Pecan Pie Cake Recipe

If you adore both pecan pie and classic cake, then the Pecan Pie Cake is about to become your new favorite indulgence. This stunning dessert brings together the tender crumb of yellow cake with a rich, gooey pecan pie topping that’s packed full of buttery pecans and caramelized sweetness. It’s a perfect harmony of textures and flavors that’s surprisingly simple to make, yet impressive enough to wow your friends and family at any gathering. Trust me, once you try this Pecan Pie Cake, it will become a staple in your dessert rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Pecan Pie Cake comes from a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing an essential role in delivering its perfect taste and texture. From the moist yellow cake base to the luscious pecan pie layer, every component is key to capturing that unforgettable sweet Southern comfort.

• Yellow cake mix: Provides a fluffy and tender cake foundation that bakes quickly and evenly.
• Melted butter: Adds richness and helps the cake develop a golden crust with a buttery flavor.
• Light corn syrup: Gives the pecan pie topping its characteristic sticky sweetness and shiny finish.
• Eggs: Bind the batter and pie filling together while contributing to the structure and richness.
• Dark brown sugar: Offers deep molasses undertones that balance the sweet syrup and enhance the pecan flavor.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the sweetness with a fragrant touch.
• Chopped pecans: The star ingredient in the pie layer, giving crunch and nutty delight in every bite.

How to Make Pecan Pie Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Start by mixing the yellow cake mix with one egg and the melted butter until everything is well blended. This simple step creates the base of your Pecan Pie Cake, a tender and buttery layer that supports the rich topping. Don’t forget to set aside about two-thirds of a cup of this batter for the next part of the recipe—this little reserved portion plays a key role!

Step 2: Bake the Cake Layer

Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking, then pour the majority of the batter evenly into the pan. Bake at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes until it’s just lightly browned. This pre-baking is essential to ensure your cake layer is firm enough to hold the dense pecan pie topping without getting soggy.

Step 3: Mix the Pecan Pie Topping

While the cake base is baking, combine the reserved batter with light corn syrup, the remaining three eggs, dark brown sugar, vanilla extract, and chopped pecans in a mixing bowl. This mixture should be thoroughly stirred so every nut is coated in that luscious pie filling. It’s the sweet, sticky heart of this Pecan Pie Cake that will make you swoon.

Step 4: Layer and Bake

Once the cake layer has baked lightly, pour your pecan pie topping mixture directly on top. Return the pan to the oven to bake for 50 to 60 minutes at 325 degrees, allowing the topping to set and develop a beautiful, golden glaze. The cake will absorb some of the pecan pie’s richness, resulting in an irresistible harmony of flavors and textures.

Step 5: Cool Before Serving

Patience is a virtue here! Let your Pecan Pie Cake cool completely before slicing and serving. This helps the filling firm up, making it easier to cut good-looking pieces that hold together beautifully. Plus, it means the flavors will have melded perfectly for a sumptuous taste experience.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Cake

Garnishes

While the Pecan Pie Cake is fantastic on its own, adding a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream elevates it to heavenly heights. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few extra chopped pecans on top can add an elegant finishing touch, making your presentation pop for guests or special occasions.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with simple sides that balance its richness. Fresh fruit like sliced apples, pears, or even berries can provide a refreshing contrast. For an afternoon treat, serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or a spiced chai tea to complement the nutty sweetness with warm, cozy flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress friends? Cut the Pecan Pie Cake into small squares and serve as bite-sized dessert bars at a party. Layer it in a trifle dish with whipped cream and caramel sauce for a decadent, make-ahead dessert. Or, for a rustic look, arrange slices on a wooden board surrounded by pecans and autumn leaves to capture that warm, inviting vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Pecan Pie Cake tightly covered at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is best to keep the filling from getting too soft. Just bring the cake back to room temperature before serving for perfect flavor and texture.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy your Pecan Pie Cake later, it freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices well in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen slices will keep for up to three months and make an easy dessert to thaw and serve on busy days.

Reheating

To bring back the fresh-baked warmth, gently reheat slices in a low oven (around 300 degrees) for 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the cake and topping a bit rubbery. A warm slice topped with ice cream is absolutely divine!

FAQs

Can I use a homemade cake batter instead of the boxed mix?

Absolutely! Homemade yellow or butter cake batter works just as well and can add a personal touch. Just be sure the batter is thick enough to hold up as a base for the pecan pie filling.

What kind of pecans should I use?

Chopped pecans work best for even distribution and that perfect crunchy texture in each bite. Toasting them lightly before adding brings out extra flavor but is not required.

Is it okay to substitute margarine for butter?

Yes! Using margarine is totally fine and won’t drastically affect the taste or texture. Butter adds a richer flavor, but margarine still gives you the moist cake layer you want.

Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

You can, by using a gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free. The rest of the recipe remains the same and is just as delicious.

What’s the best way to tell when the Pecan Pie Cake is done?

The cake is ready when the pecan pie layer looks set in the center and doesn’t jiggle anymore. A toothpick inserted into the filling should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Pecan Pie Cake that makes it stand out from typical desserts. It’s the perfect marriage of cake and pie, delivering textures and flavors that delight every bite. Whether you’re baking for holidays, a family gathering, or just because you crave something sweet and comforting, this recipe will quickly become a treasured favorite. Give it a try and watch everyone’s faces light up with each delicious slice.

Print