🎃 Pumpkin Oatmeal Dump Cake Recipe – A Cozy Fall Favorite

There’s something magical about the aroma of pumpkin, cinnamon, and baked oats wafting through the kitchen on a crisp autumn day. Whether you’re gathering with family for Thanksgiving, planning a Halloween potluck, or simply curling up with a warm blanket and a cup of tea, this Pumpkin Oatmeal Dump Cake is the perfect companion. It’s a dessert that feels like a warm hug—comforting, nostalgic, and incredibly satisfying.

Inspired by the classic Southern “dump cake” method (where ingredients are layered instead of mixed), this recipe blends the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with the crunch of oats and the richness of butter. The result? A deliciously simple dessert that tastes like pumpkin pie meets coffee cake—no crust or complicated steps required.

🥄 Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Oatmeal Dump Cake

This cake has quickly become a fall favorite in households across the country—and for good reason:

No mixer needed: Everything comes together in one bowl and a single baking dish.
Versatile and customizable: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or your favorite spices.
Perfect for feeding a crowd: It serves 12–16 people easily.
Warm, spiced, and cozy: Like pumpkin pie, but with a buttery, crisp topping.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just want to throw together something impressive without the fuss, this recipe hits all the right notes.

🎃 Ingredients for Pumpkin Oatmeal Dump Cake

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this easy, crowd-pleasing dessert:

1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
3 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1 box yellow cake mix (approx. 15.25 oz)
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
1/2 cup melted butter

Note: Make sure you’re using pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugar and spices.

🔪 Directions: How to Make Pumpkin Oatmeal Dump Cake

This recipe truly lives up to its “dump cake” name—no complex techniques or baking experience required.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.

Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

Pumpkin puree
Evaporated milk
Eggs
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves

Whisk until smooth and well blended. This will create a spiced pumpkin custard base similar to pumpkin pie filling.

Step 3: Pour Into Baking Dish

Pour the pumpkin mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Add the Cake Mix and Toppings

Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the pumpkin mixture. Do not stir. Layer the rolled oats on top, followed by the chopped pecans (if using).

Step 5: Drizzle With Butter

Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the entire surface. This will help the cake mix and oats brown and crisp up beautifully.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean (a little moisture is okay due to the custard base).

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or chilled—plain or topped with whipped cream, ice cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce.

🍂 Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Dump Cake

Want to make this recipe even better? Try these helpful baking tips:

1. Use Cold Butter for More Crunch

Instead of melted butter, you can slice cold butter into thin pats and place them evenly over the top. This creates a slightly more crumbly, golden topping.

2. Add Texture With Mix-ins

Mix things up by adding:

Toasted coconut flakes
Mini chocolate chips
Crystallized ginger pieces
Walnuts or almonds instead of pecans

3. Make It Gluten-Free

Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free to make this dessert safe for gluten-sensitive guests.

4. Spice It Your Way

Prefer bold spices? Add an extra dash of cinnamon or a pinch of cardamom. Want to tone it down? Skip the cloves for a more mellow flavor.

🧁 Serving Suggestions

Pumpkin Oatmeal Dump Cake is delicious on its own, but if you’re looking to elevate your dessert game, here are some fantastic serving ideas:

Topped with whipped cream: Classic and creamy.
A scoop of vanilla ice cream: The warm cake + cold ice cream combo is unbeatable.
Drizzled with caramel sauce: For that extra indulgent touch.
With a dusting of powdered sugar: Simple yet elegant.
As a holiday breakfast treat: Yes, it works with coffee too!

📦 How to Store & Reheat

If you somehow end up with leftovers (doubtful!), here’s how to store and enjoy them later:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
To reheat: Microwave for 30–60 seconds per slice, or warm in a 325°F oven for 10–15 minutes.

Pro tip: Add a splash of milk or cream before reheating for added moisture.

🧡 Why Dump Cakes Work (and Why This One is Special)

Dump cakes have been around for decades, but they’re having a moment—especially in the age of TikTok and quick weeknight desserts. But what exactly makes them so appealing?

Minimal effort: No sifting, no creaming, no layers—just dump and bake.
Foolproof baking: Even beginner bakers can nail this recipe.
Endless flavor combos: From cherry pineapple to apple cinnamon, the possibilities are endless.

This Pumpkin Oatmeal Dump Cake stands out because of its hearty oat topping, warm spices, and rich, velvety base. It’s like the best parts of fall in every bite.

🍁 When to Make This Recipe

This dessert shines in the fall and winter months, but it’s welcome any time of year when you’re craving pumpkin. Here are a few perfect occasions:

Thanksgiving dinner
Halloween party potluck
Friendsgiving dessert table
Cozy weekend brunch
Bake sale hit

It also makes a great “just because” dessert—because who needs a reason to bake something this good?