Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that combines the rich, nutty flavor of pecan pie with the simplicity and ease of a dump cake, you’re in for a treat. This Pecan Pie Dump Cake is the perfect marriage of gooey, buttery sweetness and crunchy pecans, all baked into a golden, comforting cake. It’s such a quick and effortless dessert that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but really only requires dumping a few ingredients together and popping it into the oven. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just want a cozy treat to share with loved ones, this cake brings that classic pecan pie flavor with a delightful twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pecan Pie Dump Cake relies on a handful of simple, yet essential ingredients that come together to create a truly delicious dessert. Each component plays an important role, from the crunchy pecans for texture to the rich brown sugar that adds depth and warmth to the sweetness.

• Yellow cake mix (15.25 oz): This pre-made mix provides a tender, fluffy base that soaks up all the yummy flavors perfectly.
• Chopped pecans (1 cup): Adds a delightful crunch and authentic pecan pie taste.
• Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup): Brings rich moisture and helps create that irresistible, buttery crust.
• Brown sugar, packed (1 cup): Offers deep sweetness with caramel notes, making every bite extra luscious.
• Large eggs (2): Acts as the binder to hold everything together with a light texture.
• Water (1/4 cup): Keeps the batter moist and ensures a perfect cake consistency.

How to Make Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray so you get that perfect release after baking. This step sets the stage for a hassle-free cleanup and a cake that lifts out beautifully every time.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix with the chopped pecans. The pecans will add wonderful texture and that classic nutty flavor you expect from pecan pie, making this dump cake uniquely irresistible.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

To your dry mixture, add the melted butter, eggs, and water. Stir everything together gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the batter light enough to bake up tender, yet moist and full of flavor.

Step 4: Spread Batter Into Pan

Pour your batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly with a spatula. This ensures even baking and that every square has a lovely balance of pecans and cake.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake the cake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. The sweet aroma of brown sugar and toasted pecans filling your kitchen at this point is one of the best parts of making this Pecan Pie Dump Cake!

Step 6: Let Cool Slightly and Serve

Once out of the oven, allow the cake to cool a bit before serving. This makes it easier to cut and lets the flavors meld together beautifully. Serve warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent experience.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Garnishes

Elevate your Pecan Pie Dump Cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream, a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. These garnishes add a cooling contrast to the warm cake and highlight its buttery sweetness perfectly.

Side Dishes

This rich dessert pairs beautifully with a simple cup of black coffee or a glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness. For festive occasions, try serving alongside spiced mulled wine or a creamy eggnog to really complement the nutty flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider baking the cake in individual ramekins for charming single servings or layering it in a trifle dish with layers of whipped cream and chopped pecans for a show-stopping presentation. You could also sprinkle additional toasted pecans on top just before serving for added crunch and visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, simply cover the Pecan Pie Dump Cake with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 4 days, maintaining its moist texture and nutty flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze this cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Frozen Pecan Pie Dump Cake will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To warm leftovers, pop a slice in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or reheat in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes. This restores the soft, warm texture that makes this Pecan Pie Dump Cake so comforting and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Absolutely! While yellow cake mix works beautifully here, you can experiment with butter or spice cake mixes. Each will add its own twist to the flavor, but stick to mixes without added frosting or fillings for best results.

Do I need to toast the pecans before adding them?

Toasting pecans beforehand is optional, but it does deepen their flavor and enhances the crunch. If you have a few extra minutes, lightly toast them in a dry skillet for a nuttier punch.

Is this dessert gluten-free?

Traditional yellow cake mix contains gluten, so this recipe isn’t gluten-free as is. However, you can substitute with a gluten-free yellow cake mix to adapt it for gluten sensitivities.

Can I make this Pecan Pie Dump Cake dairy-free?

Yes! Use a dairy-free buttery spread or coconut oil in place of butter, and ensure your cake mix is dairy-free as well. The texture might be a little different, but the delicious flavor will still shine through.

What if I don’t have a 9×13-inch pan?

If you don’t have a 9×13-inch baking dish, you can use a similarly sized casserole or baking dish. Adjust baking time slightly if your pan is deeper or shallower, keeping an eye on the cake’s color and doneness.

Final Thoughts

I really hope you’ll give this Pecan Pie Dump Cake a try because it’s one of those desserts that feels like a warm hug on a plate—comforting, rich, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe delivers a crowd-pleasing combination of flavors with minimal effort. Once you taste it, it might just become your new go-to dessert for every occasion.

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