Are you searching for a foolproof dessert that feels elegant yet takes minimal effort to make? Look no further than a Pecan Pie Dump Cake, the magical hybrid of two beloved desserts! Combining the gooey, caramel-like richness of a traditional pecan pie with the light and fluffy texture of cake, this recipe is bound to become one of your go-to favorites.
The best part? No rolling dough, no precise measuring just dump, spread, and bake. Perfect for beginners and baking veterans alike, a Pecan Pie Dump Cake is as easy to make as it is to devour. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, heading to a potluck, or just craving something sweet on a lazy weekend, this classic dessert ticks ALL the boxes.
From its mouthwatering layers of crunchy pecans, buttery cake mix, and caramel goodness to its flexible customization options, this easy pecan dump cake recipe is here to win hearts. Plus, it’s an ideal dessert to prepare ahead of time, leaving you stress-free while entertaining. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to indulge in this irresistible treat that will have your guests asking for seconds and the recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with Pecan Pie Dump Cake, but we’ve rounded up the top ones that will convince you to try it ASAP:
- No-Fuss Preparation: Unlike traditional pecan pie that involves making dough, rolling it out, and carefully assembling everything, this recipe requires ZERO baking skills. Simply “dump” your ingredients in layers and bake it’s that easy!
- Perfect for Every Occasion: Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a casual weekday dinner, this dessert fits the bill. It’s hearty, warm, and made for sharing.
- Minimal Cleanup: Say goodbye to dirtying multiple bowls and utensils. The one-bowl magic of this recipe means less time spent at the sink.
- Rich and Flavorful: This dessert delivers all the buttery, nutty goodness of pecan pie without being overly complicated. The combination of buttery cake and crunchy pecans is pure bliss in every bite.
- Customizable: Don’t have pecans? Substitute walnuts. Wanna take things up a notch? Add chocolate chips or shredded coconut. There’s room to make this recipe your own.
- Budget-Friendly Ingredients: No need for high-end or specialty ingredients just pantry staples like yellow cake mix, corn syrup, and pecans.
- Showstopper Appeal: The golden-brown crust dotted with caramel and pecans looks absolutely stunning when served. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
With all these benefits, what’s not to love about this pecan dump cake? Keep reading to discover the foolproof method of making it!
Ingredients
Before we dive into the steps, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients you’ll need for this Pecan Pie Dump Cake recipe:
The Essentials:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
Tip: A box of yellow or butter cake mix serves as the perfect base. For an extra buttery flavor, choose a “butter recipe” mix. - 2 cups chopped pecans
Tip: Toast the pecans for 5 minutes before using them to bring out deeper, nuttier flavors. - 1 cup light corn syrup/caramel syrup
Tip: Corn syrup is what gives pecan pie its gooey center. Want a richer flavor? Swap it with caramel topping! - 1 can (12–14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
Tip: This adds sweetness and creaminess. Make sure not to confuse it with evaporated milk! - 1 stick unsalted butter (melted)
Tip: For a deeper, richer flavor in your dump cake, go for European-style butter. - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Tip: Use pure vanilla extract not imitation for authentic flavor.
Optional:
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for a warm spice kick)
- ½ cup chocolate chips (for a decadent twist)
- Shredded coconut (adds texture and sweetness)
Once you have these ingredients, your masterpiece is just a few steps away!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to bake the ultimate Pecan Pie Dump Cake? Follow these easy, detailed instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Base Layer
In your greased baking dish, evenly sprinkle half of the chopped pecans to form the base. This forms a crunchy layer that binds everything together.
Step 3: Drizzle with Sweetened Condensed Milk
Pour the can of sweetened condensed milk evenly over the pecans. Use the back of a spoon to spread it out, ensuring full coverage. This will act as the gooey “filling.”
Step 4: Add the Cake Mix
Open your box of yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the condensed milk layer. There’s no need to stir or mix just ensure it covers the layer beneath it.
