Oh wow, let me tell you about the *thanksgiving dump cake*! This dessert is an absolute game-changer when it comes to holiday baking—it’s super simple and downright delicious! I remember the first time I made it for a family gathering; I was a bit nervous, but it turned out to be the star of the show! Everyone was raving about it, and I couldn’t believe how easy it was to whip up. Just imagine the warm, cozy scents of pumpkin and spices wafting through your kitchen as it bakes. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate, perfect for sharing with loved ones around the Thanksgiving table. Trust me, you’ll want to add this to your holiday lineup!
Ingredients List
Gathering your ingredients for this *thanksgiving dump cake* is a breeze! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 box yellow cake mix: This is the base of our cake and adds a lovely sweetness. You can use any brand you like, just make sure it’s a standard size box (15.25 oz is perfect!).
- 1 can pumpkin puree (15 oz): Look for 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling. It gives that rich, earthy flavor we love during the holidays.
- 1 can evaporated milk (12 oz): This adds a creaminess that balances the spices and pumpkin beautifully. Don’t skip this—it’s key!
- 3 large eggs: These help bind everything together and give the cake a nice lift. Make sure they’re at room temperature for best results.
- 1 cup sugar: This adds sweetness and enhances the flavors of the pumpkin and spices. You can adjust it down if you prefer less sweetness!
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Ah, the quintessential spice for fall! It adds warmth and that cozy aroma we all adore.
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg: A little goes a long way with nutmeg! It complements the cinnamon perfectly and adds depth to the flavor.
- 1/2 cup butter, melted: This is what makes the cake so moist and delicious! Just melt it before drizzling it over the cake mix.
Make sure to have everything measured out and ready to go—it’ll make the preparation so much smoother!
How to Prepare *Thanksgiving Dump Cake*
Getting your *thanksgiving dump cake* ready is as easy as pie—well, easier! Just follow these straightforward steps, and you’ll have a delightful dessert to impress your family and friends.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a crucial step, so don’t skip it! You want your oven nice and toasty when it’s time to bake.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. I like to whisk it all together until it’s smooth and creamy. It should smell heavenly!
- Pour into the baking dish: Next, pour that delicious pumpkin mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly spread out—no one wants a lopsided cake!
- Sprinkle the cake mix: Here comes the fun part! Gently sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the pumpkin mixture. Don’t stir it—just let that cake mix sit on top. It’ll create a delightful top layer as it bakes!
- Drizzle with butter: Now, take your melted butter and drizzle it generously over the cake mix. This step is key for achieving that golden, crispy topping. Yum!
- Bake: Pop your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end; ovens can be sneaky!
- Cool before serving: Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a bit before you dive in. This cake is best served warm, but allowing it to cool slightly helps everything set up nicely.
And there you have it! Your *thanksgiving dump cake* is ready to be enjoyed. It’s a no-fuss dessert that packs in all those cozy fall flavors. Trust me, everyone will be coming back for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: You can whip this up in just about 15 minutes! Seriously, it’s almost effortless—perfect for busy holiday prep.
- Minimal Cleanup: With just one bowl for mixing and your baking dish, you’ll spend less time washing up and more time enjoying with family.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, warm spices, and a buttery cake topping creates a flavor that’s pure comfort food.
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 12 generous servings, making it ideal for Thanksgiving gatherings or potlucks.
- Versatile: You can customize it with add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, giving it your personal touch!
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare it in advance, which is a lifesaver during the hectic holiday season—just bake when you’re ready!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your *thanksgiving dump cake* turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips to help you nail this recipe:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh pumpkin puree and check your spices for freshness too. Old spices can lose their kick, and we want all that delicious flavor to shine!
- Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps them blend better with the other ingredients, leading to a smoother batter. Just pop them in warm water for about 10 minutes if you forget!
- Don’t Overmix: When you’re mixing the wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of light and fluffy.
- Grease the Baking Dish Well: A well-greased pan is key to ensuring your cake comes out easily. You can use cooking spray or butter for this—just make sure every corner is covered!
- Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake at the 50-minute mark. If the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, it’s ready!
- Let It Cool: Don’t skip the cooling step—this allows the cake to set a bit, making it easier to cut and serve. Plus, it’s a great way to build anticipation!
