Name: Easiest Crockpot Pumpkin Dump Cake – Your Cozy Fall Treat
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 130 min
Ingredients: 1 can Pure Pumpkin (Use canned for convenience.); 1 cup Evaporated Milk (Can substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.); 3 large Eggs (No substitutes if a cohesive texture is desired.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Can reduce for a less sweet cake.); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Light or dark varieties work.); 1 tablespoon Pumpkin Pie Spice (A homemade blend can elevate the flavor.); 1 box Spice Cake Mix (Other mixes work but will change the flavor.); 1/2 cup Butter (Use vegan butter for a dairy-free version.); 1 cup Chopped Pecans (Swap for walnuts or omit for nut-free.)

Easy Crockpot Pumpkin Dump Cake – Cozy Fall Dessert Recipe

As the days grow shorter and the crisp autumn air hints at the season's change, there's nothing quite like the comforting scents wafting through your kitchen. This Easy Crockpot Pumpkin Dump Cake is my secret weapon for cozy fall gatherings or those quiet evenings at home when a sweet treat is called for. With just 10 minutes of prep, this warm dessert bursts with the rich flavors of pumpkin, buttery cake, and crunchy pecans - all created effortlessly in your crockpot.

When I first discovered this gem, I was amazed at how such a decadent, gooey dessert could come together with minimal fuss. Perfect for those who find themselves weary of takeout and craving a homemade delight, this recipe delivers the reassuring taste of fall without the stress, making it a true crowd-pleaser. So grab your crockpot and let's dive into the warm embrace of this delightful treat - it's the ultimate way to savor the best flavors of the season!

Why love this Easy Crockpot Pumpkin Dump Cake?

Simplicity and Ease: With only 10 minutes of prep, you can create a delicious dessert without the fuss. Heavenly Aroma: As it cooks, your kitchen fills with warm pumpkin spice scents, making it irresistibly cozy. Versatility: Try different cake mixes or toppings to customize your treat. Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for gatherings, everyone will love this gooey delight. Minimal Clean-Up: Made in your crockpot, so fewer dishes to wash afterward! Enjoy the season with this delightful dessert, perfect for snuggling up with a good book or sharing with loved ones.

Easy Crockpot Pumpkin Dump Cake Ingredients

Make this warm dessert a breeze with simple ingredients!

For the Pumpkin Filling
• Pure Pumpkin - Adds moisture and rich flavor; use canned for convenience.
• Evaporated Milk - Ensures creaminess in the filling; can substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
• Eggs - Provides structure and binding; no substitutes if a cohesive texture is desired.
• Granulated Sugar - Sweetens the filling; can reduce for a less sweet cake.
• Brown Sugar - Adds depth of flavor; light or dark varieties work.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice - Offers warm spice notes; a homemade blend can elevate the flavor.

For the Cake Layer
• Spice Cake Mix - Base for the cake layer; other mixes work but will change the flavor.
• Butter - Creates a rich topping; use vegan butter for a dairy-free version.

For the Crunchy Topping
• Chopped Pecans - Adds crunch; swap for walnuts or omit for nut-free.

This Easy Crockpot Pumpkin Dump Cake can easily become your favorite fall dessert, bringing warmth and comfort with each delightful bite!

How to Make Easy Crockpot Pumpkin Dump Cake

Whisk Together
In your crockpot, whisk together the pure pumpkin, evaporated milk, eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth and well combined.
Add Cake Mix
Evenly sprinkle the dry spice cake mix over the pumpkin mixture. Do not stir! This is essential for creating that delightful cake layer on top.
Slice Butter
Slice your butter into small pads and arrange them evenly over the surface of the cake mix. This will melt during cooking, adding richness to the dessert.
Top with Pecans
Gently sprinkle the chopped pecans on top for a satisfying crunch. You can also replace them with walnuts or skip them for a nut-free option.
Cook
Cook on high for about 2 hours. Check for doneness by looking for golden edges and a set top, ensuring it's perfectly cooked.
Serve Warm
Serve your delicious creation warm! Enhance it with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.

Optional: Top with caramel drizzle for an extra indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

This Easy Crockpot Pumpkin Dump Cake is a fantastic recipe for busy cooks who want to save time during the week! You can prepare the pumpkin filling and mix it all together up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The spice cake mix can also be added on top just before cooking, ensuring that it remains fresh and fluffy. When you're ready to enjoy this delightful dessert, simply pour the pumpkin mixture into your crockpot, add the cake mix and butter, then cook on high as directed. With this make-ahead strategy, you'll have the warm, gooey goodness of pumpkin dump cake with minimal effort, perfect for your fall gatherings or cozy nights in!

Expert Tips for Easy Crockpot Pumpkin Dump Cake

• Whisk Thoroughly: Make sure to whisk the pumpkin filling until completely smooth to avoid any lumps in your cake.

• No Mixing: Remember, don't stir the cake mix into the pumpkin mixture; this lets the topping form a delightful, crispy layer.

