Description

This Pumpkin Dump Cake is a comforting and easy-to-make dessert that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and warm spices with simple, plant-based ingredients. Perfect for any time of year, it offers a moist, flavorful treat with a tender crumb and a sweet, crunchy topping. Quick to prepare and adaptable to various dietary needs, this cake is ideal for both beginner bakers and those looking for a fuss-free autumn-inspired dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) canned pumpkin
1 cup yellow cake mix (plant-based)
3/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup grape juice
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon cloves
1 teaspoon natural gelling agent

Optional Variations

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (for nutty twist)
1/2 teaspoon cardamom or ginger (for spiced up version)
1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins (for fruit infusion)
Plant-based frosting made from mashed avocado and maple syrup (natural) for topping
Gluten-free yellow cake mix (plant-based) and a compatible natural gelling agent (for gluten-free option)

Instructions

Prepare Your Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even baking for a golden finish.
Mix Pumpkin and Spices: In a mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar, grape juice, and natural gelling agent. Mix well until smooth and fully blended.
Spread Pumpkin Mixture: Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure consistent moisture and flavor throughout the cake.
Sprinkle Cake Mix: Evenly cover the pumpkin layer with the yellow cake mix (plant-based). Do not stir; this layer will bake into a sweet and crunchy topping.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the top is set but still tender inside.

Notes

Use a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure optimal baking time and cake thickness for the best texture.
Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly before adding the cake mix to achieve uniform baking of the topping.
Adjust the warm spices according to your taste preference; less is more to preserve balance.
If using fresh pumpkin puree, cook and strain it well to remove excess water and maintain desired texture.
Monitor baking time carefully to avoid drying out the cake; it should be moist inside with golden edges.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Category: Desserts
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
Calories: 220
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: pumpkin dessert, dump cake, plant-based dessert, autumn flavors, easy dessert, pumpkin spice, gluten-free option, vegan cake