The aroma of pumpkin spice in the fall is undeniably comforting, and what better way to indulge in that cozy feeling than with a Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dump Cake? This incredibly easy dessert requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor and texture, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy baking times; this dump cake is all about simplicity and deliciousness.
What is a Dump Cake?
A dump cake, as the name suggests, is a dessert where you simply "dump" the ingredients into a baking dish and bake. It's known for its ease of preparation, requiring no mixing bowls or complicated techniques. The result is a moist, flavorful cake with a delightful crumble topping. This pumpkin cream cheese variation elevates the classic dump cake to a whole new level of autumnal goodness.
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dump Cake Ingredients: A Simple List
This recipe focuses on readily available ingredients, ensuring you can whip up this treat with minimal fuss. You'll need:
- One (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree: The foundation of the pumpkin flavor. Make sure it's pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
- One (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened: This adds richness and creaminess to the cake.
- Two large eggs: These bind the ingredients and add moisture.
- One cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
- One teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: This classic spice blend enhances the pumpkin flavor.
- One teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
- One box (15.25 ounce) yellow cake mix: The base for the cake and topping.
- One cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Adds texture and a nutty flavor.
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted: Creates a delicious buttery crumble topping.
How to Make Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dump Cake: Step-by-Step Instructions
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Follow these straightforward steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, softened cream cheese, eggs, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- Pour into baking dish: Pour the pumpkin cream cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the crumble topping: In a separate bowl, combine the dry cake mix, nuts (if using), and melted butter. Mix until crumbly.
- Add the crumble topping: Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the pumpkin cream cheese mixture.
- Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Let the cake cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This section addresses common questions about making and enjoying this delicious dessert.
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
While yellow cake mix provides a classic flavor, you can experiment with spice cake mix or even a gingerbread cake mix for a unique twist on the recipe. The flavor will change, but the texture will remain largely the same.
How can I make this cake ahead of time?
You can prepare the pumpkin cream cheese mixture and the crumble topping ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the cake just before serving. This is particularly helpful for entertaining.
What are some serving suggestions?
This Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dump Cake is delicious on its own, but you can enhance it further with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze leftover Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dump Cake. Let it cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and then place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, this recipe uses a standard yellow cake mix, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, you'll need to substitute a gluten-free cake mix. Be sure to check the ingredients list to ensure it’s truly gluten-free and suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
This Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful balance of creamy pumpkin and a crunchy, buttery crumble. Its ease of preparation makes it a perfect dessert for any occasion, from casual weeknight treats to festive fall gatherings. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to bake up a slice of autumnal heaven!
