Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite, then this Pecan Pie Dump Cake is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s the perfect combination of gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and fluffy cake baked together effortlessly. The magic lies in how simple it is to prepare with pantry staples, yet it delivers a rich, comforting flavor that tastes like you spent hours crafting a dessert masterpiece. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, this Pecan Pie Dump Cake will quickly become a favorite that everyone asks for again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’d be amazed at how just a handful of simple ingredients can come together to create such a show-stopping dessert. Each ingredient plays an important role: from the crunchy texture of pecans to the creamy sweetness of caramel, everything combines into a rich tapestry of flavors and textures.

• Chopped pecans: Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that is essential for that classic pecan pie taste.
• Sweetened condensed milk: Provides luscious creaminess and sweetness that binds the dessert together beautifully.
• Butterscotch or caramel sauce: Infuses the cake with deep, caramelized richness that elevates every bite.
• Yellow cake mix: The base that bakes into a soft, golden, fluffy topping, creating the “dump cake” magic.
• Melted unsalted butter: Drizzled on top, it helps the cake mix bake into a perfectly crisp and buttery crust.
• Water: Balances the sweetness and moistens the layers for tenderness.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant warmth that ties all the flavors harmoniously together.

How to Make Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Pecans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish. This ensures your cake won’t stick and everything cooks evenly. Spread the chopped pecans evenly on the bottom of the dish. These pecans will form a crunchy, flavorful foundation for your dump cake.

Step 2: Mix the Liquid Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, your choice of butterscotch or caramel sauce, water, and vanilla extract. This rich, glossy mixture is the heart of your pecan pie flavor and helps keep the cake moist and tender.

Step 3: Assemble the Dump Cake Layers

Pour the liquid mixture gently over the pecans in your prepared dish, allowing it to seep down between the nuts. Next, sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly on top without stirring—this dry layer will absorb the moisture as it bakes, puffing up into a fluffy, golden crust.

Step 4: Add the Butter and Bake

Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the surface of the dry cake mix. This step is what gives the cake that beautiful crisp top and buttery flavor. Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and the filling bubbles enticingly around the edges.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before serving so the filling can thicken slightly. This resting time makes every slice hold together beautifully while still being wonderfully gooey.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Garnishes

A scoop of vanilla ice cream is the classic companion for this Pecan Pie Dump Cake, melting into the warm, caramel-rich layers for an unbeatable taste experience. Alternatively, a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon can bring extra warmth and creaminess to each bite.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs perfectly with a cup of strong coffee or spiced chai tea to balance its sweetness. Serving it alongside fresh fruit, such as sliced apples or oranges, can add a refreshing contrast that helps highlight the cake’s rich pecan and caramel flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve this dump cake in individual ramekins or mason jars topped with toasted pecans and a drizzle of caramel sauce. It’s also wonderful layered with whipped cream and crushed pecan pralines for an indulgent parfait-style treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers of this Pecan Pie Dump Cake (and you most likely will!), cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer portions to airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, remaining moist and flavorful.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover Pecan Pie Dump Cake by wrapping it tightly in foil and placing it in an airtight freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or warm the whole dish in a 325°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. This will restore that freshly-baked gooey texture that everyone loves.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nuts in the Pecan Pie Dump Cake?

Absolutely! While pecans give the classic flavor and crunch, walnuts or almonds can also work wonderfully. Just make sure to chop them evenly for a balanced texture.

Is it necessary to use butterscotch sauce, or can I substitute something else?

You can use caramel sauce or even dulce de leche as a substitute. Each will add a slightly different but equally delicious caramelized sweetness to the cake.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, using a gluten-free yellow cake mix will do the trick. Just double-check that your other ingredients like caramel or butterscotch sauce are also gluten-free.

What if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk on hand?

Sweetened condensed milk is key for that creamy, sweet texture, but you can make a quick substitute by simmering evaporated milk and sugar until thickened, though the flavor may vary slightly.

How do I know when the Pecan Pie Dump Cake is done baking?

The top should be golden brown and bubbling at the edges, and the cake should feel set when you gently press the center. A knife inserted in the middle might come out sticky but not wet with batter.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a dessert that’s as simple to make as a Pecan Pie Dump Cake yet delivers so much warmth, flavor, and nostalgia in every mouthful. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight treat or a festive celebration, this recipe invites you to relax and enjoy the delicious fruits of your effortless baking. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

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