Name: Pecan Pie Dump Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Pecans, chopped; 1 can (15 oz) Sweetened condensed milk; 1 cup Corn syrup ((light or dark)); 1/2 cup Unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract; 1 box (15.25 oz) Yellow cake mix; 1/2 cup Unsalted butter, sliced into thin pats; 1 cup Water

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If you’re looking for a dessert that’s ooey-gooey, nutty, and bursting with old-fashioned comfort, you’ll want to save room for this Pecan Pie Dump Cake. Imagine the classic rich flavor of pecan pie, but with a fun shortcut that makes it incredibly easy—even for beginners! Growing up, I remember my grandma enthusiastically assembling this dessert for family gatherings, always with a joyful warning: “Don’t blink or you’ll miss it coming together!” In fact, this cake is a lifesaver when I’m pressed for time but still want to impress. What makes it so special? It takes all the best parts of beloved pecan pie but transforms them into a fuss-free cake that’s ideal for potlucks and family dinners. It’s just as simple as my popular Easy Apple Crisp recipe, with minimal prep and maximum flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again. Ready to give it a try? Read on and prepare to fall in love!

What is Pecan Pie Dump Cake?

So, what exactly is a Pecan Pie Dump Cake? It’s one of those recipes that makes you pause and grin at the name—after all, where else do you get to “dump” your way into dessert heaven? The idea is delightfully simple: you quite literally dump the ingredients into a baking dish, layer by layer, and let the oven handle the magic. Isn’t it amazing when something with such a funny name leads straight to everyone’s heart—and stomach? Pecan Pie Dump Cake proves the saying, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Trust me, after one bite, you’ll understand the charm and want to whip up this playful, crowd-pleasing treat for your next gathering. Ready to dig in? Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This

There are so many reasons you’ll fall head over heels for this Pecan Pie Dump Cake! First, let’s talk about what makes this dish truly irresistible: the combination of buttery, caramel-like filling and golden cake topping is pure comfort in every bite. If you’re looking to save a little money, making it at home means you can skip the bakery aisle while treating your family to a homemade masterpiece—without breaking the bank. Plus, those crunchy pecans on top and gooey vanilla-infused layers bring a flavor explosion that rivals any bakery treat. It reminds me a lot of my Southern Praline Brownies, but with even less effort and a more classic pie vibe. With just a few pantry staples and hardly any prep time, it’s a sure winner for any busy weeknight or special occasion. Give it a try, and you’ll see why this will become your new go-to dessert for celebrations and simple suppers alike!

How to Make

Quick Overview

Pecan Pie Dump Cake stands out for its incredible ease and show-stopping taste. With just a handful of ingredients and no mixer required, you can serve up a classic, caramel-rich pecan pie flavor—without the hassle of making a homemade pie crust. The layers bake up into soft, golden deliciousness, making every bite a cozy mix of cake and gooey filling. Preparation time is just about 10 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or quick weeknight desserts. Trust me, it’s as easy as it is delicious!

Ingredients

1 cup pecans, chopped
1 can (15 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 cup corn syrup (light or dark)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
1/2 cup unsalted butter, sliced into thin pats
1 cup water

Step-by-Step Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Spread the chopped pecans evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This creates a crunchy, nutty base for your cake.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, corn syrup, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk together until the mixture is fully blended and smooth.
Pour the filling mixture evenly over the chopped pecans in the baking dish. Don’t worry if it looks a little thin—the magic happens in the oven!
Take your dry yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the filling. Resist the urge to stir; let those layers stay just as they are.
Arrange the butter pats evenly over the top of the dry cake mix. The butter will melt as it bakes, giving the cake a golden, rich topping.
Pour the cup of water evenly over the top, making sure to cover as much surface area as possible. This helps moisten the cake mix and encourages that classic “dump cake” texture.
Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly along the edges.
Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

What to Serve With

Pecan Pie Dump Cake is happily decadent on its own, but you can elevate it into a show-stopping dessert by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a cozy evening treat, pair it with a warm mug of coffee or cinnamon-spiced chai. Hosting a Southern-inspired dinner? Try serving it alongside classic dishes such as fried chicken, honey cornbread, or creamy mashed potatoes for a full comfort-food feast. However you serve it, this cake is sure to satisfy every sweet tooth at your table.

Top Tips for Perfecting

For extra crunch, toast the pecans lightly in a skillet before adding them to the pan.
If you’re out of yellow cake mix, white cake mix makes a delightful substitute, or try spice cake mix for a warming twist.
Be sure not to stir once the cake mix is added—you want distinctive, gooey layers.
If you prefer a less-sweet cake, opt for light corn syrup instead of dark.
Add a pinch of salt or a dash of cinnamon to the filling for extra depth of flavor.
Keep a close eye on the baking time; ovens can vary, and you don’t want to overbrown the top!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftover Pecan Pie Dump Cake can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy another slice, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or warm the whole dish in a 300°F oven until heated through. This cake also freezes well—just cover it securely, freeze for up to one month, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Always enjoy within a week for the freshest flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts or even mixed nuts can be a delicious twist if you want to change things up.

Do I have to use sweetened condensed milk?
Yes, it provides both sweetness and the gooey texture that makes this cake so irresistible.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Just swap in your favorite gluten-free yellow cake mix for an easy adaptation.

Should I serve this cake warm or cold?
Pecan Pie Dump Cake is scrumptious either way, but it’s especially decadent served warm with ice cream!

How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The top should be golden brown and the filling should be bubbly around the edges. A gentle jiggle is okay, as it will firm up as it cools.

Conclusion

Get ready to discover your new favorite dessert with this Pecan Pie Dump Cake! With its mix of classic Southern flavors, easy prep, and irresistible texture, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for busy nights or special occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a dessert newbie, this recipe promises results you’ll be proud of—just a few minutes of effort for a whole lot of deliciousness. Give it a try, then explore more indulgent ideas from the blog like our much-loved Banana Pudding or Easy Apple Crisp. Happy baking!