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Delicious Pumpkin Cake – A Cozy Fall Dessert

Fall isn’t complete without pumpkin desserts, and this Delicious Pumpkin Cake is the perfect way to celebrate the season. With the warm spice of cinnamon, the creaminess of pumpkin puree, and a buttery pecan topping, this cake is a true autumn classic. Unlike traditional layer cakes, this recipe is made in a simple pan and topped with cool whip and crunchy nuts for ease. It combines the richness of pumpkin pie with the tender crumb of a cake, creating a dessert that feels festive yet effortless. Perfect for Thanksgiving, fall potlucks, or just a cozy weekend treat, this pumpkin cake will quickly become a family favorite. Serve it chilled or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped topping, and you’ll have a dessert that disappears fast.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
bake & Cooling Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 15 squares
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pumpkin Cake
  • 1 can 15 oz pumpkin puree
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 can 12 oz evaporated milk
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 box yellow cake mix
  • 1 cup butter melted
  • 1 cup pecans chopped
For the Topping
  • 1 container cool whip thawed

✨ Kitchen Essentials You’ll Love

Quick picks I trust for better results, faster prep, and easier cleanup.

  • 🍳

    Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet

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  • ⚡

    Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric

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  • 🔥

    CHEFMAN Digital Air Fryer XL 10L

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Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking pan
  • Mixing bowls (large and medium)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Oven
  • Cooling rack
  • Optional:
  • Hand mixer (for a smoother batter)
  • Offset spatula (for spreading cool whip evenly)

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Pan
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Base
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, eggs, evaporated milk, sugar, salt, and cinnamon until smooth.
  2. Pour mixture into prepared baking pan.
Step 3: Add Cake Mix Layer
  1. Sprinkle dry yellow cake mix evenly over the pumpkin filling.
  2. Pour melted butter evenly over the cake mix.
  3. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top.
Step 4: Bake
  1. Bake uncovered for 50–55 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
  2. Allow cake to cool completely on a rack.
Step 5: Add Topping & Serve
  1. Once cooled, spread cool whip over the top.
  2. Slice into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze (without cool whip topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge before topping and serving.
Reheating: Best served chilled, but you can warm slices slightly in the microwave if desired.
🥄 Variations
Caramel Pumpkin Cake: Drizzle caramel sauce over the cool whip topping.
Nut-Free Version: Skip pecans or replace with crushed graham crackers.
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cake: Swirl softened cream cheese into the pumpkin filling before baking.
Spiced Pumpkin Cake: Add nutmeg, ginger, or allspice along with cinnamon.
Chocolate Pumpkin Cake: Sprinkle chocolate chips on top before baking for a richer twist.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of puree?
No, pumpkin pie filling already contains sugar and spices, which will throw off the recipe.
Do I need to stir the cake mix into the filling?
No, it should stay on top—the butter helps it form a crusty topping.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, just cook and puree fresh pumpkin until smooth, then measure 15 oz.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better when chilled overnight.
What if I don’t like pecans?
Swap with walnuts, almonds, or skip nuts entirely.
Can I use real whipped cream instead of cool whip?
Absolutely—sweetened whipped cream works beautifully.
Can I use spice cake mix instead of yellow?
Yes, it will add even more fall flavor.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk and dairy-free butter.
Why is my cake soggy?
It likely wasn’t baked long enough—make sure the center is set before removing.
How should I serve this cake?
Chilled with whipped topping, caramel drizzle, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
🏁 Conclusion
This Delicious Pumpkin Cake is everything you love about fall in one dessert—warm spices, creamy pumpkin, buttery topping, and a light whipped finish. It’s easy, cozy, and perfect for gatherings big or small.
Whether served after Thanksgiving dinner, at a fall festival, or simply with coffee on a crisp morning, this cake is a seasonal favorite that will never go out of style. One slice will have everyone asking for the recipe!