Decadent Pumpkin Pie Cake: Your New Go-To Fall Dessert

Welcome to your new favorite fall dessert! This **Pumpkin Pie Cake** effortlessly combines the rich, creamy texture of classic pumpkin pie with the comforting familiarity of a moist, spiced cake. It’s truly a celebration of autumn flavors, requiring minimal effort thanks to a clever cake mix shortcut. If you’re a devoted pumpkin fan, prepare to be enchanted by this decadent creation, brimming with the warmth of pumpkin spice and the delightful crunch of chopped pecans. This recipe promises a truly luscious dessert that will become a staple for your holiday gatherings and cozy evenings alike.

Forget complicated baking techniques and lengthy ingredient lists. This is arguably one of the simplest yet most profoundly satisfying cake recipes you’ll ever encounter. You absolutely do not need to be an experienced baker to master this treat. If you can measure a few ingredients, combine them in a bowl, and stir, you possess all the skills required to create this easy pumpkin dessert. It’s perfect for beginners and seasoned home cooks alike, proving that extraordinary flavor doesn’t always demand extraordinary effort.

For those who appreciate straightforward and delicious cake recipes, we highly recommend exploring our Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake and Pumpkin Sheet Cake. Another fan favorite that embodies cozy fall vibes is our Pumpkin Delight. These recipes are designed for maximum flavor with minimum fuss, just like our beloved Pumpkin Pie Cake.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Pumpkin Pie Cake Recipe

There are countless reasons why this Pumpkin Pie Cake has become a consistent hit and a go-to for so many home bakers. First and foremost, it offers the best of both dessert worlds: the creamy, spiced filling reminiscent of classic pumpkin pie, perfectly integrated with the tender crumb of a moist cake. It’s a delightful textural and flavor combination that truly stands out. When crowned with a generous dollop of homemade whipped cream, cool whip, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this dessert transforms into an incredibly luscious and indulgent experience that’s ideal for any occasion, from weeknight treats to elaborate holiday feasts.

Beyond its incredible taste, this Pumpkin Pie Cake recipe shines for its simplicity. It calls for only a handful of readily available, simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, saving you a trip to the grocery store. More importantly, the preparation time is remarkably minimal, making it an ideal choice when you need a show-stopping dessert without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a busy parent, a novice baker, or simply seeking an efficient yet impressive recipe, this pumpkin pie cake delivers on all fronts – taste, ease, and sheer indulgence.

Essential Ingredients for Pumpkin Pie Cake

Crafting this delightful Pumpkin Pie Cake requires a selection of common pantry staples. The magic truly happens when these simple ingredients come together to create a symphony of fall flavors. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• Canned Pumpkin Puree: Ensure you’re using 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, as the latter contains added spices and sugar that will alter the recipe’s balance.
• Evaporated Milk: This provides a creamy richness and helps achieve that signature “pie-like” custard texture within the cake.
• Granulated Sugar: For the perfect amount of sweetness.
• Ground Cinnamon: A classic warm spice that beautifully complements pumpkin.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: This blend of spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves) truly brings out the quintessential fall flavor. You can easily make your homemade pumpkin pie spice for an extra fresh aroma.
• Yellow Cake Mix: The secret to this cake’s incredible ease and consistent texture. Any standard yellow cake mix will work wonders.
• Chopped Pecans: These add a fantastic nutty flavor and a satisfying crunchy topping.
• Eggs: To bind the pumpkin mixture and contribute to the rich, custard-like consistency.
• Salt: A small pinch enhances all the other flavors, balancing the sweetness.
• Melted Butter: Drizzled over the dry cake mix and pecans, it creates a crispy, golden-brown crust.

The complete, detailed ingredient list with precise measurements can be found at the bottom of this page in the recipe card.

Creative Variation Ideas for Your Pumpkin Pie Cake

While the classic Pumpkin Pie Cake recipe is absolutely delicious as is, it also offers a wonderful canvas for culinary creativity. Feel free to experiment with these variation ideas to tailor the cake to your personal preferences or to simply try something new!

