The Easiest Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe That Will Wow Your Guests

pecan pie dump cake recipe

There’s something magical about pecan pie a rich, buttery dessert bursting with sweet, nutty flavor. But let’s be honest, making a traditional pecan pie can be time-consuming and sometimes intimidating with its crust and candy thermometer. That’s why this Pecan Pie Dump Cake recipe is a game-changer. It combines all the gooey goodness of pecan pie with the simplicity of a dump cake, using just a few pantry staples and minimal effort. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any day you crave a comforting Southern treat!

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Easiest Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe

5 from 2 votes

This easy pecan pie dump cake recipe combines the rich, gooey flavors of classic pecan pie with the simplicity of a dump cake. Using yellow cake mix, chopped pecans, and butter, this dessert is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any occasion craving a comforting Southern treat. No crust, no fuss just warm, buttery, nutty goodness.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Cooling Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 10 Serves

Course: American, Dessert, Southern

Cuisine: American

Calories: 645

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 box yellow cake mix 15.25 oz
• 3 cups chopped pecans divided
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup corn syrup
• ½ cup unsalted butter melted (divided)
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt if using unsalted butter
• ¼ tsp cinnamon optional
• 1 cup hot water optional for moisture balancing
• Optional for serving caramel sauce whipped cream, vanilla ice cream (Optional for serving )

Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• – Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Oven mitts
• Cooling rack
• Spoon or spatula for spreading

Method

 

1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish liberally with butter or non-stick spray to ensure the dump cake releases easily after baking.
   
2. Make the Gooey Pecan Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together half of the melted butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Fold in half (about 1.5 cups) of the chopped pecans.
   
3. Layer the Filling in the Baking Dish: Pour the pecan filling evenly into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out with a spatula to cover the bottom evenly.
   
4. Sprinkle the Cake Mix and Spices : Optionally mix the yellow cake mix with cinnamon. Sprinkle the cake mix uniformly over the pecan filling without mixing layers.
   
5. Add Butter and Remaining Pecans: Drizzle the remaining melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix. Scatter the remaining chopped pecans on top.
   
6. Bake the Dump Cake: Bake on the middle rack for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Cover loosely with foil if browning too quickly.
   
7. Cool and Set: Remove from oven and cool for at least 20-30 minutes to allow the filling to set.
   
8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm or at room temperature with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel sauce drizzled on top for extra indulgence.
   

Notes

To avoid a soggy cake, ensure cooling time is sufficient.

For vegan or gluten-free, use suitable cake mix and butter alternatives.

Adjust pecan quantity for more crunch if desired.

Store leftovers covered at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated up to 5 days.

What Is a Pecan Pie Dump Cake?

A dump cake is a no-fuss dessert where ingredients are “dumped” into a baking pan and baked, eliminating complex mixing and crust-making. This pecan pie dump cake recipe layers the flavors of a classic pecan pie caramel-like filling, crunchy pecans, and buttery cake all in one easy dessert. It’s the perfect shortcut that tastes like you spent hours perfecting a dessert.

pecan pie dump cake recipe Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
• 1 can (15 oz) pecan pie filling or pecan halves in syrup
• 1 cup chopped pecans (optional for extra crunch)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup corn syrup (optional for gooey texture)
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional, for warmth and depth)
• A pinch of sea salt (to balance sweetness)

Ingredient Notes: Use a high-quality yellow cake mix for best texture. For a gluten-free or vegan version, see the modifications in the FAQ.

Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls (for optional prep)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven mitts and cooling rack

Optional: Use an oven-safe cast iron skillet for a rustic small-batch option.

How to make pecan pie dump cake recipe

This easy pecan pie dump cake recipe blends the rich, gooey flavors of classic pecan pie with the simplicity of a dump cake. Made with yellow cake mix, chopped pecans, butter, and a luscious caramel-like filling, it’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any occasion craving comfort dessert. No pie crust, no fuss—just layers, bake, and enjoy a warm, buttery, nutty treat.

Total Time: 50 minutes

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish liberally with butter or non-stick spray to ensure the dump cake releases easily after baking.

Step 2: Make the Gooey Pecan Filling

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter (reserve half for later), brown sugar, corn syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined. Fold in half (about 1.5 cups) of the chopped pecans.

Step 3: Layer the Filling in the Baking Dish

Pour the pecan filling mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or spoon to spread it to the edges, creating an even base layer.

Step 4: Sprinkle the Cake Mix and Spices

In a separate bowl, optionally mix the yellow cake mix with cinnamon for a warm spice note. Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the pecan filling, taking care not to mix the layers.

Step 5: Add Butter and Remaining Pecans

Drizzle the remaining melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix to help the topping brown and crisp. Scatter the remaining chopped pecans over the top for added texture and visual appeal.

Step 6: Bake the Dump Cake

Place the baking dish on the middle rack and bake for 45-50 minutes. The top should be golden brown, bubbly around the edges, and slightly jiggly in the center. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil and continue baking.

Step 7: Cool and Set

Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool on a rack for at least 20-30 minutes. Cooling allows the gooey filling to firm up so the cake slices cleanly.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm or at room temperature with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Estimated Cost: 8 USD

Supply:

• 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
• 3 cups chopped pecans (divided)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup corn syrup
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted, divided)
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt (if using unsalted butter)
• 1 cup hot water (optional for moisture balancing)
• Optional: cinnamon (1/4 tsp), caramel sauce (for serving), whipped cream (for serving)

Tools:

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Oven mitts
• Cooling rack
• Spoon or spatula for spreading

Materials: Non-stick cooking spray or butter (for greasing the pan)Aluminum foil (optional, for covering during baking)

Tip: Avoid stirring or mixing layers; the magic happens as it bakes.

Expert Tips for the Best pecan pie dump cake recipe

• Use unsalted butter melted and drizzled slowly to achieve maximum crispiness.
• Choosing the right pan size affects texture too large may dry it out; too small makes it gooey.
• Adding a pinch of sea salt enhances flavors by balancing sweetness.
• For a caramel twist, stir in some brown sugar with the pecan filling.
• To avoid sogginess, allow the cake to cool completely before cutting.
• Use a quality cake mix with real butter flavor for best results.

How to Serve pecan pie dump cake recipe

Serve warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Drizzle with extra caramel sauce for an indulgent experience. Perfect for holiday tables or cozy winter nights.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for 4-5 days.
• Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to bring back that gooey texture.
• You can prepare the dump cake a day ahead, but bake fresh for best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions For pecan pie dump cake recipe (FAQ)

The History of Pecan Pie and Dump Cakes

Pecan pie is a quintessential Southern dessert dating back to the late 19th century, beloved for its buttery, sweet filling packed with pecans. Dump cakes, on the other hand, rose to popularity mid-20th century as an easy, no-fuss alternative to traditional pies and cobblers. Combining the two showcases Southern tradition with modern convenience.

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Final Thoughts

This pecan pie dump cake recipe is the ultimate blend of ease and indulgence, perfect for anyone craving a decadent yet simple dessert. With this recipe, you get all the rich flavors of pecan pie without any fuss. Try it for your next holiday gathering or cozy night in you won’t be disappointed. Don’t forget to share your results in the comments and subscribe for more delicious recipes!

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