Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe: A Simple Southern-Inspired Dessert That Brings Comfort and Joy
There’s something uniquely satisfying about a dessert that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Enter the Pecan Pie Dump Cake—a rich, gooey, and buttery creation that merges the comforting flavor of classic pecan pie with the ease of a dump-and-bake cake. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering, bringing a dessert to a potluck, or simply indulging in a sweet treat after dinner, this Pecan Pie Dump Cake promises to steal the show with its golden crust, crunchy pecans, and luscious caramel-like filling.
In Southern kitchens, pecan pie is a timeless favorite—its sticky-sweet filling and nutty crunch are synonymous with hospitality and home. Dump cakes, on the other hand, are known for their simplicity. They’re often made with pantry staples, require minimal prep, and skip the need for any fancy mixing techniques. When you combine these two into one dessert, the result is pure magic: the ease of a dump cake with the flavor complexity of a pecan pie.
This recipe is perfect for beginners or experienced bakers looking for something fast yet memorable. You won’t need any special equipment—just a mixing bowl, a spoon, and a standard 9×13-inch baking dish. The layers come together effortlessly, and the oven does the rest of the work. The outcome is a dessert that tastes like it came from a bakery, but was made with everyday ingredients in your own kitchen.
Let’s walk through how to create this delicious and crowd-pleasing Pecan Pie Dump Cake, step by step.
Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pie Dump Cake
There are countless reasons to add this recipe to your regular dessert rotation:
- It’s Easy and Foolproof: There’s no need to roll out pie dough or use a mixer. Everything comes together in one bowl and one baking dish.
- Incredible Texture: The buttery cake mix forms a lightly crisped crust on the edges, while the center remains gooey and rich, just like a pecan pie.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The buttery pecans and caramelized sugar mixture create an irresistible flavor profile that tastes much more complex than the recipe suggests.
- Perfect for Holidays or Everyday Enjoyment: Serve it at Thanksgiving, Christmas, potlucks, or casual Sunday dinners. It’s versatile enough for both formal and informal occasions.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This cake stores well and tastes just as delicious reheated the next day, making it an ideal choice for advance planning.
Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s what you’ll need to make this decadent dessert:
- 1 box yellow cake mix: This forms the base layer and top crust. Use your favorite brand, but make sure it’s a standard 15.25-ounce box.
- 1 cup pecans, chopped: Pecans are the star of the show here. Use fresh, chopped pecans for the best texture and flavor. You can toast them briefly in a dry skillet before adding them if you want a more robust flavor.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted: Butter gives the cake its rich, moist texture and helps create that golden-brown crust. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dessert.
- 4 large eggs: Eggs provide structure and help bind the gooey filling together.
- 1 cup corn syrup: The key to achieving that traditional pecan pie filling texture. Light corn syrup is recommended for a milder flavor, but dark corn syrup can also be used for a deeper, molasses-like flavor.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Brown sugar contributes to the caramelized, molasses-rich flavor of the filling. Light or dark brown sugar both work, depending on how deep you want the flavor to be.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances all the other flavors in the cake.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: A touch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the richness of the dessert.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures easy removal and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Make the Pecan Pie Filling Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn syrup, packed brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until the mixture is fully blended. The consistency will be smooth and slightly thick. This will be poured over the cake mix later, acting as the gooey core of the dessert.
Step 3: Add Cake Mix to the Dish
Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Do not mix it into the filling—just sprinkle it in an even layer. The cake mix will absorb the moisture from the filling during baking and form a delicious crust.
Step 4: Add the Filling Mixture
Carefully pour the corn syrup mixture over the cake mix layer, ensuring that it covers as much of the dry mix as possible. Don’t worry if a few dry spots remain—they will soak up the liquid as the cake bakes.
Step 5: Top with Pecans
Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the top. They will toast as the cake bakes, adding a nutty crunch and a beautiful golden finish.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are bubbly and golden brown and the center is just set. If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely cover it with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool for at least 15–20 minutes before serving. This gives the filling time to set slightly, making it easier to slice. Serve warm for the best flavor, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Serving Suggestions
This Pecan Pie Dump Cake is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving:
- Warm with Vanilla Ice Cream: The contrast between the warm, gooey cake and the cold, creamy ice cream is irresistible.
- With Whipped Cream and a Dusting of Cinnamon: For a lighter finish, add freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Drizzled with Caramel Sauce: Take it to the next level by adding a drizzle of warm caramel over each slice before serving.
- As a Dessert Bar: Cool completely, then cut into squares for a picnic or dessert buffet.
Tips for Success
- Use Quality Ingredients: Since this recipe is so simple, using fresh pecans, real vanilla extract, and good-quality butter can make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overmix the Cake Mix: This is a dump cake, not a layered or mixed batter cake. Resist the urge to stir everything together—part of its charm comes from the distinct layers formed during baking.
- Adjust for Sweetness: If you prefer your desserts less sweet, reduce the brown sugar slightly to 3/4 cup, or use unsweetened pecans.
- Optional Add-Ins: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a splash of bourbon to the filling mixture for a unique twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix if needed, making this dessert accessible to those with dietary restrictions.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The texture will remain soft and flavorful.
Freezer: You can also freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in foil and placed in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 20–30 seconds, or place a full dish in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a few hours in advance and assemble the cake just before baking. Or bake it entirely and reheat before serving.
Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Yes. While pecans give the classic Southern flavor, walnuts can be substituted for a slightly more bitter and earthy profile.
Can I use spice cake mix instead of yellow?
Absolutely. A spice cake mix adds warm autumn flavors and pairs wonderfully with the pecans and brown sugar.
What can I use instead of corn syrup?
Maple syrup or honey may be used as substitutes, though the texture will be slightly different and a bit softer.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 320 kcal
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Sugar: 28g
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 180mg
Cholesterol: 60mg
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and will vary depending on brand and portion size.
Final Thoughts
Pecan Pie Dump Cake is the kind of dessert that feels indulgent and celebratory while still being easy enough for a weeknight treat. Its rich filling, buttery topping, and crunchy nuts make it a standout on any dessert table. This recipe takes everything you love about traditional pecan pie and turns it into a more forgiving, no-fuss dessert that anyone can make. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned home cook, this recipe deserves a spot in your dessert repertoire. Keep it simple, serve it warm, and watch it become a new favorite for your family and friends. It’s more than just a dump cake—it’s a delicious memory in the making.