Description
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
– 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon cloves
– 1 box yellow cake mix
Directions:
1. Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your cake bakes evenly and perfectly!
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Stir it all together until you achieve a smooth and creamy mixture that smells amazing!
3. Pour your pumpkin mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
4. Now for the fun part! Evenly sprinkle the entire box of yellow cake mix over the top of the pumpkin mixture. You don’t want to stir it – the magic happens in the oven!
5. Bake in your preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cake is set. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
6. Allow your cake to cool slightly before digging in. This dessert is delicious warm, but it’s also delightful at room temperature!
Enjoy every bite of this comforting treat!
#PumpkinEverything #FallBaking #OatmealCake #CozyDessert #EasyRecipes
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect cake every time. After preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), thoroughly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. In your large bowl, whisk the eggs first before adding the pumpkin puree and evaporated milk to ensure a smooth base. Combine your dry spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves) in a small bowl before adding them to the wet mix; this prevents clumping. When sprinkling the yellow cake mix, do so slowly from a height to achieve an even, blanket-like layer. For the bake, start checking at 45 minutes; the cake is done when the top is deeply golden and the center only jiggles slightly when tapped.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile cake can be dressed up or down. For a classic presentation, serve warm squares with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a decadent twist, drizzle with warm caramel sauce or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. It also pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea. For a festive brunch, serve it alongside other baked goods, or enjoy a simple square as an afternoon snack.
How-to Summary
In brief: Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix pumpkin, milk, eggs, sugars, and spices until smooth. Pour into a greased 9×13 pan. Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden and set. Cool slightly before serving with your favorite toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned?
Yes, you can substitute an equal amount of homemade pumpkin puree. Ensure it is thick and well-drained, similar to the canned consistency, to avoid a soggy cake.
What can I use instead of evaporated milk?
Heavy cream or half-and-half are suitable substitutes, though the texture may be slightly richer. For a dairy-free version, canned coconut milk works well.
Why don’t I mix the cake mix into the batter?
The cake mix is designed to form a delicious, crumbly topping as it bakes. Mixing it in would change the texture entirely and make the cake overly dense.
How should I store leftovers?
Cover the baking dish with foil or transfer slices to an airtight container. It will keep at room temperature for 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled over the cake mix layer before baking add wonderful crunch and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Wet Ingredients: Stir just until combined to keep the filling light.
- Stirring the Cake Mix: This is the most common error. Resist the urge to mix it in; the layered effect is intentional.
- Underbaking: The center should be set. Use a toothpick inserted into the pumpkin layer (not the topping) to check for doneness.
- Using a Pan That’s Too Small: Stick to the 9×13 inch size. A smaller pan will cause the cake to overflow or bake unevenly.
- Skipping the Cooling Time: Letting it cool for 15-20 minutes allows the structure to set, making it easier to slice.
Conclusion
This Pumpkin Dump Cake is the epitome of easy, comforting fall baking. With its spiced pumpkin base and golden, crumbly topping, it delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you’re guaranteed a dessert that will become a seasonal staple. Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or a simple weeknight treat, this cake is sure to earn rave reviews. Give it a try and enjoy the warm, aromatic flavors of autumn in every bite.