• Explore Different Cake Mix Flavors: We typically use a yellow cake mix for its versatile and comforting flavor profile, which pairs perfectly with pumpkin. However, don’t hesitate to venture out! A white cake mix will yield a lighter, more delicate flavor, allowing the pumpkin to shine even brighter. For an intensified spice experience, try a spice cake mix, which already contains many of the warm spices found in pumpkin pie spice, creating an incredibly aromatic and flavorful dessert. A butter pecan cake mix could also add another layer of nutty goodness.
• Experiment with Chopped Nuts and Toppings: While we adore the buttery crunch of chopped pecans, this recipe is incredibly adaptable to other nuts or mix-ins. Consider using chopped walnuts for a slightly more robust, earthy flavor, or thinly sliced almonds for a delicate crispness. For a tropical twist, toasted shredded coconut adds a delightful chewiness and unique aroma. If you’re feeling indulgent, try sprinkling toffee bits over the top for pockets of chewy, buttery caramel goodness. For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts entirely or replace them with a sprinkle of rolled oats for a subtle texture.
• Elevate Your Topping Game: The simplest topping is often the best. A dollop of light and airy homemade whipped cream or a convenient scoop of cool whip beautifully balances the richness of the cake. For an extra touch of decadence, especially when serving the cake warm, a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream melting into the warm cake is pure bliss. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes can also add a gourmet touch.
• Sweetener Alternatives: If you prefer the deeper, molasses-rich notes of brown sugar, feel free to substitute it for the white granulated sugar in the pumpkin mixture. Brown sugar and cinnamon create a wonderfully rich and aromatic combination that enhances the fall flavors. Always remember that the sugar and cinnamon, when blended with the other ingredients, form the foundation of this cake’s irresistible taste.
• Serving Temperature Flexibility: One of the many beauties of this cake is its versatility in serving temperature. It’s absolutely divine served warm, fresh from the oven, which allows its aromatic spices to truly bloom and the textures to be at their most tender. However, it’s equally delicious served at room temperature, making it a convenient make-ahead option for gatherings. For a slightly different experience, some even enjoy it chilled, particularly on warmer days.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Pumpkin Pie Cake

Creating this delicious Pumpkin Pie Cake is a straightforward process, broken down into simple, easy-to-follow steps. Gather your ingredients, and let’s get baking!

• Step 1 – Prepare Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures your oven is at the optimal temperature for even baking before you place the cake inside. While the oven preheats, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray or butter. This crucial step prevents sticking and guarantees an easy cleanup, allowing you to effortlessly serve perfect slices.

Step 2. Mix the Pumpkin Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, and granulated sugar. Beat these ingredients together on medium speed until well combined and smooth. Next, add the eggs, salt, ground cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice to the mixture. Continue to mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the batter is homogeneous. This forms the rich, flavorful base of your pumpkin pie cake.

Step 3. Prepare for Baking: Carefully pour the prepared pumpkin mixture evenly into your greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Spread it out with a spatula to ensure an even layer across the bottom of the pan. This will form the moist, pie-like layer of your dessert.

Step 4. Add the Topping Layers: Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the entire surface of the pumpkin mixture in the pan. Do not mix it in; let it form a distinct layer. Next, gently spoon the melted butter over the dry cake mix. Try to distribute the butter as evenly as possible to ensure a golden, crispy topping. Finally, scatter the chopped pecans (or your preferred nuts/topping) over the butter layer. This creates a wonderful crumb-like crust as the cake bakes.

Step 5. Bake and Serve: Place the baking pan into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 55 minutes. The cake is done when the topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cake layer (avoiding the pumpkin base too deeply) comes out mostly clean. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. This cake is delightful served warm, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, or at room temperature. Enjoy!

Expert Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Pie Cake

Achieving a truly exceptional Pumpkin Pie Cake is simple, especially when you keep a few expert tips in mind. These small details can make a significant difference in the final outcome, ensuring your cake is consistently moist, flavorful, and perfectly baked every time.

• Thoroughly Prepare Your Baking Dish: Before you even start mixing, take a moment to properly prepare your 9×13-inch baking dish. We highly recommend spraying it generously with a good quality non-stick cooking spray. For extra assurance, you can also lightly flour the pan after spraying. This simple step is critical not only for preventing the cake from sticking to the pan but also for ensuring easy serving and an effortless cleanup afterward. A well-greased pan means cleaner slices and less frustration.
• Master the Layering of Ingredients: The key to the unique texture of this “dump cake” style recipe lies in its specific layering. After you’ve poured the pumpkin mixture into the prepared pan, ensure you create distinct layers for the dry cake mix, melted butter, and chopped nuts. Do not stir or mix these top layers into the pumpkin base. This layering technique allows the dry cake mix to absorb the moisture from the pumpkin and butter as it bakes, creating a wonderful crumbly, golden-brown crust on top, while the bottom remains moist and tender. Even distribution of the dry cake mix and melted butter is essential for a uniform crust.
• Choose the Right Pumpkin Product: Pay close attention to the type of pumpkin you are using. This recipe specifically calls for 100% pure canned pumpkin puree, which is simply cooked and mashed pumpkin. It is crucial to avoid using pumpkin pie filling, which often comes in a similar-looking can. Pumpkin pie filling is pre-sweetened and pre-spiced, and using it will throw off the carefully balanced flavors and sweetness of this recipe, leading to an overly sweet or incorrectly spiced cake. Always double-check the label!
• Select the Correct Baking Dish Size: The dimensions of your baking pan are important for the success of this cake. This recipe is specifically designed for a 9×13-inch baking pan. Using a smaller pan, such as an 8×8 or 9×9 inch, could lead to the cake overflowing in your oven as it bakes, creating a messy situation. Conversely, using a significantly larger pan could result in a cake that is too thin, dries out quickly, or bakes unevenly. Stick to the recommended size for optimal results and consistent baking.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Pie Cake

How should I store leftover Pumpkin Pie Cake?

