Pumpkin Crunch Cake

Name: Pumpkin Crunch Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 9 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree; 1 cup sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/2 tsp ground ginger; 1/2 tsp salt; 4 large eggs; 1 cup evaporated milk; 1 box yellow cake mix; 1 cup chopped pecans; 1/2 cup butter, melted; 1 cup chopped pecans; 1 cup whipped cream (for serving)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the delightful fusion of pumpkin and crunchy topping in this Pumpkin Crunch Cake, perfect for your Thanksgiving dessert table. This easy-to-make recipe combines rich pumpkin puree with warm spices and a buttery crumble that creates a unique texture and flavor. Ideal for holiday gatherings, this cake is sure to impress family and friends with its festive charm and comforting taste.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-11-05T15:15:43.708Z

This Pumpkin Crunch Cake is a seasonal delight that brings the warmth of pumpkin spice into your home.

The Perfect Fall Dessert

When the leaves start to change color and the air becomes crisp, there's nothing like the warm and inviting aroma of pumpkin cake wafting through your kitchen. This Pumpkin Crunch Cake is not just a treat; it's a celebration of the flavors of fall. Combining the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with aromatic spices, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser that evokes feelings of comfort and nostalgia.

Ideal for Thanksgiving, this cake stands out on any dessert table, showcasing the rich harvest flavors that define the season. With every bite, you'll experience a perfect balance of moist pumpkin and a crunchy topping, making it a delightful alternative to traditional pies. Whether you're hosting a large gathering or enjoying a quiet family dinner, this cake is sure to become a seasonal staple.

An Easy Recipe for Everyone

One of the greatest things about Pumpkin Crunch Cake is how simple it is to prepare. Even if you’re not an experienced baker, this recipe walks you through each step, ensuring your success. The combination of canned pumpkin and a boxed cake mix not only saves time but also guarantees a consistently delicious outcome.

In less than an hour, you can have a delicious dessert ready to serve. This ease of preparation makes it an excellent choice for busy holiday schedules. You'll spend less time baking and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones, making it a stress-free addition to your festivities.

Customizing Your Pumpkin Crunch Cake

While the traditional recipe is undeniably delicious, feel free to make it your own! Consider adding chocolate chips for a rich twist or swapping out the pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment with the spices, adjusting the cinnamon or nutmeg to suit your taste preferences. This flexibility allows your creativity to shine while keeping the essence of the cake intact.

Another delightful option is to serve your Pumpkin Crunch Cake with various toppings. From spiced whipped cream to a drizzle of caramel sauce, the possibilities are endless. Each variation opens up new flavor combinations, ensuring that every bite remains fresh and exciting, no matter how many times you make it!

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
1 cup sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp salt
4 large eggs
1 cup evaporated milk
1 box yellow cake mix
1 cup chopped pecans

Topping Ingredients

1/2 cup butter, melted
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup whipped cream (for serving)

Enjoy your Pumpkin Crunch Cake!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

Mix the Pumpkin Filling

In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, eggs, and evaporated milk. Mix well until smooth.

Add the Cake Mix

Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the pumpkin mixture. Do not stir.

Add the Pecans

Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the cake mix.

Drizzle with Butter

Pour the melted butter over the top of the cake mix and pecans.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Allow to cool slightly before serving. Top with whipped cream if desired.

Serve Warm or Cold

Serving Suggestions

Pumpkin Crunch Cake is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. This cake can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, and it pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream on top, which adds a light and airy contrast to the rich pumpkin flavor. For a twist, consider serving it alongside vanilla ice cream, allowing the warmth of the cake to slowly melt the ice cream for a decadent experience.

Additionally, this cake makes for excellent leftovers! Simply store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It tastes just as delightful the next day, making it a perfect dessert for lunchboxes or a midnight snack.

Nutritional Information

While Pumpkin Crunch Cake is a delicious treat, it's always good to be mindful of nutritional content, especially during the holiday season. The pumpkin base is rich in vitamins A and C, providing some health benefits amidst indulging in sweets. Pumpkin is also a fantastic source of fiber, which can aid in digestion and help you feel full.

However, like any dessert, moderation is key. This recipe contains sugar and fats, so if you're watching your calorie intake, consider smaller servings or pairing it with fresh fruit for a balanced dessert experience. Remember, enjoying treats during the holidays is all about balance, and this cake can fit well into a diverse diet.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and bake it fresh before serving.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.