As the leaves begin to turn and the air crisps with the promise of autumn, there’s nothing quite like the smell of spices wafting through the kitchen. Growing up, pumpkin dishes were a family staple, especially around Thanksgiving. My mother would spend hours perfecting her pumpkin pie, but one year, she decided to try something new—this delightful Pumpkin Dessert. It’s a twist on the classic pie, combining a spiced pumpkin filling with a cake-like crust and a crunchy walnut topping. This dessert has become a treasured tradition in my family, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. Whether you’re a pumpkin lover or looking to try something new for your holiday gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Dessert
- Easy to Make: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this dessert in the oven, making it an excellent choice for busy families or last-minute gatherings. The simplicity of this recipe means you can focus on spending time with loved ones rather than being tied to the kitchen. The straightforward steps make it a great project to involve the little ones, creating cherished memories and traditions.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe yields a generous 16 servings, perfect for family dinners or holiday parties. It’s an ideal choice for potlucks or gatherings where guests will be eager to sample your culinary creation. Even those who claim not to be fans of pumpkin will find themselves reaching for a second slice, thanks to the balanced flavors and textures.
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice creates a depth of flavor that is comforting and nostalgic. Every bite brings a warm embrace of seasonal spices that remind you of cozy nights by the fireplace. The aroma alone will draw everyone in as it bakes, creating an inviting atmosphere in your home.
- Versatile Pairing: Serve it warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a complete dessert experience. The creaminess of the topping enhances the rich flavors of the pumpkin filling, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Alternatively, a dollop of cinnamon-spiced whipped cream can add an extra layer of warmth.
- Nutty Crunch: The walnut topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pumpkin filling. The nuts not only provide texture but also balance the sweetness with their natural, earthy flavor. For those with nut allergies, consider substituting with toasted pepitas or sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.
The Recipe
Ingredients
Crust: – 1 (15.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix, divided – ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted – 1 large egg
Filling: – 1 (29 ounce) can pumpkin puree – 3 large eggs – ⅔ cup milk – ½ cup brown sugar – 2 tablespoons pumpkin pie spice
Topping: – ½ cup white sugar – ¼ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed – ¾ cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. This step ensures that your dessert will have a perfect, non-stick finish, making serving a breeze. Consider using parchment paper if you want an even easier removal process.
Prepare the Crust: Set aside 1 cup of the cake mix for the topping. In a medium bowl, combine the remaining cake mix with melted butter and the egg. Mix until well combined and spread the mixture into the bottom of your prepared dish. The crust should be evenly distributed to provide a sturdy base for the pumpkin filling. Press it firmly with your fingers or a spatula to create an even layer.
Make the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth. Pour the filling over the crust, ensuring an even layer. This even distribution is key to achieving a uniform texture and flavor throughout the dessert. If you prefer a sweeter filling, consider increasing the brown sugar to ¾ cup.
Create the Topping: For the topping, add white sugar and cubed butter to the reserved cake mix. Use a pastry blender or two forks to mix until crumbly. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the pumpkin filling. The crumbly topping will bake into a delicious, slightly crispy layer. If you prefer a spicier topping, you could add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mix.
Add the Walnuts: Scatter the chopped walnuts over the top for that extra crunch. Make sure to distribute them evenly so each slice gets a satisfying nutty bite. If you have time, lightly toast the walnuts beforehand to deepen their flavor.
Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set. The filling should be slightly firm to the touch and the topping nicely browned. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean, with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch dish works perfectly for this recipe. Its size ensures even baking and a nice, thick layer of pumpkin filling. If you have a glass dish, it can be helpful to peek at the sides to ensure the crust is baking evenly.
- Mixing Bowls: At least two, one for the crust and one for the filling. This setup keeps your ingredients organized and makes for easy cleanup. Stainless steel or glass bowls are preferred as they don’t retain odors.
- Whisk: Essential for combining the filling ingredients smoothly. A good whisk ensures that all the spices are evenly distributed, avoiding clumps. Consider using a balloon whisk for better aeration.
- Pastry Blender: Handy for achieving the perfect crumbly topping. If you don’t have one, two forks will work in a pinch, but a pastry blender is worth the investment for this recipe. It speeds up the process and ensures even distribution of butter in the topping.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key in baking, so these are a must. Precise measurements ensure that your dessert turns out perfectly every time. Consider using a kitchen scale for the most precise measurements, especially for the cake mix.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
- Pumpkin Puree: Packed with vitamins and fiber, pumpkin adds natural sweetness and moisture to the dessert. It’s the star of our show, bringing that classic autumn flavor. This ingredient is also versatile, allowing you to experiment with different types of squashes if desired. Additionally, canned pumpkin puree is convenient and consistent in quality, saving you time and effort.
- Eggs: They provide structure and stability to the filling, ensuring it sets properly. Eggs act as a binding agent, holding the delicious layers together. They also add richness to the filling, making it creamy and smooth.
- Yellow Cake Mix: This convenient ingredient forms the base of both the crust and topping, adding a light, cake-like texture. It simplifies the process without compromising on taste. You can experiment with spice cake mix for an extra layer of flavor.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, this spice mix is what gives the dessert its warm, cozy flavor. You can adjust the amount of spice based on your personal preference for a milder or more intense flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a hint of cardamom or allspice.
- Walnuts: Not only do they add texture, but walnuts are also rich in healthy fats and antioxidants. They provide a satisfying crunch and a subtle, nutty flavor that complements the sweet pumpkin. Consider pecans as an alternative if you prefer a sweeter nut.
What to Serve With This Pumpkin Dessert
This Pumpkin Dessert pairs beautifully with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a touch of extra indulgence, try drizzling some caramel sauce over the top. If you’re hosting a full holiday meal, consider serving it alongside homemaderecipe.blog’s Classic Roast Turkey and our beloved Green Bean Casserole to create a comforting, well-rounded menu. For a beverage pairing, a warm mug of spiced apple cider or a glass of dessert wine can elevate the dining experience. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, a chai latte or pumpkin spice coffee can enhance the spicy notes in the dessert.
Storage & Leftover Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (a rarity in my house!), this dessert stores wonderfully. Allow it to cool completely, then cover with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, cut the dessert into individual portions, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a warm oven or microwave before serving. This makes it easy to enjoy a slice of autumn warmth anytime you like. For the best texture, reheat the dessert in the oven rather than the microwave, as this will help the topping regain its crispness.
There you have it—a Pumpkin Dessert that combines the best of pie and cake, creating an irresistible treat that’s perfect for any autumn occasion. I hope this recipe becomes a beloved addition to your family’s holiday traditions, just as it has in mine. Remember, the joy of cooking is not just in the eating, but in the sharing of meals with those we love. Happy baking!
Pumpkin Dessert
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- For the crust, set aside 1 cup of the cake mix in a small bowl for the topping. In a medium bowl, mix the remaining cake mix with melted butter and egg until well combined.
- Spread the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
- In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice for the filling. Mix well and pour over the crust.
- For the topping, add white sugar and cubed butter to the reserved cake mix. Use a pastry blender to mix until crumbly. Sprinkle this mixture over the pumpkin filling.
- Scatter the chopped walnuts over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.