Is there anything that screams “fall” more than a warm, comforting pumpkin dessert? Seriously, the smell alone can transport you straight to Thanksgiving dinner at Grandma’s! This recipe is one of those super easy, almost-too-good-to-be-true deals that’s perfect for holiday potlucks or, let’s be real, a Tuesday night treat. It’s a family-favorite pumpkin dessert in my house, and I bet it’ll become one in yours, too!
Pumpkin dessert recipes don’t need to be complicated, and this one definitely isn’t. I love that it uses simple ingredients and comes together in a snap. It’s the kind of recipe I grew up with, the kind that makes everyone feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
Hey, I’m Chris Tanner Farner! I’m all about recipes that are fast, flavorful, and fit into real life. So, get ready to bake up some happiness with this crazy easy pumpkin dessert!
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Dessert
Okay, so why should you even bother making this pumpkin dessert? Trust me, there are a million reasons! But here are a few of my faves:
- Super quick to throw together – we’re talking, like, 15 minutes, tops!
- Easy peasy instructions. Even if you’re not a baking whiz, you can totally nail this.
- It’s packed with that amazing pumpkin pie spice flavor that screams “fall.”
- Seriously family-friendly. Even your picky eaters will gobble this down.
- Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any holiday get-together. It’s always a crowd-pleaser!
- It’s the ultimate comfort food. Think warm, gooey, and totally satisfying.
Quick and Easy Pumpkin Dessert Recipe
Seriously, this pumpkin dessert recipe is *fast*. You’re basically just dumping everything in a bowl, mixing it up, and throwing it in the oven. What’s not to love? No complicated steps, no fancy techniques, just pure pumpkin goodness in record time!
Perfect Holiday Pumpkin Dessert
Need a dessert that’ll wow everyone at your holiday gathering? This is it! This pumpkin dessert is like a warm hug on a chilly day. The smell alone will make everyone feel all cozy and festive. It’s a must-have for Thanksgiving, trust me!
Family Favorite Pumpkin Dessert
I’m telling you, this pumpkin dessert is a guaranteed hit with the whole family. From the kiddos to the grandparents, everyone will be reaching for seconds. It’s just one of those desserts that brings everyone together. Plus, it’s easy enough that the kids can even help make it!
Deliciously Classic Pumpkin Dessert Taste
That pumpkin pie spice combined with the sweetness of the cake mix? Wow! It’s a flavor explosion in your mouth. And the texture? Oh man, it’s like a soft, gooey dream. This pumpkin dessert is total comfort food at its finest, a classic for a reason!
Ingredients for Your Pumpkin Dessert
Alright, let’s talk ingredients! This pumpkin dessert recipe is super simple, so you probably have most of this stuff in your pantry already. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree – Not pumpkin pie filling, okay? Just plain ol’ pumpkin!
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk – This is the magic ingredient that makes it all creamy and dreamy.
- 2 large eggs – They help bind everything together and make it nice and fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice – This is what gives it that classic pumpkin-y flavor!
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Just a pinch to balance out the sweetness.
- 1 box (14.1 ounces) yellow cake mix – Yep, we’re taking a shortcut! Don’t judge!
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) – I love the crunch they add, but totally skip ’em if you’re not a nut person.
- 1 cup melted butter – Gotta have that buttery goodness! I usually just melt it in the microwave. Easy peasy!
How to Prepare This Easy Pumpkin Dessert
Okay, ready to get baking? This pumpkin dessert is so easy, it’s almost ridiculous. Just follow these super simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying a slice of pumpkin-y heaven in no time!
Step-by-Step Guide to the Perfect Pumpkin Dessert
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). And don’t forget to grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Trust me, you don’t want this sticking!
- In a large bowl, dump in the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Mix it all up until it’s nice and smooth.
- Pour that pumpkin mixture into your greased baking dish. Easy peasy!
- Now, grab your dry cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the pumpkin mixture. Make sure it’s all covered!
- If you’re using nuts (and I highly recommend it!), sprinkle them over the cake mix. I love the crunch!
