Delicious Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe

This Delicious Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe is a true celebration of everything we love about classic pecan pie, but in a much easier, fuss-free format. Imagine layers of buttery pecans, rich caramelized syrup, and golden-baked cake, all coming together in one glorious dessert. It’s sweet, gooey, crunchy, and outrageously satisfying — perfect for holidays, potlucks, or whenever you need a comforting treat to share. This recipe will win hearts in just one bite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of kitchen staples, you can create this standout dessert. Each ingredient pulls its weight, bringing unique flavors, textures, and cozy aromas to your Delicious Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe. Here’s a look at why every item matters:

• Chopped pecans: These add a nutty crunch that’s absolutely essential for that traditional pecan pie feel.
• Sweetened condensed milk: It brings sweetness and a creamy texture that binds everything together in luscious layers.
• Corn syrup (light or dark): The secret to that glossy, caramel-like filling; choose dark for a more robust flavor and color.
• Melted unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create that gooey, irresistible base.
• Vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and enhances all the sweet flavors.
• Yellow cake mix: The shortcut that forms a fluffy, golden cake layer on top—so much easier than scratch crusts!
• Unsalted butter (pats): Melts during baking for pockets of buttery goodness throughout the cake.
• Water: It helps the cake mix hydrate and bake up soft and tender.

How to Make Delicious Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F and generously grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Don’t skip this step—using a well-greased pan will ensure your cake comes out clean and those caramelized edges don’t stick!

Step 2: Layer the Pecans

Evenly scatter the chopped pecans right into the bottom of your prepared dish. This creates the signature nutty base and guarantees that every bite has a perfect bit of toasty crunch.

Step 3: Make the Pecan Pie Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, corn syrup, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk them together until smooth and glossy. Pour this luscious mixture all over the pecans, letting it soak down for incredible caramel flavor.

Step 4: Add the Cake Mix Layer

Take your dry yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the wet layer. There’s no need to mix—just a gentle, even distribution is all it needs to bake up fluffy and light.

Step 5: Dot with Butter Pats

Arrange your thin pats of unsalted butter all over the surface of the cake mix. As it bakes, the butter melts through the cake mix, creating moist, rich pockets throughout the top layer.

Step 6: Pour the Water

Slowly drizzle the water across the entire cake. This helps the cake mix hydrate perfectly as it bakes, ensuring the end result is deliciously tender with a beautifully golden crust.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide your baking dish into the oven and bake for 50-55 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown, bubbling surface with a slightly crispy top. The aroma filling your kitchen will make it hard to wait!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let your Delicious Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This helps everything set just enough for perfect scooping, while still enjoying it warm and gooey.

How to Serve Delicious Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A little flourish goes a long way! Scoop generous portions of the dump cake and top each with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A scattering of extra toasted pecans adds even more crunch and a pretty, festive touch.

Side Dishes

While this cake is a shining star all on its own, you can make dessert feel like a grand finale by pairing it with simple sides. Think fresh berry salad to balance the sweetness, or a mug of hot coffee or spiced tea for a cozy, comforting finish.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Delicious Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe into a true showstopper! Try baking individual portions in ramekins for personalized desserts, or serve in fancy glassware for a trifled look. Mini mason jars also make adorable and portable treats for parties or holiday gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover the cooled cake with foil or transfer pieces to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, the Delicious Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe stays fresh and tasty for up to 4 days—great for easy snacking or unexpected company!

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. Once completely cooled, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or use freezer-safe containers. It will keep up to 3 months—just be sure to label and date your leftovers for best results!

Reheating

When you’re craving a warm slice, simply microwave individual portions for 20–30 seconds, or pop the entire baking dish (covered with foil) back into a 300°F oven until heated through. The gooey, caramel flavors are just as dreamy the second time around.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely! While pecans are classic, walnuts or even chopped almonds work well. Just keep the nut quantity the same for best results.

Does this cake need to be refrigerated?

Yes, because it’s rich with dairy and syrup, the Delicious Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe should be stored in the refrigerator if not eaten the same day. It helps keep everything safe and preserves the gooey texture.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Definitely! Simply swap the regular yellow cake mix for your favorite gluten-free yellow cake mix. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Is it very sweet?

This dessert is indulgently sweet, just like classic pecan pie. If you want to tame the sweetness a bit, try serving it with unsweetened whipped cream or a tangy scoop of Greek yogurt on the side.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

For sure! Just use two 9×13 inch pans or a larger baking dish if available, and keep an eye on bake time—it may need a few extra minutes. Perfect for big gatherings or family celebrations!

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Delicious Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe enough—it ticks every box for flavor, ease, and pure comfort. Whether you’re a beginner or a longtime baker, this dessert is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and see how quickly it disappears!

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