Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe
This pecan pie dump cake recipe is a quick, delicious twist on classic pecan pie, combining a gooey, nutty filling with a crispy cake mix topping. It’s perfect for holidays or casual gatherings, requiring minimal effort and simple ingredients. With a rich, caramel-like base and crunchy pecans, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up. Serve it warm with ice cream or chilled for a firmer texture. This fuss-free dessert delivers big flavor in just under an hour.
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or Spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven Mitts
- Spatula (for serving)
Ingredients
- Pecan halves: 2 cups for that classic nutty flavor and crunch.
- Yellow cake mix: 1 box 15.25 oz, for the easy, golden topping.
- Sweetened condensed milk: 1 can 14 oz, for a rich, caramel-like base.
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup 1 stick, melted, to bind the topping.
- Dark corn syrup: 1/2 cup for authentic pecan pie sweetness.
- Eggs: 2 large to help set the filling.
- Brown sugar: 1/2 cup packed, for extra depth and warmth.
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp for a touch of aromatic flavor.
- Salt: 1/4 tsp to balance the sweetness.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures the cake releases easily after baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Pecan Layer
- Spread 2 cups of pecan halves evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. Make sure they’re in a single layer for consistent texture.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, dark corn syrup, eggs, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until smooth and fully combined.
Step 4: Pour the Filling
- Pour the wet mixture evenly over the pecans in the baking dish. The pecans will partially float, creating a gooey, pie-like base as it bakes.
Step 5: Add the Cake Mix
- Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the wet mixture. Don’t stir—it’s meant to sit on top to form the crusty topping.
Step 6: Drizzle the Butter
- Pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. Try to cover as much of the surface as possible for a golden, crispy top.
Step 7: Bake the Dump Cake
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. The top should be golden brown, and the filling should be bubbly.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
- Let the dump cake cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set slightly, making it easier to scoop.
Notes
When preparing this pecan pie dump cake, ensure the pecans are fresh for the best flavor and don’t mix the cake mix into the wet ingredients to maintain the crispy topping. Spread the melted butter evenly to avoid dry patches. If you’re adjusting sweetness, taste the wet mixture before baking.