Step 5: Layer with Corn Syrup
Drizzle the corn syrup (or caramel syrup) on top of the cake mix. This will melt and caramelize as it bakes, creating that iconic pecan pie flavor.
Step 6: Top with Butter and Pecans
Evenly distribute the melted butter over the cake mix and caramel. Then, sprinkle the remaining pecans on top for a final touch of crunch.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes after removing it from the oven to allow the layers to set.
Expert Tips
Looking to get the best results every time you bake this dessert? Follow these pro tips:
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Let the cake sit for 15–20 minutes after baking so the layers can firm up. This makes slicing and serving much easier.
- Use Toasted Pecans: Toasting pecans before adding them elevates their flavor, giving your dessert a deeper nutty taste.
- Layer Carefully: Always layer the ingredients according to the recipe. Do not mix them this is the defining feature of dump cakes!
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers (unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave.
Variations
One of the best things about a Pecan Pie Dump Cake is how easy it is to customize. Here are some ideas to try:
- Chocolate Delight: Add chocolate chips between the layers for a gooey chocolate-pecan combo.
- Coconut-Pecan Cake: Sprinkle shredded coconut on top for some tropical sweetness.
- Pumpkin Twist: Add a can of pumpkin puree to the mix along with some cinnamon and nutmeg for a seasonal flair.
- Nut Swap: Use walnuts, almonds, or a mix of nuts if pecans aren’t available.
Serving Suggestions
While this dessert is amazing on its own, pairing it with toppings can make it even more indulgent:
- Serve Warm with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over a warm slice of dump cake is pure heaven!
- Drizzle Extra Caramel Sauce: Amplify the sweetness with an extra drizzle of caramel.
- Add Whipped Cream: Lighten up the richness with a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
FAQ
1. What is a dump cake?
Dump cake is a type of dessert where you “dump” ingredients directly into the baking pan without mixing. It creates a layered sweet treat that’s both easy and delicious.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the Pecan Pie Dump Cake ahead of time and reheat it in the oven for 10 minutes before serving for the best results.
3. Can I use a spice cake mix instead of yellow cake mix?
Absolutely! A spice cake mix would complement the nutty pecan flavors beautifully.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a pecan pie lover or just crave a quick-yet-luxurious dessert, this Pecan Pie Dump Cake is the recipe you need to bookmark. It’s simple, decadent, and endlessly versatile. Perfect for holidays, celebrations, or that random Monday sweet tooth, this dessert will undoubtedly become an instant favorite.
So, don’t wait gather those pantry staples and give this recipe a try today. Your friends and family will thank you, and you’ll be wondering why you didn’t make this sooner. Happy baking!
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7 Irresistible Reasons to Try a Decadent Pecan Pie Dump Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and decadent Pecan Pie Dump Cake that combines the gooey richness of pecan pie with the soft, fluffy texture of cake. This no-fuss recipe is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a quick dessert fix. Just layer, bake, and enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix (or butter cake mix for extra richness)
- 2 cups chopped pecans (toasted for enhanced flavor)
- 1 cup light corn syrup (or caramel syrup for a deeper taste)
- 1 can (12–14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional:
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for warmth)
- ½ cup chocolate chips (for extra indulgence)
- Shredded coconut (for added texture)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer pecans: Spread half of the chopped pecans evenly at the bottom of the dish.
- Add condensed milk: Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk over the pecans, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle cake mix: Evenly distribute the cake mix over the top—do not stir!
- Drizzle corn syrup: Pour corn syrup (or caramel) over the cake mix layer.
- Top with butter & pecans: Drizzle melted butter evenly, then sprinkle the remaining pecans.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
- Cool for 15–20 minutes before serving to allow layers to set.
Notes
- For best flavor, toast pecans for 5 minutes before using.
- Do not mix layers—the magic of a dump cake is in its distinct layers!
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave or oven for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: ~420
- Sugar: ~35g
- Sodium: ~250mg
- Fat: ~22g
- Saturated Fat: ~8g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~50g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Protein: ~5g
- Cholesterol: ~30mg