- Drizzle that melted butter evenly over the top. This is where the magic happens!
- Pop it in the oven and bake for 50-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- This is the hardest part: let it cool completely before serving. I know, it’s tempting to dig in right away, but trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Tips for a Successful Homemade Pumpkin Dessert
- Make sure the cake mix is evenly distributed, or you’ll end up with dry patches. No bueno!
- Don’t overbake it! You want it to be nice and gooey, not dry and crumbly.
- If the top starts to brown too quickly, just tent it with foil.
- Letting it cool completely is key! It helps the pumpkin dessert set up properly and makes it easier to cut.
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions for Pumpkin Dessert
Okay, let’s dive a little deeper into these ingredients! I know sometimes you gotta make swaps based on what you have in the pantry, so here’s the lowdown on what you can tweak in this pumpkin dessert.
- Pumpkin Puree: Gotta have the pumpkin, right? Make sure you’re grabbing *pure* pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. They’re totally different! If you’re feeling ambitious, you can even roast your own pumpkin and puree it.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This stuff is key for that creamy, sweet texture. I haven’t tried it myself, but I’ve heard you *can* use a dairy-free version if you need a vegan pumpkin dessert. Let me know how it goes if you try it!
- Yellow Cake Mix: This is our shortcut ingredient! But hey, if you’re feeling fancy, you could totally use spice cake mix instead. Or even chocolate cake mix for a chocolate pumpkin dessert – yum!
- Melted Butter: Okay, this is where you can get a little creative! For a richer, nuttier flavor, try using brown butter instead of regular melted butter. Just melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat and cook until it turns golden brown and smells amazing. Careful, it splatters!
- Pecans or Walnuts: Not a nut fan? No problem! You can totally skip ’em or swap them out for chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or even some toasted coconut.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice on hand (gasp!), you can make your own! Just mix together cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. There are tons of recipes online for homemade pumpkin pie spice, so go wild.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Dessert
Want to take this pumpkin dessert from “good” to “OMG AMAZING”? Here are a few of my top tips for baking up a truly unforgettable treat!
- Don’t overmix the batter! Seriously, once you add the wet ingredients to the dry, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense pumpkin dessert, and nobody wants that!
- Make sure your oven is properly preheated. This is a biggie! A cold oven can lead to uneven baking and a soggy bottom. Yuck!
- Use an oven thermometer! Ovens can be sneaky, and the temperature on your dial might not be accurate. An oven thermometer will give you a true reading, so you can be sure your pumpkin dessert is baking at the right temperature.
- Let it cool completely before slicing. I know, I know, it’s tempting to dig in while it’s still warm. But trust me, this pumpkin dessert tastes even better after it’s had a chance to cool and set up. Plus, it’ll be easier to slice!
- Add a secret ingredient! Okay, this is totally optional, but I love to add a tablespoon of bourbon or rum to the pumpkin mixture. It adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor that’s just irresistible. Don’t worry, the alcohol will bake out, so it’s still family-friendly!
My favorite part is to sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top before baking. It gives the pumpkin dessert a nice, crispy crust and adds even more flavor. Give it a try – you won’t regret it!
Serving Suggestions for Your Delicious Pumpkin Dessert
Okay, so you’ve got this amazing pumpkin dessert…now what? It’s pretty darn delicious on its own, but adding a little something extra can take it to the next level! Here are a few of my favorite ways to serve it:
- Whipped Cream: Classic, simple, and always a winner! A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy sweetness that complements the pumpkin flavor perfectly. You can even add a little vanilla extract or cinnamon to the whipped cream for an extra touch of yum!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Warm pumpkin dessert + cold vanilla ice cream = pure heaven! The contrasting temperatures and textures are just divine. Trust me on this one!
- Dusting of Powdered Sugar: Sometimes, simple is best! A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and makes it look extra pretty. Plus, it’s super easy!
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle a little caramel sauce over the top for a decadent treat. The caramel adds a rich, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin spice.
Honestly, my go-to is just a big scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s the perfect way to end a cozy fall evening. But hey, experiment and find your own favorite combo! Don’t be afraid to get creative. After all, this pumpkin dessert is all about having fun!
