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Easy Small-Batch Pumpkin Dump Cake (Best 4-Serving Dessert)

small-batch pumpkin dump cake - featured image

A perfectly portioned small-batch pumpkin dump cake that delivers warm, spiced, buttery comfort in just 4 servings. Quick to prepare with simple pantry ingredients, this dessert is ideal for fall cravings without the commitment of a full-size pan.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (240g) pumpkin purée
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) evaporated milk
  • 1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (about 4 oz / 115g) yellow cake mix
  • 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons / 57g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup (30g) chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 or 9×9 baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup pumpkin purée, 1/2 cup evaporated milk, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
  3. Pour the pumpkin filling into the prepared dish and spread evenly to the edges with a spatula.
  4. Sprinkle 1 cup of yellow cake mix evenly over the pumpkin layer. Do not stir.
  5. Drizzle 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter as evenly as possible over the dry cake mix.
  6. Sprinkle 1/4 cup chopped pecans over the top (if using).
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling at the edges. Let cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes before serving.

Notes

Don’t skip the cooling time—it needs at least 10-15 minutes to set properly. For best results, use room temperature ingredients. If using homemade pumpkin purée, drain excess liquid first. The flavors deepen after a day in the fridge.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin dump cake, small-batch dessert, fall dessert, easy pumpkin recipe, 4-serving dessert, pumpkin cake