For the best quality and to maintain freshness, store any leftover pumpkin pie cake in the refrigerator. Ensure the cake has cooled completely to room temperature before storing. Once cooled, cover the baking pan tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. Stored properly in the fridge, your pumpkin pie cake will remain delicious for approximately 3 to 4 days.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Pie Cake is fully baked?

This cake typically bakes to perfection in about 55 minutes. However, baking times can vary slightly depending on your specific oven, so it’s a good idea to start checking around the 50-minute mark. The topping should be golden brown and look set. While the center of the cake might appear slightly jiggly when you first remove it from the oven, don’t worry! This is normal. The cake will continue to set and firm up as it cools on the counter. For best results, allow it to cool on a wire rack, which helps to stiffen the center and develop the final texture.

Can Pumpkin Pie Cake be frozen?

Absolutely, this pumpkin pie cake freezes beautifully! Once the cake has cooled completely to room temperature, you can freeze it whole or in individual slices. For best results, transfer the cooled cake (or slices) to a freezer-safe container. To prevent freezer burn, make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil. This double layer of protection is key. The cake will maintain its quality in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply allow the frozen pumpkin cake to thaw overnight in the refrigerator. You can then reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven for a warm dessert, or serve it chilled if you prefer.

What are some popular toppings for Pumpkin Pie Cake?

The versatility of Pumpkin Pie Cake extends to its toppings! Classic choices include a dollop of freshly whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream (especially when the cake is warm), or a light layer of Cool Whip. For added texture and flavor, consider a drizzle of caramel sauce, a sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts, or even a dusting of powdered sugar. A light grating of fresh nutmeg or cinnamon can also elevate the aromatic experience.

Why is it called “Pumpkin Pie Cake” and not just “Pumpkin Cake”?

This dessert gets its unique name because it beautifully marries the characteristics of both a pumpkin pie and a traditional cake. The bottom layer, made with pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, and spices, creates a creamy, custard-like texture that is very similar to a pumpkin pie filling. The top layer, formed from a cake mix, bakes into a delightful, slightly crumbly cake-like crust. The combination results in a dessert that offers the comforting flavors and textures of both beloved autumnal treats, hence “Pumpkin Pie Cake.”

Discover More Easy Pumpkin Recipes

If you’ve fallen in love with the ease and deliciousness of this Pumpkin Pie Cake, you’re in luck! The world of pumpkin desserts is vast and wonderful, offering a multitude of simple recipes that capture the essence of fall. Here are some of our other favorite straightforward pumpkin creations that are perfect for any occasion:

• The Easiest Pumpkin Pie Recipe: A timeless classic, simplified for effortless baking.
• Pumpkin Bars Recipe: Moist, flavorful bars perfect for feeding a crowd or for individual servings.
• Salted Caramel Pumpkin Pie Recipe: A gourmet twist on a traditional favorite, combining sweet and salty notes.
• Pumpkin Bread Recipe: Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or a light dessert with a cup of coffee.
• Pumpkin Cake Recipe: A classic, moist pumpkin cake that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
• Pumpkin Bread Pudding: A comforting and warm dessert, perfect for chilly evenings.

Each of these recipes is crafted to bring you maximum flavor with minimal fuss, just like our featured Pumpkin Pie Cake. Enjoy exploring the delicious possibilities of pumpkin!

We’re genuinely thrilled for you to try this incredibly easy and unbelievably tasty Pumpkin Pie Cake. It’s truly a perfect dessert for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any time you crave those comforting fall flavors. Once you make it, please take a moment to leave a comment below and share your experience. We love hearing from you!

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Pumpkin Pie Cake

4.65 from 14 votes

This Pumpkin Pie Cake is an incredibly easy and delicious dessert that starts with a simple cake mix. It’s a must-try for any pumpkin enthusiast, combining rich pumpkin flavor with a delightful pecan crunch.

Prep Time

15 minutes
mins

Cook Time

55 minutes
mins

Total Time

1 hour
hr
10 minutes
mins

Servings
9

Cuisine
American

Course
Dessert

Calories
344

Author
Carrie Barnard

Ingredients

• 1 16 ounce can pumpkin puree
• 1 12 ounce can evaporated milk
• 1 /2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, sugar, eggs, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth and well combined.
3. Pour the pumpkin mixture evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch pan.
4. Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the entire pumpkin mixture in the pan. Do not stir.
5. Spoon the melted butter over the dry cake mix, trying to cover as much of the surface as possible.
6. Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the butter layer.
7. Bake for 55 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cake is set.
8. Remove from oven and let cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts

Calories
344
kcal

,

Carbohydrates
32
g

,

Protein
6
g

,

Fat
23
g

,

Saturated Fat
9
g

,

Cholesterol
74
mg

,

Sodium
276
mg

,

Potassium
282
mg

,

Fiber
3
g

,

Sugar
28
g

,

Vitamin A
8309
IU

,

Vitamin C
3
mg

,

Calcium
132
mg

,

Iron
1
mg

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