pan sides.

Final Thoughts

This pumpkin dump cake with cream cheese proves that the best desserts don’t require complicated techniques or professional skills. With just a few simple ingredients and one pan, you’ll create a dessert that captures the essence of fall in every bite.

The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its simplicity, but in its ability to bring people together. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner, attending a fall potluck, or simply craving something sweet on a crisp autumn evening, this dump cake delivers comfort and joy with minimal effort.

Remember, the key to perfect results is trusting the process – resist the urge to mix everything together. Let each layer do its magic as it bakes, creating that signature dump cake texture we all love.

So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to become the star of every fall gathering. Your kitchen will smell amazing, your guests will be impressed, and you’ll have a new go-to recipe that never fails to deliver smiles.

What’s your favorite way to serve pumpkin dump cake? Share your creative topping ideas in the comments below!