Storing and Reheating Your Pumpkin Dessert
So, you’ve made this amazing pumpkin dessert, and somehow, you have leftovers? Wow, you have more willpower than me! But hey, here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious for later.
The best way to store your pumpkin dessert is in the fridge. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay good for about 3-4 days. I promise, it’ll be just as yummy as the first day!
Now, when you’re ready to dig in again, you’ve got a couple of options for reheating. My personal fave? Just pop a slice in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds. It’ll be warm and gooey in no time! If you’re feeling fancy, you can also reheat it in the oven. Just preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. Just watch it so it doesn’t dry out!
Honestly, sometimes I just eat it cold straight from the fridge. Don’t judge! It’s still delicious, especially on a hot day. Whatever you do, just make sure you enjoy every last bite of this amazing pumpkin dessert!
Pumpkin Dessert: Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions about this pumpkin dessert? I got you! Here are some of the most common questions I get asked, along with my super-helpful answers.
Can I make this Pumpkin Dessert ahead of time?
Heck yes, you can! This pumpkin dessert is actually even better the next day, after all the flavors have had a chance to meld together. Just bake it according to the instructions, let it cool completely, and then cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just slice and enjoy! So, go ahead and make it a day or two in advance – it’ll save you time and stress on the big day!
Is there a healthy version of this Pumpkin Dessert Recipe?
Okay, let’s be real, this isn’t exactly a health food. But if you’re looking to lighten it up a bit, there are a few things you can do! You could try using a sugar-free cake mix, or reduce the amount of butter. You can also swap out the sweetened condensed milk for a lighter version, if you can find it. Honestly, though, I think it’s best to just enjoy this pumpkin dessert in moderation and savor every delicious bite!
What is the best way to store this Pumpkin Dessert?
As I mentioned before, the fridge is your best friend when it comes to storing this pumpkin dessert. Make sure it’s covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. It’ll stay fresh and yummy for about 3-4 days. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try freezing it! Just wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and enjoy!
Estimated Nutritional Information for Pumpkin Dessert
Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional info for one slice of this pumpkin dessert. Keep in mind, this is just an estimate, and it can vary depending on the exact ingredients you use. But hey, at least you’ll have a general idea!
- Calories: About 350
- Sugar: Around 30g
- Sodium: Roughly 250mg
- Fat: Approximately 18g
- Saturated Fat: Around 9g
- Carbohydrates: About 45g
- Fiber: Around 2g
- Protein: Roughly 5g
So, yeah, it’s a treat! But hey, everything in moderation, right? Enjoy a slice of this pumpkin dessert and savor every delicious bite. It’s worth it, trust me!
Enjoyed This Pumpkin Dessert Recipe?
So, did you give this pumpkin dessert a whirl? I seriously hope you loved it as much as my family does! If you did, I’d be over the moon if you’d leave a comment below and let me know what you thought!
And hey, if you’re feeling extra generous, give the recipe a rating! It helps other folks find this little slice of pumpkin heaven. Plus, it makes my day!
Don’t forget to share your masterpiece on social media! Tag me (@ChrisTannerFarner) so I can see your creations. I love seeing how everyone puts their own spin on this family favorite pumpkin dessert.
Speaking of spins…did you try any variations? Did you add chocolate chips? Use brown butter? Tell me all about it! I’m always looking for new and exciting ways to make this pumpkin dessert even more amazing. Let’s swap some pumpkin love!
Print
Bake a Sinful Pumpkin Dessert in Just 55 Minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a simple and flavorful pumpkin dessert inspired by family traditions. This recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings and easy enough for everyday enjoyment.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 box (14.1 ounces) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Mix well.
- Pour pumpkin mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the pumpkin mixture.
- Sprinkle nuts (if using) over the cake mix.
- Drizzle melted butter evenly over the top.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool completely before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use brown butter instead of melted butter.
- Add chocolate chips to the cake mix for a chocolate pumpkin dessert.
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