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to add some chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried cranberries for a twist! Just sprinkle them on top of the cake mix before drizzling the butter.
- Serve with Toppings: This cake is delicious on its own, but don’t forget to top it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that extra indulgence!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a *thanksgiving dump cake* that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the baking adventure!
Variations
Now, if you’re feeling a bit adventurous and want to mix things up with your *thanksgiving dump cake*, I’ve got some fun variations for you to try! Each tweak brings a unique twist that’ll keep everyone guessing and coming back for more.
- Nutty Delight: Add some chopped walnuts or pecans to the cake mix layer. It gives a lovely crunch and enhances that fall flavor. Just sprinkle about a cup on top of the pumpkin mixture before adding the cake mix!
- Chocolate Lover’s Dream: If you’re a chocolate fan (who isn’t?), mix in a cup of chocolate chips with the pumpkin filling or sprinkle them over the cake mix. The melty chocolate adds a rich touch that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin.
- Spice It Up: Want to add a little twist? Incorporate a teaspoon of ginger or allspice along with the cinnamon and nutmeg. This will give your cake an extra kick of warmth that’s perfect for the holidays!
- Caramel Swirl: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the pumpkin mixture before adding the cake mix. As it bakes, the caramel will create a gooey, sweet layer that’s heavenly. You can even top it with a bit more caramel when serving!
- Berry Bliss: For a fruity twist, throw in some fresh or frozen cranberries or blueberries. They add a pop of color and a tartness that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cake.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte Vibes: Add a tablespoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the pumpkin mixture for a hint of that beloved coffee flavor. It’s like bringing your favorite café drink right into your dessert!
These variations are just the beginning! Feel free to get creative and customize your *thanksgiving dump cake* to suit your taste. It’s all about having fun in the kitchen and making it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, so you’ve made this delightful *thanksgiving dump cake*, and now you might be wondering about leftovers—if there are any! Trust me, this cake is so good that it’s hard to have any left, but if you do, here’s how to store it and enjoy it again later.
Storing Leftovers: Let the cake cool completely at room temperature before you store it. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make the cake soggy. Once it’s cool, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. You can also transfer slices to an airtight container for easier access. Stored properly, your *thanksgiving dump cake* will last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.
Freezing: If you want to save it for later, you can freeze it! Just cut the cake into individual slices, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can pull out a slice whenever the craving hits! It should keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just remember to label your container with the date—trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your *thanksgiving dump cake* again, simply take it out of the fridge or freezer. If it’s frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. For reheating, you have a couple of options:
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 20-30 seconds until warm. Be careful not to overheat, or it might dry out!
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the baking dish with foil to prevent it from drying out, and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
And there you go! With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor every last bite of your *thanksgiving dump cake*, making it a delightful treat long after the holiday has passed. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk about the nutritional side of our delicious *thanksgiving dump cake*! Now, keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and ingredients you use. But here’s a general idea of what you can expect per slice:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
This cake is a sweet treat that brings so much joy to the table, and it’s nice to know a little about what we’re enjoying. Just remember, it’s all about balance—enjoying a slice of this deliciousness is totally worth it during the holidays! Happy baking!
FAQ Section
How long does *thanksgiving dump cake* last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, your *thanksgiving dump cake* will last about 3 to 4 days. If you freeze it, it can keep for up to 2 months. Just remember to wrap it well to keep it fresh!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve. It’s a great way to save time during the busy holiday season!
What should I serve with *thanksgiving dump cake*?
This cake is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. You can also sprinkle some nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor!
Can I modify this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Yes! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free cake mix. For a dairy-free version, substitute the evaporated milk with coconut milk or almond milk. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture might vary slightly.
What if I don’t have pumpkin puree?
If you can’t find pumpkin puree, you can use other pureed fruits like sweet potato or even applesauce in a pinch. Just make sure it’s not sweetened, so it doesn’t throw off the flavor balance!
Thanksgiving Dump Cake: 7 Easy Steps to Pure Joy
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious dessert for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 can pumpkin puree (15 oz)
- 1 can evaporated milk (12 oz)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the pumpkin mixture.
- Drizzle melted butter over the cake mix.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until golden brown.
- Let it cool before serving.
Notes
- Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- You can add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: thanksgiving dump cake
