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The Ultimate Easy Pumpkin Crunch Cake (Classic Yellow Cake Mix Recipe)

A close-up, appetizing slice of pumpkin crunch cake showing the bright orange pumpkin layer and crumbly topping.

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Make this popular layered dessert featuring a moist pumpkin base and a crisp, buttery pecan topping using yellow cake mix for simplicity.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 can (15 ounces) pure pumpkin puree
  • 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the yellow cake mix and chopped pecans. Pour the melted butter over the mix and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
  3. Bake the crust layer for 15 minutes until lightly set. Remove from the oven.
  4. While the crust bakes, prepare the pumpkin layer. In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  5. Carefully pour the wet pumpkin mixture evenly over the partially baked crust layer.
  6. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. The topping will be golden brown and the center firm.
  7. Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For an extra layer of flavor, you can sprinkle 1/2 cup of toffee bits over the pumpkin layer just before baking.
  • This cake is best served chilled or at room temperature.
  • If you prefer a creamier texture, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or cream cheese frosting.

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