Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe

If you love the gooey richness of pecan pie but crave the ease of a quick dessert, Pecan Pie Dump Cake is going to sweep you off your feet. Imagine the nostalgia of the holidays, but with a recipe so delightfully simple, you can throw it together in minutes—no rolling pins or fussy crusts required. Every bite delivers a buttery, nutty crunch on top of a caramel-kissed filling, all anchored by a pillowy golden cake. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, this crowd-pleaser brings the magic of classic pecan pie to your table in the easiest possible way.

Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Pecan Pie Dump Cake is how brilliantly each everyday ingredient shines through. From the crunch of toasted pecans to the warm sweetness of brown sugar, every item on this list plays a vital role in creating irresistible flavor and texture.

  • Chopped Pecans: Adds crunch and classic pecan pie flavor to every bite—toast them for extra depth.
  • Brown Sugar: Brings a caramel richness that melds perfectly with the pecans and butter.
  • Melted Butter: Ensures your cake is rich and moist; divided for use in two parts for perfect distribution.
  • Vanilla Extract: A splash of warmth that enhances all the other flavors.
  • Large Eggs: Binds everything together and gives the base a luscious custardy texture.
  • Evaporated Milk: Adds creaminess and helps mimic the silkiness of classic pecan pie filling.
  • Yellow Cake Mix: The ultimate “cheat” that transforms this into a cake with a golden, tender crumb.
  • Additional Melted Butter: Drizzled on top to ensure that irresistible, slightly crispy finish.
  • Cinnamon (Optional): Gives the whole cake a subtle warmth and complexity—totally worth the sprinkle.

How to Make Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch dish generously, making sure to get into the corners. This not only helps with easy serving later but also ensures the perfect, golden edge on your Pecan Pie Dump Cake.

Step 2: Whisk the Wet Filling

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, ½ cup of the melted butter, vanilla extract, and evaporated milk. You’re creating a luscious, custard-like base that will turn wonderfully gooey underneath the cake layer. Don’t be afraid to whisk until everything is beautifully smooth and well-blended!

Step 3: Pour and Sprinkle

Pour that dreamy filling mixture directly into your prepared baking dish. Next, grab your box of yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the wet filling. Try to make an even layer so every bite has the perfect proportion of cake to gooey filling.

Step 4: Add Butter, Pecans, and Cinnamon

Drizzle the remaining ½ cup of melted butter right across the surface of the cake mix—this is the secret to getting those magical golden pockets and crispy bits. Scatter your chopped pecans over the top, along with a dusting of cinnamon if you want that extra hint of warmth. Your Pecan Pie Dump Cake is layered and ready for the oven!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide your dish into the oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and crackly and the filling is bubbling deliciously around the edges. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes before scooping—this lets the layers set just enough while staying irresistibly gooey.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Dress up each serving of Pecan Pie Dump Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream—the creamy coolness pairs beautifully with the sticky, caramelized filling. For a little extra flair, sprinkle some extra toasted pecans on top or drizzle with caramel sauce for a truly decadent finish.

Side Dishes

Pairing your Pecan Pie Dump Cake with something light helps balance its richness. Try serving alongside fresh berries or a crisp fruit salad to refresh the palate. For a cozy gathering, serve with coffee or spiced tea—nothing beats the contrast of a hot drink and warm, gooey cake.

Creative Ways to Present

For potlucks and parties, scoop the warm cake into clear cups so guests can see those gorgeous layers. Or, cut it into bars once it’s cooled if you prefer finger-friendly treats. For a showstopper dessert, layer crumbled cake with whipped cream and pecans in parfait glasses for an eye-catching twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer slices to an airtight container. Your Pecan Pie Dump Cake will stay delicious in the refrigerator for up to four days—just long enough for you to sneak another slice or share with friends.

Freezing

This cake freezes surprisingly well! Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, or store individual pieces in freezer-safe bags. It keeps for up to three months. To serve, let thaw overnight in the fridge or on the counter for a few hours.

Reheating

To recapture that just-baked taste, warm individual servings in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds. If reheating a larger portion, pop it in a 300°F oven (covered loosely with foil) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. The aroma alone will bring everyone running to the kitchen!

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Absolutely! While yellow cake mix gives a classic taste, feel free to experiment with butter pecan, vanilla, or even spice cake mix for a deeper flavor profile in your Pecan Pie Dump Cake.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily swap in your favorite gluten-free yellow cake mix. The other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy this indulgent dessert without worry.

Should I toast the pecans first?

Toasting the pecans isn’t required, but it does enhance their flavor and crunch. Simply toast them in a dry skillet or in the oven for a few minutes until fragrant, then let cool before adding to the cake.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The top of your dump cake should be golden and set, with the edges bubbling around the sides. It’s fine if the center looks a little soft—the filling firms up as it cools!

Can I double the recipe?

If you’re feeding a crowd, you can definitely double everything and bake in two 9×13-inch pans. Just make sure not to overcrowd one pan so the layers bake properly and everything gets that lovely texture.

Final Thoughts

This Pecan Pie Dump Cake is the ultimate dessert for any occasion—easy to whip up, impossible to resist, and perfectly comforting every single time. Give it a try and see just how quickly it becomes a go-to favorite with your friends and family!

Print

Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe

Pecan Pie Dump Cake is a deliciously easy dessert that combines the flavors of a pecan pie with the simplicity of a dump cake. This sweet treat is perfect for any occasion and will have your guests coming back for seconds!

  • Author: Lily
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake:

  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup melted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 can 12 oz evaporated milk

For the Topping:

  • 1 box yellow cake mix
  • ½ cup additional melted butter
  • ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch dish.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, brown sugar, ½ cup butter, vanilla, and evaporated milk.
  3. Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish.
  4. Evenly sprinkle the yellow cake mix over the top.
  5. Drizzle the remaining melted butter over the cake mix.
  6. Add chopped pecans and cinnamon on top.

Notes

  • You can serve this dump cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
  • This dessert is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 28g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 46g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: pecan pie dump cake, dump cake recipe, easy dessert, pecan dessert

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