• Check Doneness: Cooking times may vary depending on your crockpot; look for golden edges and a slightly set top to confirm it's ready.

• Customize Wisely: Feel free to experiment with different cake mixes or toppings, but keep in mind that flavor may change with each variation.

• Serve Warm: This Easy Crockpot Pumpkin Dump Cake is best enjoyed warm; serve it with whipped cream or ice cream for added indulgence!

What to Serve with Easy Crockpot Pumpkin Dump Cake?

Indulging in a slice of this warm dessert is a cozy treat, but pairing it with the right accompaniments transforms it into an unforgettable meal experience.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy sweetness that perfectly balances the rich flavors of the cake.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream melts against the warm dump cake, creating a delightful contrast and a comforting experience.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel on top enhances the sweet pumpkin notes, adding an extra layer of indulgence to each bite.
Pecans on the Side: Toasted pecans amplify the nutty element, offering a crunchy contrast alongside the soft, gooey cake.
Warm Spiced Apple Cider: A mug of spiced apple cider brings in those cozy fall vibes, perfectly complementing the pumpkin flavors and making for a heartwarming pairing.
Vanilla Latte or Coffee: A rich vanilla latte or a steaming cup of coffee serves as a wonderful contrast to the sweetness, bringing warmth on a chilly evening.
Pumpkin Bread: For pumpkin lovers, serving slices of moist pumpkin bread alongside ties in delightful flavors that celebrate the season.
Ginger Snap Cookies: Crunchy ginger snaps add a spicy kick and enhance the new seasonal flavors, making every bite extra special.

Embrace these pairings for a heartwarming autumn gathering or a delectable indulgence on a quiet night in!

Storage Tips for Easy Crockpot Pumpkin Dump Cake

Fridge: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or until warmed through. This will help restore the gooey texture of your Easy Crockpot Pumpkin Dump Cake.

Serving Suggestions: Enjoy it warm topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a delightful fall treat!

Easy Crockpot Pumpkin Dump Cake Variations

Feel free to customize this delightful dessert and make it your own with these fun twists!

Yellow Cake Mix: Swap the spice cake mix for a yellow cake mix for a lighter flavor that still brings the comfort of fall.
Chocolate Chips: Replace pecans with chocolate chips for a richer, sweeter taste that chocolate lovers will adore. Imagine the melty goodness!
Caramel Swirl: Add a layer of caramel sauce between the pumpkin filling and the cake mix for an indulgent twist that will elevate each bite.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix to ensure everyone can enjoy this warm treat, making it perfect for gatherings with dietary preferences.
Nut-Free: Simply omit the chopped pecans or swap them for sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch without the nuts.
Dairy-Free: Replace evaporated milk with almond or oat milk and use vegan butter to create a fully dairy-free dessert that doesn't sacrifice flavor.
Spice Boost: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg to the pumpkin mixture for an extra kick that fills the kitchen with warmth.
Fruit Add-In: Toss in some dried cranberries or diced apples for a fruity surprise that complements the pumpkin beautifully.

With these variations, you can create a version of this Easy Crockpot Pumpkin Dump Cake that is uniquely yours - perfect for sharing and savoring!

Easy Crockpot Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best texture and flavor, use pure pumpkin. Canned pumpkin puree is a fantastic option as it's convenient and maintains consistent quality, ensuring you get that rich pumpkin flavor without the hassle of cooking and pureeing fresh pumpkin.

How should I store leftovers of the Easy Crockpot Pumpkin Dump Cake?
Very! Store any leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it's sealed to prevent drying out, and when you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave for about 30 to 45 seconds for that warm, gooey goodness.

Can I freeze the Easy Crockpot Pumpkin Dump Cake?
Absolutely! For longer storage, this cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. To do this, let the cake cool completely, then cut it into individual portions. Place the pieces in airtight containers or freezer bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible, then label them. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the microwave for a quick delightful treat.

I have allergies. Are there any substitutions for the ingredients?
Very! If you're looking for alternatives, there are plenty! For a dairy-free version, replace evaporated milk with coconut milk or other plant-based options. You can use egg substitutes like flaxseed meal or applesauce, though they may slightly alter the final texture. Additionally, swapping out chopped pecans for sunflower seeds can keep it nut-free while still giving it that crunchy texture.

What should I do if my dump cake isn't cooking evenly?
The more the merrier! If you find that your cake isn't cooking evenly, this may be due to varied slow cooker sizes or temperatures. Try rotating the crockpot halfway through the cooking time, as the edges may cook faster than the middle. Make sure the lid is on securely and check for doneness by looking for golden edges and a set top. If needed, add an extra 15 to 30 minutes of cooking time and keep an eye on it!

Can I use a different cake mix for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the spice cake mix provides that warm, seasonal flavor, you can use a yellow or even chocolate cake mix for a unique twist. Just be aware that each cake mix will impart its own flavor and texture onto the final dessert, so feel free to experiment until you find your favorite version!